yna--2020-08-18--(LEAD) Gov't limits church activities in Seoul area to non-contact worship services

Under the Level Two social distancing , indoor gatherings of 50 or more people and outdoor events of 100 or @ @ @ @ @ citizens are advised to stay at home except on necessary occasions .

(ATTN: UPDATES with more info in 3rd para, from 6th para)
SEOUL, Aug. 18 (Yonhap) -- The South Korean government announced a decision Tuesday to prohibit churches in Seoul and nearby areas from carrying out all activities except for contactless worship services as part of toughened measures to curb the rapid spread of the new coronavirus.
In a public statement, Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun also said the government will elevate the social distancing rules in Incheon, a port city just west of Seoul, to Level Two. The government imposed the measure on Seoul and Gyeonggi Province last weekend.
"With regard to churches in the greater capital area, only noncontact services will be allowed and all other gatherings and activities will be prohibited," he said.
The steps are set to take effect at the start of Wednesday, Chung said.
"New COVID-19 cases are growing at an explosive rate ... causing a chain of infections in churches, workplaces and hospitals," he said.
Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun announces toughened quarantine measures on Aug. 18, 2020 amid spiking COVID-19 cases in Seoul and the broader capital area. (Yonhap)
"The accelerating speed of the spread is causing concerns for possible mass outbreaks nationwide," he said, adding that the country is at a critical juncture in stopping virus transmissions from spiraling into a nationwide pandemic.
Should the ongoing anti-virus efforts fail, there would be no other choice but to toughen social distancing to Level Three, the highest, according to the prime minister.
Under the Level Two social distancing, indoor gatherings of 50 or more people and outdoor events of 100 or more people are prohibited while citizens are advised to stay at home except on necessary occasions.
The Level Three call for restrictions on all outdoor activities except for essential social and economic purposes. Gathering of 10 or more people are not permitted and all sports events are suspended.
Residents of Seoul's Nowon Ward wait to get tested for the new coronavirus at a test center on Aug. 18, 2020. (Yonhap)
The latest policy was adopted as South Korea's daily additional COVID-19 cases increased by triple digits for the fifth straight day, due mainly to cluster infections traced to churches, especially one in northern Seoul.
The country added 246 more COVID-19 cases Tuesday, raising the total caseload to 15,761, according to the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (KCDC).
Sarang Jeil Church in Seoul's Seongbuk Ward has been at the center of the recent spikes, with a total of 457 infection cases reported in relation with the church.
pbr@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-08-18--(News Focus) Taken aback by spiking cases, S. Korea further tightens anti-virus curbs

In particular , the number of COVID-19 cases over the past five days reached more than 1,000 , with more @ @ @ @ @ in the capital Seoul and the adjacent area , home to nearly half of the @ @ @ @ @ .

By Joo Kyung-don
SEOUL, Aug. 18 (Yonhap) -- Bracing itself for another round of the new coronavirus outbreak, South Korea opted to tighten anti-virus curbs, such as expanding tougher measures to outside the greater Seoul area and banning in-person worship services at churches, in last-ditch efforts to curb a new flare-up in virus cases.
The country on Tuesday reported 246 more COVID-19 cases, including 235 local infections, raising its total caseload to 15,761, according to the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (KCDC).
In particular, the number of COVID-19 cases over the past five days reached more than 1,000, with more than 800 of them detected in the capital Seoul and the adjacent area, home to nearly half of the nation's 50 million population.
Health workers disinfect chairs at Yoido Full Gospel Church in Seoul on Aug. 18, 2020. (Yonhap)
On Sunday, South Korea raised the social distancing level in Seoul and the surrounding Gyeonggi Province by one notch to Level 2 in the three-tier system for two weeks, to stem the spread of the virus, but the government did not fully enforce anti-virus measures.
The recent spike, mostly tied to churches, has rekindled the need to further tighten the level of distancing in everyday lives.
In June, the country adopted a three-tier social distancing scheme that depends on the severity of the COVID-19 outbreak.
Under the new measure, the government will fully enforce the virus prevention measures starting from midnight, and it added a port city of Incheon, west of Seoul, to the list of areas subject to the Level 2 distancing.
It also banned in-person worship services and related activities at churches in the greater Seoul area, starting Wednesday.
Indoor gatherings of 50 or more people and outdoor gatherings of 100 or more people are strictly restricted.
Sports events are being held without fans, and the operation of public facilities is suspended. High-risk facilities, such as bars, have to suspend operations, while other facilities are mandated to follow safety guidelines.
"It was not easy for the government to make this decision since these measures affect people's business and daily lives," Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun said. "However, we ask people to understand that the capital area is in a very grave situation."
The enhanced measures came after the country reported multiple cluster outbreaks in the densely populated capital area, with cases being reported from various facilities, including offices, cafes and schools.
Cases connected to churches have been especially putting a strain on the country's virus fight.
So far, infections tied to the Sarang Jeil Church in northern Seoul have surpassed 450. The outbreak has led to infections at nursing hospitals and call centers. Cases linked to the Woori Jeil Church in Yongin, south of Seoul, have reached above 140.
"Our quarantine and medical systems' response capability got better with past experiences, but we are now in a situation where the spread of massive infections may not be easily contained," said Vice Health Minister Kim Ganglip.
A health worker checks the body temperature of a citizen at a virus screening clinic in Seoul on Aug. 18, 2020. (Yonhap)
Despite tightened measures, some infectious disease experts urged health authorities to adopt stricter measures in advance, as outbreaks in the greater Seoul area are likely to prolong and could spark another wave of COVID-19 infections.
The country had struggled with massive infections in late February and early March, when a large number of cases were traced to a minor religious sect, Shincheonji, in Daegu.
"If the country sees more virus cases, health authorities must consider various options, such as raising social distancing to Level 3 and expanding the measures nationwide," said Eom Joong-sik, an infectious disease specialist at Gachon University Gil Medical Center.
The Level 3 social distancing can be applied if the country's average daily rise in local virus infections stays above 100 over two weeks. The doubling of new daily virus cases should also occur at least twice in a one-week period.
Under the Level 3 social distancing, gatherings of 10 or more people are restricted, except for necessary meetings for business and state affairs.
All sports events are banned, and the operation of public facilities is suspended. Schools are required to shift to remote learning and to stop holding in-person classes, while companies are advised to order their workers to work from home.
Health authorities said they are open to raising the anti-virus measures to the Level 3 distancing if the situation gets worse, emphasizing that the country is at a "critical juncture" of stopping another nationwide wave of COVID-19 infections.
"If we cannot stop the spread of the virus, people's daily lives could be put on hold," said Kwon Jun-wook, deputy chief at the Central Disease Control Headquarters. "If the situation cannot be controlled, then our social distancing scheme needs to be raised to Level 3."
This photo taken on Aug. 18, 2020, shows door signs at the National Museum of Korea in Seoul saying the museum is closed due to the virus patient's visit. (Yonhap)
.
Between March 22 and April 19, South Korea enforced strict social distancing measures and managed to flatten the virus curve that had ballooned due to cases tied to Shincheonji followers.
"Some people might think the spread of the virus has just started, but we should know that the recent figures only reflect cases detected by health authorities," said Ki Mo-ran, an epidemiology professor at the National Cancer Center. "The country should expand the scale of virus testing quickly so that more people can get tested. We also need strict measures against those who violated quarantine measures."
After all, experts said the country's virus fight depends on people's attitudes toward social distancing and virus preventive measures.
"People's alertness may have loosened after the country adopted its 'distancing in daily life' scheme for quite some time," said Chun Byung-Chul, an epidemiologist at Korea University. "It is likely that the virus cases are to increase for a while, but if we can tighten social distancing and other virus preventive measures, I believe we can overcome the risks."
kdon@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-08-18--Protestant churches apologize for cluster outbreaks, call for online services

`` We are responsible for the current spike in virus cases related to churches that did not follow sanitary regulations @ @ @ @ @ .
`` We ask all churches and pastors to closely cooperate with the quarantine authorities @ @ @ @ @ ''

SEOUL, Aug. 18 (Yonhap) -- Associations within the South Korean Protestant community on Tuesday issued public apologies for the recent massive infections linked to churches in and around the capital city area and urged Christian institutions to return to online services to prevent further transmissions.
"The community has done its best to comply with the COVID-19 quarantine guidelines," the United Christian Churches of Korea (UCCK), one of the biggest associations of Protestant churches, said in a statement.
"But we'd like to offer an apology for triggering the wide spread of the virus in the community because of some churches violating the rules," it said.
The UCCK has major Protestant orders, including the Presbyterian Church of Korea, under its wing.
It also asked its member churches to shift to online services and cancel all on-site meetings and gatherings for the next two weeks.
The Christian community, which had suspended Sunday worship and other public events for about two month from February, has resumed in-person services and gatherings from May.
The Korean National Association of Christian Pastors also issued an apology for the recent resurgence in coronavirus transmissions in churches.
"We are responsible for the current spike in virus cases related to churches that did not follow sanitary regulations," the association said. "We ask all churches and pastors to closely cooperate with the quarantine authorities and comply with guidelines."
Large-sized Protestant churches, including Yoido Full Gospel Church, Onnuri Church and Somang Church, announced plans to hold their services online.
Earlier, several choir members of Yoido Full Gospel Church, the biggest Protestant church in South Korea with 560,000 congregants, tested positive for the coronavirus.
The moves came as South Korea has reported nearly 1,000 new coronavirus cases over the past five days, as hundreds of people from mid-sized churches in the greater Seoul area have been confirmed to have contracted the virus.
Sarang Jeil Church in northern Seoul has emerged as the source of the country's second-biggest infection cluster after the fringe religious sect Shincheonji, which has had over 5,000 infections among members.
Quarantine officials disinfect Yoido Full Gospel Church in Seoul on Aug. 18, 2020. (Yonhap)
brk@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-08-18--(4th LD) S. Korea adopts enhanced anti-virus steps amid another looming wave of coronavirus cases

`` The current situation is so grave that we have to consider adopting tougher ( infection preventive ) measures .
@ @ @ @ @ said in a pan-government meeting on infection prevention .
`` Anyone in the capital city @ @ @ @ @ infected , and it is worrisome that the virus outbreak may spread across the country @ @

