DAILY COVID-19 INCREASE REMAINS OVER 100

[Anchor Lead]

The number of new COVID-19 cases in Korea has rebounded to over 100 and cluster outbreaks continue at supermarkets and in workplaces. Quarantine authorities plan to inspect major tourist sites ahead of the Chuseok holiday to prevent new outbreaks.

[Pkg]

At least six people at this supermarket in downtown Seoul have tested positive for COVID-19. Quarantine authorities presume the outbreak began at a September 16th gathering celebrating a store opening. Another cluster outbreak occurred at Korea Investment & Securities. At least five employees have tested positive, and some 150 other people related to the company have received testing.

[Soundbite] PARK YOO-MI(SEOUL METROPOLITAN GOVERNMENT) : "We have found that the staff can keep a two-meter distance indoors. We are investigating the possible source of infections such as small gatherings."

In Wonju, Gangwon-do Province, a middle school student and his father tested positive for the coronavirus, prompting the closure of his school. As infections continue to spread through everyday activities, virus prevention during the upcoming holiday period is going to be more important than ever.

[Soundbite] KIM GANG-LIP(CENTRAL DISASTER AND SAFETY COUNTERMEASURES HEADQUARTERS) : "The two-week holiday period including Chuseok and Hangeul Day will determine if we can go back to Level 1 or face a new outbreak in fall."

About 68 percent of Seoul residents said they had no plans to meet with family or relatives during the holiday. But things are different when it comes to tourist sites and resorts. The reservation rates at hotels in Gangwon-do Province and on Jejudo Island for the Chuseok period have already surpassed 94 and 56 percent, respectively. Quarantine authorities will dispatch 3,200 disinfection staff to tourist sites and conduct disinfection operations at major stations and terminals that are expected to be crowded during the holiday period. Visitations at nursing homes and geriatric hospitals will remain banned during the holidays in line with Level 2 social distancing measures.