GUIDELINES OVER AIR-CONDITIONING IN SCHOOLS

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Quarantine authorities initially banned schools from turning on air conditioners to stop the spread of the coronavirus. The issue has sparked a controversy, as schools are to reopen soon just when the weather is about to get hot. The Education Ministry has changed the guidelines regarding the use of air conditioners in schools to address parents' concerns.

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​Schools in Korea will fully reopen by early June. With the upcoming summer expected to be particularly hot, concerns are rising over classroom temperatures. The Education ministry initially banned the use of air conditioning in schools, as COVID-19 spreads especially fast in enclosed spaces.

[Soundbite] CHOI SEOL-HWA(HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT) : "I'm worried because it's already hot. It's going to be unbearable without air conditioning when the weather gets even hotter."

Due to such concerns, the government decided to change related guidelines. Schools are now allowed to turn on the AC as long as classrooms are ventilated properly. However, they are urged to refrain from using air purifiers as filters can become contaminated.

[Soundbite] PARK BAEK-BEOM(VICE MINISTER OF EDUCATION) : "Based on expert opinion that infection risk increases when people touch masks, we advise schools to run air conditioning in summertime with the windows in classrooms at least one-third open."

The revised guidelines also require students and teachers to conduct daily self-exams before going to school.

[Soundbite] PARK BAEK-BEOM(VICE MINISTER OF EDUCATION) : "Self-exam details include nausea, loss of smell and taste, oversea travel history and self-quarantine of family members living together."

They must wear masks at all times, except when having meals. P.E. lessons will only include activities that enable students to maintain a safe distance among one another.

[Soundbite] KIM IL-WOO(MIDDLE SCHOOL TEACHER) : "Basketball and soccer involve a lot of physical contact. We're going to replace them with badminton in the first semester."

Those who contract the virus or develop suspicious symptoms will be allowed to miss school without being marked absent. Individuals in high-risk groups, such as those with underlying health conditions and disabilities, can have their attendance recognized by submitting certifying documents and obtaining permission from their school directors in advance. Students will also be allowed to choose to learn from home when the infectious disease alert level is elevated to "Serious" or "Alert."