North Korea eases coronavirus lockdown because even totalitarian states need trade

Universities and final-year high school students had already resumed classes in April, but all other schools, kindergartens, day-care centers and nursing homes will now reopen early this month, state radio reported late Monday. “Thermometers and hand sanitizers have been installed at the main gates, classrooms and offices, while teachers and helpers are thoroughly observing the hygiene rules and parents are advised to educate their children,” the Korean Central Broadcasting Committee said. The broadcaster encouraged people to use takeout services from restaurants while stressing hygiene rules across a range of industries “to prevent people from lowering their guards even just a little bit.”