The government has hinted that it may further ease quarantine measures next month if the current social distancing stabilizes the COVID-19 situation to a manageable level. 

The government recently extended the toughest Level Four social distancing in the capital region and Level Three in other areas by another four weeks to October 3.  

Senior Health Ministry official Son Young-rae said on Sunday during a press briefing that the government will be able to adjust social distancing measures next month, moving them closer to ordinary daily life. However, this is if it successfully contains the spread over the next four weeks, including the Chuseok holiday, and stabilizes the situation.  

The remarks appear to indicate the government's intent to shift its quarantine system to focusing on living with COVID-19. 

The government is reportedly considering drafting a phased plan to that effect. The possible new quarantine system is focused on managing critically ill patients rather than curbing new infections.