Japan has begun restricting arrivals from South Korea to prevent the inflow of those infected with the new coronavirus, a move it has also taken with China. Though the curbs last only until the end of March, they are expected to damage economic and cultural exchanges. These countries should try to contain the outbreak quickly and minimize its economic impact.
Tokyo has decided to nullify visas and suspend short-term visa waivers. South Korea has responded with similar curbs on Japanese arrivals. Countries have a responsibility to take decisive actions in the face of infectious diseases. But it is inappropriate to politicize the coronavirus response.