(ATTN: RECASTS headline, lead; ADDS more details in paras 2-10, 18-19)
SEOUL, Aug. 18 (Yonhap) -- South Korea on Tuesday enhanced social-distancing guidelines as the number of new virus cases bounced back over 200, straining the country's virus fight.
The country added 246 more COVID-19 cases, including 235 local infections, raising the total caseload to 15,761, according to the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (KCDC).
It was the fifth straight day with more than 100 cases, following 166 on Saturday and 103 Friday.
On Sunday, South Korea reported a whopping 279 new daily infections, marking the first time since early March that the figure surpassed 200. The figure fell back to 197 on Monday.
Visited Sarang Jeil Church, where the 2nd wave of coronavirus broke out Youtube https://youtu.be/gzcqfrB9MgE
The country, which never had imposed a draconian lockdown, has been struggling to curb the spread of the virus while maintaining most business and daily activities.
As the new daily cases spiked, health authorities decided to raise the level of social distancing in Seoul and the surrounding Gyeonggi Province by one notch to Level 2 in the three-tier system for two weeks from Sunday.
On Tuesday South Korea said the measure will be expanded to Incheon, just west of Seoul as well.
The scheme will still allow South Koreans to maintain most of their daily routines, but outdoor gatherings of more than 100 people will be strictly restricted. Sports events will be allowed without spectators. Any indoor meetings of 50 or more people are restricted as well.
The so-called risk-prone facilities, including karaoke rooms, clubs, PC cafes, and buffets will be ordered to shut down. The same goes for public facilities.
Citizens wearing protective masks walk on a street in central Seoul on Aug. 18, 2020. (Yonhap)
Of the newly identified local infections on Tuesday, a total of 131 cases were reported from the capital city of Seoul, and 52 from the surrounding Gyeonggi Province.
Incheon, just west of Seoul, added 18 more cases.
Infections tied to the Sarang Jeil Church in northern Seoul have spiked to 457, up 138 from a day earlier, according to the health authorities. Those aged 60 and above accounted for nearly 40 percent.
Of the church-traced cases, the capital city of Seoul accounted for 282, trailed by the neighboring Gyeonggi Province with 119. There were also 25 patients outside greater Seoul, underscoring that the church-related virus cases have spread fast across the nation.
The cases not only cover church members, but also second-stage transmissions at call centers and senior nursing homes, the KCDC said.
Health authorities said they have carried out tests on 2,500 church members so far and are currently tracking the whereabouts of around 800 members. Some 15 percent of the church members tested were confirmed to have been infected with the virus.
South Korea said all people who participated in a large-scale anti-government rally held on Saturday should visit the nearest clinics to be tested, as some church members infected with the virus attended the demonstration.
A citizen carries out a disinfection operation in Gwangju, 330 kilometers south of Seoul, on Aug. 18, 2020. (Yonhap)
Following the enhanced distancing guideline announced on Tuesday, churches in the greater Seoul area will not be allowed to have in-person worship services.
Previously, South Korea only asked churchgoers in the region to refrain from holding gatherings other than regular worship services.
Other sporadic cluster infections continued as well.
A police station in central Seoul reported four patients so far, up four from a day earlier.
A total of seven patients were confirmed from a Starbucks store in Paju, north of Seoul, on Monday, raising the total number of cases tied to the coffee shop to 49.
In the southern port city of Busan, a vocational high school reported two more patients, raising the related caseload to 17.
"This week will be a critical juncture for the country's virus fight as cluster infections in the greater capital area are on the brink of spreading nationwide," Vice Health Minister Kim Ganglip said in a regular press briefing.
Kwon Jun-wook, a senior health official, echoed the view, urging all people to stay home for the time being.
"If we do not curb the spread of the virus this week, not only the greater Seoul area with a population of 25 million will come under threat, but our everyday lives may come to a halt," Kwon said.
Health authorities added that over the past week, each COVID-19 patient in the greater Seoul area has infected an average of 1.78 people.
"The current situation is so grave that we have to consider adopting tougher (infection preventive) measures." Health Minister Park Neung-hoo said in a pan-government meeting on infection prevention. "Anyone in the capital city and neighboring areas can be infected, and it is worrisome that the virus outbreak may spread across the country."
A health worker stands near the Sarang Jeil Church in northern Seoul on Aug. 18, 2020. (Yonhap)
Should the highest level of distancing rules be imposed, gatherings of more than 10 people will be banned. South Koreans will then face the most intense restrictions in their everyday lives since the country detected its first COVID-19 case on Jan. 20.
Health authorities are concerned over the latest spike in the number of cases traced to churches, as it resembles that of the Shincheonji Church of Jesus, a minor religious sect, which was the epicenter of the country's first wave of the virus outbreak.
Thousands of followers, most of whom were from its branch in the southeastern city of Daegu, were infected with the virus. Due to the cluster infections, the country's new daily virus cases peaked at 909 on Feb. 29.
South Korea, meanwhile, reported one more death, raising the toll to 306. The fatality rate came to 1.94 percent.
The country added just 11 imported cases on Tuesday, with France accounting for two cases. There were also infections among arrivals from the United States, the Philippines, Pakistan, and Ethiopia.
South Korea, which has a population of roughly 51 million, carried out 1,697,042 tests since Jan. 3.
The total number of people released from quarantine after making full recoveries stood at 13,934, up 17 from the previous day.
The latest infections in the Seoul metropolitan area are believed to be the so-called GH genetic strain of the new coronavirus, which is more infectious compared to that found among Shincheonji-linked cases, according to health authorities.
The KCDC added remdesivir, an experimental drug conventionally used for Ebola, has been administered to 128 coronavirus patients in critical condition at 35 hospitals across the country.
colin@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-08-18--Gov't limits church activities in Seoul area to non-contact worship services

SEOUL , Aug. 18 ( Yonhap ) -- The South Korean government announced a decision Tuesday to prohibit churches in @ @ @ @ @ carrying out all activities except for contactless worship services as part of toughened measures to @ @ @ @ @ the new coronavirus .

SEOUL, Aug. 18 (Yonhap) -- The South Korean government announced a decision Tuesday to prohibit churches in Seoul and nearby areas from carrying out all activities except for contactless worship services as part of toughened measures to curb the rapid spread of the new coronavirus.
In a public statement, Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun also said the government will elevate the social distancing rules in Incheon, a port city just west of Seoul, to Level Two. The government imposed the measure on Seoul and Gyeonggi Province last weekend.
The steps are set to take effect at the start of Wednesday, Chung said.
"New COVID-19 cases are growing at an explosive rate ... causing a chain of infections in churches, workplaces and hospitals," he said.
"The accelerating speed of the spread is causing concerns for possible mass outbreaks nationwide," he said, adding that the country is at a critical juncture in containing virus transmissions.
Residents of Seoul's Nowon Ward wait to get tested for the new coronavirus at a test center on Aug. 18, 2020. (Yonhap)
pbr@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-08-18--Amid coronavirus surge, KBO's Hanwha Eagles to play home games without fans

Seoul and the surrounding Gyeonggi Province were placed under stricter social distancing guidelines Saturday , joined the following day by @ @ @ @ @ second-largest city .
Five KBO clubs in those areas -- Doosan Bears , LG Twins @ @ @ @ @ , KT Wiz in Suwon , Gyeonggi Province , and Lotte Giants in Busan -- @ @ @ @ @ until further notice .
And on Sunday , the SK Wyverns decided to close their @ @ @ @ @ just west of Seoul , for their six-game homestand this week .

By Yoo Jee-ho
SEOUL, Aug. 18 (Yonhap) -- The South Korean baseball club Hanwha Eagles announced Tuesday they'll play upcoming home games without spectators, in response to a nationwide spike in the coronavirus.
The Korea Baseball Organization (KBO) club said home games set for Thursday and Friday, and on Aug. 27 and 28 at Hanwha Life Eagles Park in Daejeon, 160 kilometers south of Seoul, will be closed to fans.
The Eagles said the metropolitan government of Daejeon asked for the ball club's support in strengthening prevention and control measures for COVID-19.
In this file photo from Aug. 5, 2020, fans attend a Korea Baseball Organization regular season game between the home team Hanwha Eagles and the NC Dinos at Hanwha Life Eagles Park in Daejeon, 160 kilometers south of Seoul. (Yonhap)
Seoul and the surrounding Gyeonggi Province were placed under stricter social distancing guidelines Saturday, joined the following day by Busan, the country's second-largest city. Five KBO clubs in those areas -- Doosan Bears, LG Twins and Kiwoom Heroes in Seoul, KT Wiz in Suwon, Gyeonggi Province, and Lotte Giants in Busan -- will play before empty seats until further notice. And on Sunday, the SK Wyverns decided to close their home park in Incheon, just west of Seoul, for their six-game homestand this week.
The Eagles are the seventh among 10 KBO teams to revert to crowdless games.
While Daejeon isn't subject to stricter measures being implemented in Seoul, the city took a preemptive step in trying to prevent further spread.
South Korea reported 246 new cases Tuesday, with 235 of them being local infections. The country is poised to adopt even tougher preventive measures in the capital region.
The KBO season began on May 5, rather than the originally scheduled March 28, because of the COVID-19 outbreak, and teams didn't have fans in the seats until July 26 -- at 10 percent of the stadium capacity, at that.
Then starting last week, the cap on the crowd size was raised to 25 percent. It barely lasted a week, though, as the nation braces itself for a new wave of infections.
In this file photo from July 27, 2020, fans attend a Korea Baseball Organization regular season game between the home team Hanwha Eagles and the SK Wyverns at Hanwha Life Eagles Park in Daejeon, 160 kilometers south of Seoul. (Yonhap)
jeeho@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-08-18--(URGENT) Gov't to raise social distancing guidelines to Level 2 in Incheon, west of Seoul

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


Yonhap News Summary

SEOUL -- As South Korea grapples with a resurgence of new COVID-19 clusters especially in the greater Seoul area , @ @ @ @ @ has been placed on heightened alert again , with events being suspended and refunds being @ @ @ @ @ renewed fears of virus transmission .

