South Korea has reported its fourth death from the novel coronavirus (Covid-19).

According to Korea Herald, the patient was a 57-year-old man who was hospitalised in Cheongdo, in the North Gyeongsang Province.

On Sunday (Feb. 23) morning, 123 new cases were also reported. The total number of confirmed infections in South Korea now stands at 556.

Out of the 123 new cases, 75 were linked to the Shincheongji Church of Jesus.

"Super-spreader"

This church has 12 branches across the country.

South Korea's patient 31, who attends church services in the Daegu branch, is believed to have spread the virus to churchgoers there.

She had not travelled to mainland China or been in contact with anyone who did. It is unclear how she was infected.

She tested positive on Feb. 18.

Since then, the church has shut its facilities across South Korea and encouraged churchgoers to partake in online prayer sessions instead.

Korea Herald also reported that health authorities are checking the health status of over 9,000 members of the religious group.

Some members have also self-isolated themselves.

Top photo via Getty images.