COVID-19: Access to Information, Health Service, Daily Life Facility and Risk Perception of Foreigners during Coronavirus pandemic in South Korea

Abstract

Introduction: The coronavirus disease outbreak has become a top global challenge. Critical issues have emerged regarding access to information, health services, and daily necessities. Effective access to such components is expected to promote public safety and survival as well as to help combat social fear and risk perception. This study aims to fill this gap by exploring public perceptions of access, risk, and government response during the COVID-19 outbreak. Material and methods: A quantitative field survey using a structured mailed questionnaire was conducted to collect primary data from 100 foreigners living in various cities in South Korea. Access to information, health and daily necessities, and overall risk perception were examined based on individual reports regarding sources, availability, credibility, and overall satisfaction. Results: Our findings suggest that foreigners are receiving reliable information from public and private sources. Although access to health services, daily necessities, and protection measures were perceived as limited due to government protection measures, survey respondents tended to perceive an overall satisfactory government response in terms of providing resources and reducing risks related to COVID-19. Conclusions: Model analysis indicates that gender, home location, and duration of stay are significantly related to lower levels of risk perception. This study provides a new lens for policymakers, administrators, and aca-demicians by which they can ensure smooth public access to information, health, and daily necessities regarding the protection and containment of coronavirus.