yna--2020-12-24--Unification ministry drafting guidelines on leafleting ban to clarify 'scope of application': offici

Unification ministry drafting guidelines on leafleting ban to clarify 'scope of application': official

In the guidelines , the ministry will stress that the law does not apply to cases in which leaflets or @ @ @ @ @ the North from a third country .
In such cases , the third country 's @ @ @ @ @

SEOUL, Dec. 24 (Yonhap) -- The unification ministry is drafting guidelines on a recently legislated ban on sending anti-Pyongyang leaflets into North Korea to provide a clear interpretation of the law before it goes into effect, an official said Thursday.
The amendment to the Development of Inter-Korean Relations Act, which passed the National Assembly and the Cabinet earlier this month, has raised concerns among critics, including some U.S. lawmakers, that it could hurt freedom of expression and undercut efforts to send outside information into the reclusive North.
The guidelines will provide "clear interpretations" of the law including its scope of application, the official said.
"The ministry will finish establishing the guidelines before the law takes effect after a process of discussion with the relevant authorities," he added.
In the guidelines, the ministry will stress that the law does not apply to cases in which leaflets or other items are sent to the North from a third country. In such cases, the third country's law will be applied.
The official also said that the unification ministry, in cooperation with other ministries, has provided a fact sheet on the revision to 187 South Korean diplomatic missions abroad, as well as 114 foreign missions stationed in the country.
The law, scheduled to take effect three months later, prohibits the launch of anti-Pyongyang leaflets across the border, with violators subject to a maximum prison term of three years or a fine of 30 million won (US$27,400).
Members of Fighters for a Free North Korea, a civic organization of North Korean defectors, prepare to send 20 large balloons carrying anti-North Korea propaganda leaflets across the border in the border city of Gimpo, west of Seoul, on May 31, 2020, in this photo provided by the group. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)
julesyi@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-12-24--S. Korean stocks break 2,800 ceiling to fresh high on vaccine deals

SEOUL , Dec. 24 ( Yonhap ) -- South Korean stocks broke the 2,800 mark for the first time Thursday @ @ @ @ @ high , as the country 's additional deals to purchase COVID-19 vaccines boosted hopes for @ @ @ @ @ The Korean won rose against the U.S. dollar .

SEOUL, Dec. 24 (Yonhap) -- South Korean stocks broke the 2,800 mark for the first time Thursday to close at an all-time high, as the country's additional deals to purchase COVID-19 vaccines boosted hopes for a faster-than-expected economic recovery. The Korean won rose against the U.S. dollar.
The benchmark Korea Composite Stock Price Index (KOSPI) rose 47.04 points, or 1.7 percent, to close at 2,806.86.
Trading volume was moderate at about 1 billion shares worth some 20 trillion won (US$18.1 billion), with gainers outnumbering losers 593 to 246.
Foreigners bought a net 111 billion won, while retail investors sold a net 750 billion won. Institutions purchased a net 631 billion won.
The key index started off firm after Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun said the country signed deals to buy COVID-19 vaccines from U.S. pharmaceutical giant Pfizer and Johnson & Johnson's Janssen.
South Korea struck a deal for AstraZeneca's COVID-19 vaccine last month.
The government plans to sign a deal for Moderna's vaccine next month and start its vaccination program in the second quarter of next year.
The country has experienced a surge in new COVID-19 cases in recent weeks, prompting the government to roll out stronger antivirus measures, such as banning private gatherings of five or more people.
Large caps lifted on strong foreign and institutional buying in particular.
"Foreign and institutional buying increased in the top caps, such as LG Chem, Samsung Electronics and SK hynix, leading the KOSPI's gain," said Kiwoom Securities analyst Seo Sang-young.
"The buying seems largely affected by expectations of the dividend day next week," he added.
Market bellwether Samsung Electronics spiked 5.28 percent to 77,800 won, and No. 2 chipmaker SK hynix gained 1.72 percent to 118,000 won.
Leading chemical maker LG Chem rose 1.49 percent to 818,000 won, and rechargeable battery maker Samsung SDI hiked 1.62 percent to 563,000 won.
Top pharmaceutical firm Samsung Biologics slipped 0.25 percent to 794,000 won, and Celltrion shed 2.11 percent to 347,500 won.
Internet portal giant Naver retreated 0.7 percent to 282,000 won, with its rival Kakao losing 0.93 percent to 374,000 won.
Hyundai Motor, the country's largest automaker, moved up 1.08 percent to 187,000 won, and top steelmaker POSCO advanced 1.31 percent to 271,000 won.
The local currency closed at 1,103.0 won per dollar, up 4.9 won from the previous session's close.
jwc@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-12-24--KOSPI 200 Closing Price List-5

KOSPI 200 Closing Price List-5

KG DONGBU STL 11,250 UP 600 IS DONGSEO 50,100 UP 500 S-Oil 69,000 UP 1,300 DB HiTek 42,950 UP 2,850 @ @ @ @ @ LOTTE CHEMICAL Corp 265,000 UP 7,000 HMM 12,850 DN 200 HYUNDAI WIA 47,700 UP 450 @ @ @ @ @ 101,000 0 HyundaiElev 39,700 UP 100 AEKYUNG INDUSTRIAL 24,200 UP 250 Handsome 29,450 UP 400 @ @ @ @ @ 72,400 UP 800 LOTTE SHOPPING 100,000 UP 1,000 IBK 9,450 UP 100 DONGSUH 32,000 UP @ @ @ @ @ SAMSUNG C & T 139,000 UP 2,000 PanOcean 4,720 UP 190 SAMSUNG CARD 35,250 UP @ @ @ @ @ KT 25,450 UP 300 SHINSEGAE INTERNATIO NAL159500 UP2500 LOTTE TOUR 14,800 UP 50 LG Uplus @ @ @ @ @ UP 1,150 HYUNDAIDEPTST 70,500 UP 800 KIH 80,000 UP 700 LOTTE Himart 31,500 UP 500 @ @ @ @ @ CGV 23,800 UP 700 LIG Nex1 30,250 UP 150 Fila Holdings 44,400 UP 600 HYUNDAIGLOVIS @ @ @ @ @ UP 900 HANWHA LIFE 2,445 UP 5 AMOREPACIFIC 202,500 UP 3,000 SK Innovation 180,500 0 @ @ @

KG DONGBU STL 11,250 UP 600
IS DONGSEO 50,100 UP 500
S-Oil 69,000 UP 1,300
DB HiTek 42,950 UP 2,850
LG Innotek 174,000 DN 11,000
LOTTE CHEMICAL Corp 265,000 UP 7,000
HMM 12,850 DN 200
HYUNDAI WIA 47,700 UP 450
S-1 85,700 UP 600
ZINUS 101,000 0
HyundaiElev 39,700 UP 100
AEKYUNG INDUSTRIAL 24,200 UP 250
Handsome 29,450 UP 400
Asiana Airlines 4,210 0
COWAY 72,400 UP 800
LOTTE SHOPPING 100,000 UP 1,000
IBK 9,450 UP 100
DONGSUH 32,000 UP 50
SamsungEng 13,100 UP 400
SAMSUNG C&T 139,000 UP 2,000
PanOcean 4,720 UP 190
SAMSUNG CARD 35,250 UP 650
CheilWorldwide 21,250 UP 250
KT 25,450 UP 300
SHINSEGAE INTERNATIO NAL159500 UP2500
LOTTE TOUR 14,800 UP 50
LG Uplus 12,100 UP 50
Huchems 25,650 UP 1,150
HYUNDAIDEPTST 70,500 UP 800
KIH 80,000 UP 700
LOTTE Himart 31,500 UP 500
GS 37,500 UP 700
CJ CGV 23,800 UP 700
LIG Nex1 30,250 UP 150
Fila Holdings 44,400 UP 600
HYUNDAIGLOVIS 182,000 UP 1,500
HANAFINANCIALGR 35,800 UP 900
HANWHA LIFE 2,445 UP 5
AMOREPACIFIC 202,500 UP 3,000
SK Innovation 180,500 0
(END)


yna--2020-12-24--KOSPI 200 Closing Price List-4

KOSPI 200 Closing Price List-4

SK 242,000 UP 2,500 Hanon Systems 15,900 DN 250 KOLON IND 40,050 UP 550 HanmiPharm 332,000 UP 3,000 BNK Financial @ @ @ @ @ 151,000 UP 1,500 지HANKOOK TIRE & TEC HNOLOGY396 50 UP550 KOLMAR KOREA 47,750 UP 1,150 @ @ @ @ @ 60,600 UP 800 DAEWOONG PHARM 157,000 DN 10,000 COSMAX 97,700 UP 900 MANDO 58,100 DN @ @ @ @ @ 2,000 INNOCEAN 60,500 UP 1,500 Doosan Bobcat 30,000 UP 450 H.S.ENTERPRISE 13,600 0 Netmarble 125,000 @ @ @ @ @ 300 KBFinancialGroup 45,450 UP 1,450 Hansae 18,000 UP 850 LG HAUSYS 76,800 UP 200 Youngone @ @ @ @ @ 158,500 UP 3,500 GKL 16,300 UP 350 ORION 125,000 UP 500 HANWHA SYSTEMS 15,400 UP @ @ @ @ @ 2,000 SKCHEM 376,500 DN 2,500 HDC-OP 25,050 UP 200 WooriFinancialGroup 10,150 UP 150 HYUNDAI HEAVY @ @ @ @ @ UP8500 Big Hit 158,000 UP 5,000 FOOSUNG 11,500 UP 550 DWEC 4,645 UP 165 LGELECTRONICS @ @ @ @ @ UP 250 Hanchem 184,000 UP 8,500 KEPCO 27,000 UP 200 SamsungSecu 42,950 UP 800 ( @ @

SK 242,000 UP 2,500
Hanon Systems 15,900 DN 250
KOLON IND 40,050 UP 550
HanmiPharm 332,000 UP 3,000
BNK Financial Group 5,940 UP 130
emart 151,000 UP 1,500
지HANKOOK TIRE & TEC HNOLOGY396 50 UP550
KOLMAR KOREA 47,750 UP 1,150
HANJINKAL 60,500 UP 300
DoubleUGames 60,600 UP 800
DAEWOONG PHARM 157,000 DN 10,000
COSMAX 97,700 UP 900
MANDO 58,100 DN 900
SAMSUNG BIOLOGICS 794,000 DN 2,000
INNOCEAN 60,500 UP 1,500
Doosan Bobcat 30,000 UP 450
H.S.ENTERPRISE 13,600 0
Netmarble 125,000 UP 1,000
POONGSAN 27,400 UP 300
KBFinancialGroup 45,450 UP 1,450
Hansae 18,000 UP 850
LG HAUSYS 76,800 UP 200
Youngone Corp 31,750 UP 400
CSWIND 158,500 UP 3,500
GKL 16,300 UP 350
ORION 125,000 UP 500
HANWHA SYSTEMS 15,400 UP 950
BGF Retail 138,500 UP 2,000
SKCHEM 376,500 DN 2,500
HDC-OP 25,050 UP 200
WooriFinancialGroup 10,150 UP 150
HYUNDAI HEAVY INDUST RIES HOLDI NG S313500 UP8500
Big Hit 158,000 UP 5,000
FOOSUNG 11,500 UP 550
DWEC 4,645 UP 165
LGELECTRONICS 112,000 DN 7,500
HyundaiMipoDock 48,350 UP 250
Hanchem 184,000 UP 8,500
KEPCO 27,000 UP 200
SamsungSecu 42,950 UP 800
(MORE)


