"빠른 대응, 혁신적 아이디어, 성숙한 시민의식"...공중보건의사에게 듣는 코로나19 사태

Medical staff working on the front line of the battle against COVID-19 have been crucial in curbing the outbreak in South Korea.
Our Kan Hyeong-woo met with a doctor to hear about the fight against the virus.
Choi Seung-jin is a public health doctor.
He has been battling against the coronavirus outbreak since late February... when the number of confirmed patients skyrocketed.
"At first, I was a bit afraid of going to the front line where we have to take samples while wearing a protective suit. I was worried about getting infected. But on the other hand, I was proud that I was part of the anti-virus efforts."
Choi is now at a temporary quarantine facility near Incheon International Airport.
In March, he worked at a drive-thru test center in Cheonan.
"As for the drive-thru test centers, we have to stand outside all day in a heavy protective suit. We had to wait there even if there were no cars visiting. Sometimes it snowed, so we had to battle the cold weather at the beginning."
Choi said there are three reasons why he thinks South Korea has been successful in curbing the outbreak.
"I think there are three factors: quick responses, innovative ideas and mature citizenship."
The doctor pointed out how quickly the Korean government responded to the country's first confirmed patient in January.
He also complimented various COVID-19 maps, drive and walk-thru test centers...and how Koreans are following the government's quarantine measures.
"I remember people who came for testing giving me words of encouragement. Nearby restaurants and various organizations sent us meal kits and snacks. That cheered me up."
Choi said since the threat of another outbreak still remains,... we should all stay cautious and keep good personal hygiene every day.
Kan Hyeong-woo, Arirang News.