South Korea steps up measure to contain coronavirus

South Korea has stepped up measures to contain the spread of the new coronavirus, as confirmed infections rose sharply for a second day.

Prime Minister Chung Sye-Kyun described the development as an emergency situation.

The two southern cities of Daegu and Cheongdo have been declared special care zones.

The country has also locked down its military after several soldiers tested positive.

On Friday, South Korea reported 52 new confirmations after a rise of 53 on Thursday.

The country now has a total of 156 cases making it the largest cluster outside Mainland China and the cruise ship docked off Japan.

Authorities confirmed the country’s first death from the virus on Thursday, in the neighbouring city Cheongdo.