Yonhap News Summary

Alas , this has n't been a normal season in the Korea Baseball Organization ( KBO ) .
There will @ @ @ @ @ time around , with the coronavirus pandemic having wreaked havoc on the schedule .
And @ @ @ @ @ two best teams so far , the NC Dinos and the Kiwoom Heroes , said @ @ @ @ @ for a particularly long summer .

The following is the second summary of major stories moved by Yonhap News Agency on Wednesday.
----------------
(3rd LD) City to open probe into allegations of sexual misconduct by late Seoul mayor
SEOUL -- The Seoul metropolitan government on Wednesday announced a plan to launch a probe into allegations of sexual abuse by the city's late mayor raised by his former secretary.
Park Won-soon, the city's three-term mayor, was found dead in the hills of a Seoul mountain in the early hours of Friday after hundreds of police and rescue officials searched for him following a missing persons report. A handwritten note, saying "sorry," was later found in Park's study.
----------------
N. Korea lashes out at Pompeo over anti-China remarks
SEOUL -- North Korea on Wednesday lashed out at U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo for his recent anti-China remarks, warning against interfering with affairs of other countries and "muddling up" public opinion.
Earlier this week, Pompeo said that China's maritime claims to resources in the South China Sea are "unlawful" and criticized the Communist Party of China (CPC) for bullying countries in the region.
----------------
USFK stresses S. Korea's anti-virus beach use guidelines after troop disturbances
SEOUL -- The U.S. Forces Korea (USFK) has told its troops to follow the anti-coronavirus beach use guidelines that the southeastern city of Busan issued earlier this week after unruly July Fourth celebrations by some American service members raised the ire of local residents.
Earlier this month, unidentified American service members were accused of causing trouble on Haeundae Beach in Busan without wearing face masks despite a continued surge in COVID-19 cases, according to local authorities.
----------------
Appellate court affirms life sentence for woman in murder of ex-husband
JEJU -- An appellate court on Wednesday upheld a lower court's sentence of life imprisonment for a South Korean woman for brutally killing her former husband, mutilating his body and hiding the dismembered body parts.
The Gwangju High Court's Jeju branch handed down the life sentence to Koh Yu-jeong, saying a hefty sentence is inevitable because she has persistently denied her crime and showed no remorse or sympathy for her victim.
----------------
EU watchdog halts probe into Hyundai-Daewoo combination
SEOUL -- The European Union's (EU) antitrust watchdog has again suspended its probe into the proposed US$1.8 billion merger deal between two major South Korean shipbuilders, it said Tuesday (local time) on its website.
The latest probe halt was the third of its kind by the EU's Competition Commission after the previous two suspensions caused by the coronavirus pandemic.
----------------
KBO clubs bracing for long summer without All-Star, Olympic breaks
SEOUL -- Around this time in a normal South Korean baseball season, teams would be heading into the annual All-Star break. For a few days, players battling through dog days of the summer would have a chance to get their feet up and escape from the grind of a long season.
Alas, this hasn't been a normal season in the Korea Baseball Organization (KBO). There will be no midseason break this time around, with the coronavirus pandemic having wreaked havoc on the schedule. And managers for the league's two best teams so far, the NC Dinos and the Kiwoom Heroes, said this week they are bracing for a particularly long summer.
----------------
Busan Biennale to showcase mixture of literature, visual and audio art
BUSAN -- Works of literature will merge with visual and recorded audio forms of art at this year's Busan Biennale, one of South Korea's largest art festivals, the organizers said Wednesday, with the biyearly event moving forward despite concerns of the spread of the new coronavirus.
Under this year's banner theme "Words at an Exhibition -- An Exhibition in Ten Chapters and Five Poems," the biennale will kick off on Sept. 5 and run until Nov. 8 at several art venues in Busan, 450 kilometers southeast of Seoul, the Busan Biennale Organizing Committee said.
(END)


yna--2020-07-15--Mobile carriers vying to acquire No. 5 cable TV operator

`` The acquisition will help us grow in size , but we will take a rational approach , '' SK @ @ @ @ @ reporters .
KT CEO Koo Hyun-mo said the acquisition could help boost its pay TV @ @ @ @ @

