Prime Minister Kim Boo-kyum said that the government will soon begin administering COVID-19 booster shots for high-risk people including those aged 60 and older and medical workers.

The prime minister made the remarks on Sunday in a government meeting on COVID-19, adding that the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency(KDCA) will announce a detailed vaccination plan for the fourth quarter on Monday.

Kim also said starting early next month, the government will shorten the interval between the first and second shots of two-dose vaccines.

He said those subject to vaccinations will be expanded to include pregnant women and children aged between 12 and 17.  

The prime minister expected the rise in COVID-19 cases following the Chuseok holiday will continue into this week.

He urged the public to refrain from gatherings and meetings this week and get tested at nearby testing sites before returning to work.