Jung Min-ho has worked as a staff writer at The Korea Times since 2012, mostly covering social and political issues. He currently belongs to the Politics & City Desk where he covers topics such as health, labor and human rights. Prior to joining the team, he was responsible for covering North Korea and sports. His article about a biosecurity breach of Middle East respiratory syndrome won him an award from the Korea Science Journalists Association in 2016. He is also the co-author of the book, "Medical Pioneers of Korea" (2019). He served as the head of the international relations committee at the Journalists Association of Korea from 2021 to 2023.
Masks to be required for all Seoul subway passengers during rush hour
Health officials prepare to sanitize a subway station amid the COVID-19 pandemic in Seoul, March 11, 2020. Reuters
By Jung Min-ho
By Jung Min-ho
Starting May 13, everyone will be required to wear face masks in Seoul subway trains during rush hour.
According to the Seoul city government Monday, people who are not wearing masks may be denied boarding at ticket barriers when the trains are crowded.
Those who are rejected can buy masks at vending machines or convenience stores at stations.
The new rule applies when the rate of subway ridership is 150 percent ―150 passengers for a train with a capacity of 100 ― or higher. It is almost always the case for most trains in Seoul during rush hour (7-9 a.m. and 6-8 p.m.).