South Koreans urged to get vaccinated amidst surge

South Korea's health ministry urged citizens to get vaccinated. COVID-19 cases topped 40,000 for the first time, with the health ministry reporting 49,567 cases on Wednesday.

The recent resurgence was driven by infections in the Seoul metropolitan area amid the rapid spread of the Omicron variant. Despite the rapid increase in the daily caseload, the number of patients in a critical condition remained stable. South Korea extended its limits on indoor gatherings last week. At least through February 20, officials will restrict any private social gatherings between those who are fully vaccinated to six people, while requiring unvaccinated people to eat or drink alone at restaurants and coffee shops. Public indoor dining is banned after 9 p.m. Proof of vaccination or a recent negative test is also required to enter potentially crowded venues such as restaurants, nightclubs, karaoke rooms and gyms.