yna--2020-12-24--KOSPI 200 Closing Price List-3

KOSPI 200 Closing Price List-3

DWS 33,050 UP 1,950 Hanmi Science 69,200 UP 500 SamsungElecMech 167,500 UP 500 Hanssem 103,500 UP 1,500 TAEYOUNG E & @ @ @ @ @ 108,000 UP 500 HANWHA SOLUTIONS 45,650 DN 750 OCI 86,300 UP 4,100 LS ELECTRIC 61,900 @ @ @ @ @ 500 SamsungHvyInd 6,930 DN 30 SYC 61,000 UP 1,000 KumhoPetrochem 138,500 0 Mobis 251,000 0 @ @ @ @ @ HDC HOLDINGS 10,750 UP 150 Kangwonland 23,100 UP 350 NAVER 282,000 DN 2,000 Kakao 374,000 @ @ @ @ @ 9,000 KIWOOM 126,500 UP 3,000 DSME 26,650 UP 450 DSINFRA 8,020 DN 60 DongwonF & @ @ @ @ @ KPS 30,650 UP 200 LGH & H 1,625,000 UP 14,000 LGCHEM 818,000 UP 12,000 KEPCO @ @ @ @ @ 50 HYUNDAIHOMESHOP 83,600 UP 2,300 HYUNDAI ROTEM 16,650 UP 300 S & T MOTIV 49,600 @ @ @ @ @ 2,000 Celltrion 347,500 DN 7,500 SAMSUNG LIFE 82,100 UP 1,600 CUCKOO 101,000 UP 2,000 KT @ @ @ @ @ DHICO 13,350 UP 250 Doosanfc 52,400 DN 2,600 LG Display 17,850 DN 400 Daewoong 47,400 @ @ @ @ @


yna--2020-12-24--KOSPI 200 Closing Price List-2

KOSPI 200 Closing Price List-2

GCH Corp 34,050 DN 750 LotteChilsung 111,500 0 SGBC 62,700 UP 1,500 SsangyongCement 7,000 UP 100 SamyangFood 99,800 UP 200 @ @ @ @ @ CJ CheilJedang 382,500 DN 2,000 KAL 26,900 UP 600 YUNGJIN PHARM 7,960 DN 320 TaekwangInd @ @ @ @ @ 85,000 DN 1,400 BukwangPharm 30,250 UP 1,250 ILJIN MATERIALS 49,500 UP 300 Daesang 26,700 UP @ @ @ @ @ POSCO CHEMICAL 104,500 0 BoryungPharm 19,750 DN 100 L & L 10,100 UP 50 LOTTE @ @ @ @ @ HYUNDAI STEEL 38,300 UP 250 Shinsegae 236,000 UP 4,500 Nongshim 304,000 UP 500 SamsungElec 77,800 @ @ @ @ @ 300 SK Discovery 64,800 UP 300 LS 72,500 UP 2,200 GC Corp 363,500 DN 12,500 @ @ @ @ @ UP 800 HANIL HYUNDAI CEMENT 28,900 UP 900 SAMSUNG SDI CO. , LTD .
563,000 @ @ @ @ @ 4,000 MIRAE ASSET DAEWOO 9,630 UP 60 SKC 91,600 UP 700 GS Retail 34,450 UP @ @ @ @ @ IlyangPharm 63,500 DN 200 F & F 83,400 UP 500 NamsunAlum 4,560 DN 50 MERITZ @ @ @ @ @ 80,900 UP 1,200 ( MORE )

GCH Corp 34,050 DN 750
LotteChilsung 111,500 0
SGBC 62,700 UP 1,500
SsangyongCement 7,000 UP 100
SamyangFood 99,800 UP 200
POSCO INTERNATIONAL 15,200 UP 550
CJ CheilJedang 382,500 DN 2,000
KAL 26,900 UP 600
YUNGJIN PHARM 7,960 DN 320
TaekwangInd 781,000 UP 13,000
LG Corp. 85,000 DN 1,400
BukwangPharm 30,250 UP 1,250
ILJIN MATERIALS 49,500 UP 300
Daesang 26,700 UP 400
SKNetworks 4,785 UP 70
POSCO CHEMICAL 104,500 0
BoryungPharm 19,750 DN 100
L&L 10,100 UP 50
LOTTE Fine Chem 54,800 UP 1,500
HYUNDAI STEEL 38,300 UP 250
Shinsegae 236,000 UP 4,500
Nongshim 304,000 UP 500
SamsungElec 77,800 UP 3,900
NHIS 11,800 UP 300
SK Discovery 64,800 UP 300
LS 72,500 UP 2,200
GC Corp 363,500 DN 12,500
GS E&C 35,850 UP 800
HANIL HYUNDAI CEMENT 28,900 UP 900
SAMSUNG SDI CO.,LTD. 563,000 UP 9,000
KPIC 220,000 UP 4,000
MIRAE ASSET DAEWOO 9,630 UP 60
SKC 91,600 UP 700
GS Retail 34,450 UP 350
Ottogi 578,000 UP 4,000
IlyangPharm 63,500 DN 200
F&F 83,400 UP 500
NamsunAlum 4,560 DN 50
MERITZ SECU 3,885 UP 70
HtlShilla 80,900 UP 1,200
(MORE)


yna--2020-12-24--KOSPI 200 Closing Price List-1

KOSPI 200 Closing Price List-1

Hanwha 27,950 UP 1,150 SK hynix 118,000 UP 2,000 Youngpoong 536,000 DN 3,000 HyundaiEng & Const 36,650 UP 350 CUCKOO @ @ @ @ @ & MIns 195,500 UP 1,500 HANALL BIOPHARMA 37,350 UP 100 Kogas 30,300 0 ORION Holdings @ @ @ @ @ UP 500 HyundaiMtr 187,000 UP 2,000 ShinpoongPharm 119,000 UP 5,500 NEXENTIRE 6,140 UP 30 CHONGKUNDANG @ @ @ @ @ UP 10,500 SKBP 171,000 0 Hyundai M & F INS 23,450 UP 100 CJ 88,400 @ @ @ @ @ 250 LGInt 24,200 DN 900 DongkukStlMill 7,790 DN 30 HITEJINRO 31,650 UP 200 Yuhan 73,500 @ @ @ @ @ UP 500 DOOSAN 55,400 UP 1,800 DaelimInd 88,400 UP 400 HANKOOK TECHNOLOGY G ROUP14350 UP100 @ @ @ @ @ 74,900 UP 400 ShinhanGroup 33,300 UP 450 POSCO 271,000 UP 3,500 SPC SAMLIP 71,200 UP @ @ @ @ @ 150 SAMSUNG SDS 179,500 UP 1,500 KUMHOTIRE 3,785 UP 80 HYUNDAIGREENFOOD 8,910 UP 110 Hyosung @ @ @ @ @ 45,000 UP 400 LOTTE 34,700 UP 750 Binggrae 56,000 UP 600 ( MORE )

SEOUL, Dec. 24 (Yonhap) -- Thursday's closing prices (KRW) of
KOSPI 200 stocks traded on the main Korea Stock Exchange.
Hanwha 27,950 UP 1,150
SK hynix 118,000 UP 2,000
Youngpoong 536,000 DN 3,000
HyundaiEng&Const 36,650 UP 350
CUCKOO HOMESYS 39,000 UP 500
SamsungF&MIns 195,500 UP 1,500
HANALL BIOPHARMA 37,350 UP 100
Kogas 30,300 0
ORION Holdings 13,800 UP 150
AmoreG 53,800 UP 500
HyundaiMtr 187,000 UP 2,000
ShinpoongPharm 119,000 UP 5,500
NEXENTIRE 6,140 UP 30
CHONGKUNDANG 228,000 UP 4,000
KCC 199,500 UP 10,500
SKBP 171,000 0
Hyundai M&F INS 23,450 UP 100
CJ 88,400 UP 2,100
JWPHARMA 34,100 DN 250
LGInt 24,200 DN 900
DongkukStlMill 7,790 DN 30
HITEJINRO 31,650 UP 200
Yuhan 73,500 UP 200
CJ LOGISTICS 163,500 UP 500
DOOSAN 55,400 UP 1,800
DaelimInd 88,400 UP 400
HANKOOK TECHNOLOGY G ROUP14350 UP100
KiaMtr 61,700 UP 300
SAMYANGHOLDINGS 74,900 UP 400
ShinhanGroup 33,300 UP 450
POSCO 271,000 UP 3,500
SPC SAMLIP 71,200 UP 1,300
KOREA AEROSPACE 25,250 UP 150
SAMSUNG SDS 179,500 UP 1,500
KUMHOTIRE 3,785 UP 80
HYUNDAIGREENFOOD 8,910 UP 110
Hyosung 81,400 UP 900
DB INSURANCE 45,000 UP 400
LOTTE 34,700 UP 750
Binggrae 56,000 UP 600
(MORE)


KOSPI 2,806.86 UP 47.04 points (close)

(URGENT) N. Korea says Travis King decided to come over to N. Korea because he harbored ill feeling within the U.S. Army: KCNA


yna--2020-12-25--(2nd LD) S. Korea's virus cases hit all-time high despite tougher distancing rules

`` The vast majority of the nation is faithfully adhering to the government 's antivirus measures despite the inconvenience and @ @ @ @ @ if a few cheat for their own gains , it is difficult to expect results @ @ @ @ @ measures , '' Chung said during a government COVID-19 pandemic response meeting .

(ATTN: UPDATES with comments by health ministry official in paras 6, 13; ADDS photo)
SEOUL, Dec. 25 (Yonhap) -- South Korea's daily new coronavirus cases hit a new record high on Friday, despite the most stringent social distancing rules to contain the winter wave of the virus.
South Korea reported 1,241 more COVID-19 cases, including 1,216 local infections, raising the total caseload to 54,770, according to the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA).
The tally marked a hike from 985 on Thursday, according the public health agency.
The hike is mainly blamed on 288 new cases at a detention center in eastern Seoul in one of the largest cluster infections in South Korea.
People wait in a long line around a large Christmas tree to get tested for COVID-19 at a screening center in Seongnam, just south of Seoul, on Christmas Eve on Dec. 24, 2020. (Yonhap)
South Korea has banned gatherings of five or more people across the country in the most stringent social distancing rules meant to contain the spread of the virus.
Yoon Tae-ho, a senior official at the Ministry of Health and Welfare, asked people to cancel gatherings and stay at home, saying tougher social distancing rules and antivirus measures could reduce the number of infections in the new year.
The government warned that violators of the social distancing rules will face a fine of up to 3 million won (US$2,700).
The government also shut down ski resorts and popular venues for watching the sunrise on New Year's Day to slow the spread of the virus during the Christmas and New Year's holiday season.
On Friday, Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun called on health authorities and local governments to respond "strictly" to violations of social distancing rules, noting some restaurants and bars entertained guests after 9 p.m. after locking their doors and switching off signs.
"The vast majority of the nation is faithfully adhering to the government's antivirus measures despite the inconvenience and pain they entail, but if a few cheat for their own gains, it is difficult to expect results from participating in the antivirus measures," Chung said during a government COVID-19 pandemic response meeting.
People line up to take new coronavirus test at a screening center set up at the National Medical Center in central Seoul exclusively for Korean and foreign travelers departing for overseas on Dec. 25, 2020, when South Korea recorded the highest daily surge of COVID-19 infections with 1,241 new cases. (Yonhap)
South Korea has been applying Level 2.5 social distancing rules, the second highest of the five-tier system, in the greater Seoul area, home to half of its 51.6 million population, and Level 2 rules in the rest of the country.
Health authorities have said they are aiming to contain the current wave of the pandemic without raising virus curbs to Level 3 on concerns over the impact on the economy.
The authorities plan to decide Sunday on whether to raise the country's social distancing guidelines to the highest Level 3, Yoon said.
Of the newly identified local infections, 550 cases were reported in Seoul and 257 cases in Gyeonggi Province that surrounds the capital. Incheon, west of Seoul, reported 55 more cases.
Other municipalities reported new infections, with South Chungcheong Province adding 79 cases and North Gyeongsang Province reporting 67 new cases.
Gallery Gallery 画报 写真ギャラリー ألبوم الصور Galería Public health officials in Santa Claus outfits wait for people coming to get tested for COVID-19 at a screening center in Seoul on Christmas Eve on Dec. 24, 2020. (Yonhap)
South Korea reported 17 additional deaths from COVID-19, raising the death toll to 773. The fatality rate was 1.41 percent.
The number of seriously or critically ill COVID-19 patients reached 311, compared with 291 from the previous day.
The public health agency said the total number of people released from quarantine after making full recoveries stood at 38,048, up 623 from the previous day.
Meanwhile, South Korea reported 25 imported cases, increasing the total to 5,425.
Of the newly imported cases, 15 were South Koreans and 10 were foreigners. They came from the United States, the Philippines, Uzbekistan, Indonesia, Russia, Kazakhstan, Poland, Finland, Democratic Republic of Congo and Niger.
Seoul's main shopping district of Myeongdong is less crowded than last year on Christmas Eve on Dec. 24, 2020, due to the new coronavirus. (Yonhap)
entropy@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-12-25--BOK to keep monetary easing in 2021 to support economic recovery

