The North Korean regime reportedly reinstated its mask mandate less than a month after lifting it and declaring “victory” over the COVID-19 outbreak, Radio Free Asia (RFA) reported Monday.
North Korea lifted its mask mandate and social distancing measures on Aug. 10. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un ended the emergency order, saying that the public health crisis was over.
However, some residents alleged that authorities have issued an order requiring residents to wear masks in public again, and those who do not comply face fines of up to 3,000 won ($0.33) and 1,000 won ($0.12) for improper mask use.
A resident of the eastern province of South Hamgyong, who requested anonymity, said that authorities dispatched a mask inspection team to arrest anyone who failed to comply with the order, RFA reported….