'Runaway' causes first suspected COVID-19 case in North Korea, state media says

‘Runaway’ causes first suspected COVID-19 case in North Korea, state media says

North Korean leader issues lockdown for Kaesong, raises “top-class alert”

Kelly Kasulis | Terrence Matsuo July 25, 2020

‘Runaway’ causes first suspected COVID-19 case in North Korea, state media says

KCNA

North Korea may be facing its first known case of COVID-19 after a "runaway" person allegedly crossed the border and was found in Kaesong City, state media reported on Sunday.

"A runaway who went to the south three years ago" is "suspected to have been infected with the vicious virus" after "illegally crossing" the Military Demarcation Line (MDL) on July 19, according to the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).

About the Authors

Kelly Kasulis

Kelly Kasulis was the Managing Editor of NK News, based in Seoul. She previously covered North and South Korea for Public Radio International, Al Jazeera English, Bloomberg Industry, Mic and many others. Follow Kelly on Twitter: @kasulisk.

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Terrence Matsuo

Terrence Matsuo is the Washington correspondent for NK News. He previously supported research and reporting for several American and Japanese organizations.

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