`` Under the direction of its monetary policy in 2021 , the Bank of Korea will maintain the easing stance @ @ @ @ @ support the recovery in growth and to ensure the rise in consumer prices will be @ @ @ @ @ level , '' the BOK said in a statement .

SEOUL, Dec. 25 (Yonhap) -- The Bank of Korea (BOK) said Friday it will maintain an accommodative monetary policy next year to help the nation's economic recovery from the pandemic, but it will closely watch the side-effects of monetary easing.
"Under the direction of its monetary policy in 2021, the Bank of Korea will maintain the easing stance of its monetary policy to support the recovery in growth and to ensure the rise in consumer prices will be stabilized at around the target level," the BOK said in a statement.
Next year, the BOK said it will "effectively" operate its loan program to support small- and medium-sized firms hit by the pandemic.
The BOK will also take its "market stabilization measures" in foreign exchange and financial markets in a timely manner, while seeking to sign currency swap deals with central banks of other countries, according to the statement.
The global economy is expected to show a "modest recovery" next year, helped by progress in vaccine developments and stimulus measures by advanced economies, the BOK said.
South Korea's economy is likely to grow at around 3 percent next year, but uncertainties remain due to a global resurgence of the virus, the BOK said.
The BOK's monetary policy direction also came as the country's consumer prices are expected to rise 0.5 percent from a year earlier in 2020.
The BOK expects consumer prices to grow 1 percent next year, but that too will fall far short of its long-term target of 2 percent.
Last month, the BOK held its policy rate unchanged at a record low of 0.5 percent, while slightly revising up this year's economic outlook, amid growing concerns over the nation's third wave of coronavirus infections.
Driven by signs of a modest recovery in exports, the BOK revised up this year's economic growth outlook to a 1.1 percent contraction, compared with a previous forecast of a 1.3 percent retreat.
The BOK expected the economy to grow 3 percent next year, faster than a previous forecast of 2.8 percent expansion for 2021.
kdh@yna.co.kr
(END)


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yna--2020-12-25--Temporary testing centers detect 121 new COVID-19 cases in capital area

The polymerase chain reaction ( PCR ) test , which is known to be the most accurate , accounted for @ @ @ @ @ conducted Thursday at those sites .

SEOUL, Dec. 25 (Yonhap) -- Temporary testing centers in the greater Seoul area detected 121 asymptomatic coronavirus cases in a day, or 10 percent of all locally transmitted infections, the health authorities said Friday.
According to the Central Disease Control Headquarters, 60,931 tests were carried out at the temporary screening facilities Thursday, and 121 came back positive, equivalent to 10 percent of the day's 1,216 local infections.
The facilities have detected a total of 1,025 positive cases since they first opened on Dec. 14.
Anyone can take a test by providing only their cell phone number.
The polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test, which is known to be the most accurate, accounted for 98.1 percent of all tests conducted Thursday at those sites.
There were also 1,051 quick antigen tests and 102 saliva-based tests.
The capital area currently operates 147 temporary testing centers. Officials plan to run them until Jan. 3.
People line up to take COVID-19 tests at a temporary screening facility set up outside Seoul Station in central Seoul on Dec. 25, 2020. (Yonhap)
hague@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-12-25--(LEAD) S. Korea's virus cases hit all-time high despite tougher distancing rules

(ATTN: UPDATES with comments by prime minister and details in paras 6, 8-10, 12-19; ADDS photos)
SEOUL, Dec. 25 (Yonhap) -- South Korea's daily new coronavirus cases hit a new record high on Friday, despite the most stringent social distancing rules to contain the winter wave of the virus.
South Korea reported 1,241 more COVID-19 cases, including 1,216 local infections, raising the total caseload to 54,770, according to the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA).
The tally marked a hike from 985 on Thursday, according the public health agency.
The hike is mainly blamed on 288 new cases at a detention center in eastern Seoul in one of the largest massive cluster infections in South Korea.
People wait in a long line around a large Christmas tree to get tested for COVID-19 at a screening center in Seongnam, just south of Seoul, on Christmas Eve on Dec. 24, 2020. (Yonhap)
South Korea has banned gatherings of five or more people across the country in the most stringent social distancing rules meant to contain the spread of the virus.
The government warned that violators of the social distancing rules will face a fine of up to 3 million won (US$2,700).
The government also shut down ski resorts and popular venues for watching the sunrise on New Year's Day to slow the spread of the virus during the Christmas and New Year's holiday season.
On Friday, Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun called on health authorities and local governments to respond "strictly" to violations of social distancing rules, noting some restaurants and bars entertained guests after 9 p.m. after locking their doors and switching off signs.
"The vast majority of the nation is faithfully adhering to the government's antivirus measures despite the inconvenience and pain they entail, but if a few cheat for their own gains, it is difficult to expect results from participating in the antivirus measures," Chung said during a government COVID-19 pandemic response meeting.
South Korea has been applying Level 2.5 social distancing rules, the second highest of the five-tier system, in the greater Seoul area, home to half of its 51.6 million population, and Level 2 rules in the rest of the country.
Gallery Gallery 画报 写真ギャラリー ألبوم الصور Galería Public health officials in Santa Claus outfits wait for people coming to get tested for COVID-19 at a screening center in Seoul on Christmas Eve on Dec. 24, 2020. (Yonhap)
Health authorities have said they are aiming to contain the current wave of the pandemic without raising virus curbs to Level 3 on concerns over the impact on the economy.
Of the newly identified local infections, 550 cases were reported in Seoul and 257 cases in Gyeonggi Province that surrounds the capital. Incheon, west of Seoul, reported 55 more cases.
Other municipalities reported new infections, with South Chungcheong Province adding 79 cases and North Gyeongsang Province reporting 67 new cases.
South Korea reported 17 additional deaths from COVID-19, raising the death toll to 773. The fatality rate was 1.41 percent.
The number of seriously or critically ill COVID-19 patients reached 311, compared with 291 from the previous day.
The public health agency said the total number of people released from quarantine after making full recoveries stood at 38,048, up 623 from the previous day.
Meanwhile, South Korea reported 25 imported cases, increasing the total to 5,425.
Of the newly imported cases, 15 were South Koreans and 10 were foreigners. They came from the United States, the Philippines, Uzbekistan, Indonesia, Russia, Kazakhstan, Poland, Finland, Democratic Republic of Congo and Niger.
Seoul's main shopping district of Myeongdong is less crowded than last year on Christmas Eve on Dec. 24, 2020, due to the new coronavirus. (Yonhap)
entropy@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-12-25--(EDITORIAL from Korea Times on Dec. 25)

(EDITORIAL from Korea Times on Dec. 25)

As the court stated , Chung betrayed society 's belief in and expectations for a fair and transparent college admissions @ @ @ @ @ the court found her guilty of all seven of the charges related to admissions fraud @ @ @ @ @ the five charges concerning illicit investments .
Fair and equal educational opportunities are more important @ @ @ @ @ Korea .
If rich and influential parents monopolize these opportunities for their children , the @ @ @ @ @ fair society .
( END )

Step toward fair society
Time to beef up anti-corruption campaign
A Seoul court sentenced Chung Kyung-sim, the wife of former Justice Minister Cho Kuk, to four years in prison Wednesday for committing admissions fraud for her daughter and participating in dubious investments in a private equity fund. She was also fined 500 million won ($453,000) and ordered to forfeit 140 million won in illegal monetary gains.
The ruling is seen as the judiciary's efforts to crack down on the misdeeds committed by the family of a ranking official and confidant of President Moon Jae-in. It implies that members of the political elite should maintain high moral and ethical standards, not to mention abiding by the law.
The guilty verdict also sends a clear message that no one is above the law whoever they are. In fact, Cho and Chung have enjoyed privileges as leading members of our society. They were professors; Cho served as senior presidential secretary for civil affairs; and then became justice minister in September 2019. However, he had to resign over the mounting corruption allegations levelled against him and his family.
First of all, the court decision should serve as an opportunity to step up an anti-corruption campaign. Since his May 2017 inauguration President Moon has vowed to create a fair society. He has also strived to eliminate "old evils" of the previous administration of his predecessor Park Geun-hye who was ousted from power because of massive corruption.
However, the Moon administration and the ruling Democratic Party of Korea (DPK) have done little or nothing to fight corruption among their own officials and politicians. Worse, they have tried hard to block the prosecution from investigating core members of this "political power group" for alleged bribery, election rigging and abuse of power.
A typical case in point is a corruption scandal involving Cho and his family. Moon's officials and DPK lawmakers have been engrossed in defending Cho and Chung, while attacking Prosecutor General Yoon Seok-youl for digging up dirt on them based on "false" allegations. They criticized Yoon for abusing the prosecution's unbridled power to target the former justice minister in defiance of Moon's much-avowed prosecutorial reform. Last week, a disciplinary committee under the Ministry of Justice decided to suspend Yoon from duty for two months, apparently due to his fight against corrupt officials and politicians.
Now the judicial ruling should help end a national divide and conflict between conservatives and progressives, which have deepened due to the Cho's family case. Cho should keep in mind that the court found that he had collaborated with his wife in forging documents, including a college presidential citation in a bid to get their daughter admitted to medical school. Cho, who is also standing trial for corruption, is likely to also receive a guilty verdict.
As the court stated, Chung betrayed society's belief in and expectations for a fair and transparent college admissions system. That's why the court found her guilty of all seven of the charges related to admissions fraud, while acknowledging three of the five charges concerning illicit investments. Fair and equal educational opportunities are more important than anything else here in Korea. If rich and influential parents monopolize these opportunities for their children, the country cannot be a fair society.
(END)


yna--2020-12-25--(EDITORIAL from Korea Herald on Dec. 25)

Over the past years , it has been negligent on carrying out restructuring and preparing for the era of electric @ @ @ @ @ pressure from President Moon Jae-in 's administration , which is tilted toward labor interests , @ @ @ @ @ workers who were laid off when the company went through the first court receivership , @ @ @ @ @ difficulties .
Mahindra 's flip-flop on its pledge to inject fresh capital into SsangYong appears @ @ @ @ @ Moon government will not let the company go belly up .

