Businesses that violate the government's vaccine pass requirement measure will now face a maximum fine of 3 million won ($2,500).
Authorities have expanded the "vaccine pass" to most businesses and venues, while offering a one-week grace period earlier this month to help them adjust to it.
Now that the grace period has ended, businesses refusing to check vaccine passes will face a temporary suspension of operations, while repeat violators could face permanent suspension starting on Dec. 13.
The government also plans to start booster shots for adults and offer vaccinations at schools on Monday to encourage more teens to get inoculated, while the vast majority of parents are protesting the vaccine pass mandate for students aged 12 to 17.
