South Korea faces another record 800 new cases of coronavirus in a single day with the vast majority linked to a religious

South Korea reported 813 new cases of coronavirus on Saturday in what the vice health minister called a “critical moment” in the country’s battle against the virus.

A medical professional is seen at a preliminary testing facility in Seoul, South Korea. Source: Getty Images AsiaPac

The new figures bring South Korea’s infected total up to 3,150 – the highest number outside of China, where the virus started.

“We have asked you to refrain from taking part in public events, including a religious gathering or protest, this weekend,” vice health minister Kim Kang-lip told a briefing, according to Reuters.

“Please stay at home and refrain from going outside and minimise contact with other people,” he added.

17 people have died from coronavirus in South Korea so far.