The following is the second summary of major stories moved by Yonhap News Agency on Tuesday.
----------------
(3rd LD) S. Korea braces for 2nd wave of virus outbreak, tougher measures eyed in greater Seoul area
SEOUL -- The number of daily new virus cases in South Korea bounced back sharply Tuesday as infections linked to churches in the capital city showed no signs of a slowdown, prompting the country to consider tougher virus-preventive measures in the greater Seoul area currently dogged by a series of cluster infections.
The country added 246 more COVID-19 cases, including 235 local infections, raising the country's total caseload to 15,761, according to the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (KCDC).
----------------
(2nd LD) Mass coronavirus outbreak looms as church cluster infections hit 457
SEOUL -- More than 400 new coronavirus cases were identified in relation to a church in northern Seoul as of Tuesday, with fears growing over another massive community outbreak in South Korea in less than half a year.
"After a member of Sarang Jeil Church first tested positive on Aug. 12, 123 more were identified on Monday, raising the number of cases to 438, which includes 282 in Seoul," Park Yu-mi, the capital city government's director of public health, told a press briefing.
----------------
(LEAD) S. Korea struggles to secure more hospital beds amid spiking virus cases
SEOUL -- South Korea's health authorities said Tuesday they will secure more hospital beds in the wider Seoul area amid the resurgence of novel coronavirus infections.
The country added 246 more COVID-19 cases, including 235 local infections, raising the country's total caseload to 15,761, according to the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (KCDC). The country added nearly 1,000 cases over the past five days.
----------------
(LEAD) N.K. owns up to 60 nuclear bombs, world's third-largest amount of chemical agents: U.S. military report
SEOUL -- North Korea is believed to have up to 60 nuclear bombs and the world's third-largest stockpile of chemical weapons totaling up to 5,000 tons, the U.S. Army has said.
The U.S. Department of the Army headquarters made the assessment in its report, titled "North Korean tactics," which was published last month, saying Pyongyang is unlikely to give up these weapons to ensure the regime's survival.
----------------
(LEAD) Culture sector at-large on heightened alert again over virus resurgence
SEOUL -- As South Korea grapples with a resurgence of new COVID-19 clusters especially in the greater Seoul area, the country's culture sector has been placed on heightened alert again, with events being suspended and refunds being handed out in response to renewed fears of virus transmission.
Film distributor Showbox has announced that it will postpone the opening of comedy-crime film "The Golden Holiday," starring Kwak Do-won, indefinitely, due to the spread of the new coronavirus. The movie was originally scheduled to hit theaters Wednesday.
----------------
Eastar to find new owner after Jeju scraps deal
SEOUL -- Eastar Jet Co. on Tuesday began the process to find a new owner after Jeju Air Co. scrapped its plan to acquire the smaller budget carrier amid the new coronavirus' impact on the airline industry.
Eastar Jet has selected Deloitte Anjin LLC, Yulchon LLC and Heungkuk Securities Co. as lead managers to handle the deal to sell its controlling 51.17 percent stake, Eastar Jet Senior Vice President Kim You-sang said over the phone.
----------------
(END)


yna--2020-08-18--(URGENT) Gov't to ban gatherings, all other activities by churches in greater Seoul area, except for

(URGENT) Gov't to ban gatherings, all other activities by churches in greater Seoul area, except for non-contact worship services


yna--2020-08-18--(LEAD) Seoul stocks plunge by more than 2 pct amid COVID-19 resurgence fears

SEOUL , Aug. 18 ( Yonhap ) -- South Korean shares plunged by more than 2 percent Tuesday as investor @ @ @ @ @ resurgence of new coronavirus infections in the country .
The Korean won rose against the @ @ @

(ATTN: ADDS bond yields at bottom, photo)
SEOUL, Aug. 18 (Yonhap) -- South Korean shares plunged by more than 2 percent Tuesday as investor sentiment turned sour amid the resurgence of new coronavirus infections in the country. The Korean won rose against the U.S. dollar.
The benchmark Korea Composite Stock Price Index (KOSPI) tumbled 59.25 points, or 2.46 percent, to close at 2,348.24.
Trading volume was high at about 898 million shares worth some 17.3 trillion won (US$14.6 billion), with losers outnumbering gainers 827 to 66.
Foreigners bought a net 71 billion won, while retail investors purchased a net 527 billion won. Institutions offloaded a net 478 billion won.
Electronic signboards at a Hana Bank dealing room in Seoul show the benchmark Korea Composite Stock Price Index (KOSPI) closed at 2,348.24 on Aug. 18, 2020, down 59.25 points, or 2.46 percent, from the previous session's close. (Yonhap)
"The spreading COVID-19 pushed down the KOSPI that has already been under valuation pressure," said Yuanta Securities Korea analyst Cho Byung-hyun.
"Bio and related shares have shown relatively stronger gains, due to the coronavirus concerns," he added.
South Korea has reported a drastic surge in new COVID-19 infections since late last week. It added 246 new cases Tuesday, after reporting 197 on Monday and 279 on Sunday, a five-month high.
Investor sentiment further weakened due to U.S.-China political tensions and dim outlook for the additional U.S. stimulus package, analysts said.
Most large caps closed lower.
Market bellwether Samsung Electronics added 0.69 percent to 58,400 won, while No. 2 chipmaker SK hynix lost 2.62 percent to 78,100 won.
Top pharmaceutical company Samsung Biologics gained 0.25 percent to 802,000 won, and Celltrion shed 0.16 percent to 304,000 won.
Internet portal giant Naver climbed 0.82 percent to 307,500 won, and Kakao, the operator of mobile messenger app Kakao Talk, surged 4.28 percent to 378,000 won.
Leading chemical maker LG Chem dipped 1.43 percent to 690,000 won.
Hyundai Motor, the country's largest automaker, sank 5.39 percent to 158,000 won, with top steelmaker POSCO losing 3.56 percent to 203,000 won.
Cosmetics giant Amore Pacific plummeted 10.18 percent to 176,500 won, and top carrier Korean Air sank 6.41 percent to 18,250 won.
Duty-free behemoth Shinsegae plunged 8.7 percent to 210,000 won, with its rival Hotel Shilla tumbling 9.25 percent to 71,600 won.
The local currency closed at 1,183.70 won against the U.S. dollar, up 0.90 won from the previous session's close.
Bond prices, which move inversely to yields, closed higher. The yield on three-year Treasurys lost 1.8 basis points to 0.810 percent, and the return on the benchmark five-year government bond slipped 2.6 basis points to 1.070 percent.
jwc@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-08-18--S. Korean Bond Yields on Aug. 18, 2020

S. Korean Bond Yields on Aug. 18, 2020


yna--2020-08-18--(LEAD) S. Korea struggles to secure more hospital beds amid spiking virus cases

`` The Seoul metropolitan government will first open the center at the Taeneung National Training Center in Seoul ( on @ @ @ @ @ two .
The provincial government of Gyeonggi will open another three , '' Lee Chang-jun @ @ @ @ @ , said .

SEOUL, Aug. 18 (Yonhap) -- South Korea's health authorities said Tuesday they will secure more hospital beds in the wider Seoul area amid the resurgence of novel coronavirus infections.
The country added 246 more COVID-19 cases, including 235 local infections, raising the country's total caseload to 15,761, according to the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (KCDC). The country added nearly 1,000 cases over the past five days.
This photo, taken Aug. 12, 2020, shows a community treatment center in the southern city of Gwangju.
The authorities said medical facilities in Seoul and the surrounding Gyeonggi Province will prepare an additional 500 beds and another combined 1,300 in the Chungcheong and Gangwon Provinces.
As of late Monday, 660 out of 1,479 beds in general hospitals in the greater Seoul area were not occupied, the KCDC said, while 85 out 339 hospital rooms for COVID-19 patients with severe symptoms were empty.
In Seoul, the bed utilization rate for COVID-19 patients in Seoul came to 74.9 percent, according to the city government. Health authorities said a rate over 70 percent is a burden for hospitals.
The authorities also said they will newly open six community treatment centers that can house around 2,000 virus patients in the Seoul metropolitan area. The centers are dedicated to the care of COVID-19 patients with mild symptoms
"The Seoul metropolitan government will first open the center at the Taeneung National Training Center in Seoul (on Wednesday) and then another two. The provincial government of Gyeonggi will open another three," Lee Chang-jun, a health ministry official, said.
Currently, the government operates two centers each in Ansan, located just south of Seoul, and Cheonan, south of Seoul, with a combined 440 rooms. Another smaller facility is located in central Seoul.
The measure comes after the country suffered a shortage in hospital beds designated to treat coronavirus in the southeastern city of Daegu, once the epicenter of the outbreak here, in March.
The shortage prompted the authorities to open community treatment centers across the country.
khj@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-08-18--Seoul stocks dip to 2-month low amid COVID-19 resurgence fears

SEOUL, Aug. 18 (Yonhap) -- South Korean shares plunged by more than 2 percent Tuesday as investor sentiment turned sour amid the resurgence of new coronavirus infections in the country. The Korean won rose against the U.S. dollar.
The benchmark Korea Composite Stock Price Index (KOSPI) tumbled 59.25 points, or 2.46 percent, to close at 2,348.24, marking the steepest fall after June 15.
Trading volume was high at about 898 million shares worth some 17.3 trillion won (US$14.6 billion), with losers outnumbering gainers 827 to 66.
Foreigners bought a net 71 billion won, while retail investors purchased a net 527 billion won. Institutions offloaded a net 478 billion won.
"The spreading COVID-19 pushed down the KOSPI that has already been under valuation pressure," said Yuanta Securities Korea analyst Cho Byung-hyun.
"Bio and related shares have shown relatively stronger gains, due to the coronavirus concerns," he added.
South Korea has reported a drastic surge in new COVID-19 infections since late last week. It added 246 new cases Tuesday, after reporting 197 on Monday and 279 on Sunday, a five-month high.
Investor sentiment further weakened due to U.S.-China political tensions and dim outlook for the additional U.S. stimulus package, analysts said.
Most large caps closed lower.
Market bellwether Samsung Electronics added 0.69 percent to 58,400 won, while No. 2 chipmaker SK hynix lost 2.62 percent to 78,100 won.
Top pharmaceutical company Samsung Biologics gained 0.25 percent to 802,000 won, and Celltrion shed 0.16 percent to 304,000 won.
Internet portal giant Naver climbed 0.82 percent to 307,500 won, and Kakao, the operator of mobile messenger app Kakao Talk, surged 4.28 percent to 378,000 won.
Leading chemical maker LG Chem dipped 1.43 percent to 690,000 won.
Hyundai Motor, the country's largest automaker, sank 5.39 percent to 158,000 won, with top steelmaker POSCO losing 3.56 percent to 203,000 won.
Cosmetics giant Amore Pacific plummeted 10.18 percent to 176,500 won, and top carrier Korean Air sank 6.41 percent to 18,250 won.
Duty-free behemoth Shinsegae plunged 8.7 percent to 210,000 won, with its rival Hotel Shilla tumbling 9.25 percent to 71,600 won.
The local currency closed at 1,183.70 won against the U.S. dollar, up 0.90 won from the previous session's close.
jwc@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-08-18--'Space Sweepers' sets out to become 1st Korean-made space opera film

