Hundreds of drones light up Seoul night sky with coronavirus advice

The night sky over the Han River in the South Korean capital of Seoul lit up with over three hundred drones performing a synchronised light display to remind citizens of coronavirus prevention advice.

The display was organised by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport, and featured images of social-distancing and hand-washing.

It also showed images of medical workers in protective suits and included messages of support including “#ThanksToChallenge”, which refers to a social media campaign encouraging people to express their gratitude to health staff.

The 10-minute light show ended with the drones forming an outline of the Korean Peninsula and the message: “Cheer up, Republic of Korea.”

The Korea Institute of Aviation Safety Technology, which led the project, said the drones employed real-time kinematic (RTK) satellite positioning with additional antenna to increase accuracy.

South Korea has been lauded for it handling of the coronavirus pandemic but experts have warned of a second wave and the country has seen several outbreaks of infections recently.

Reports suggest there has also been an increase of “mask rage” as the hot Korean summer makes wearing face masks uncomfortable. Temperatures have soared to over 35C on some days last month and are expected to stay high throughout July and August.

The government requires masks to be worn on public transport and inside taxis, but some people have refused to wear them or pull the coverings around their chins, leaving their mouth and nose exposed.

According to South Korea’s Yonhap news agency, police recorded 840 fights in June related to the practice. Many of the fights started with bus drivers reprimanding passengers who refused to wear the masks properly.