SEOUL, July 15 (Yonhap) -- South Korea's major mobile carriers -- SK Telecom Co., KT Corp. and LG Uplus Corp. -- have submitted bids to acquire Hyundai HCN Co., a cable TV affiliate of retail giant Hyundai Department Store Group, industry insiders said Wednesday, as they seek to increase their footholds in the local pay TV market.
The CEOs of the three telecom operators expressed their intent to take over the country's No. 5 cable TV operator.
"The acquisition will help us grow in size, but we will take a rational approach," SK Telecom CEO Park Jung-ho told reporters. KT CEO Koo Hyun-mo said the acquisition could help boost its pay TV business in urban areas.
LG Uplus CEO Ha Hyun-hwoi also affirmed that it would take part in the deal.
Acquiring Hyundai HCN could be crucial for the three telecom operators in their competition for a larger share of the local pay TV market.
Hyundai HCN held a 3.95 percent share of the market at the end of last year, according to data from the ICT ministry.
KT and its affiliate held the top spot in the market with a 31.52 percent share, followed by LG Uplus with 24.91 percent and SK Telecom with 24.17 percent.
KT has reportedly entered the bid through its digital satellite broadcasting affiliate KT Skylife Co.
Industry insiders estimate the acquisition deal to fetch over 400 billion won (US$333 million).
Hyundai HCN is expected to announce a preferred bidder for the deal by July 24.
More merger and acquisition deals are expected in the local pay TV market, as other major cable TV operators, including D'Live Co. and Central Multi Broadcasting Co., have been put up for sale.
yunhwanchae@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-07-15--(LEAD) Seoul stocks exceed 2,200-level for first time in five months on COVID-19 vaccine hopes

The KOSPI made bullish run , following new reports that the COVID-19 vaccine developed by U.S. biopharmaceutical firm Moderna Inc. @ @ @ @ @ produced antibodies in all patients during an initial safety trial , according to the reports @ @ @ @ @ rally on Wall Street .

(ATTN: ADDS bond yields at bottom, photo)
SEOUL, July 15 (Yonhap) -- The South Korean benchmark stock index finished above the 2,200-level for the first time in nearly five months on Wednesday, largely on hopes for a coronavirus vaccine and economic recovery. The Korean won rose against the U.S. dollar.
The Korea Composite Stock Price Index (KOSPI) rose 18.27 points, or 0.84 percent, to close at 2,201.88. The index surpassed 2,200 for the first time since 2,210.34 on Feb. 19.
Trading volume was high at about 811 million shares worth some 13.4 trillion won (US$11.2 billion), with gainers outnumbering losers 547 to 291.
Foreigners bought a net 268 billion won, extending buying streak to a third session, while retail investors sold a net 601 billion won. Institutions purchased a net 337 billion won.
Electronic signboards at a Hana Bank dealing room in Seoul show the benchmark Korea Composite Stock Price Index (KOSPI) closing at 2,201.88 on July 15, 2020, up 18.27 points, or 0.84 percent, from the previous session's close. (Yonhap)
"Positive news regarding the COVID-19 vaccine development raised optimism for economic rebound, boosting the local stock markets," said Kiwoom Securities analyst Seo Sang-young.
The KOSPI made bullish run, following new reports that the COVID-19 vaccine developed by U.S. biopharmaceutical firm Moderna Inc. showed progress. The vaccine produced antibodies in all patients during an initial safety trial, according to the reports, leading to an overnight rally on Wall Street.
The KOSPI, however, erased some of its earlier gains amid rising political tensions between the United States and China -- South Korea's two largest trading partners.
U.S. President Donald Trump ordered the termination of Hong Kong's special status in protest of a new Chinese security law that can severely restrict civil rights in Hong Kong. He also signed legislation on sanctioning Chinese officials.
Most large caps closed higher in Seoul.
Market bellwether Samsung Electronics gained 1.67 percent to 54,700 won, while No. 2 chipmaker SK hynix edged up 0.12 percent to 83,000 won.
Leading pharmaceutical firm Samsung BioLogics added 1.9 percent to 749,000 won, but Celltrion dipped 2.47 percent to 316,000 won.
Top automaker Hyundai Motor spiked 7.39 percent to 109,000 won, thanks to the government's recent blueprint to foster green-energy mobility. Hyundai's smaller affiliate Kia Motors jumped 3.53 percent to 35,200 won.
The local currency closed at 1,200.5 won per dollar, up 5.2 won from the previous session's close.
Bond prices, which move inversely to yields, closed higher. The yield on three-year Treasurys lost 0.7 basis point to 0.847 percent, and the return on the benchmark five-year government bond slipped 0.1 basis point to 1.148 percent.
jwc@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-07-15--S. Korean Bond Yields on Jul. 15, 2020

S. Korean Bond Yields on Jul. 15, 2020

(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--2020-07-15--Appellate court affirms life sentence for woman in murder of ex-husband

`` Koh lured her former husband over her visitation rights for their son and fed him Zolpidem ( sleeping pills @ @ @ @ @ and hiding the body parts .
Nevertheless , the accused has persistently denied her crimes @ @ @ @ @ committed the killing in the process of preventing the victim from raping her , '' @ @ @ @

