South Korea declares Daegu “special management zone” due to COVID-19

On Friday, the South Korean government decided to declare the southeast city of Daegu and the surrounding region a "special management zone" after a surge in virus cases that city officials say threaten to overwhelm the region's health system.

Prime Minister Chung Se-kyun said the national government will concentrate its support on the southeastern region to ease a shortage of sickbeds, medical personnel, and equipment. Daegu Mayor on Thursday also urged the city's 2.5 million people to stay home and wear masks even indoors if possible, while asking for help from the central government.