South Korea has reported a record high 3,292 new Covid-19 cases, according to the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA), as the country moves into the first phase of its "living with Covid-19" with loosened restrictions.

A rise in cases was predicted by officials and experts after many social distancing restrictions were lifted earlier this month after the country surpassed its goal of vaccinating 70 per cent of its 52 million people. More than 78.5pc are now fully vaccinated, including more than 90pc of adults.

The KDCA says a rise in serious cases is also being driven by the waning effects of coronavirus vaccines provided to vulnerable groups such as the elderly earlier on in the process, leading to an increase in breakthrough infections.

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