Troubled carmaker
Political consideration should be excluded from deciding on fate of SsangYong Motor
The application for court receivership this week by SsangYong Motor, the second of its kind in a little over a decade, shows the limit and risk of corporate restructuring work swayed by political logic.
On Monday, SsangYong, the South Korean unit of Indian carmaker Mahindra & Mahindra, took the measure after it defaulted on 60 billion won ($54 million) in debts to its foreign creditor banks last week. The lenders rejected an earlier request by the company to roll over the loans.
SsangYong also failed to repay 105 billion won due Monday to two of its local creditors, including the state-run Korea Development Bank.
SsangYong now owes a total of 315.3 billion won in overdue debt to foreign and domestic lenders, which accounts for 42 percent of its capital of 749.2 billion won, according to figures made public by the company Tuesday.
The sports utility vehicle-focused carmaker has lost its debt-servicing capacity as it has been reeling from 15 consecutive quarters of losses due to sluggish sales and a lack of new models since the first quarter of 2017. Its operating losses ballooned from 65.3 billion won in 2017 to 309 billion won in the first nine months of 2020.
A Seoul court granted the debt-ridden company a three-month moratorium on restructuring. If it finds a new investor or rebuilds creditors' trust during the period, its management could be put back on track. This scenario would be impossible without thorough self-rescue efforts.
With the jobs of tens of thousands of workers at the automaker and its subcontractors and the livelihoods of their families at stake, calls may be rising for state support for the indebted company. But lessons should be learned from what led to its current predicament.
SsangYong placed itself under court receivership -- one step short of bankruptcy in Korea's legal system -- for the first time in 2009.
In the period, the court decides whether and how to revive a company.
China-based SAIC Motor Corp. acquired a 51 percent stake in SsangYong in 2004, but in 2009 relinquished its control of the carmaker in the aftermath of the global financial crisis.
In 2011, Mahindra acquired a 70 percent stake in SsangYong for 523 billion won and its share has increased to 74.65 percent since then. Mahindra says it does not have a plan to inject fresh capital into SsangYong and will give up its status as majority shareholder if a new investor is found. Early this year Mahindra announced a plan to inject 230 billion won into SsangYong for the following three years but its board voted against the investment plan last month, as the prolonged coronavirus pandemic continued to weigh down on vehicle sales.
In August, a local accounting firm auditing SsangYong declined to give its opinion on the carmaker's earnings results for the January-June period. It is expected to do the same on the annual financial statement of SsangYong, which its management says will need at least 500 billion won to turn itself around by 2022.
Over the past years, it has been negligent on carrying out restructuring and preparing for the era of electric and hydrogen-powered cars. Under pressure from President Moon Jae-in's administration, which is tilted toward labor interests, it has reemployed about 2,000 workers who were laid off when the company went through the first court receivership, resulting in exacerbating its financial difficulties. Mahindra's flip-flop on its pledge to inject fresh capital into SsangYong appears based on calculations that the Moon government will not let the company go belly up.
The administration and the ruling Democratic Party of Korea may be further tempted to extend a helping hand to the faltering company ahead of crucial mayoral by-elections in the country's two largest cities -- Seoul and Busan -- in April. But pouring taxpayers' money into the company, which experts say stands little chance of surviving the intensifying competition in the car industry, could cause a greater problem and deprive more competitive companies of opportunities to pull themselves out of temporary difficulties with the minimum support of the government.
In the coming months, SsangYong's labor and management should focus on making painstaking self-rescue efforts and working out plans to improve its competitiveness before looking for outside help.
(END)


yna--2020-12-25--Top headlines in major S. Korean newspapers

Korean-language dailies -- Court overturns Moon-approved disciplinary action against Yoon Seok-youl ( Kyunghyang Shinmun ) -- Yoon Seok-youl 's 2-month @ @ @ @ @ to work ( Kookmin Daily ) -- Yoon reinstated ; Moon 's disciplinary action overturned @ @ @ @ @ ) -- Prosecutor General Yoon Seok-youl reinstated ; Moon 's political burden grows ( Seoul @ @ @ @ @ returns to work ; president 's decision overturned by court ( Segye Times ) -- @ @ @ @ @ overturns president 's decision ( Chosun Ilbo ) -- President Moon 's disciplinary action against @ @ @ @ @ court ( JoongAng Ilbo ) -- Yoon Seok-youl reinstated again ; court effectively cancels disciplinary @ @ @ @ @ Yoon Seok-youl is coming back ; court 'halts disciplinary action ' ( Hankook Ilbo ) @ @ @ @ @ Yoon ; Yoon returns to work after 8 days ( Maeil Business Newspaper ) -- @ @ @ @ @ life ; 'investigation into administration ' to accelerate ( Korea Economic Daily )

SEOUL, Dec. 25 (Yonhap) -- The following are the top headlines in major South Korean newspapers on Dec. 25.
Korean-language dailies
-- Court overturns Moon-approved disciplinary action against Yoon Seok-youl (Kyunghyang Shinmun)
-- Yoon Seok-youl's 2-month suspension canceled; Yoon returns to work (Kookmin Daily)
-- Yoon reinstated; Moon's disciplinary action overturned by court (Donga Ilbo)
-- Prosecutor General Yoon Seok-youl reinstated; Moon's political burden grows (Seoul Shinmun)
-- Yoon Seok-youl returns to work; president's decision overturned by court (Segye Times)
-- Yoon Seok-youl returns; court overturns president's decision (Chosun Ilbo)
-- President Moon's disciplinary action against Yoon Seok-youl is overturned by court (JoongAng Ilbo)
-- Yoon Seok-youl reinstated again; court effectively cancels disciplinary action (Hankyoreh)
-- Yoon Seok-youl is coming back; court 'halts disciplinary action' (Hankook Ilbo)
-- Court again sides with Yoon; Yoon returns to work after 8 days (Maeil Business Newspaper)
-- Yoon Seok-youl comes back to life; 'investigation into administration' to accelerate (Korea Economic Daily)
English-language dailies
-- South Korea inks COVID-19 vaccine deals with Pfizer, Janssen (Korea Herald)
-- Gov't struggles with outcry over late vaccine procurement (Korea Times)
(END)


yna--2020-12-25--(LEAD) S. Korea conducted Dokdo defense drill earlier this month

The drill , which took place on Dec. 4 , involved the Navy and the Coast Guard and was held @ @ @ @ @ previous drills , given the coronavirus pandemic and other factors , according to the military @ @ @ @

(ATTN: ADDS more details in paras 2-3)
SEOUL, Dec. 25 (Yonhap) -- South Korea staged an annual military exercise on and around its easternmost islets of Dokdo earlier this month, sources said Friday.
The drill, which took place on Dec. 4, involved the Navy and the Coast Guard and was held on a smaller scale than previous drills, given the coronavirus pandemic and other factors, according to the military and government sources.
The Air Force and the Marines did not take part in the drill this time, they added.
The defense ministry and the Navy refused to officially confirm details about the latest drill, citing policy.
South Korea launched the Dokdo drills in 1986. Since 2003, it has typically conducted the training twice a year, usually in June and December, to better fend off possible foreign infiltrations to the rocky outcroppings and the surrounding waters.
In June, the military staged this year's first drill, involving around eight vessels and five aircraft, including F-15K fighter jets. In December last year, it replaced the exercise with a CPX due to inclement weather.
The June exercise became known to the public belatedly as the authorities did not disclose details in an apparent move to avoid aggravating tensions with Japan.
Bilateral relations between Seoul and Tokyo have been at one of their lowest ebbs in recent years over historic and diplomatic issues that have spilled over to the economic and military realms.
Japan has repeatedly laid territorial claims to Dokdo, though South Korea has been in effective control of the islets with a small police detachment since its liberation from Japanese colonial rule in 1945.
The file photo taken Aug. 25, 2019, shows the South Korean armed forces holding an exercise to defend the easternmost islets of Dokdo. (Yonhap)
graceoh@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-12-25--(LEAD) S. Korea's daily coronavirus cases reach new high of 1,241: PM

`` A vast majority of the nation is faithfully adhering to the government 's antivirus measures despite the inconvenience and @ @ @ @ @ if a few cheat for their own gains it is difficult to expect results from @ @ @ @ @ , '' he added .

(ATTN: UPDATES throughout with details; ADDS photo)
SEOUL, Dec. 25 (Yonhap) -- South Korea reported 1,241 daily cases of the coronavirus in a new record high for the country, Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun said Friday.
Chung made the remark during a government COVID-19 pandemic response meeting, calling on health authorities and local governments to respond "strictly" to violations of social distancing rules.
A street in Seoul's Myeongdong appears less crowded than last year on Christmas Eve, Dec. 24, 2020. (Yonhap)
"A joint government monitoring team found through onsite inspections that there were still many places that were not following the antivirus measures properly," he said, noting that some restaurants and bars entertained guests after 9 p.m. after locking their doors and switching off signs.
"A vast majority of the nation is faithfully adhering to the government's antivirus measures despite the inconvenience and pain they entail, but if a few cheat for their own gains it is difficult to expect results from participating in the antivirus measures," he added.
Chung said there was a large outbreak at the Dongbu Detention Center in eastern Seoul and called for increased efforts to prevent outbreaks and find asymptomatic COVID-19 patients at such crowded facilities.
He noted that more than 110,000 COVID-19 tests have been conducted daily at temporary screening facilities set up in the capital area.
To all public servants, he asked that they defend the COVID-19 front lines even during the Christmas and New Year's holidays in the last step to a "spring of hope."
Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun speaks during a meeting of the Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasures Headquarters at the government complex in Seoul on Dec. 25, 2020. (Yonhap)
hague@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-12-25--S. Korea's virus cases hit all-time high despite tougher distancing rules

The government also shut down ski resorts and popular venues for watching the sunrise on New Year 's Day to @ @ @ @ @ virus during the Christmas and New Year 's holiday season .

SEOUL, Dec. 25 (Yonhap) -- South Korea's daily new coronavirus cases hit a new record high on Friday, despite the most stringent social distancing rules to contain the winter wave of the virus.
South Korea reported 1,241 more COVID-19 cases, including 1,216 local infections, raising the total caseload to 54,770, according to the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA).
The tally marked a hike from 985 on Thursday, according the public health agency.
The hike is mainly blamed on 288 new cases at a detention center in eastern Seoul in one of the largest massive cluster infections in South Korea.
South Korea has banned gatherings of five or more people across the country in the most stringent social distancing rules meant to contain the spread of the virus.
The government also shut down ski resorts and popular venues for watching the sunrise on New Year's Day to slow the spread of the virus during the Christmas and New Year's holiday season.
South Korea has been applying Level 2.5 social distancing rules, the second highest of the five-tier system, in the greater Seoul area, home to half of its 51.6 million population, and Level 2 rules in the rest of the country.
Seoul's main shopping district of Myeongdong is less crowded than last year on Christmas Eve on Dec. 24, 2020, due to the new coronavirus. (Yonhap)
entropy@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-12-25--(URGENT) 623 more patients released from coronavirus treatment, total now at 38,048: KDCA


yna--2020-12-25--(URGENT) S. Korea reports 17 additional coronavirus deaths, total now at 773: KDCA


yna--2020-12-25--(URGENT) S. Korea reports 1,241 new coronavirus cases, total at 54,770: KDCA


yna--2020-12-25--S. Korea's daily coronavirus cases reach new high of 1,241: PM

SEOUL , Dec. 25 ( Yonhap ) -- South Korea reported 1,241 new cases of the coronavirus in a new @ @ @ @ @ , Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun said Friday .

