By Honorary Reporter Sasha Syaifani from Indonesia

Photos= Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Indonesia 

The Korean government on March 31 announced USD 500,000 in humanitarian aid to Indonesia, which is struggling with the COVID-19 pandemic. This assistance came in the form of product support, PCR diagnostic kits and spray-type sterilizers (300 units) to strengthen prevention of the disease. On April 8, 300 spray-type sterilizers arrived at Jakarta International Airport.

Korean Ambassador to Indonesia Kim Chang-beom on April 6 delivered a public lecture sponsored by Indonesia's School of Government and Public Policy. "Korea's success is proven by the flattened curve of COVID-19 infections thanks to a unique model of a dynamic response system, transparency and creative thinking."

Korean Ambassador to Indonesia Kim Chang-beom on April 6 delivered a public lecture sponsored by Indonesia's School of Government and Public Policy. 

Korea's successful response to the pandemic is worth studying since the country has not resorted to a lockdown or ban on arrivals from abroad except for certain countries.

The ambassador said the key to Korea's success is the fast-paced 3T strategy of "test, trace and treat." The country conducted massive testing after the pandemic broke out to find as many infected patients as possible. Through this approach, Korea adopted creative strategies to conduct safe, quick and convenient testing.

This method is a benchmark for other countries that want to mimic Korea's successful response. Korea's collaborative approach is not only for the nation but for its Asian neighbors as well, including Indonesia. The ambassador, however, said Korea's response is "recommendable but cannot be duplicated in the same manner" since other countries have characteristics different than Korea's.

So the international collaborative approach of Korea is helping countries in the throes of the pandemic. Indonesia is on Korea's list of countries to get help.

"We will soon announce G2G (government to government) cooperation to assist Indonesia's COVID-19 emergency," the ambassador said, adding that many Korean companies have shown support by donating test kits and protective gear to Indonesia.

chaey0726@korea.kr

*This article is written by a Korea.net Honorary Reporter. Our group of Honorary Reporters are from all around the world, and they share with Korea.net their love and passion for all things Korean.