South Korean health authorities have mentioned the need to readjust current social distancing levels in light of the easing signs of COVID-19 spread in the nation. 

Health Minister Kwon Deok-cheol said in a media briefing on Monday that the government is aware of the need for change as daily COVID-19 cases have remained at around 370 on average in the past week. Kwon said the government is hearing opinions to come up with new distancing measures. 

Level Two-point-Five social distancing was enforced in the capital region following a third wave of the pandemic in November. Level Two was enforced for the rest of the country, and both schemes have been in place for nearly two months. 

Minister Kwon indicated a ban on gatherings of five or more people, which took effect in late December, could remain in place for several more weeks. He said it has been proven to be effective in containing the spread of the virus.   

Noting the approaching Lunar New Year holiday, the minister said his ministry is thinking hard on how to deal with the ban and will hear opinions from experts and others before making a decision.