The South Korean government said it will carefully review easing social distancing regulations, despite recent signs that the latest wave of the COVID-19 epidemic is slowing down.

Yoon Tae-ho, a senior Health Ministry official, said on Friday that there is always the possibility of infections making a rebound, citing new strains as well as the fact that the virus tends to be the most active during winter.

The official said the government should take a cautious approach toward easing quarantine rules, as current daily case numbers remain in the 300s to 400s, the same levels as the second wave in mid-August last year.

The government has, however, launched consultations on adjusting the current rules, amid growing public fatigue from the prolonged social distancing.

Yoon said more time is required to seek effective ways to maintain quarantine, as well as social acceptance.