By Choi Jin-woo
Since the South Korean government's "Living with COVID-19" policy has gone into effect on Nov. 1, those who wish to enter high-risk public places including gyms and elderly care facilities must present proof of vaccination or negative test results.
This "vaccine pass" requirement system has extended to restaurants and cafes since Dec. 6, amid fears of the spread of the Omicron variant. With the government extending the coverage of its "vaccine pass" policy, disputes are flaring up over the legitimacy of the policy.
Some have expressed opposition to the policy, saying it reinforces discrimination against non-vaccinated people, while others feel it's reasonable.
Since the vaccine pass is now significantly affecting our daily lives, we decided to hear thoughts from the public and business owners about the reinforced vaccine requirement measures.