JEJU, South Korea, July 15 (Yonhap) -- An appellate court on Wednesday upheld a lower court's sentence of life imprisonment for a South Korean woman for brutally killing her former husband, mutilating his body and hiding the dismembered body parts.
The Gwangju High Court's Jeju branch handed down the life sentence to Koh Yu-jeong, saying a hefty sentence is inevitable because she has persistently denied her crime and showed no remorse or sympathy for her victim.
The 37-year-old Koh was indicted for allegedly killing her ex-husband, surnamed Kang, at a pension on the southern resort island of Jeju in May last year, mutilating his body and disposing of the dismembered body parts in the sea and elsewhere.
She was also indicted on separate charges of having suffocated her current husband's five-year-old son to death at their home in Cheongju, 120 kilometers south of Seoul, two months earlier. Koh has argued that the killing of her ex-husband was not premeditated, while denying having killed her stepson.
Koh Yu-jeong boards a prison bus in Jeju on July 15, 2020, after being sentenced to life imprisonment by the Gwangju High Court's Jeju branch for murder of her ex-husband. (Yonhap)
In February this year, the Jeju District Court sentenced Koh to life imprisonment on charges of murdering Kang and destroying his body but acquitted her of the charge of killing her stepson after refusing to recognize evidence presented by the prosecution.
The appellate court said it decided to issue the same sentence to Koh as did the lower court in light of the grave infringement of the right of life, cruel methods of crimes and suffering of the bereaved family.
"Koh lured her former husband over her visitation rights for their son and fed him Zolpidem (sleeping pills) before mutilating his body and hiding the body parts. Nevertheless, the accused has persistently denied her crimes by insisting that she accidentally committed the killing in the process of preventing the victim from raping her," the court said.
The high court also said it decided to affirm the lower court's acquittal of Koh of the charge of killing her stepson due to lack of evidence.
Koh remained calm throughout the court hearing with her head down.
ycm@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-07-15--Busan Biennale to showcase mixture of literature, visual and audio art

Under this year 's banner theme `` Words at an Exhibition -- An Exhibition in Ten Chapters and Five Poems @ @ @ @ @ kick off on Sept. 5 and run until Nov. 8 at several art venues in @ @ @ @ @ of Seoul , the Busan Biennale Organizing Committee said .

BUSAN, July 15 (Yonhap) -- Works of literature will merge with visual and recorded audio forms of art at this year's Busan Biennale, one of South Korea's largest art festivals, the organizers said Wednesday, with the biyearly event moving forward despite concerns of the spread of the new coronavirus.
Under this year's banner theme "Words at an Exhibition -- An Exhibition in Ten Chapters and Five Poems," the biennale will kick off on Sept. 5 and run until Nov. 8 at several art venues in Busan, 450 kilometers southeast of Seoul, the Busan Biennale Organizing Committee said.
The event, which celebrates its 20th anniversary this year, will bring together 90 artists -- 11 writers, 68 visual artists and 11 audio recording artists -- from 34 nations, including the United States, Denmark, Columbia.
The three-month festival will be helmed by Danish curator Jacob Fabricius.
The biennale plans to feature experimental exhibitions in which writers publish various works themed around Busan, which are then paired with visual and recorded audio works expressing the literary works.
The organizing committee has published a book in which 11 international writers delve into the topic of Busan through poetry essays and even short stories.
Writer Kim Hye-soon has expressed Busan through various topics, such as the ocean view, swans and skies above the traditional fisheries market Jagalchi. Kim Geun-hee has written a short novel titled "On Christmas," a tale of a couple who meet and fall in love in Busan.
The biennale will offer exhibitions in which literary work is expressed through visual and recorded audio forms. The biennale will be divided into 11 chapters.
Together with the Seoul Mediacity Biennale and the Gwangju Biennale, the Busan Biennale is one of South Korea's premier art festivals.
While the Seoul and Gwangju events were nixed this year over concerns of COVID-19, the Busan Biennale organizers nonetheless decided to push forward with the opening.
"We plan to proceed with the biennale by following preventive measures against the pandemic," a representative at the organization committee said.
The Busan Biennale was first held in 1998 by combining three existing local events: the Pusan Biennale, the Pusan Sea Art Festival and the International Symposium of Open Air Sculptures in Pusan. Busan was formerly spelled as Pusan before the government changed its official romanization system.
This image, provided by the Busan Biennale Organizing Committee, shows a poster image for the 2020 Busan Biennale, scheduled to be held between Sept. 5 and Nov. 8 at various art venues in the southeastern port city of Busan. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)
odissy@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-07-15--Seoul stocks exceed 2,200-level for first time in five months on COVID-19 vaccine hopes