`` I was first asked only to do voice acting , but I wanted to take part in motion capture @ @ @ @ @ Yoo , who has carved out a standout career as a weighty supporting character actor @ @ @ @ @ .
`` I thought that 's the best way to breathe more life into the @ @ @ @ @ ''

By Kim Boram
SEOUL, Aug. 18 (Yonhap) -- "Space Sweepers," an upcoming homegrown science-fiction blockbuster, is gearing up to captivate South Korean audiences as the country's first-ever space opera film that interweaves cinematic imagination with distinctly Korean character developments and storytelling.
Directed by Jo Sung-hee, the film features a group of space scavengers who hunt for debris to make money in the year 2092 in a fictional universe where Earth is nearly destroyed by pollution and a group of upper class people build a new habitable world in outer space.
Star actor Song Joong-ki takes the role of Tae-ho, the pilot of the space ship Victory, while actress Kim Tae-ri stars as Captain Jang.
"It was very fresh and challenging that I could participate in the first Korean space sci-fi film," Song said Tuesday in a press conference held online. "It's as if Director Jo has opened a new chapter in the history of Korean film."
This photo provided by film distributor Merry Christmas shows the main cast of "Space Sweepers" at a press conference streamed online on Aug. 18, 2020. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)
Jo and Song previously worked together in the 2012 fantasy drama film "A Werewolf Boy," whose fairy tale-like story appealed to younger audiences and attracted more than 7 million audiences at the box office.
"Director Jo told me his idea of a space opera at that time, and I thought it was wonderful," said Song, who rose to stardom thanks to the success of "A Werewolf Boy."
"Since then, he has developed the story for about 10 years, so the storyline, characters, designs and everything were fully established."
Actress Kim Tae-ri chose "Space Sweepers" to return to the big screen in about two years since the critically acclaimed independent film "Little Forest" (2018).
She pointed out that "Space Sweepers" will break down fixed tropes of Hollywood space films, such as elite scientists in white spacesuits working in an opulent spacecraft. Instead, her new film pictures average people, such as neighbors or friends, who have to eke out a living amid everyday hardships, Kim said.
"Our film is humble. Characters wear torn clothes or ripped socks, and they have rude conversations," she said. "It's about our stories."
A still image from "Space Sweepers," provided by film distributor Merry Christmas (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)
As in many triple A Hollywood blockbuster films, "Space Sweepers" also features a computer-generated robot character named Eob-dong, produced through motion capture acting by Yoo Hae-jin.
"I was first asked only to do voice acting, but I wanted to take part in motion capture as well," said Yoo, who has carved out a standout career as a weighty supporting character actor in the Korean film industry. "I thought that's the best way to breathe more life into the unrealistic, computer-generated character."
Director Jo said he wanted to create a Korean-style space sci-fi movie for his third commercial film -- following "A Werewolf Boy" and "Phantom Detective" (2016) -- that has Koreans traveling in space and playing a role in removing space garbage.
"This movie is based on imagination, not on factual evidence. It shows a new world that we've never seen," he said. "But characters in that world are just like us. They are not Hollywood heroes. They are normal Koreans but on a spaceship."
"Space Sweepers" will hit local screens on Sept. 23.
brk@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-08-18--N.K. paper lauds late missile scientist

N.K. paper lauds late missile scientist

Kim also pointed out Ju 's contribution to the North 's successful launch of intercontinental ballistic missiles ( ICBM ) @ @ @ @ @ U.S. in 2017 , saying there were no officials as good as him , it @ @

SEOUL, Aug. 18 (Yonhap) -- North Korea's main newspaper on Tuesday ran a lengthy article lauding a late missile scientist, saying leader Kim Jong-un praised him as a "loyal revolutionary warrior" for his contribution to the country's nuclear and missile development.
Ju Kyu-chang, who served as first vice director of the Munitions Industry Department of the ruling Workers' Party, died in 2018. He is known for deep involvement in the North's nuclear and missile development under previous leaders Kim Il-sung and Kim Jong-il.
The U.S. blacklisted him in 2013 for involvement in weapons of mass destruction development.
On Tuesday, the Rodong Sinmun newspaper touted him as a "true loyalist."
"We cannot picture the current weapon's industry without the past generations like that of Ju Kyu-chang," Kim was quoted by the paper as saying.
Kim also pointed out Ju's contribution to the North's successful launch of intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBM) capable of reaching the continental U.S. in 2017, saying there were no officials as good as him, it said.
The article appears to reflect the North's will towards strengthening self-defense deterrence amid a protracted stalemate in nuclear negotiations with Washington.
North Korea's top leader Kim Jong-un (C) visits the bier of Ju Kyu-chang, a man known to have been involved in the country's development of missiles and nuclear weapons, on Sept. 4, 2018, in this photo released by the North's Korean Central News Agency. Ju was reported to have died Sept. 3. (For Use Only in the Republic of Korea. No Redistribution) (Yonhap)
julesyi@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-08-19--KT to bolster digital finance tech with Woori Financial Group

Under a memorandum of understanding , the two sides will cooperate in artificial intelligence ( AI ) and big data-based @ @ @ @ @ training in the finance sector and share data in new businesses , according to a @ @ @ @

SEOUL, Aug. 19 (Yonhap) -- KT Corp., a major South Korean telecom operator, said Wednesday it has partnered with Woori Financial Group to collaborate in integrating digital solutions into financial services.
Under a memorandum of understanding, the two sides will cooperate in artificial intelligence (AI) and big data-based financial services, foster AI training in the finance sector and share data in new businesses, according to a statement from KT.
KT Corp. CEO Koo Hyun-mo (2nd from L) and Woori Financial Group CEO Sohn Tae-seung (3rd from L) pose for a camera after signing a memorandum of understanding at Woori Bank's headquarters in central Seoul on Aug. 19, 2020, in this photo provided by KT. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)
The telecom operator said it expects Woori Financial to adopt KT's technology to roll out AI-based call centers and cloud-based remote work systems.
The latest agreement warms ties between the two parties, which hold major stakes in K-Bank, a local internet-only bank launched in 2017.
BC Card Co., a credit card unit of KT Corp., has a 34 percent stake in K-Bank, while Woori Bank, a flagship unit of Woori Financial, holds 19.9 percent, according to KT.
The new partnership comes as KT seeks to boost its presence in the finance sector.
In April, KT signed a partnership with BNK Busan Bank, BNK Capital and Korea Credit Bureau to offer a service through which its subscribers can check financial products related to their mobile communication information.
yunhwanchae@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-08-19--(2nd LD) Top Chinese official to visit Busan for talks with Cheong Wa Dae director of national secur

(2nd LD) Top Chinese official to visit Busan for talks with Cheong Wa Dae director of national security

Yang and Suh will hold talks on Saturday , during which they are expected to discuss Xi 's plan to @ @ @ @ @ Xi earlier promised to visit South Korea within this year , but there has been @ @ @ @ @ .

(ATTN: MODIFIES lead; UPDATES with details from 5th para)
SEOUL, Aug. 19 (Yonhap) -- Yang Jiechi, a senior Chinese government official, will visit Busan this week for talks with Suh Hoon, director of presidential national security, with President Xi Jinping's possible trip here likely to be discussed, Cheong Wa Dae said Wednesday.
Yang, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, is scheduled to visit the southern port city from Friday through Saturday, according to Cheong Wa Dae spokesman Kang Min-seok. Yang, a former foreign minister, is known for his influence on diplomatic affairs.
Yang and Suh will hold talks Saturday, during which they are expected to discuss Xi's plan to travel to South Korea. Xi earlier promised to visit South Korea within this year, but there has been no announcement of the schedule.
The two "plan to have talks on Saturday morning and luncheon consultations and to exchange opinions on issues of mutual concern, such as South Korea-China coronavirus response cooperation, bilateral relations, including high-level exchanges, as well as the Korean Peninsula and international security situations," Kang said at a press briefing.
A Cheong Wa Dae official later told reporters that "the issue of President Xi's visit to South Korea is expected to be among major agenda items as well."
Seoul and Beijing have been consulting on the matter so that Xi can visit "at an appropriate time" as soon as the COVID-19 situation is "stabilized," he noted.
The choice of Busan as the venue came in consideration of Yang's itinerary and request and has "nothing to do with the recent spread of the coronavirus," he added.
It would be Yang's first visit to South Korea in more than two years. He doubles as director of the Office of the Foreign Affairs Commission of the CPC Central Committee.
He will be meeting Suh for the first time since Suh assumed the Cheong Wa Dae post in early July.
Cheong Wa Dae spokesman Kang Min-seok holds a press briefing, in this file photo. (Yonhap)
lcd@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-08-19--(2nd LD) Greater Seoul in peril over virus spread, new cases at over 5-month high of 297

Infections tied to the Sarang Jeil Church have spiked to 568 as of Wednesday , according to the health authorities @ @ @ @ @ tests on 3,275 church members .
Around 130 members are currently waiting to be tested @ @ @ @ @ nearly 400 people remain unknown .

