The government has extended current social distancing levels and business operation restrictions for another two weeks as it aims to ensure the smooth progression of South Korea's vaccination program.

The Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasures Headquarters said on Friday that Level Two distancing in the capital region and Level One-point-Five in the rest of the country will be extended until March 28.

Multipurpose facilities in the capital region, including coffee shops, restaurants and indoor gyms, will only be allowed to operate until 10:00 p.m. Public bathhouses will now also have this restriction.

Attendance at weddings and funerals in the capital region will be limited to less than 100, while less than 500 will be allowed outside the Seoul metro area.

A ban on private gatherings of five or more people has also been extended, although up to eight will be permitted among immediate family, or for initial meetings between the families of a bride and groom to be.

If there are children under six years of age present, up to four children and four adults will be allowed.