Health Minister Park Neung-hoo called on citizens to be more patient and participate in the nationwide social distancing campaign in order for the government to avoid Level Three social distancing guidelines.

The minister made the call during a press briefing on Sunday after a government meeting on COVID-19 responses. 

Park voiced caution against raising the distancing scheme to Level Three, the highest in the country's five-tier social distancing system, noting that it may have a grave impact on not only the service industry but also the manufacturing industry. 

The minister stressed the nation must avoid Level Three if possible as it would entail a significant economic paralysis.

He also said the government is not considering imposing lockdowns, such as restricting region-to-region movements, for now.

He added that even if the toughest Level Three curbs are adopted, the government will explore ways to allow people to maintain their daily lives, including purchases of necessities.