(ATTN: ADDS details throughout; CHANGES photos)
SEOUL, Aug. 19 (Yonhap) -- South Korea's daily new virus cases have now soared by three-digit figures for a week straight as the country on Wednesday reported the largest number of cases since early March, with infections traced to churches in the capital city of Seoul continuing to swell.
The country added 297 more COVID-19 cases, including 283 local infections, raising the total caseload to 16,058, according to the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (KCDC).
Over the past week, the daily new virus cases have been in the triple digits, with almost 1,300 cases being newly identified. Wednesday's daily tally marks the most since March 8, when the country reported 367 COVID-19 cases.
The country implemented enhanced social distancing guidelines as of midnight to stem further spread of the virus.
South Korea was on the verge of putting the COVID-19 pandemic under control, reporting just 56 cases on Thursday.
On the following day, however, the figure shot up to a whopping 103 cases due to group infections from a church in the capital city of Seoul. On Sunday, South Korea reported 279 new daily infections, marking the first time since early March that the figure surpassed 200.
The country saw more than 100 daily cases in late July as well, but it was attributable to South Korean workers returning home from virus-hit Iraq through chartered flights.
Health authorities, however, say the current situation is worrisome as most of the cases have been locally transmitted, and centered in the capital and neighboring areas, home to half of the country's 50 million population.
A visitor receive new coronavirus test at a makeshift clinic installed at a church in northern Seoul on Aug. 19, 2020. (Yonhap)
Of the newly identified local infections, 150 cases were reported from the capital city of Seoul, and 94 from the surrounding Gyeonggi Province.
Incheon, just west of Seoul, added eight more cases. The southern port city of Busan also reported nine additional infections.
Infections tied to the Sarang Jeil Church have spiked to 568 as of Wednesday, according to the health authorities, which have carried out tests on 3,275 church members. Around 130 members are currently waiting to be tested, while the whereabouts of nearly 400 people remain unknown.
Health authorities said around 17 percent of the church members who have been tested were confirmed to have been infected with COVID-19.
Other major cities across the nation also continued to report cases linked to the church as they were in close contact with virus patients during a massive weekend rally.
"We are facing a critical juncture, as the outbreaks in the Seoul metropolitan area can lead to a new wave of nationwide pandemic," Vice Health Minister Kim Ganglip said in a regular press briefing. "We can only curb the spread of the virus when people strictly follow the social distancing guidelines."
A child waits to receive new coronavirus test at a makeshift clinic in central Seoul on Aug. 19, 2020. (Yonhap)
As the new daily cases spiked, South Korea decided to raise the level of social distancing in Seoul and the surrounding Gyeonggi Province by one notch to Level 2 in the three-tier system for two weeks from Sunday.
Starting Wednesday, the measure was expanded to Incheon, just west of Seoul.
More strings were attached to South Koreans' daily lives as well. Outdoor gatherings of more than 100 people are strictly restricted. If they are held indoors, the ceiling is 50 people. Sports events will be allowed without spectators.
So-called risk-prone facilities, including karaoke rooms, clubs, PC cafes and buffets, have been ordered to shut down.
With religious facilities emerging as the hotbed of the pandemic, churches in the greater Seoul area will not be allowed to have in-person worship services.
Previously, South Korea only asked churchgoers in the region to refrain from holding gatherings other than regular worship services.
While such measures are relatively loose compared to draconian lockdowns that have been put in place in other countries, they are still deemed the strongest action made by South Korea, which reported its first case on Jan. 20.
"For the next two weeks, we urge residents of the metropolitan area to stay home. They should only go outside on limited occasions, including going to work, purchasing necessities, and visiting hospitals," Kim said.
South Korea also vowed to take stern actions against those who violate quarantine rules.
Police officers receive new coronavirus tests at a makeshift clinic in central Seoul on Aug. 19, 2020. (Yonhap)
Health authorities are currently struggling to curb the spread of the virus in the greater Seoul area, which houses around half of the country's population, after the southeastern city of Daegu reported over 5,000 virus cases linked to a religious sect, the Shincheonji Church of Jesus.
Due to the cluster infections, the country's new daily virus cases peaked at 909 on Feb. 29.
On Wednesday, South Korea reported just 14 imported cases, with the United States accounting for four infections. Three were from Kazakhstan, and there were also cases from Indonesia, France and Spain.
South Korea, meanwhile, reported no more deaths, keeping the toll at 306. The fatality rate was 1.91 percent.
The total number of people released from quarantine after making full recoveries stood at 14,006, up 72 from the previous day.
The country has carried out 1,715,064 COVID-19 tests since Jan. 3.
colin@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-08-19--S. Korea extends special travel advisory for all countries amid rise in new virus cases

`` During the special travel advisory , we call on citizens to cancel or postpone their plans to travel overseas @ @ @ @ @ to ensure that they will not be exposed to COVID-19 infection , '' the ministry @ @ @ @ @ .

SEOUL, Aug 19 (Yonhap) -- The foreign ministry on Wednesday extended its special travel advisory for all countries and territories, except for those already subject to tougher restrictions, amid resurgent coronavirus outbreaks.
The latest measure, which recommends against traveling overseas, will remain valid until Sept. 18. The extension came as the current advisory, which was imposed on June 20 after the first COVID-19-driven advisory from March 23 to June 19, was set to end Wednesday.
The ministry said that it decided to retain the advisory due to the continued spread of the virus around the world, an increase in local transmissions and imported cases, and entry restrictions enforced by foreign countries.
"During the special travel advisory, we call on citizens to cancel or postpone their plans to travel overseas, and on those abroad to ensure that they will not be exposed to COVID-19 infection," the ministry said in a press release.
Barring any notice on another extension, the latest advisory is set to be automatically lifted on Sept. 19.
sshluck@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-08-19--(LEAD) Spike in church infections grips greater Seoul, gov't warns of stern response

`` Raising ( the social distancing level ) to Level Three , which would ban meetings of 10 or more @ @ @ @ @ the citizens ' lives and economy , '' he said .
`` The priority now @ @ @ @ @ current situation from developing into one that calls for Level Three . ''

(ATTN: UPDATES with measures by city gov't, police, photo)
By Lee Minji
SEOUL, Aug. 19 (Yonhap) -- A continued surge in church-related infections put the greater Seoul area on edge Wednesday, prompting the government to consider tougher measures against a church at the center of the COVID-19 resurgence.
South Korea reported 297 new infections, the largest number of cases since early March, which has raised the country's total caseload to 16,058, according to the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (KCDC).
The majority of the recent infections have come from Sarang Jeil Church in northern Seoul, whose pastor Jun Kwang-hoon has led several anti-government rallies in central Seoul. In the most recent rally held Saturday, thousands of demonstrators gathered in Gwanghwamun, chanting slogans and sitting close to one another.
Health workers test a visitor at a temporary screening center set up at Kumnan Church in eastern Seoul on Aug. 19, 2020, after a church member who tested positive for the new coronavirus was found to have visited Sarang Jeil Church. (Yonhap)
Jun himself has tested positive, and health authorities are screening church members and demonstrators based on a list submitted by the church. The list, however, has turned out to be inaccurate, raising concerns over infected people unconsciously spreading the virus across the country.
"The screening tests have not yet been completed as the church has not submitted an accurate list amid concerns of a nationwide spread," Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun said in a daily government response meeting.
"At the moment, it's a fight against time," he said, "The Seoul city government should closely cooperate with the prosecution and police to push for legal means, such as a compulsive administrative inspection to secure (an accurate) list."
A view of Sarang Jeil Church in the northern Seoul ward of Seongbuk on Aug. 17, 2020 (Yonhap)
Chung emphasized that the government will take stern action, such as filing a compensation suit, against those who disturb ongoing screening tests and epidemiological studies.
The city government, which has filed a criminal complaint against Jun, said it plans to also file suits against individuals for "wasting administrative resources and budget by evading, lying or disobeying during screening and tracing procedures," acting Mayor Seo Jeong-hyup said in a press briefing.
Seo also imposed an order for all Seoul residents who attended rallies in Gwanghwamun on Aug. 8 and 15 to be tested for the virus. Demonstrators who later test positive will face up to 3 million won (US$2,534) in fines for breaking the Infectious Disease Control and Prevention Act, he said.
Police, meanwhile, mobilized more than 8,500 officers to trace Sarang Jeil Church members who remain unaccounted for. Of the church's estimated 4,000 members, 3,200 are under quarantine and 2,500 have been tested. Some 800, however, have yet to be located.
The prime minister, however, said South Korea is not yet at the stage of considering Level Three social distancing, which would impose stricter anti-infection measures compared with the current Level Two scheme.
"Raising (the social distancing level) to Level Three, which would ban meetings of 10 or more people, would substantially shock the citizens' lives and economy," he said. "The priority now should be to block the current situation from developing into one that calls for Level Three."
Thousands of people attend an anti-government rally in central Seoul on Aug. 15, 2020. (Yonhap)
A police officer who was dispatched to the Liberation Day rally site is tested for the new coronavirus at a screening center set up at the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency in central Seoul on Aug. 19, 2020. (Yonhap)
In addition to raising the social distancing level by one notch over the weekend, the government on Tuesday announced a decision to prohibit churches in Seoul and nearby areas from carrying out all in-person activities.
Under the current social distancing measure, indoor gatherings of 50 or more people and outdoor events of 100 or more people are also prohibited, while citizens are advised to stay at home except on necessary occasions.
In Seoul, 12 types of high-risk facilities, including 5,134 nightlife facilities, 7,735 karaoke facilities and internet cafes, as well as 402 private sector education institutions with 300 or more students, have been suspended until further notice.
The Level Three calls for restrictions on all outdoor activities except for essential social and economic purposes. Gatherings of 10 or more people are not permitted, and all sports events are suspended.
mlee@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-08-19--Seoul stocks trim gains late Wed. morning amid COVID-19 resurgence

SEOUL , Aug. 19 ( Yonhap ) -- South Korean shares trimmed part of its earlier gains late Wednesday morning @ @ @ @ @ of the novel coronavirus in Seoul and the surrounding regions .