SEOUL, July 15 (Yonhap) -- The South Korean benchmark stock index finished above the 2,200-level for the first time in nearly five months on Wednesday, largely on hopes for a coronavirus vaccine and economic recovery. The Korean won rose against the U.S. dollar.
The Korea Composite Stock Price Index (KOSPI) rose 18.27 points, or 0.84 percent, to close at 2,201.88. The index surpassed 2,200 for the first time since 2,210.34 on Feb. 19.
Trading volume was high at about 811 million shares worth some 13.4 trillion won (US$11.2 billion), with gainers outnumbering losers 547 to 291.
Foreigners bought a net 268 billion won, extending buying streak to a third session, while retail investors sold a net 601 billion won. Institutions purchased a net 337 billion won.
"Positive news regarding the COVID-19 vaccine development raised optimism for economic rebound, boosting the local stock markets," said Kiwoom Securities analyst Seo Sang-young.
The KOSPI made bullish run, following new reports that the COVID-19 vaccine developed by U.S. biopharmaceutical firm Moderna Inc. showed progress. The vaccine produced antibodies in all patients during an initial safety trial, according to the reports, leading to an overnight rally on Wall Street.
The KOSPI, however, erased some of its earlier gains amid rising political tensions between the United States and China -- South Korea's two largest trading partners.
U.S. President Donald Trump ordered the termination of Hong Kong's special status in protest of a new Chinese security law that can severely restrict civil rights in Hong Kong. He also signed legislation on sanctioning Chinese officials.
Most large caps closed higher in Seoul.
Market bellwether Samsung Electronics gained 1.67 percent to 54,700 won, while No. 2 chipmaker SK hynix edged up 0.12 percent to 83,000 won.
Leading pharmaceutical firm Samsung BioLogics added 1.9 percent to 749,000 won, but Celltrion dipped 2.47 percent to 316,000 won.
Top automaker Hyundai Motor spiked 7.39 percent to 109,000 won, thanks to the government's recent blueprint to foster green-energy mobility. Hyundai's smaller affiliate Kia Motors jumped 3.53 percent to 35,200 won.
The local currency closed at 1,200.5 won per dollar, up 5.2 won from the previous session's close.
jwc@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-07-15--N. Korea lashes out at Pompeo over anti-China remarks

`` If we have close examination into the recent remarks thrown by Pompeo over China , we could easily know @ @ @ @ @ Pompeo is outrageously deriding the CPC , '' the official added .
`` Pompeo should @ @ @ @ @ opinion and make absurd remarks while interfering in other 's business whenever he pleases .
@

SEOUL, July 15 (Yonhap) -- North Korea on Wednesday lashed out at U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo for his recent anti-China remarks, warning against interfering with affairs of other countries and "muddling up" public opinion.
Earlier this week, Pompeo said that China's maritime claims to resources in the South China Sea are "unlawful" and criticized the Communist Party of China (CPC) for bullying countries in the region.
His remarks drew strong rebuke from Beijing, which marked the latest in a series of recent clashes that have deepened a rivalry between the world's two most powerful countries.
"It is an extremely sinister act that a non-Asian country across the ocean, not being content with its reckless remarks over the issue of the South China Sea, has hurled abuses at the CPC," an unnamed spokesperson of the North's foreign ministry said in an interview carried by the Korean Central News Agency.
"If we have close examination into the recent remarks thrown by Pompeo over China, we could easily know what his intentions are. Pompeo is outrageously deriding the CPC," the official added. "Pompeo should not muddle up the public opinion and make absurd remarks while interfering in other's business whenever he pleases."
The spokesperson said Pompeo's attacks on the CPC are to undermine people's trust in the party, tarnish its "international prestige" and "overpower China with continued harassment."
Tensions between the U.S. and China have continued to mount recently, as the two sides have been at odds over a series of issues, including the origin of the coronavirus pandemic and civil liberties in Hong Kong. North Korea has recently voiced its strong support for China on such issues, siding with its longtime ally and largest economic benefactor.
kokobj@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-07-15--KOSPI 200 Closing Price List-5

KOSPI 200 Closing Price List-5

HYUNDAIDEPTST 59,800 DN 100 KIH 46,000 UP 1,200 LOTTE Himart 32,800 DN 300 GS 35,750 DN 50 CJ CGV 19,850 @ @ @ @ @ 2,100 Fila Holdings 36,550 UP 1,100 HYUNDAIGLOVIS 110,500 UP 2,000 HANAFINANCIALGR 27,800 UP 400 HANWHA @ @ @ @ @ 162,000 DN 2,000 LF 12,200 UP 150 FOOSUNG 8,000 UP 80 SK Innovation 123,500 DN @ @ @ @ @ KBFinancialGroup 35,650 UP 550 Hansae 10,700 UP 100 LG HAUSYS 67,300 DN 2,500 Youngone Corp @ @ @ @ @ 35,600 DN 350 HanmiPharm 237,500 DN 1,000 BNK Financial Group 5,160 UP 30 emart 113,500 @ @ @ @ @ TEC HNOLOGY249 00 DN150 KOLMAR KOREA 44,000 UP 1,150 HANJINKAL 99,000 UP 1,900 DoubleUGames 79,100 @ @ @ @ @ 600 MANDO 24,200 UP 800 SAMSUNG BIOLOGICS 749,000 UP 14,000 INNOCEAN 47,300 UP 1,050 Doosan @ @ @ @ @ 11,150 UP 250 Netmarble 126,500 DN 8,500 HYUNDAI HEAVY INDUST RIES HOLDI NG S239000 UP5000 @ @ @ @ @ Retail 129,000 UP 2,500 SKCHEM 150,000 DN 5,500 HDC-OP 21,050 UP 400 WooriFinancialGroup 8,790 UP @ @ @ @