SEOUL, Dec. 25 (Yonhap) -- South Korea reported 1,241 new cases of the coronavirus in a new record high for the country, Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun said Friday.
Chung made the remark during a government COVID-19 pandemic response meeting, saying there was a large outbreak at a detention center in Seoul the previous day.
Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun speaks during a meeting of the Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasures Headquarters at the government complex in Seoul on Dec. 25, 2020. (Yonhap)
hague@yna.co.kr
(END)


Friday's weather forecast

SEOUL , Dec. 25 ( Yonhap ) -- The following is the weather forecast for South Korea 's 12 major @ @ @ @ @ .


yna--2020-12-25--(URGENT) S. Korea's daily coronavirus cases reach new high of 1,241: PM


yna--2020-12-25--S. Korea conducted Dokdo defense drill earlier this month

South Korea launched the Dokdo drills in 1986 .
Since 2003 , it has typically conducted the training twice a @ @ @ @ @ and December , to better fend off possible foreign infiltrations to the rocky outcroppings and @ @ @ @

SEOUL, Dec. 25 (Yonhap) -- South Korea staged an annual military exercise on and around its easternmost islets of Dokdo earlier this month, sources said Friday.
The drill, involving the Navy and the Coast Guard, was held in a smaller scale than previous drills, given the coronavirus pandemic and other factors, according to the sources.
The defense ministry and the Navy refused to confirm details about the latest drill, citing policy.
South Korea launched the Dokdo drills in 1986. Since 2003, it has typically conducted the training twice a year, usually in June and December, to better fend off possible foreign infiltrations to the rocky outcroppings and the surrounding waters.
In June, the military staged this year's first drill, involving around eight vessels and five aircraft, including F-15K fighter jets. In December last year, it replaced the exercise with a CPX due to inclement weather.
The June exercise became known to the public belatedly as the authorities did not disclose details in an apparent move to avoid aggravating tensions with Japan.
Bilateral relations between Seoul and Tokyo have been at one of their lowest ebbs in recent years over historic and diplomatic issues that have spilled over to the economic and military realms.
Japan has repeatedly laid territorial claims to Dokdo, though South Korea has been in effective control of the islets with a small police detachment since its liberation from Japanese colonial rule in 1945.
The file photo taken Aug. 25, 2019, shows the South Korean armed forces holding an exercise to defend the easternmost islets of Dokdo. (Yonhap)
graceoh@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-12-25--(2nd LD) Churches meet online, streets deserted on 1st Christmas since COVID-19 in S. Korea

`` This year , because of COVID-19 , my child could n't go to school and I had a lot @ @ @ @ @ Sang-cheon , a 45-year-old father , said at the cathedral with his second-grade son .
@ @ @ @ @ we 'll have no coronavirus worries . ''

(ATTN: ADDS details in last four paras, photo)
SEOUL, Dec. 25 (Yonhap) -- This year's Christmas on Friday was unlikely any other, as the raging coronavirus pandemic forced churches to hold services online and kept people off the streets on a typically bustling and cheerful holiday.
The landmark Myeongdong Cathedral in central Seoul held its Christmas Mass virtually for the first time, with only 15 people, including staff, in attendance to comply with the government's antivirus measures. Most congregants participated through a live broadcast.
People pray in front of Myeongdong Cathedral in central Seoul on Dec. 25, 2020. (Yonhap)
South Korean Cardinal Andrew Yeom Soo-jung places a statue of baby Jesus into a manger during a rite held at Myeongdong Cathedral in central Seoul on Dec. 24, 2020. (Yonhap)
"I feel sad that COVID-19 shows no signs of abating," Archbishop of Seoul Cardinal Andrew Yeom Soo-jung said in his Christmas message. "I believe it is a time to show greater care and brotherly love to those who are neglected and poor."
South Korea reported a record 1,241 new cases of the coronavirus the previous day as the government continued to weigh the need to raise its social distancing scheme to the highest Level 3.
The greater Seoul area is currently under Level 2.5, while most other parts of the nation are under Level 2.
"This year, because of COVID-19, my child couldn't go to school and I had a lot of worries," Yoo Sang-cheon, a 45-year-old father, said at the cathedral with his second-grade son. "I hope next year we'll have no coronavirus worries."
At Somang Presbyterian Church, one of the largest churches in the country located in southern Seoul, doors were shut and pews were empty, leaving only six choralists singing hymns for a virtual service.
Outside the chapel doors, church members had posted notes saying, "I miss you, God," and "I wait for the day these doors will open wide and I will pray."
Worshipers (on screen) take part in an online Christmas service at Yoido Full Gospel Church in Seoul on Dec. 25, 2020, due to the spread of the new coronavirus. (Yonhap)
The food alleys near Gangnam Station in southern Seoul were deserted if not for the motorcycles making deliveries.
A 32-year-old, surnamed Jeong, held take-out sushi in one hand and a cake in the other as he walked the alleys with his wife.
"We wanted something special to eat because it's Christmas, but in order to refrain from eating out we got take-out and are going home," he said.
"The empty streets look lonely but I'm relieved because it means that people are being careful," he added.
The scene was similar in the hip neighborhood around Hongdae.
A restaurant worker said sales had dropped by more than half compared to the end of last year.
"I think people are staying home even more because they figure it will be crowded on Christmas," he said.
A major shopping street is almost vacant in Seoul on Christmas Day, Dec. 25, 2020, amid fears of the coronavirus. (Yonhap)
A major shopping street is almost vacant in Seoul on Christmas Day, Dec. 25, 2020, amid fears of the coronavirus. (Yonhap)
Tourist attractions across the country were also quieter than usual.
Some mountain hikers had to return home after finding out that national parks at Mount Moak and Mount Daedun in North Jeolla Province had been closed since Thursday.
A string of cancellations were reported at accommodations in the southern resort island of Jeju following the provincial government's decision to close down key sites, like Mount Halla and Bijalim Forest.
While sunrise spots on the country's eastern coast were also closed as a precautionary measure, some visitors reportedly trespassed onto the beaches.
Seongsan Ilchulbong, a popular tourist attraction in the southern resort island of Jeju, is closed on Dec. 24, 2020. (Yonhap)
But screening centers across the nation were busy with people waiting to get tested for the virus.
A line formed in front of a temporary screening center in Incheon, west of Seoul, even before the center's opening time.
"I don't have symptoms but felt uncomfortable and decided to come," a man in his fifties said. "It's a sad reality for both people who came to get tested and health workers working even on Christmas day," he said.
People line up in front of a temporary screening center in central Seoul on Dec. 25, 2020. (Yonhap)
Some department stores and indoor shopping malls also were crowded in the afternoon. Roads were jammed and parking spaces were unavailable at some venues.
"Because of the cars that were heading out to the east Busan outlet, it took more than 30 minutes to get home. It was like seeing a traffic jam during a golden holiday," said a resident in the southeastern port city of Busan.
In Gyeonggi Province, which surrounds Seoul, large supermarkets and shopping malls were bustling with Christmas shoppers.
"There was a long line in front of the entrance as people were waiting to be checked for fever and there were more people inside than I had expected," a shopper surnamed Yoon said. "I felt anxious, so I just got what I needed and got out quickly."
People shop at a mall in Seoul on Dec. 25, 2020. (Yonhap)
hague@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-12-25--N. Korean leader makes fewest public appearances this year: data

`` Due to economic and external factors , like COVID-19 , it was a difficult situation ( for North Korea @ @ @ @ @ , '' Choi Eun-ju , research fellow at Sejong Institute , said .
`` It @ @ @ @ @ sites amid virus risks , activities were more focused on getting details on issues through @ @ @

SEOUL, Dec. 25 (Yonhap) -- North Korean leader Kim Jong-un appeared in public 53 times this year, the fewest appearances since 2012, his first full year in power, data showed Friday.
The figure, which represents the total number of Kim's public appearances reported by North Korean media from Jan. 1 to Dec. 17, is lower than 85 last year and 212 in 2013, according to a commentary published by Sejong Institute.
By purpose, those related to economic activities accounted for 14 cases, or 26 percent of the total, marking the fewest since Kim took power.
Public appearances related to military activities totaled 12, more than 8 reported in 2018. The North Korean leader did not appear in public for diplomatic activities.
In contrast, those related to domestic political activities accounted for nearly half of all public appearances.
Kim made eight on-site inspections this year, most of which were related to health and natural disaster issues.
The institute explained that the decline in public appearances by Kim was largely due to the new coronavirus.
"Due to economic and external factors, like COVID-19, it was a difficult situation (for North Korea) to anticipate good outcomes," Choi Eun-ju, research fellow at Sejong Institute, said. "It seems that rather than visiting sites amid virus risks, activities were more focused on getting details on issues through meetings."
This photo, provided by the Korean Central News Agency on Oct. 15, 2020, shows North Korean leader Kim Jong-un (C) inspecting sites in Sinpho and Hongwon, South Hamgyong Province, that were hit hard by Typhoon Maysak. (For Use Only in the Republic of Korea. No Redistribution) (Yonhap)
(END)


yna--2020-12-25--(4th LD) S. Korea's virus cases hit all-time high despite tougher distancing rules