SEOUL, Aug. 19 (Yonhap) -- South Korean shares trimmed part of its earlier gains late Wednesday morning amid fears of the resurgence of the novel coronavirus in Seoul and the surrounding regions.
The benchmark Korea Composite Stock Price Index (KOSPI) fell 15.48 points, or 0.66 percent, to 2,363.72 as of 11:20 a.m.
The KOSPI erased almost half of its earlier gains after jumping more than 1 percent tracking Wall Street gains.
The trimming is largely attributed to the recent surge in the novel coronavirus outbreak, mostly occurring in Seoul and neighboring regions.
South Korea added 297 new cases Wednesday, the most in five months.
The country toughened social distancing guidelines, including restricting indoor meetings of 50 or more people and ordering karaoke rooms, internet cafes and restaurants to close.
Large caps traded mixed.
Market bellwether Samsung Electronics added 0.34 percent, but No. 2 chipmaker SK hynix dipped 2.94 percent.
Top pharmaceutical firm Samsung Biologics gained 1.75 percent, while Celltrion climbed 0.66 percent.
Leading chemical maker LG Chem shed 1.16 percent, and rechargeable battery maker Samsung SDI lost 0.81 percent.
Hyundai Motor, the country's largest automaker, advanced 1.58 percent.
Internet portal giant Naver added 1.63 percent, while its rival Kakao retreated 0.53 percent.
The local currency was trading at 1,183.10 won against the U.S. dollar, up 0.60 won from the previous session's close.
jwc@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-08-19--N.K.'s paper stresses 'self-reliance' after Kim rejects outside flood aid

`` A banner of self-reliance and self-prosperity is being highly hoisted as we are rejecting any slight hope for a @ @ @ @ @ assistance , '' the paper added .
`` It is an inevitable challenge that should @ @ @ @ @ . ''

SEOUL, Aug. 19 (Yonhap) -- North Korea's official newspaper said Wednesday the country should stick to the principle of "self-reliance" even as its impoverished economy is struggling with flood damage, the coronavirus pandemic and economic sanctions.
The Rodong Sinmun, the organ of the North's ruling party, made the appeal after Kim Jong-un said last week that the country should reject any outside help even though the country suffered serious damage from recent heavy downpours.
"Building a socialist powerhouse is a war that can be waged only by those who have a strong will against any kinds of pressure, vilification and temptation," the paper said.
"A banner of self-reliance and self-prosperity is being highly hoisted as we are rejecting any slight hope for a change in circumstances or outside assistance," the paper added. "It is an inevitable challenge that should be overcome under any circumstances."
The paper called global sanctions imposed on North Korea a "hostile act" and "crime against humanity" aimed at stifling the country and its people.
It also emphasized the importance of strengthening its political and military power to safeguard the country against oppression by imperialists, apparently referring to the United States.
North Korea has intensified calls for self-reliance since leader Kim called for a "frontal breakthrough" to tackle challenges late last year amid little prospect for global sanctions to be lifted or eased anytime soon due to stalemated nuclear talks with Washington.
Last week, Kim presided over a politburo meeting of the Workers' Party and warned against accepting any outside flood aid, saying it could increase the risk of a coronavirus outbreak.
In this photo, captured from the Korean Central Television Broadcasting Station on Aug. 7, 2020, many houses are damaged and flooded at a flood-ravaged village in Unpha, North Hwanghae Province, which North Korean leader Kim Jong-un visited. The broadcaster stopped short of saying when he made the visit, but Kim is believed to have visited the village the previous day. (For Use Only in the Republic of Korea. No Redistribution) (Yonhap)
kokobj@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-08-19--Tightened distancing rules throw off wedding plans, social gatherings in greater Seoul

Under the stricter guidelines , indoor gatherings of 50 or more people and outdoor events of 100 or more people @ @ @ @ @ are advised to stay at home , except for necessary occasions , at least for @ @ @ @ @ violation could be fined up to 3 million won ( US $ 2,540 ) and @ @ @ @ @ costs if found responsible for transmissions .

By Chang Dong-woo
SEOUL, Aug. 19 (Yonhap) -- The tightened social distancing guidelines placed on the greater Seoul region have left ordinary South Koreans flummoxed over how to proceed with important social plans, such as weddings or first-birthday banquets, which often require minimum reservations in the scale of hundreds with harsh refund penalties.
Amid the new wave of COVID-19 outbreaks in and around Seoul, the country placed the capital and the nearby Gyeonggi and Incheon areas under the Level 2 social distancing scheme, up one notch from the previous level, over the weekend.
Under the stricter guidelines, indoor gatherings of 50 or more people and outdoor events of 100 or more people are prohibited, and citizens are advised to stay at home, except for necessary occasions, at least for two weeks. Those in violation could be fined up to 3 million won (US$2,540) and charged for quarantine and medical costs if found responsible for transmissions.
This file photo shows a wedding ceremony held in the country's southwestern city of Gwangju on July 4, 2020, with vast empty tables. Organizers reduced the number of seats down to 49 to comply with the city's then-social distancing guidelines. (Yonhap)
Online communities on the topics of wedding preparations and child care have since been flooded with complaints and queries on how to deal with the virtual ban on large gatherings in and around Seoul.
The common underlying grievance is centered on the catering industry's practice of requiring minimum reservations of around 200 to 300 people, as well as steep penalties even if events are canceled long before the agreed-upon dates.
"Those of you who have gone through such events well know that the hosts are burdened with the cost of catering for hundreds of people, or face penalties of up to several millions of won," wrote one netizen, who said her sister had a wedding scheduled for September, on a child care community on Naver.
Another member of a large wedding community on Naver, who said she had a wedding planned for September, wrote, "I wish the government could help us either change the date or exempt us from penalties, but apparently there isn't any action as of now."
Many first-birthday parties for babies and 60th or 70th birthday celebrations among seniors, traditionally held on a large scale with guests outside of the family, are also being scaled back in size or rescheduled at the cost of strong penalties.
"Our family was planning to celebrate our mother's centennial birthday later this month, but we'll have to suspend it for a later date," said Lee Myung-soon, 73, in Seoul.
An online petition has also appeared on the presidential website, demanding the government rein in the catering industry's harsh refund-cancellation policy. Over 33,000 have signed the petition as of Wednesday morning.
"The government has distributed discount coupons for restaurants and cinemas. Why do couples making preparations for marriage have to face mental and financial damage due to the irresponsible policy by the government," the petitioner wrote.
In light of growing complaints, the Fair Trade Commission (FTC), the country's anti-trust watch dog, has asked the Association of Wedding Industry to allow customers to reschedule weddings to later dates without penalties.
"Companies may allow postponements of weddings or revise the number of minimum guests," a FTC official said. The official explained that responses may vary from company to company.
This file photo shows a wedding ceremony held in the country's southwestern city of Gwangju on July 4, 2020, with empty tables. Organizers reduced the number of seats down to 49 to comply with the city's social distancing guidelines at the time. (Yonhap)
odissy@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-08-19--(LEAD) Top Chinese official to visit Busan for talks with Cheong Wa Dae director of national securit

(LEAD) Top Chinese official to visit Busan for talks with Cheong Wa Dae director of national security

Yang and Suh will hold talks on Saturday , during which they are expected to discuss President Xi Jinping 's @ @ @ @ @ to South Korea .
Xi earlier promised to visit South Korea within this year , @ @ @ @ @ announcement of the schedule .
Observers say that the COVID-19 situation here may be affecting @ @

(ATTN: UPDATES with details)
SEOUL, Aug. 19 (Yonhap) -- Yang Jiechi, a senior Chinese government, will visit Busan this week for talks with Suh Hoon, director of presidential national security, Cheong Wa Dae said Wednesday.
Yang, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, is scheduled to visit the southern port city from Friday through Saturday, according to Cheong Wa Dae spokesman Kang Min-seok. Yang, a former foreign minister, is known for his influence on diplomatic affairs.
Yang and Suh will hold talks on Saturday, during which they are expected to discuss President Xi Jinping's plan to make a trip to South Korea. Xi earlier promised to visit South Korea within this year, but there has been no announcement of the schedule. Observers say that the COVID-19 situation here may be affecting it.
The two "plan to have talks on Saturday morning and luncheon consultations and to exchange opinions on issues of mutual concern such as South Korea-China coronavirus response cooperation, bilateral relations including high-level exchanges as well as the Korean Peninsula and international security situations," Kang said at a press briefing.
It would be Yang's first visit to South Korea in more than two years. He doubles as director of the Office of the Foreign Affairs Commission of the CPC Central Committee.
Cheong Wa Dae spokesman Kang Min-seok holds a press briefing in this file photo. (Yonhap)
lcd@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-08-19--Telcos to hand in location data over weekend mass rally

Over the past week , the daily new virus cases have been in the triple digits , with almost 1,300 @ @ @ @ @ Wednesday 's daily tally marks the most since March 8 , when the country reported @ @ @ @

SEOUL, Aug. 19 (Yonhap) -- South Korea's three major telecom operators will hand over location data of mobile users who attended a large anti-government rally last weekend to health authorities, industry officials said Wednesday, as part of the country's anti-infection efforts against the resurgence of COVID-19 outbreaks.
The Saturday protest, which drew thousands of demonstrators, has raised alarms over mass infections as the country reported 297 new cases, the most since early March on Wednesday, bringing the total caseload to 16,058.
The mobile carriers -- SK Telecom Co., KT Corp. and LG Uplus Corp. -- will submit data of mobile users who accessed base stations around Gwanghwamun Square in central Seoul on Saturday for over 30 minutes, following a request from health authorities Tuesday.
Police officers stand in line at a COVID-19 testing center in Seoul's central Jung Ward on Aug. 19, 2020. (Yonhap)
Under the country's infectious disease control and prevention law, health authorities can request information of potentially infected individuals to track them and prevent the spread of diseases.
The telecom operators have previously handed over data of more than 10,000 mobile users due to outbreaks linked to nightclubs in Itaewon, central Seoul, in May.
Over the past week, the daily new virus cases have been in the triple digits, with almost 1,300 cases being newly identified. Wednesday's daily tally marks the most since March 8, when the country reported 367 COVID-19 cases.
The country has implemented enhanced social distancing guidelines, such as restricting outdoor gatherings of more than 100, in the capital and nearby regions to further stem the spread of the virus.
yunhwanchae@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-08-19--2 Army soldiers test positive for new coronavirus

The two had contact with another soldier confirmed to have the virus after coming into contact with a civilian worker @ @ @ @ @ Gapyeong , about 55 kilometers northeast of Seoul .
That civilian , who runs a @ @ @ @ @ tested positive following a visit to the Sarang Jeil Church in Seoul .

