The World Health Organization just declared COVID-19, which is caused by the novel coronavirus, a global pandemic, warning, “There are now more than 118,000 cases in 114 countries, and 4,291 people have lost their lives.” So far, Johns Hopkins University estimates that there are at least 1,050 cases in America, and that number is expected to grow. Meanwhile, South Korea has had 7,755 cases and yet has done a good job of handling the outbreak. How has Seoul been able to slow down the number of new cases?

South Korea is a model to follow if countries want to avoid long-term locking down millions of people with the police and military, as China and Italy have done. To be fair, South Korea may still impose stricter quarantine measures as they run out of hospital beds in some areas. Yet, despite these huge problems, South Korea has been a relative success story by focusing on hot spots and asking people to remain at home voluntarily and avoid travel and large gatherings. In addition, anyone tested positive for COVID-19 who breaks quarantine will run afoul of South Korean law.