(ATTN: ADDS figures in para 6)
SEOUL, Dec. 25 (Yonhap) -- South Korea's daily new coronavirus cases hit a new record high on Friday, despite the most stringent social distancing rules to contain the winter wave of the virus.
South Korea reported 1,241 more COVID-19 cases, including 1,216 local infections, raising the total caseload to 54,770, according to the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA).
The tally marked a hike from 985 on Thursday, according the public health agency.
The hike is mainly blamed on 288 new cases at Dongbu Detention Center in eastern Seoul in one of the largest cluster infections in South Korea.
The second mass outbreak at the detention center raised the total number of infections linked to the facility nationwide to 514, the justice ministry said.
People wait in a long line around a large Christmas tree to get tested for COVID-19 at a screening center in Seongnam, just south of Seoul, on Christmas Eve on Dec. 24, 2020. (Yonhap)
Later in the day, health authorities and local governments said 726 new cases were confirmed from 12 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday, 58 more than at the same time on Thursday. The greater Seoul area accounted for 68.6 percent with 498 cases.
South Korea has banned gatherings of five or more people across the country in the most stringent social distancing rules meant to contain the spread of the virus.
Yoon Tae-ho, a senior official at the Ministry of Health and Welfare, asked people to cancel gatherings and stay at home, saying tougher social distancing rules and antivirus measures could reduce the number of infections in the new year.
The government warned that violators of the social distancing rules will face a fine of up to 3 million won (US$2,700).
The government also shut down ski resorts and popular venues for watching the sunrise on New Year's Day to slow the spread of the virus during the Christmas and New Year's holiday season.
On Friday, Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun called on health authorities and local governments to respond "strictly" to violations of social distancing rules, noting some restaurants and bars entertained guests after 9 p.m. after locking their doors and switching off signs.
"The vast majority of the nation is faithfully adhering to the government's antivirus measures despite the inconvenience and pain they entail, but if a few cheat for their own gains, it is difficult to expect results from participating in the antivirus measures," Chung said during a government COVID-19 pandemic response meeting.
A medical worker waits for citizens coming to take new coronavirus tests at a free temporary screening center in front of Seoul Station in the city center on the Christmas holiday, Dec. 25, 2020, when South Korea recorded the highest daily surge of COVID-19 infections with 1,241 new cases. (Yonhap)
People line up to take new coronavirus test at a screening center set up at the National Medical Center in central Seoul exclusively for Korean and foreign travelers departing for overseas on Dec. 25, 2020, when South Korea recorded the highest daily surge of COVID-19 infections with 1,241 new cases. (Yonhap)
South Korea has been applying Level 2.5 social distancing rules, the second highest of the five-tier system, in the greater Seoul area, home to half of its 51.6 million population, and Level 2 rules in the rest of the country.
Health authorities have said they are aiming to contain the current wave of the pandemic without raising virus curbs to Level 3 on concerns over the impact on the economy.
The authorities plan to decide Sunday on whether to raise the country's social distancing guidelines to the highest Level 3, Yoon said.
Of the newly identified local infections, 550 cases were reported in Seoul and 257 cases in Gyeonggi Province that surrounds the capital. Incheon, west of Seoul, reported 55 more cases.
Other municipalities reported new infections, with South Chungcheong Province adding 79 cases and North Gyeongsang Province reporting 67 new cases.
Gallery Gallery 画报 写真ギャラリー ألبوم الصور Galería Public health officials in Santa Claus outfits wait for people coming to get tested for COVID-19 at a screening center in Seoul on Christmas Eve on Dec. 24, 2020. (Yonhap)
South Korea reported 17 additional deaths from COVID-19, raising the death toll to 773. The fatality rate was 1.41 percent.
The number of seriously or critically ill COVID-19 patients reached 311, compared with 291 from the previous day.
The public health agency said the total number of people released from quarantine after making full recoveries stood at 38,048, up 623 from the previous day.
Meanwhile, South Korea reported 25 imported cases, increasing the total to 5,425.
Of the newly imported cases, 15 were South Koreans and 10 were foreigners. They came from the United States, the Philippines, Uzbekistan, Indonesia, Russia, Kazakhstan, Poland, Finland, Democratic Republic of Congo and Niger.
A major shopping street is almost vacant in Seoul on Christmas Day, Dec. 25, 2020, amid fears of the coronavirus. (Yonhap)
entropy@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-12-25--(LEAD) Churches meet online, streets deserted on 1st Christmas since COVID-19 in S. Korea

(ATTN: ADDS details in last six paras, photos)
SEOUL, Dec. 25 (Yonhap) -- This year's Christmas on Friday was unlikely any other, as the raging coronavirus pandemic forced churches to hold services online and kept people off the streets on a typically bustling and cheerful holiday.
The landmark Myeongdong Cathedral in central Seoul held its Christmas Mass virtually for the first time, with only 15 people, including staff, in attendance to comply with the government's antivirus measures. Most congregants participated through a live broadcast.
People pray in front of Myeongdong Cathedral in central Seoul on Dec. 25, 2020. (Yonhap)
South Korean Cardinal Andrew Yeom Soo-jung places a statue of baby Jesus into a manger during a rite held at Myeongdong Cathedral in central Seoul on Dec. 24, 2020. (Yonhap)
"I feel sad that COVID-19 shows no signs of abating," Archbishop of Seoul Cardinal Andrew Yeom Soo-jung said in his Christmas message. "I believe it is a time to show greater care and brotherly love to those who are neglected and poor."
South Korea reported a record 1,241 new cases of the coronavirus the previous day as the government continued to weigh the need to raise its social distancing scheme to the highest Level 3.
The greater Seoul area is currently under Level 2.5, while most other parts of the nation are under Level 2.
"This year, because of COVID-19, my child couldn't go to school and I had a lot of worries," Yoo Sang-cheon, a 45-year-old father, said at the cathedral with his second-grade son. "I hope next year we'll have no coronavirus worries."
At Somang Presbyterian Church, one of the largest churches in the country located in southern Seoul, doors were shut and pews were empty, leaving only six choralists singing hymns for a virtual service.
Outside the chapel doors, church members had posted notes saying, "I miss you, God," and "I wait for the day these doors will open wide and I will pray."
Worshipers (on screen) take part in an online Christmas service at Yoido Full Gospel Church in Seoul on Dec. 25, 2020, due to the spread of the new coronavirus. (Yonhap)
The food alleys near Gangnam Station in southern Seoul were deserted if not for the motorcycles making deliveries.
A 32-year-old, surnamed Jeong, held take-out sushi in one hand and a cake in the other as he walked the alleys with his wife.
"We wanted something special to eat because it's Christmas, but in order to refrain from eating out we got take-out and are going home," he said.
"The empty streets look lonely but I'm relieved because it means that people are being careful," he added.
The scene was similar in the hip neighborhood around Hongdae.
A restaurant worker said sales had dropped by more than half compared to the end of last year.
"I think people are staying home even more because they figure it will be crowded on Christmas," he said.
A major shopping street is almost vacant in Seoul on Christmas Day, Dec. 25, 2020, amid fears of the coronavirus. (Yonhap)
A major shopping street is almost vacant in Seoul on Christmas Day, Dec. 25, 2020, amid fears of the coronavirus. (Yonhap)
Tourist attractions across the country were also quieter than usual.
Some mountain hikers had to return home after finding out that national parks at Mount Moak and Mount Daedun in North Jeolla Province had been closed since Thursday.
A string of cancellations were reported at accommodations in the southern resort island of Jeju following the provincial government's decision to close down key sites, like Mount Halla and Bijalim Forest.
While sunrise spots on the country's eastern coast were also closed as a precautionary measure, some visitors reportedly trespassed onto the beaches.
Seongsan Ilchulbong, a popular tourist attraction in the southern resort island of Jeju, is closed on Dec. 24, 2020. (Yonhap)
But screening centers across the nation were busy with people waiting to get tested for the virus.
A line formed in front of a temporary screening center in Incheon, west of Seoul, even before the center's opening time.
"I don't have symptoms but felt uncomfortable and decided to come," a man in his fifties said. "It's a sad reality for both people who came to get tested and health workers working even on Christmas day," he said.
People line up in front of a temporary screening center in central Seoul on Dec. 25, 2020. (Yonhap)
hague@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-12-25--Churches meet online, streets deserted on 1st Christmas since COVID-19 in S. Korea

SEOUL, Dec. 25 (Yonhap) -- This year's Christmas on Friday was unlikely any other, as the raging coronavirus pandemic forced churches to hold services online and kept people off the streets on a typically bustling and cheerful holiday.
The landmark Myeongdong Cathedral in central Seoul held its Christmas Mass virtually for the first time, with only 15 people, including staff, in attendance to comply with the government's antivirus measures. Most congregants participated through a live broadcast.
People pray in front of Myeongdong Cathedral in central Seoul on Dec. 25, 2020. (Yonhap)
South Korean Cardinal Andrew Yeom Soo-jung places a statue of baby Jesus into a manger during a rite held at Myeongdong Cathedral in central Seoul on Dec. 24, 2020. (Yonhap)
"I feel sad that COVID-19 shows no signs of abating," Archbishop of Seoul Cardinal Andrew Yeom Soo-jung said in his Christmas message. "I believe it is a time to show greater care and brotherly love to those who are neglected and poor."
South Korea reported a record 1,241 new cases of the coronavirus the previous day as the government continued to weigh the need to raise its social distancing scheme to the highest Level 3.
The greater Seoul area is currently under Level 2.5, while most other parts of the nation are under Level 2.
"This year, because of COVID-19, my child couldn't go to school and I had a lot of worries," Yoo Sang-cheon, a 45-year-old father, said at the cathedral with his second-grade son. "I hope next year we'll have no coronavirus worries."
At Somang Presbyterian Church, one of the largest churches in the country located in southern Seoul, doors were shut and pews were empty, leaving only six choralists singing hymns for a virtual service.
Outside the chapel doors, church members had posted notes saying, "I miss you, God," and "I wait for the day these doors will open wide and I will pray."
Worshipers (on screen) take part in an online Christmas service at Yoido Full Gospel Church in Seoul on Dec. 25, 2020, due to the spread of the new coronavirus. (Yonhap)
The food alleys near Gangnam Station in southern Seoul were deserted if not for the motorcycles making deliveries.
A 32-year-old, surnamed Jeong, held take-out sushi in one hand and a cake in the other as he walked the alleys with his wife.
"We wanted something special to eat because it's Christmas, but in order to refrain from eating out we got take-out and are going home," he said.
"The empty streets look lonely but I'm relieved because it means that people are being careful," he added.
The scene was similar in the hip neighborhood around Hongdae.
A restaurant worker said sales had dropped by more than half compared to the end of last year.
"I think people are staying home even more because they figure it will be crowded on Christmas," he said.
A major shopping street is almost vacant in Seoul on Christmas Day, Dec. 25, 2020, amid fears of the coronavirus. (Yonhap)
A major shopping street is almost vacant in Seoul on Christmas Day, Dec. 25, 2020, amid fears of the coronavirus. (Yonhap)
hague@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-12-25--(3rd LD) S. Korea's virus cases hit all-time high despite tougher distancing rules