HYUNDAIDEPTST 59,800 DN 100
KIH 46,000 UP 1,200
LOTTE Himart 32,800 DN 300
GS 35,750 DN 50
CJ CGV 19,850 0
LIG Nex1 31,250 UP 2,100
Fila Holdings 36,550 UP 1,100
HYUNDAIGLOVIS 110,500 UP 2,000
HANAFINANCIALGR 27,800 UP 400
HANWHA LIFE 1,475 UP 40
AMOREPACIFIC 162,000 DN 2,000
LF 12,200 UP 150
FOOSUNG 8,000 UP 80
SK Innovation 123,500 DN 4,500
POONGSAN 23,150 UP 500
KBFinancialGroup 35,650 UP 550
Hansae 10,700 UP 100
LG HAUSYS 67,300 DN 2,500
Youngone Corp 26,000 UP 650
KOLON IND 35,600 DN 350
HanmiPharm 237,500 DN 1,000
BNK Financial Group 5,160 UP 30
emart 113,500 DN 1,000
지HANKOOK TIRE & TEC HNOLOGY249 00 DN150
KOLMAR KOREA 44,000 UP 1,150
HANJINKAL 99,000 UP 1,900
DoubleUGames 79,100 DN 1,100
CUCKOO 82,100 DN 600
MANDO 24,200 UP 800
SAMSUNG BIOLOGICS 749,000 UP 14,000
INNOCEAN 47,300 UP 1,050
Doosan Bobcat 25,600 DN 50
H.S.ENTERPRISE 11,150 UP 250
Netmarble 126,500 DN 8,500
HYUNDAI HEAVY INDUST RIES HOLDI NG S239000 UP5000
ORION 135,000 DN 8,000
BGF Retail 129,000 UP 2,500
SKCHEM 150,000 DN 5,500
HDC-OP 21,050 UP 400
WooriFinancialGroup 8,790 UP 290
(END)


yna--2020-07-15--KOSPI 200 Closing Price List-4

KOSPI 200 Closing Price List-4

LOTTE SHOPPING 80,700 UP 700 IBK 8,260 UP 160 NamhaeChem 7,640 UP 120 DONGSUH 16,150 DN 100 BGF 4,400 UP @ @ @ @ @ SAMSUNG C & T 111,000 UP 2,000 PanOcean 3,750 UP 25 SAMSUNG CARD 28,700 DN @ @ @ @ @ KT 24,700 UP 100 SHINSEGAE INTERNATIO NAL157000 UP2000 LOTTE TOUR 14,050 UP 200 LG Uplus @ @ @ @ @ 46,350 UP 300 KT & G 80,700 UP 200 DHICO 4,780 UP 140 LG Display @ @ @ @ @ UP 450 NAVER 286,500 DN 500 Kakao 337,500 DN 5,500 NCsoft 928,000 DN 18,000 DSME @ @ @ @ @ UP 130 DWEC 3,600 UP 115 Donga ST 87,900 UP 900 POSCO INTERNATIONAL 14,350 UP @ @ @ @ @ 13,500 DongwonF & B 188,500 UP 500 KEPCO KPS 29,800 DN 100 LGH & H @ @ @ @ @ UP 10,000 KEPCO E & C 15,850 UP 250 HYUNDAIHOMESHOP 64,500 0 HALLA HOLDINGS 27,000 @ @ @ @ @ DN 100 LGELECTRONICS 74,900 UP 4,100 Celltrion 316,000 DN 8,000 Huchems 16,200 UP 100 DAEWOONG @ @ @ @ @ )

LOTTE SHOPPING 80,700 UP 700
IBK 8,260 UP 160
NamhaeChem 7,640 UP 120
DONGSUH 16,150 DN 100
BGF 4,400 UP 80
SamsungEng 12,650 UP 650
SAMSUNG C&T 111,000 UP 2,000
PanOcean 3,750 UP 25
SAMSUNG CARD 28,700 DN 100
CheilWorldwide 17,750 UP 550
KT 24,700 UP 100
SHINSEGAE INTERNATIO NAL157000 UP2000
LOTTE TOUR 14,050 UP 200
LG Uplus 12,300 DN 150
SAMSUNG LIFE 46,350 UP 300
KT&G 80,700 UP 200
DHICO 4,780 UP 140
LG Display 12,700 UP 250
Kangwonland 24,000 UP 450
NAVER 286,500 DN 500
Kakao 337,500 DN 5,500
NCsoft 928,000 DN 18,000
DSME 23,750 UP 750
DSINFRA 6,320 UP 130
DWEC 3,600 UP 115
Donga ST 87,900 UP 900
POSCO INTERNATIONAL 14,350 UP 450
CJ CheilJedang 392,500 DN 13,500
DongwonF&B 188,500 UP 500
KEPCO KPS 29,800 DN 100
LGH&H 1,350,000 UP 10,000
LGCHEM 544,000 UP 10,000
KEPCO E&C 15,850 UP 250
HYUNDAIHOMESHOP 64,500 0
HALLA HOLDINGS 27,000 UP 100
HYUNDAI ROTEM 15,800 DN 100
LGELECTRONICS 74,900 UP 4,100
Celltrion 316,000 DN 8,000
Huchems 16,200 UP 100
DAEWOONG PHARM 109,000 0
(MORE)


