Some South Koreans hesitant over EU trips

Some South Koreans say they have no plans to travel to Europe anytime soon after the European Union will reopen its borders to travellers from 14 countries, including South Korea.

The Council of the European Union announced on Tuesday that it adopted a recommendation on the gradual lifting of the temporary restrictions on nonessential travel into the European Union.

Many South Koreans, however, expressed doubts and concerns over travelling to Europe as the virus is still rampant in the continent.

"Lifting travel restriction against South Korea is good news because it proves South Korean quarantine and disinfection efforts were successful," said office worker Baek Jun-mu.

"However, there are still more patients in European countries (than in South Korea)."

Baek also said recent racist incidents against Asians also add to his worries about visiting Europe.

Another office worker, Kim Min-ju, also believes it's still not the right time to consider a trip to Europe given the fact that the virus situation is still serious.

"As long as there continues to be new coronavirus cases, I don't plan on going to Europe anytime soon," Kim said.