SEOUL, Aug. 19 (Yonhap) -- Two Army soldiers in the northern county of Gapyeong tested positive for the new coronavirus in cases traced to the massive infection cluster at a Seoul church, the defense ministry said Wednesday.
The two had contact with another soldier confirmed to have the virus after coming into contact with a civilian worker at a training regiment in Gapyeong, about 55 kilometers northeast of Seoul. That civilian, who runs a shop inside the base, tested positive following a visit to the Sarang Jeil Church in Seoul.
Infections tied to the church among military members have grown to seven.
"All the service personnel of the base underwent virus tests, and except for the five, all the others tested negative," a defense ministry official said.
As of Tuesday, the total number of patients linked to the church stood at 457 across the country, according to health authorities.
So far, the military reported 90 coronavirus patients. Currently, 737 service members are in isolation in accordance with the health authorities' guidelines, and the military has quarantined an additional 3,131 people under stricter anti-virus schemes of its own as a preventive step.
To prevent the further spread of the virus into the barracks, the defense ministry restricted all service members from vacationing and off-installation trips from Wednesday until the end of this month.
Officials disinfect the Sarang Jeil Church in Seoul's Seongbuk Ward on Aug. 14, 2020, following the detection of a cluster of new coronavirus infections at the church. (Yonhap)
graceoh@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-08-19--Ruling party to hold virtual party convention amid surge of infections

In light of the recent surge , South Korea placed Seoul , Gyeonggi Province and Incheon , a port city @ @ @ @ @ Level Two social distancing , prohibiting indoor gatherings of 50 or more people and banning @ @ @ @ @ and operations of other high-risk public facilities such as bars and karaoke rooms in the @ @ @ @

SEOUL, Aug. 19 (Yonhap) -- The ruling Democratic Party (DP) announced a plan Wednesday to elect its new leader in a virtual event, instead of an initially planned large-scale offline ceremony, out of concern about the rapid spread of the new coronavirus.
The convention will be held at the party's headquarters in Yeouido, western Seoul, next week, and livestreamed online, according to Rep. Jang Chul-min, a spokesman for the party's convention preparation committee.
Only some 50 people, including candidates and party staff members, will attend the event, he added.
The decision came after the government toughened social distancing restrictions in response to a spike in COVID-19 infections especially in the Seoul metropolitan area.
The convention, set for Aug. 29, was to bring together some 600 party members at Olympic Gymnastics Arena in eastern Seoul to select the party's new head and five top party representatives.
The latest party decision to turn to an online event came as South Korea is gripped with concerns about a second wave of mass coronavirus outbreaks.
South Korea added 297 new virus infections Wednesday, the sixth straight day that the daily tally has increased by a triple-digit number. More than 250 cases reported Wednesday stemmed from the greater capital area.
In light of the recent surge, South Korea placed Seoul, Gyeonggi Province and Incheon, a port city west of Seoul, under Level Two social distancing, prohibiting indoor gatherings of 50 or more people and banning worship services at Protestant churches and operations of other high-risk public facilities such as bars and karaoke rooms in the greater Seoul area.
The virus resurgence also roiled political circles, especially the ruling party in the lead-up to the party convention.
Rep. Lee Nak-yon, the ruling party's leading candidate in the party chairman election, was tested for the virus after he indirectly contacted a COVID-19 patient during a radio interview on Monday at a studio of radio broadcaster CBS. The test result for Lee came back negative.
Appearing on the same radio program, Lee used the same microphone as a journalist who later tested positive for the virus, although the two did not come into direct contact.
Two other lawmakers, Rep. Kim Young-min of the DP and Rep. Choi Hyung-du of the main opposition United Future Party, also got tested after indirectly contacting the journalist.
This photo by the press corps of the National Assembly shows Rep. Lee Nak-yon of the Democratic Party speaking during a radio appearance with CBS on Aug. 28, 2020. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)
pbr@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-08-19--BTS unveils teaser video for new single album 'Dynamite'

It is speculated that the move may be intended for local radio transmissions , which have acted as a barrier @ @ @ @ @ the United States music market .
Radio broadcasts are also an important factor for rankings @ @ @ @ @ chart `` Hot 100 . ''

SEOUL, Aug. 19 (Yonhap) -- K-pop giant BTS on Wednesday revealed a teaser video for the band's upcoming single album "Dynamite," beginning the countdown for the release of the new disco-style song.
The seven-member South Korean boy band unveiled a music video teaser for "Dynamite," scheduled for official release Friday, on its official video-sharing social media platform at midnight Tuesday.
The 28-second video is short but powerfully displays the retro emotion of the new song.
[D-2] BTS drops official MV teaser of “Dynamite,” bringing disco back Youtube https://youtu.be/SdPrUnR_Oi4
The scene in which BTS members in colorful retro costumes perform dynamic dance moves against the backdrop of a "Disco" sign and a cheerful disco-style melody creates a lively atmosphere.
Big Hit Entertainment, the boy band's management agency, said "Dynamite" is a song in the disco pop genre that contains BTS' sincere wish to vitalize its global fans who are going through difficult times due to the coronavirus outbreak.
BTS members said last month they naturally felt good and energized while listening to the new song and recording it.
These photos, provided by Big Hit Entertainment on Aug. 19, 2020, show scenes in a teaser video for BTS's upcoming single album "Dynamite." (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)
The band had unveiled a set of teaser images for "Dynamite" three times, on Aug. 11, Thursday and Sunday. In a group photo released Sunday, the members created a youth movie-like atmosphere with a donut shop counter in the background. In other individual photos, they sport casual clothes ranging from sleeveless T-shirts and denim jackets to baggy Oxford shirts.
The track and music video of "Dynamite" will be released to the world at the same time at 1 p.m. Friday (Korean time).
It is the first time that BTS will release its sound source at 1 p.m., instead of 6 p.m. when domestic market sales usually begin.
The change indicates the band may have chosen the release time with the North American market in mind. It is also notable that BTS members sing the new song in English.
This photo, provided by Big Hit Entertainment on Aug. 19, 2020, shows a promotional photo for BTS's upcoming single album "Dynamite." (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)
It is speculated that the move may be intended for local radio transmissions, which have acted as a barrier for BTS' entry into the United States music market. Radio broadcasts are also an important factor for rankings on the Billboard main singles chart "Hot 100."
The South Korean septet will make its television debut for the new song at the 2020 MTV Video Music Awards in the U.S. on Aug. 30 (local time).
ycm@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-08-19--The Korea Interbank Offered Rates (KORIBOR)

SEOUL , Aug. 19 ( Yonhap ) -- The Korea Interbank Offered Rates ( KORIBOR ) as posted by Yonhap @ @ @ @ @ and information arm of Yonhap News Agency , at 11:00 a.m .

(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--2020-08-19--Top Chinese official to visit Busan for talks with Cheong Wa Dae director of national security

Yang , a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China ( CPC ) Central Committee , @ @ @ @ @ southern port city from Friday through Saturday , according to Cheong Wa Dae spokesman Kang @ @

SEOUL, Aug. 19 (Yonhap) -- Yang Jiechi, a senior Chinese government official known for his influence on diplomatic affairs, will visit Busan this week for talks with Suh Hoon, director of presidential national security, Cheong Wa Dae said Wednesday.
Yang, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, is scheduled to visit the southern port city from Friday through Saturday, according to Cheong Wa Dae spokesman Kang Min-seok.
Yang and Suh are expected to discuss President Xi Jinping's plan to make a trip to South Korea, the date for which has not yet been announced.
Cheong Wa Dae spokesman Kang Min-seok holds a press briefing in this file photo. (Yonhap)
lcd@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-08-19--Small merchants, retailers hit by resurgence in virus cases

The scheme will allow South Koreans to maintain most of their daily routines , but outdoor gatherings of more than @ @ @ @ @ .
Sports events will be allowed without spectators .
Indoor meetings of 50 or more @ @ @ @ @ .

SEOUL, Aug. 19 (Yonhap) -- Small merchants and local retailers are facing another business setback as South Korea's stricter social distancing, adopted following a spike in new coronavirus infections, could prompt people to refrain from visiting restaurants and other offline outlets.
South Korea has reported nearly 1,300 new cases of COVID-19 in the past six days, forcing the country to raise the level of social distancing in Seoul and adjacent areas Sunday to stem further spread.
The food service sector saw some recovery in sales after the country relaxed social distancing measures in May amid a letup in virus cases.
But operators of small eateries and cafes are facing falling sales again, hit by the impact of the country's longest-ever monsoon season and a flare-up in virus cases.
This photo, taken on Aug. 18, 2020, shows a customer at an eatery in Shinchon, western Seoul. (Yonhap)
"During the rainy season, the number of customers declined. Sales at lunch reached less than 100,000 won (US$84.64) after the virus outbreak resurged," said a 62-year-old eatery owner in Seoul's college district of Shinchon.
"I may have to shut down the restaurant if college lectures are held online during the fall semester," he said.
The latest spike in virus cases is mainly traced to a church in northern Seoul. But the country has continued to report sporadic cluster infections in places like restaurants, cafes and traditional markets.
South Korea added 297 more COVID-19 cases Wednesday, including 283 local infections, raising the total caseload to 16,058, according to the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (KCDC).
Alarmed by the resurgence in new daily virus cases, South Korea raised the level of social distancing in Seoul and the surrounding Gyeonggi Province by one notch to Level 2 in the three-tier system for two weeks from Sunday.
The scheme will allow South Koreans to maintain most of their daily routines, but outdoor gatherings of more than 100 people will be restricted. Sports events will be allowed without spectators. Indoor meetings of 50 or more people are restricted as well.
The so-called risk-prone facilities, including karaoke rooms, clubs, internet cafes, and buffet restaurants, have been ordered to shut down. The same goes for public facilities.
Local retailers also remained concerned that the latest recovery in their sales may be short-lived amid the virus resurgence.
Department stores and large discount store chains saw sales increase during the latest three-day weekend holiday.
The retail sector was hard hit by the first wave of the COVID-19 outbreak, as people refrained from visiting offline stores to avoid virus infections.
This file photo shows a signboard calling for social distancing at Shinsegae Department Store in the southwestern city of Gwangju. (Yonhap)
Industry leader Lotte Department Store and its two major rivals reported sharp falls in sales in the first quarter. Their revenue, however, began to recover in June, as virus outbreaks slowed down, aided by massive testing and contact tracing.
But the latest spike in virus cases and stricter social distancing may lead to another slump in revenue for retailers.
"During the latest holiday, the number of customers noticeably increased on the back of discount events. But we're concerned about potential sales slumps, as the impact of the stricter social distancing will be felt starting this week," said an official at a discount store chain.
sooyeon@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-08-19--Spike in church infections grips greater Seoul, gov't warns of stern response

