SEOUL (Reuters). South Korea’s cumulative COVID-19 case count has surpassed 1 million since the start of the pandemic. Officials reported a record daily number 38,691 Omicron-related infections.

South Korea was the first to experience a confirmed COVID-19 infection on January 20, 2020. It soon emerged as the country that had been battling a major epidemic outside of China.

South Korea used a robust strategy of monitoring, tracking, masking, and quarantining to stop the initial wave of cases. However, the Omicron variant has spread and is driving up case numbers.

The number of deaths in highly immunized countries has remained relatively low, but 15 additional deaths were reported Saturday night, according to Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency.

Authorities have stated that daily cases have increased by nearly fivefold since two weeks ago when Omicron began to prevail, however serious infections remain manageable.

Officials announced Friday that social distancing will be extended for at most two additional weeks. These measures include a curfew of 9 p.m. for businesses, and six persons for private gatherings.

South Korea had reported 1,009’688 cases of COVID-19, and 6,873 deaths.

Nearly 86% are fully vaccinated and more than 55% have received booster shots.