yna--2020-07-15--KOSPI 200 Closing Price List-3

KOSPI 200 Closing Price List-3

SamsungElecMech 130,000 UP 4,500 Hanssem 113,500 DN 4,000 TAEYOUNG E & C 17,400 UP 300 KSOE 91,000 UP 2,500 HANWHA @ @ @ @ @ 44,850 UP 1,000 LS ELECTRIC 54,300 UP 1,500 KorZinc 369,000 DN 7,500 SamsungHvyInd 5,750 UP @ @ @ @ @ HyundaiMipoDock 31,400 UP 850 IS DONGSEO 38,600 DN 600 LG Innotek 169,000 DN 5,000 HYUNDAI @ @ @ @ @ 88,300 UP 4,600 Mobis 215,500 UP 5,500 HANWHA AEROSPACE 24,350 UP 400 COSMAX 91,800 DN @ @ @ @ @ DWS 22,100 UP 500 UNID 41,550 UP 50 S-Oil 63,500 UP 1,400 LOTTE CHEMICAL Corp @ @ @ @ @ DN 250 HDC HOLDINGS 8,540 UP 110 HMM 4,995 UP 25 S-1 86,700 UP 800 @ @ @ @ @ DONGBU STL 12,200 DN 50 SKTelecom 218,000 UP 500 S & T MOTIV 42,300 UP @ @ @ @ @ AEKYUNG INDUSTRIAL 22,550 UP 350 Hanon Systems 9,510 DN 30 SK 237,000 UP 5,500 DAEKYO @ @ @ @ @ UP 450 Handsome 36,000 UP 400 Asiana Airlines 3,875 UP 65 COWAY 70,900 DN 500 @ @ @

SamsungElecMech 130,000 UP 4,500
Hanssem 113,500 DN 4,000
TAEYOUNG E&C 17,400 UP 300
KSOE 91,000 UP 2,500
HANWHA SOLUTIONS 24,000 UP 1,200
OCI 44,850 UP 1,000
LS ELECTRIC 54,300 UP 1,500
KorZinc 369,000 DN 7,500
SamsungHvyInd 5,750 UP 140
SYC 43,400 UP 1,100
HyundaiMipoDock 31,400 UP 850
IS DONGSEO 38,600 DN 600
LG Innotek 169,000 DN 5,000
HYUNDAI WIA 40,900 UP 1,000
KumhoPetrochem 88,300 UP 4,600
Mobis 215,500 UP 5,500
HANWHA AEROSPACE 24,350 UP 400
COSMAX 91,800 DN 8,100
Hanchem 148,500 UP 7,000
DWS 22,100 UP 500
UNID 41,550 UP 50
S-Oil 63,500 UP 1,400
LOTTE CHEMICAL Corp 177,500 UP 1,500
KEPCO 19,600 DN 250
HDC HOLDINGS 8,540 UP 110
HMM 4,995 UP 25
S-1 86,700 UP 800
SamsungSecu 28,350 UP 350
KG DONGBU STL 12,200 DN 50
SKTelecom 218,000 UP 500
S&T MOTIV 42,300 UP 650
HyundaiElev 49,550 UP 750
AEKYUNG INDUSTRIAL 22,550 UP 350
Hanon Systems 9,510 DN 30
SK 237,000 UP 5,500
DAEKYO 4,110 DN 15
GKL 13,050 UP 450
Handsome 36,000 UP 400
Asiana Airlines 3,875 UP 65
COWAY 70,900 DN 500
(MORE)


