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The number of new coronavirus cases in South Korea increased to 40,000 on Sunday, although daily COVID-19 instances are still on the decline despite the relaxation of practically all antivirus restrictions.
According to the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency, the country gained 40,064 new COVID-19 infections, including 16 cases from outside the country, increasing the overall caseload to 17,544,398. (KDCA).
The number has increased from 26,714 on Friday to 39,600 on Saturday.
Due to the rapid spread of the omicron variety, daily infections have been on the decline in recent weeks after peaking at over 620,000 in mid-March.
The KDCA reported 83 more COVID-19 deaths throughout the country, increasing the total to 23,360. A fatality rate of 0.13 percent was recorded.
The number of severely ill patients increased to 423 from 419 the day before.
After limitations were first imposed in March 2020, South Korea withdrew practically all social distancing requirements in mid-April, marking a major step toward a return to pre-pandemic normalcy.
The administration also repealed the outdoor mask requirement last week, after more than 18 months of implementation, with the exception of big gatherings of 50 or more people. Indoor masking will be required for some time. (Yonhap)