Table 2.

Characteristics of digital technology used for COVID-19 management and social implications for Japan and South Korea.

Country	Characteristics of digital technology used for COVID-19 management	Social implications resulting from technology use
		Inefficiency of technology use	Concerns related to the violation of basic rights	Infringement of social values
Japan	Participation (the use of the apps) was voluntary (except for those who have entered from foreign countries) Frequent or long-lasting technical difficulties	Inefficiency was criticized, especially regarding the usability of the apps, and the reporting system consisted of redundant manual processes	Limited—because users with privacy concerns can choose not to use the apps	Limited concerns related to the reporting system for those in primary care settings
South Korea	Participation (the use of the apps) was largely required either socially or legally Comparatively short and few instances of technical difficulties	Limited concerns during the short instances of technical difficulties	Privacy concerns regarding the release of personal information for the use of the apps Injunctions were issued based on potential concerns about the violation of the freedom to engage in daily activities and the right to pursue happiness	Serious concerns related to inequality for older adults and those who could not appropriately use the technology