South Korea reported its highest daily rise in COVID-19 cases since early March on Sunday, as outbreaks continued to spread from a Seoul church and from political demonstrations its members had attended.
The Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (KCDC) reported 397 new infections as of midnight Saturday, up from the previous day's 332 and marking more than a week of daily three-digit rises.
That brings South Korea's total to 17,399 infections of the new coronavirus with 309 COVID-19 deaths, it said.
From Sunday the government imposed second-tier social-distancing rules in areas outside Seoul, banning in-person church meetings and closing nightclubs, buffets and cyber cafes.
Health authorities say they may eventually deploy the toughest stage 3 social-distancing rules, where schools and business are urged to close if the rate of increase in new infections does not slow soon.
On social media, mothers posted notes saying they have cancelled vacation plans to nearby hotels and the southern resort island of Jeju to comply with government guidelines.
On Friday, health authorities said South Korea's coronavirus infections are back 'in full swing' as hundreds of infections have started to come out from the Sarang Jeil Presbyterian Church.
Members of the church, attending an anti-government protest in Seoul on August 15 have also led to new cases across the country.
Trump touts $5,000 payout if Republicans win as Vance waits in wings
Search expands after Philippine ferry fire kills five and leaves dozens missing
Trump says Iran war to end after US midterm elections
At least 20 killed in cargo vessel fire at China shipyard, state media reports
US military says it struck vessel in Caribbean, killing 3
