Korea, Singapore hit brakes on reopening

South Korea's daily total topped 3,000 for the first time a few days ago, a rise officials said was triggered by people returning from a 3-day holiday period, according to Reuters. South Korea was one of the first countries outside China after SARS-CoV-2 emerged, and the country is experiencing a spike in its fourth surge.

The Seoul area is currently the hot spot, making up more than 75% of the latest infections.

Today, the South Korea's health ministry said it would keep social distancing measures in place for 4 more weeks, maintaining them at the highest level for the greater Seoul area.

In Singapore, officials yesterday reported nearly 2,000 cases, marking a daily record high, according to Reuters. The country recently saw cases rise as restrictions were loosened, but a few days ago, the health ministry tightened them again, limiting the size of group gatherings and urging people to work from home, according to CNBC. So far, about 82% of the population have received two vaccine doses.