yna--2020-07-15--KOSPI 200 Closing Price List-2

KOSPI 200 Closing Price List-2

LG Corp. 73,600 UP 800 TaekwangInd 715,000 UP 3,000 POSCO CHEMICAL 77,400 DN 1,000 SsangyongCement 4,960 UP 20 BoryungPharm 15,800 @ @ @ @ @ 10,900 UP 350 KAL 17,500 UP 500 NEXENTIRE 5,340 UP 60 CHONGKUNDANG 125,500 DN 1,500 @ @ @ @ @ 5,060 UP 170 AmoreG 53,300 UP 200 HyundaiMtr 109,000 UP 7,500 KCC 140,000 UP 4,000 @ @ @ @ @ KISWire 15,900 UP 250 LotteFood 341,000 DN 2,000 SAMYANGHOLDINGS 65,400 UP 100 ShinhanGroup 29,800 UP @ @ @ @ @ Yuhan 51,400 DN 400 CJ LOGISTICS 161,000 UP 500 DOOSAN 38,850 UP 600 DaelimInd 87,000 @ @ @ @ @ ROUP12200 DN300 KiaMtr 35,200 UP 1,200 Nongshim 383,500 DN 8,000 SGBC 30,150 UP 350 Hyosung @ @ @ @ @ UP 500 Binggrae 61,300 UP 400 GCH Corp 24,300 DN 850 LotteChilsung 100,000 UP 1,100 @ @ @ @ @ 186,500 UP 2,000 HYUNDAI STEEL 22,400 UP 1,650 F & F 85,900 UP 1,100 MERITZ @ @ @ @ @ 70,500 UP 1,700 Hanmi Science 34,400 DN 200 ( MORE )

LG Corp. 73,600 UP 800
TaekwangInd 715,000 UP 3,000
POSCO CHEMICAL 77,400 DN 1,000
SsangyongCement 4,960 UP 20
BoryungPharm 15,800 DN 200
L&L 10,900 UP 350
KAL 17,500 UP 500
NEXENTIRE 5,340 UP 60
CHONGKUNDANG 125,500 DN 1,500
Daesang 27,300 DN 650
SKNetworks 5,060 UP 170
AmoreG 53,300 UP 200
HyundaiMtr 109,000 UP 7,500
KCC 140,000 UP 4,000
ORION Holdings 13,050 DN 50
KISWire 15,900 UP 250
LotteFood 341,000 DN 2,000
SAMYANGHOLDINGS 65,400 UP 100
ShinhanGroup 29,800 UP 400
HITEJINRO 43,350 DN 300
Yuhan 51,400 DN 400
CJ LOGISTICS 161,000 UP 500
DOOSAN 38,850 UP 600
DaelimInd 87,000 UP 900
HANKOOK TECHNOLOGY G ROUP12200 DN300
KiaMtr 35,200 UP 1,200
Nongshim 383,500 DN 8,000
SGBC 30,150 UP 350
Hyosung 65,300 UP 3,200
LOTTE 31,350 UP 500
Binggrae 61,300 UP 400
GCH Corp 24,300 DN 850
LotteChilsung 100,000 UP 1,100
HYUNDAIGREENFOOD 8,060 UP 200
POSCO 186,500 UP 2,000
HYUNDAI STEEL 22,400 UP 1,650
F&F 85,900 UP 1,100
MERITZ SECU 3,150 UP 35
HtlShilla 70,500 UP 1,700
Hanmi Science 34,400 DN 200
(MORE)


yna--2020-07-15--KOSPI 200 Closing Price List-1

KOSPI 200 Closing Price List-1

Ottogi 575,000 UP 10,000 SPC SAMLIP 73,500 UP 300 SAMSUNG SDS 183,000 DN 1,500 KOREA AEROSPACE 24,350 UP 250 KUMHOTIRE @ @ @ @ @ 47,950 UP 50 SamsungElec 54,700 UP 900 NHIS 8,580 UP 60 SK Discovery 36,400 DN @ @ @ @ @ UP 330 SKC 68,800 DN 800 HANIL HYUNDAI CEMENT 28,500 UP 50 GS E & @ @ @ @ @ 63,000 DN 1,800 SAMSUNG SDI CO. , LTD .
393,000 UP 1,000 KPIC 129,000 UP @ @ @ @ @ 18,000 GS Retail 36,800 DN 300 LS 38,100 UP 1,650 SamsungF & MIns 180,500 0 @ @ @ @ @ Kogas 26,300 UP 250 Donga Socio Holdings 94,600 0 SK hynix 83,000 UP 100 JWPHARMA @ @ @ @ @ 0 Youngpoong 499,500 UP 10,000 DB HiTek 31,850 UP 1,100 Hanwha 24,150 UP 600 HyundaiEng @ @ @ @ @ CUCKOO HOMESYS 32,700 UP 300 LGInt 15,000 UP 50 DongkukStlMill 5,850 UP 230 SBC 10,700 @ @ @ @ @ F INS 22,700 UP 250 Shinsegae 210,000 UP 1,500 LOTTE Fine Chem 46,000 UP 200 @ @ @ @ @ MATERIALS 51,500 UP 300 YUNGJIN PHARM 5,520 DN 20 ( MORE )

