The local tourism industry had shown signs of recovery, but the optimism was short-lived, as the economy is suffering another hit as the number of Covid-19 cases is increasing nationwide.
Beaches have been shut down earlier than scheduled, and merchants are seeing less shoppers. There has also been an increase of cancellations being made at travel agencies and accommodation facilities.
Joseph Kim reports.


The beach that used to be packed with vacationers on hot summer days like today is quiet.
A beach parasol rental shop is removing its facilities.
"Closed" signs are displayed everywhere and showers are shut down.



As the number of confirmed cases of COVID-19 has increased, beaches were closed early.
Facilities of community owned shops and restaurants are also being removed.



The island enjoyed an upswing in tourism during the summer vacation season and the long weekend of National Liberation Day. Many visitors chose the island as a vacation destination to avoid COVID-19 prone areas.
But the boom did not last long.
The local tourism industry is seeing a depression again.
Seoul has recently raised the social distancing grade to level two to tighten virus quarantine measures.
Under national guidance, beaches were closed early.
Seoul recommends the public to cancel or delay travel.





Cancellations are being made at hotels and travel agencies, especially for group trips during this autumn.


The second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic has arrived earlier than anticipated, and is sending the local tourism industry deeper into trouble.

Joseph Kim, KCTV