Movie theaters mandate face masks

A worker disinfects a Lotte Cinema in central Seoul in this Aug. 21 photo. / Korea Times file

By Kwak Yeon-soo

With the number of daily COVID-19 cases bouncing back to over 300, major multiplex chains have announced tighter measures that require patrons to wear face masks while watching movies.

Face masks have been required for workers but were optional for customers in common areas of cinemas, such as hallways, auditoriums and restrooms.

But multiplex operators have decided to impose stricter regulations to comply with the nation's Level 2 social distancing scheme that took effect Sunday.

“We will require customers to wear face masks at our theaters nationwide in accordance with the government's Level 2 social distancing scheme,” CGV said on Monday.

“Those who fail to comply with our updated regulation will be denied access to the cinema or face a fine of 100,000 won ($84).”

Megabox also mandated visitors wear face masks at all times, except when eating or drinking.

“From now on, we will require all customers to wear masks as they enter and enjoy movies at our theaters,” the company said.

Lotte Cinema said on Tuesday that face masks must be worn in cinemas after the government expanded Level 2 social distancing rules.

“We've been requiring people to have their body temperature checked at entrances to movie theaters and recommending customers wear their masks,” the company said. “From now on, face masks will become compulsory in lobbies and auditoriums.”

Lotte Cinema also said it will continue to clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces and provide adequate ventilation to prevent the spread of infection.

However, some say the stricter rules are not effective as one can snack throughout the film.

“Cinemagoers who bring snacks and drinks into the theater are likely to consume them throughout the duration of the movie with no mask,” said a moviegoer surnamed Bae, who went to the cinema on Aug. 23. “It defeats the purpose of mandating masks.”

Three multiplex operators have taken other measures to ensure COVID-19 protocols during the pandemic, such as cutting seating capacity.

CGV, Megabox and Lotte Cinema have decided to reduce their seating by 50 percent following the tightened social distancing guidelines.

According to data from the Korean Film Council (KOFIC), 58,610 people went to the movies in Korea on Tuesday, down sharply from the 174,536 figure for Sunday.