South Korean Prime Minister announced a de facto end to the outbreak of Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) on July 28, 2015 saying the potentially fatal disease was completely contained after 69 days. The disease, which was brought to Korea by a 68-year-old man who returned from a business trip to the Middle East in May, sickened 186 people and claimed 36 lives. The first case was confirmed on May 20; the last patient was reported on July 5.

Following his announcement, several provinces in China, including Guangzhou, Shandong and Sichuan, and countries like the Czech Republic, Russia, Taiwan, United Arab Emirates, Mongolia and Vietnam lifted their travel warnings to Korea.

Also the World Health Organization (WHO) Western Pacific Region released the news on the same day, confirming the MERS is under control in the Republic of Korea.

Korea Tourism Organization (KTO) Manila Office says The MERS outbreak significantly impacted the Korean travel industry since the first case was reported on May 20th, with the nation’s largest feeder markets, namely China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan accounting for the biggest drop in inbound travel to Korea.

Mr. Inshik Park, director of KTO Manila Office says “this is perfect time to make a reservation to travel to Korea. Filipino travellers will enjoy the autumn and winter seasons with very affordable price”.

For details and queries, you may contact KTO Manila Office at 02 880 0312~0313 or thru email [email protected].