South Korea has reported its lowest tally of new coronavirus infections in more than three weeks, but officials are weighing whether to extend social distancing curbs ahead of one of the country’s biggest holidays this month.

According to Reuters, slightly looser nationwide curbs run until at least Sept 20, but officials said they may extend them over the Chuseok holiday, from Sept 30 to Oct 4.

Chuseok is one of South Korea’s biggest holidays, but officials urged against traditional visits to meet relatives or gather at family graves.

“We urge you to refrain from visiting hometowns and relatives, if possible, this Chuseok to protect the health of you and your family,” ministry official Yoon Tae-ho told a briefing.

Opinion

Editorial

Climate choices
Updated 15 Jun, 2026

Climate choices

The country is confronting increasingly volatile weather patterns with consequences for agriculture, infrastructure, public health and economic planning.
Brief opening
15 Jun, 2026

Brief opening

WE have been here before. Throughout the weekend, there was great anticipation that a tentative framework for peace...
Environmental disaster
15 Jun, 2026

Environmental disaster

IT was a heartbreaking sight. A recent news report in these pages carried a picture of a sea turtle lying half ...
Budget presser
Updated 14 Jun, 2026

Budget presser

If the FBR falters, the government will find itself in hot water sooner rather than later.
Muharram precautions
14 Jun, 2026

Muharram precautions

WITH Muharram due to start next week, the authorities have already begun annual exercises to ensure that the ...
Blood bequests
14 Jun, 2026

Blood bequests

WORLD Blood Donor Day offers a moment of “gratitude, advocacy and renewed commitment” for thalassaemia patients...