SEOUL, Aug. 19 (Yonhap) -- A continued surge in church-related infections put the greater Seoul area on edge Wednesday, prompting the government to consider tougher measures against a church at the center of the COVID-19 resurgence.
South Korea reported 297 new infections, the largest number of cases since early March, which has raised the country's total caseload to 16,058, according to the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (KCDC).
The majority of the recent infections have come from Sarang Jeil Church in northern Seoul, whose pastor Jun Kwang-hoon has led several anti-government rallies in central Seoul. In the most recent rally held Saturday, thousands of demonstrators gathered in Gwanghwamun, chanting slogans and sitting close to one another.
Health workers test a visitor at a temporary screening center set up at Kumnan Church in eastern Seoul on Aug. 19, 2020, after a church member who tested positive for the new coronavirus was found to have visited Sarang Jeil Church. (Yonhap)
Jun himself has tested positive, and health authorities are screening church members and demonstrators based on a list submitted by the church. The list, however, has turned out to be inaccurate, raising concerns over infected people unconsciously spreading the virus across the country.
"The screening tests have not yet been completed as the church has not submitted an accurate list amid concerns of a nationwide spread," Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun said in a daily government response meeting.
"At the moment, it's a fight against time," he said, "The Seoul city government should closely cooperate with the prosecution and police to push for legal means, such as a compulsive administrative inspection to secure (an accurate) list."
A view of Sarang Jeil Church in the northern Seoul ward of Seongbuk on Aug. 17, 2020 (Yonhap)
Chung emphasized that the government will take stern action, such as filing a compensation suit, against those who disturb ongoing screening tests and epidemiological studies.
The prime minister, however, said South Korea is not yet at the stage of considering Level Three social distancing, which would impose stricter anti-infection measures compared with the current Level Two scheme.
"Raising (the social distancing level) to Level Three, which would ban meetings of 10 or more people, would substantially shock the citizens' lives and economy," he said. "The priority now should be to block the current situation from developing into one that calls for Level Three."
Thousands of people attend an anti-government rally in central Seoul on Aug. 15, 2020. (Yonhap)
In addition to raising the social distancing level by one notch over the weekend, the government on Tuesday announced a decision to prohibit churches in Seoul and nearby areas from carrying out all in-person activities.
Under the current social distancing measure, indoor gatherings of 50 or more people and outdoor events of 100 or more people are also prohibited, while citizens are advised to stay at home except on necessary occasions.
The Level Three calls for restrictions on all outdoor activities except for essential social and economic purposes. Gatherings of 10 or more people are not permitted, and all sports events are suspended.
mlee@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-08-19--(URGENT) Yang Jiechi, a top Chinese official, to visit Busan this week for talks with S. Korean coun

(URGENT) Yang Jiechi, a top Chinese official, to visit Busan this week for talks with S. Korean counterpart: Cheong Wa Dae


yna--2020-08-19--(LEAD) S. Korea to tighten rules on home lease contracts to stabilize 'jeonse' deals

FAR is the ratio of the total plot area to the overall building area and is determined by the size @ @ @ @ @ of the road in front of the plot .

(ATTN: ADDS remarks, details in last 4 paras)
SEJONG, Aug. 19 (Yonhap) -- South Korea will tighten some rules on home lease contracts to stabilize "jeonse" deals, Finance Minister Hong Nam-ki said Wednesday.
Jeonse is a home rental arrangement unique to South Korea, in which tenants pay a large sum of money as a deposit instead of paying monthly fees.
Amid record low interest rates and measures to restrict jeonse contracts for certain types of apartments, a growing number of homeowners want to receive monthly rental fees instead of jeonse.
Currently, a homeowner is required to receive 4 percent of a jeonse contract as monthly rental fees if the owner seeks to convert the jeonse contract into a monthly rental contract.
Hong said the government will lower the ratio to 2.5 percent, hoping to encourage homeowners to keep their jeonse contracts.
The soaring home prices in the greater Seoul area have been a headache for policymakers, as President Moon Jae-in's approval rating has nose-dived amid public uproar.
Finance Minister Hong Nam-ki speaks at a meeting on property markets on Aug. 19, 2020. (Yonhap)
Last month, the government announced its toughest measures yet to rein in rising housing prices, as a series of steps, including tax hikes and loan regulations, failed to put the brakes on soaring home prices.
Earlier this month, the government announced it will supply 132,000 homes, including 110,000 homes in Seoul, in the capital city and the neighboring areas by 2028 by easing restrictions on the construction of residential buildings.
The eased rules allow redevelopment projects of aging apartment complexes to increase their floor area ratio (FAR) to between 300 and 500 percent to build more units from the current 250 percent.
FAR is the ratio of the total plot area to the overall building area and is determined by the size of the plot and width of the road in front of the plot.
The rules also allow such redevelopment projects to build 50-story apartment buildings in the greater Seoul area, far higher than the existing 35-story height restriction.
Hong said the government is also investigating speculative investments on homes worth more than 900 million won (US$759,429).
Separately, Hong ruled out the possibility of a fourth extra budget, saying that reserve funds are sufficient to support recovery projects on flood damage.
The government "should draw up an extra budget if recovery funds are insufficient, but we can cover the costs of recovering through reserve funds," Hong said in a Facebook post.
The government's reserve fund is currently worth about 2.6 trillion won.
In July, the National Assembly passed the third extra budget worth 35.1 trillion won to mitigate the economic fallout of the new coronavirus pandemic.
kdh@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-08-19--(LEAD) Greater Seoul in peril over virus spread, new cases at over 5-month high of 297

While such measures are relatively loose compared to draconian lockdowns that have been put in place in other countries , @ @ @ @ @ strongest action made by South Korea , which reported its first case on Jan. 20 @

(ATTN: ADDS details throughout; CHANGES photos)
SEOUL, Aug. 19 (Yonhap) -- South Korea's daily new virus cases have now soared by three-digit figures for a week straight as the country on Wednesday reported the largest number of cases since early March, with infections traced to churches in the capital city of Seoul continuing to swell.
The country added 297 more COVID-19 cases, including 283 local infections, raising the total caseload to 16,058, according to the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (KCDC).
Over the past week, the daily new virus cases have been in the triple digits, with almost 1,300 cases being newly identified. Wednesday's daily tally marks the most since March 8, when the country reported 367 COVID-19 cases.
The country implemented enhanced social distancing guidelines as of midnight to stem further spread of the virus.
South Korea was on the verge of putting the COVID-19 pandemic under control, reporting just 56 cases on Thursday.
On the following day, however, the figure shot up to a whopping 103 cases due to group infections from a church in the capital city of Seoul. On Sunday, South Korea reported 279 new daily infections, marking the first time since early March that the figure surpassed 200.
The country saw more than 100 daily cases in late July as well, but it was attributable to South Korean workers returning home from virus-hit Iraq through chartered flights.
Health authorities, however, say the current situation is worrisome as most of the cases have been locally transmitted, and centered in the capital and neighboring areas, home to half of the country's 50 million population.
Police officers wait to receive new coronavirus tests at a makeshift clinic in Seoul on Aug. 19, 2020. (Yonhap)
Of the newly identified local infections, 150 cases were reported from the capital city of Seoul, and 94 from the surrounding Gyeonggi Province.
Incheon, just west of Seoul, added eight more cases. The southern port city of Busan also reported nine additional infections.
Infections tied to the Sarang Jeil Church have spiked to 457 as of Tuesday, according to the health authorities. Those aged 60 and above accounted for nearly 40 percent.
Health authorities said they have carried out tests on thousands of church members, but the whereabouts of hundreds of others remain unknown.
Other major cities across the nation also continued to report cases linked to the church as they were in close contact with virus patients during a massive weekend rally.
As the new daily cases spiked, South Korea decided to raise the level of social distancing in Seoul and the surrounding Gyeonggi Province by one notch to Level 2 in the three-tier system for two weeks from Sunday.
Starting Wednesday, the measure was expanded to Incheon, just west of Seoul.
More strings were attached to South Koreans' daily lives as well. Outdoor gatherings of more than 100 people are strictly restricted. If they are held indoors, the ceiling is 50 people. Sports events will be allowed without spectators.
So-called risk-prone facilities, including karaoke rooms, clubs, PC cafes and buffets, have been ordered to shut down.
With religious facilities emerging as the hotbed of the pandemic, churches in the greater Seoul area will not be allowed to have in-person worship services.
Previously, South Korea only asked churchgoers in the region to refrain from holding gatherings other than regular worship services.
While such measures are relatively loose compared to draconian lockdowns that have been put in place in other countries, they are still deemed the strongest action made by South Korea, which reported its first case on Jan. 20.
A visitor receives a new coronavirus test at a makeshift clinic in Seoul on Aug. 19, 2020. (Yonhap)
Health authorities are currently struggling to curb the spread of the virus in the greater Seoul area, which houses around half of the country's population, after the southeastern city of Daegu reported over 5,000 virus cases linked to a religious sect, the Shincheonji Church of Jesus.
Due to the cluster infections, the country's new daily virus cases peaked at 909 on Feb. 29.
On Wednesday, South Korea reported just 14 imported cases, with the United States accounting for four infections. Three were from Kazakhstan, and there were also cases from Indonesia, France and Spain.
South Korea, meanwhile, reported no more deaths, keeping the toll at 306. The fatality rate was 1.91 percent.
The total number of people released from quarantine after making full recoveries stood at 14,006, up 72 from the previous day.
The country has carried out 1,715,064 COVID-19 tests since Jan. 3.
colin@yna.co.kr
(END)