(ATTN: UPDATES with details in paras 4-5; ADDS photos)
SEOUL, Dec. 25 (Yonhap) -- South Korea's daily new coronavirus cases hit a new record high on Friday, despite the most stringent social distancing rules to contain the winter wave of the virus.
South Korea reported 1,241 more COVID-19 cases, including 1,216 local infections, raising the total caseload to 54,770, according to the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA).
The tally marked a hike from 985 on Thursday, according the public health agency.
The hike is mainly blamed on 288 new cases at Dongbu Detention Center in eastern Seoul in one of the largest cluster infections in South Korea.
The second mass outbreak at the detention center raised the total number of infections linked to the facility nationwide to 514, the justice ministry said.
People wait in a long line around a large Christmas tree to get tested for COVID-19 at a screening center in Seongnam, just south of Seoul, on Christmas Eve on Dec. 24, 2020. (Yonhap)
South Korea has banned gatherings of five or more people across the country in the most stringent social distancing rules meant to contain the spread of the virus.
Yoon Tae-ho, a senior official at the Ministry of Health and Welfare, asked people to cancel gatherings and stay at home, saying tougher social distancing rules and antivirus measures could reduce the number of infections in the new year.
The government warned that violators of the social distancing rules will face a fine of up to 3 million won (US$2,700).
The government also shut down ski resorts and popular venues for watching the sunrise on New Year's Day to slow the spread of the virus during the Christmas and New Year's holiday season.
On Friday, Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun called on health authorities and local governments to respond "strictly" to violations of social distancing rules, noting some restaurants and bars entertained guests after 9 p.m. after locking their doors and switching off signs.
"The vast majority of the nation is faithfully adhering to the government's antivirus measures despite the inconvenience and pain they entail, but if a few cheat for their own gains, it is difficult to expect results from participating in the antivirus measures," Chung said during a government COVID-19 pandemic response meeting.
A medical worker waits for citizens coming to take new coronavirus tests at a free temporary screening center in front of Seoul Station in the city center on the Christmas holiday, Dec. 25, 2020, when South Korea recorded the highest daily surge of COVID-19 infections with 1,241 new cases. (Yonhap)
People line up to take new coronavirus test at a screening center set up at the National Medical Center in central Seoul exclusively for Korean and foreign travelers departing for overseas on Dec. 25, 2020, when South Korea recorded the highest daily surge of COVID-19 infections with 1,241 new cases. (Yonhap)
South Korea has been applying Level 2.5 social distancing rules, the second highest of the five-tier system, in the greater Seoul area, home to half of its 51.6 million population, and Level 2 rules in the rest of the country.
Health authorities have said they are aiming to contain the current wave of the pandemic without raising virus curbs to Level 3 on concerns over the impact on the economy.
The authorities plan to decide Sunday on whether to raise the country's social distancing guidelines to the highest Level 3, Yoon said.
Of the newly identified local infections, 550 cases were reported in Seoul and 257 cases in Gyeonggi Province that surrounds the capital. Incheon, west of Seoul, reported 55 more cases.
Other municipalities reported new infections, with South Chungcheong Province adding 79 cases and North Gyeongsang Province reporting 67 new cases.
Gallery Gallery 画报 写真ギャラリー ألبوم الصور Galería Public health officials in Santa Claus outfits wait for people coming to get tested for COVID-19 at a screening center in Seoul on Christmas Eve on Dec. 24, 2020. (Yonhap)
South Korea reported 17 additional deaths from COVID-19, raising the death toll to 773. The fatality rate was 1.41 percent.
The number of seriously or critically ill COVID-19 patients reached 311, compared with 291 from the previous day.
The public health agency said the total number of people released from quarantine after making full recoveries stood at 38,048, up 623 from the previous day.
Meanwhile, South Korea reported 25 imported cases, increasing the total to 5,425.
Of the newly imported cases, 15 were South Koreans and 10 were foreigners. They came from the United States, the Philippines, Uzbekistan, Indonesia, Russia, Kazakhstan, Poland, Finland, Democratic Republic of Congo and Niger.
A major shopping street is almost vacant in Seoul on Christmas Day, Dec. 25, 2020, amid fears of the coronavirus. (Yonhap)
entropy@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-12-25--First shipment of COVID-19 vaccine arrives for U.S. troops in S. Korea

Gen. Robert Abrams , commander of U.S .
Forces Korea , said Wednesday that his command will begin to receive @ @ @ @ @ vaccine `` over the next few days , '' and the initial inoculations will go @ @ @ @ @ and first responders .

SEOUL, Dec. 25 (Yonhap) -- The first shipment of U.S. biotech company Moderna's COVID-19 vaccine for American troops arrived in South Korea on Friday. It is the first coronavirus vaccine that has been brought into the country.
A cargo plane of U.S. delivery company FedEx Corp. carrying the vaccine landed at Incheon International Airport, west of Seoul, from Memphis at around 12:54 p.m., according to the airport authority.
The shipment, believed to be 1,000 doses of the vaccine, was being transported to Allgood Army Community Hospital inside Camp Humphreys, the U.S. military headquarters located about 70 kilometers south of Seoul.
A Boeing 777-200F of U.S. delivery company FedEx Corp. carrying U.S. biotech company Moderna's COVID-19 vaccine lands at Incheon International Airport, west of Seoul, on Dec. 25, 2020. (Yonhap)
Gen. Robert Abrams, commander of U.S. Forces Korea, said Wednesday that his command will begin to receive and administer the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine "over the next few days," and the initial inoculations will go to front-line health care workers and first responders.
The U.S. Department of Defense said earlier that Allgood Army Community Hospital in South Korea will be one of four sites outside the continental U.S. that will receive the initial vaccine.
The U.S. stations some 28,000 troops in South Korea to deter North Korean aggression, a legacy of the 1950-53 Korean War that ended in an armistice, not a peace treaty.
entropy@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-12-25--(LEAD) Moon apologizes for 'confusion' over disciplinary action against top prosecutor

Yoon won an injunction against the justice ministry 's decision to suspend him for two months over four counts of @ @ @ @ @ surveillance of judges hearing cases involving former Justice Minister Cho Kuk and some presidential officials @ @ @ @ @ decision last week .

(ATTN: UPDATES with details, background from 3rd para; ADDS photo)
SEOUL, Dec. 25 (Yonhap) -- President Moon Jae-in apologized to the nation Friday for causing "inconvenience and confusion" over the top prosecutor's suspension and subsequent reinstatement by a court.
Moon said he "respects" the court's decision Thursday to return Prosecutor General Yoon Seok-youl to his post, presidential spokesman Kang Min-seok said in a statement.
This file photo shows President Moon Jae-in at Cheong Wa Dae in Seoul on Dec. 22, 2020. (Yonhap)
"Ultimately, as the person with authority over personnel affairs, I offer an apology for causing inconvenience and confusion to the people," the president was quoted as saying.
Yoon won an injunction against the justice ministry's decision to suspend him for two months over four counts of alleged misconduct, including the surveillance of judges hearing cases involving former Justice Minister Cho Kuk and some presidential officials. Moon immediately endorsed that decision last week.
"I hope this will be an opportunity for the prosecution to reflect on the fair and restrained exercise of prosecutorial powers, with the court's judgment in mind," he said, according to Kang.
"The justice ministry and the prosecution must take the next steps in prosecution reform, without a hitch, through a stable cooperative relationship," he added.
Thursday's decision by the Seoul Administrative Court amounted to a setback for Justice Minister Choo Mi-ae, who has been at odds with Yoon for months over prosecution reforms and politically sensitive probes.
The court deliberated on whether the suspension caused "irreparable damage," how it affected public interest and whether there were procedural flaws in the process leading up to the disciplinary action.
The same court granted a preliminary injunction on Dec. 1 to halt his temporary removal by Choo, but the ministry proceeded to convene a disciplinary panel and eventually decided on his two-month suspension.
Yoon reported to work at the Supreme Prosecutors Office in southern Seoul earlier Friday despite it being the Christmas holiday.
His two-year term is scheduled to end in July next year.
Prosecutor General Yoon Seok-youl is seen arriving in a car at the Supreme Prosecutors Office in southern Seoul on Dec. 25, 2020. (Yonhap)
hague@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-12-25--Mexico agrees to raise import quota of S. Korean cold-rolled steel products

Last month , Mexico said it will import 662,000 tons of cold-rolled steel sheets in 2023 , up from 548,000 @ @ @ @ @ to the ministry .

SEOUL, Dec. 25 (Yonhap) -- Mexico has agreed to increase its import quota of South Korean cold-rolled steel products, South Korea's foreign ministry said Friday.
Last month, Mexico said it will import 662,000 tons of cold-rolled steel sheets in 2023, up from 548,000 tons in 2019, according to the ministry.
The move came after South Korean Deputy Foreign Minister Kim Gunn made the request for an import quota hike of cold-rolled steel sheets during his visit to the Latin American country in October.
Cold-rolled sheets are produced by processing hot-rolled steel sheets and are mainly used in automobiles and home appliances.
This photo provided by the South Korean foreign ministry shows Deputy Foreign Minister Kim Gunn (2nd from R) attending a meeting with Mexican foreign ministry officials to discuss ways to enhance post-coronavirus economic cooperation between the two countries during his visit to Mexico from Oct. 19-21, 2020. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)
entropy@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-12-25--Moon apologizes for 'confusion' over disciplinary action against top prosecutor

Yoon won an injunction against the justice ministry 's decision to suspend him for two months over a series of @ @ @ @ @ of the judiciary .

SEOUL, Dec. 25 (Yonhap) -- President Moon Jae-in apologized to the nation Friday for causing "inconvenience and confusion" over the top prosecutor's suspension and subsequent reinstatement by a court.
Moon said he "respects" the court's decision Thursday to return Prosecutor General Yoon Seok-youl to his post, according to presidential spokesman Kang Min-seok.
Yoon won an injunction against the justice ministry's decision to suspend him for two months over a series of alleged misdeeds, including surveillance of the judiciary.
This file photo shows President Moon Jae-in at Cheong Wa Dae in Seoul on Dec. 22, 2020. (Yonhap)
hague@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-12-25--Seoul prison adds 288 COVID-19 cases in 2nd mass outbreak, total at 514

A total of 2,021 prisoners and 416 staff members took part in the tests .
Former President Lee Myung-bak , @ @ @ @ @ prison sentence there on corruption charges , was not among those tested because he has @ @ @ @ @ disease .

SEOUL, Dec. 25 (Yonhap) -- The Dongbu Detention Center in eastern Seoul reported 288 new cases of the coronavirus in its second mass outbreak, bringing the total number of infections linked to the facility nationwide to 514, the justice ministry said Friday.
In its second mass testing on Wednesday, the prison found 286 cases among prisoners and two infected staff members, according to the ministry.
A total of 2,021 prisoners and 416 staff members took part in the tests. Former President Lee Myung-bak, who has been serving his prison sentence there on corruption charges, was not among those tested because he has been hospitalized for an underlying disease.
The Dongbu Detention Center in eastern Seoul (Yonhap)
Lee tested negative during the prison's first mass testing on Dec. 18, which produced 187 positive results.
According to the Central Disease Control Headquarters (CDCH), 15 buildings at the detention center have been placed under cohort isolation and additional medical staff have been sent to treat the patients.
For moderate and serious cases of COVID-19, prison authorities are sending the patients to hospitals for treatment and requesting a suspension of their sentences.
The CDCH said it is in talks with the ministry over sending the patients to a newly built prison building or a government-designated residential treatment center.
Starting Wednesday, all new inmates have been placed under three-week quarantine, instead of two, and are being tested for COVID-19 at the beginning and end of their quarantine periods.
At the Seoul Detention Center, just south of Seoul, no new coronavirus cases have been reported so far after Tuesday's mass testing of 3,221 inmates and staff.
The facility previously reported two cases.
Former President Park Geun-hye, who is incarcerated there, tested negative.
hague@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-12-25--(URGENT) Moon apologizes for 'confusion' over disciplinary action against prosecutor general

(URGENT) N. Korea says Travis King decided to come over to N. Korea because he harbored ill feeling within the U.S. Army: KCNA


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(END)


yna--2020-12-26--(2nd LD) S. Korea adds over 1,100 virus cases as toughest distancing rules weighed

A mass infection of more than 514 cases traced to a detention center in eastern Seoul has become the latest @ @ @ @ @ infections .
New infections from nursing homes for the elderly on the outskirts of the @ @ @ @ @ , as well as those linked to small and private gatherings .

(ATTN: RECASTS headline, lead; ADDS more info in paras 6-10, 13; TRIMS)
SEOUL, Dec. 26 (Yonhap) -- South Korea reported more than 1,100 daily new coronavirus cases on Saturday, adding pressure on authorities to tighten social distancing rules to flatten the curve of infections.
The country reported 1,132 more COVID-19 cases in the past 24 hours, including 1,104 local infections, putting the total caseload at 55,902, according to the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA).
The tally is slightly lower than Friday's new record high of 1,241. The death toll rose by 20 to 793, with the fatality rate at 1.42 percent.
The country's daily COVID-19 caseload first breached the 1,000 mark on Dec. 13 and has hovered between 800 and 1,000, including a five-day streak of over 1,000 last week.
South Korea is grappling to contain yet another wave of virus infections with the toughest social distancing rules banning gatherings of five or more people and shutting down popular venues around the Christmas and New Year's holiday season.
The uptrend in the daily caseload is adding pressure on the government to apply the most stringent Level 3 social distancing rules, a measure tantamount to a lockdown.
Health experts said Saturday's figure demonstrates the virus spread is accelerating as the number turned out to be high even though fewer tests were conducted the previous day on the Christmas holiday.
A mass infection of more than 514 cases traced to a detention center in eastern Seoul has become the latest source of the spike in infections. New infections from nursing homes for the elderly on the outskirts of the capital continue to be reported, as well as those linked to small and private gatherings.
People line up to take new coronavirus tests at a temporary screening station set up at a square in front of Seoul Station on Dec. 25, 2020. (Yonhap)
Health Minister Kwon Deok-cheol stressed that the third wave of infection is spreading rapidly into every corner of society, renewing calls for strict adherence to the restrictions.
"Standing at the crossroads of the third wave, whether we can stem the trend of virus proliferation depends on how we're going to spend the year-end and New Year's season," he said during a government COVID-19 response meeting.
The government has urged citizens to strictly comply with the distancing rules so that the antivirus measures can produce results. It has warned that any violations will face a fine of up to 3 million won (US$2,700).
The government has kept social distancing at the second highest of Level 2.5 in the five-tier system in the greater Seoul area, home to half of its 51.6 million population. It is trying hard not to raise the curb level considering the potential economic impact.
But given the unabated spread of the virus, the health authorities plan to decide Sunday on whether to raise the distancing guidelines to Level 3.
The current Level 2.5 distancing scheme in the greater Seoul area, and Level 2 in the rest of the country, is due to end Monday.
Of the 1,104 locally transmitted cases reported Saturday, 457 were reported in Seoul. The surrounding Gyeonggi Province added 250 cases, with Incheon, west of Seoul, reporting 55.
Busan, the country's second-most-populous city, reported 26 new cases. The central South Chungcheong Province added 61, followed by North Chungcheong Province with 38 and North Jeolla Province with 37.
Nationwide, the country had 299 seriously or critically ill COVID-19 patients, down from the previous day's 311.
The total number of people released from quarantine after making full recoveries stood at 38,532, up 484 from the previous day.
The agency also reported 28 more infection cases from overseas, bringing the total to 5,273. They were from the United States, France, Turkey, Russia, the Philippines and Bangladesh, among others.
A street in the hip Hongdae district is virtually empty on Christmas Day, Dec. 25, 2020. (Yonhap)
elly@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-12-26--(LEAD) S. Korea adds over 1,100 virus cases despite tougher distancing rules

The government has kept social distancing at the second highest of Level 2.5 in the five-tier system in the greater @ @ @ @ @ half of its 51.6 million population .
It is trying hard not to raise the @ @ @ @ @ economic impact .

(ATTN: ADDS more info in paras 3, 10-14, photo)
SEOUL, Dec. 26 (Yonhap) -- South Korea reported more than 1,100 daily new coronavirus cases on Saturday, despite all-out efforts to lower the curve of infections with the toughest distancing rules yet in place.
The country reported 1,132 more COVID-19 cases in the past 24 hours, including 1,104 local infections, putting the total caseload at 55,902, according to the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA).
The tally is slightly lower than Friday's new record high of 1,241. The death toll rose by 20 to 793, with the fatality rate at 1.42 percent.
The country's daily COVID-19 caseload first breached the 1,000 mark on Dec. 13 and has hovered between 800 and 1,000, including a five-day streak of over 1,000 last week.
South Korea is grappling to contain yet another wave of virus infections with the toughest social distancing rules banning gatherings of five or more people and shutting down popular venues around the Christmas and New Year's holiday season.
The government has urged citizens to strictly comply with the distancing rules, warning that any violations will face a fine of up to 3 million won (US$2,700).
People line up to take new coronavirus tests at a temporary screening station set up at a square in front of Seoul Station on Dec. 25, 2020. (Yonhap)
On Friday, Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun warned against those who flout the rules at a time of difficulties, calling for efforts to stay united in sticking to the distancing rules so that the antivirus measures can produce results.
The government has kept social distancing at the second highest of Level 2.5 in the five-tier system in the greater Seoul area, home to half of its 51.6 million population. It is trying hard not to raise the curb level considering the potential economic impact.
But given the unabated spread of the virus, the health authorities plan to decide Sunday on whether to raise the distancing guidelines to Level 3.
Of the 1,104 locally transmitted cases, 457 were reported in Seoul. The surrounding Gyeonggi Province added 250 cases, with Incheon, west of Seoul, reporting 55.
Busan, the country's second-most-populous city, reported 26 new cases. The central South Chungcheong Province added 61, followed by North Chungcheong Province with 38 and North Jeolla Province with 37.
Nationwide, the country had 299 seriously or critically ill COVID-19 patients, down from the previous day's 311.
The total number of people released from quarantine after making full recoveries stood at 38,532, up 484 from the previous day.
The agency also reported 28 more infection cases from overseas, bringing the total to 5,273. They were from the United States, France, Turkey, Russia, the Philippines and Bangladesh, among others.
A street in the hip Hongdae district is virtually empty on Christmas Day, Dec. 25, 2020. (Yonhap)
elly@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-12-26--S. Korea adds over 1,100 virus cases despite tougher distancing rules

SEOUL, Dec. 26 (Yonhap) -- South Korea reported more than 1,100 daily new coronavirus cases on Saturday, despite all-out efforts to lower the curve of infections with the toughest distancing rules yet in place.
The country reported 1,132 more COVID-19 cases in the past 24 hours, including 1,104 local infections, putting the total caseload at 55,902, according to the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA).
The tally is slightly lower than Friday's new record high of 1,241. The death toll rose by 20 to 793.
The country's daily COVID-19 caseload first breached the 1,000 mark on Dec. 13 and has hovered between 800 and 1,000, including a five-day streak of over 1,000 last week.
South Korea is grappling to contain yet another wave of virus infections with the toughest social distancing rules banning gatherings of five or more people and shutting down popular venues around the Christmas and New Year's holiday season.
The government has urged citizens to strictly comply with the distancing rules, warning that any violations will face a fine of up to 3 million won (US$2,700).
On Friday, Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun warned against those who flout the rules at a time of difficulties, calling for efforts to stay united in sticking to the distancing rules so that the antivirus measures can produce results.
The government has kept social distancing at the second highest of Level 2.5 in the five-tier system in the greater Seoul area, home to half of its 51.6 million population. It is trying hard not to raise the curb level considering the potential economic impact.
But given the unabated spread of the virus, the health authorities plan to decide Sunday on whether to raise the distancing guidelines to Level 3.
People line up to take new coronavirus tests at a temporary screening station set up at a square in front of Seoul Station on Dec. 25, 2020. (Yonhap)
elly@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-12-26--(URGENT) 484 more patients released from coronavirus treatment, total now at 38,532: KDCA


yna--2020-12-26--(URGENT) S. Korea reports 20 additional coronavirus deaths, total now at 793: KDCA


yna--2020-12-26--(URGENT) S. Korea reports 1,132 new coronavirus cases, total at 55,902: KDCA


yna--2020-12-26--China probes S. Korean tanker over suspicion of smuggling refined oil: embassy

`` The vessel had not raised a flag at the time , and our Coast Guard carried out the inspection @ @ @ @ @ a Chinese ship according to the automatic identification system , '' he said .

SEOUL, Dec. 26 (Yonhap) -- Chinese authorities recently examined a South Korean-flagged tanker over suspicion that it was smuggling refined oil to China, its embassy in Seoul said Saturday.
The embassy's explanation came after a local newspaper reported that Chinese authorities inspected the oil and chemical tanker for an unknown reason, sparking speculation that it was involved in an illicit ship-to-ship transfer of oil to North Korea banned under the U.N. Security Council's sanctions regime.
Seoul's foreign ministry confirmed the probe took place but denied it had anything to do with the sanctions against Pyongyang.
The Chinese Embassy in Seoul also confirmed Saturday that it was unrelated to the North's sanctions.
"The corresponding oil and chemical tanker was suspected of illegally exporting refined oil to China in the southeastern waters off the island of Shangchuan in Jiangmen, in Guangdong Province," embassy spokesperson Wang Wei said in response to a Yonhap query.
"The vessel had not raised a flag at the time, and our Coast Guard carried out the inspection because it was detected as a Chinese ship according to the automatic identification system," he said.
Wang added that the Korean Coast Guard handed over the jurisdiction for the inspection and other due procedures to the Chinese side after submitting documents proving that it was a South Korean vessel.
The Chinese authorities stopped the 9,000-ton vessel with some 20 people, including four South Koreans on board. The vessel, which was released last weekend, is currently en route to South Korea.
Upon arrival, the Seoul government is expected to further check why the vessel came under Chinese legal scrutiny.
This undated photo, provided by the Chinese Embassy in Seoul, shows embassy spokesperson Wang Wei (L) shaking hands with Chinese Ambassador to Seoul Xing Haiming. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)
elly@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-12-26--Top headlines in major S. Korean newspapers

Korean-language dailies -- Moon apologizes to public for 'confusion ' over top prosecutor 's suspension ( Kyunghyang Shinmun ) -- @ @ @ @ @ 's suspension , expected to accept Choo 's resignation next week ( Kookmin Daily ) @ @ @ @ @ reports 288 more coronavirus infections ( Donga Ilbo ) -- Daily cases hit all-time high @ @ @ @ @ about Level 3 distancing ( Segye Times ) -- Moon apologizes to public for 'confusion @ @ @ @ @ against top prosecutor 's suspension ( Chosun Ilbo ) -- Moon apologizes to public over @ @ @ @ @ JoongAng Ilbo ) -- Moon says he respects court decision , apologizes for public confusion @ @ @ @ @ Hankyoreh ) -- Daily new high of 1,241 coronavirus cases outpaces disease chief 's prediction @ @ @ @ @ Moon apologizes , yet renews call for prosecution to 'self-reflect ' ( Maeil Business Newspaper @ @ @ @ @ .
1 spot as global chipmaker in terms of market cap ( Korea Economic Daily @ @ @ @

SEOUL, Dec. 26 (Yonhap) -- The following are the top headlines in major South Korean newspapers on Dec. 26.
Korean-language dailies
-- Moon apologizes to public for 'confusion' over top prosecutor's suspension (Kyunghyang Shinmun)
-- Moon apologizes over top prosecutor's suspension, expected to accept Choo's resignation next week (Kookmin Daily)
-- Seoul Dongbu Detention Center reports 288 more coronavirus infections (Donga Ilbo)
-- Daily cases hit all-time high of 1,241 while gov't hesitant about Level 3 distancing (Segye Times)
-- Moon apologizes to public for 'confusion' after court grants injunction against top prosecutor's suspension (Chosun Ilbo)
-- Moon apologizes to public over top prosecutor's suspension (JoongAng Ilbo)
-- Moon says he respects court decision, apologizes for public confusion over Yoon's suspension (Hankyoreh)
-- Daily new high of 1,241 coronavirus cases outpaces disease chief's prediction (Hankook Ilbo)
-- Moon apologizes, yet renews call for prosecution to 'self-reflect' (Maeil Business Newspaper)
-- Samsung retakes No. 1 spot as global chipmaker in terms of market cap (Korea Economic Daily)
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Saturday's weather forecast

SEOUL , Dec. 26 ( Yonhap ) -- The following is the weather forecast for South Korea 's 12 major @ @ @ @ @ .