SEOUL, July 15 (Yonhap) -- Wednesday's closing prices (KRW) of
KOSPI 200 stocks traded on the main Korea Stock Exchange.
Ottogi 575,000 UP 10,000
SPC SAMLIP 73,500 UP 300
SAMSUNG SDS 183,000 DN 1,500
KOREA AEROSPACE 24,350 UP 250
KUMHOTIRE 2,995 UP 50
DB INSURANCE 47,950 UP 50
SamsungElec 54,700 UP 900
NHIS 8,580 UP 60
SK Discovery 36,400 DN 650
MIRAE ASSET DAEWOO 7,400 UP 330
SKC 68,800 DN 800
HANIL HYUNDAI CEMENT 28,500 UP 50
GS E&C 27,150 UP 1,050
IlyangPharm 63,000 DN 1,800
SAMSUNG SDI CO.,LTD. 393,000 UP 1,000
KPIC 129,000 UP 6,500
GC Corp 182,000 DN 18,000
GS Retail 36,800 DN 300
LS 38,100 UP 1,650
SamsungF&MIns 180,500 0
HANALL BIOPHARMA 28,450 UP 500
Kogas 26,300 UP 250
Donga Socio Holdings 94,600 0
SK hynix 83,000 UP 100
JWPHARMA 33,900 DN 900
CJ 88,900 0
Youngpoong 499,500 UP 10,000
DB HiTek 31,850 UP 1,100
Hanwha 24,150 UP 600
HyundaiEng&Const 34,700 UP 600
CUCKOO HOMESYS 32,700 UP 300
LGInt 15,000 UP 50
DongkukStlMill 5,850 UP 230
SBC 10,700 UP 400
Hyundai M&F INS 22,700 UP 250
Shinsegae 210,000 UP 1,500
LOTTE Fine Chem 46,000 UP 200
BukwangPharm 35,550 DN 1,700
ILJIN MATERIALS 51,500 UP 300
YUNGJIN PHARM 5,520 DN 20
(MORE)


yna--2020-07-15--S. Korea to send face masks to Philippines, East Timor this week to help with virus outbreak

South Korea has been exploring ways to contribute to the global battle against the novel virus , with its response @ @ @ @ @ for its effectiveness in flattening the curve in the early stages of the outbreak .

SEOUL, July 15 (Yonhap) -- South Korea will send 400,000 face masks to the Philippines and East Timor this week to help the two Southeast Asian countries cope with the coronavirus pandemic, Seoul's foreign ministry said Wednesday.
A C-130 Air Force plane carrying the KF-94 masks will depart for Manila on Thursday before traveling to Dili to deliver the items, the ministry said in a release. Each country will receive 200,000 masks, respectively.
The decision to use a military plane for the transportation was made because no special commercial flights are currently allowed to East Timor, a foreign ministry official said.
The masks will mostly be delivered to medical personnel in the countries.
The mask provision came in line with Seoul's pledge last month to provide an additional US$21 million in humanitarian aid to help 65 countries fight COVID-19.
Under the program, the government had promised to send more face masks, coronavirus diagnostic kits and other relief items while seeking to further cooperate with international organizations in transporting the relief supplies.
South Korea has been exploring ways to contribute to the global battle against the novel virus, with its response system having earned international praise for its effectiveness in flattening the curve in the early stages of the outbreak.
A South Korean Air Force aircraft's cargo of 500,000 face masks is unloaded at Joint Base Andrews, Maryland, on May 12, 2020, in this photo provided by the South Korean Embassy in Washington. South Korea sent the face masks to help Korean War veterans in the United States fight COVID-19. The donation is part of the 1 million masks South Korea's veterans affairs ministry is providing to all 22 countries that fought with South Korea in the 1950-53 conflict. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)
elly@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-07-17--(LEAD) S. Korea's trade minister confident Japan will consider credentials in choosing WTO chief

`` I 'm confident that Japan will also look at the candidates , '' she said during a press conference @ @ @ @ @ Geneva .
`` When they actually look at the candidates , to Japan , what @ @ @ @ @ person 's , the candidate 's , competency and capability to save and enhance the @ @ @ @ @ take up WTO reform .
So in that regard , I will reach out to @ @ @ @ @ my vision for the WTO . ''

(ATTN: UPDATES with more remarks by Yoo, background from 8th para; ADDS image)
GENEVA, July 16 (Yonhap) -- South Korean Trade Minister Yoo Myung-hee voiced confidence Thursday that Japan will look at her credentials as a candidate rather than bilateral disputes in choosing its pick for the next World Trade Organization chief.
The global trade body is preparing to select a new director-general to succeed Roberto Azevedo of Brazil, who is set to step down next month.
Yoo, who is running against seven other candidates, faces opposition from Japan, which has been locking horns with South Korea in a tit-for-tat trade dispute stemming from a Seoul court's ruling that ordered Japanese firms to compensate victims of wartime forced labor.
This EPA photo shows South Korean Trade Minister Yoo Myung-hee speaking during a press conference on her candidacy for director-general of the World Trade Organization at the WTO headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland, on July 16, 2020. (Yonhap)
"I'm confident that Japan will also look at the candidates," she said during a press conference at the WTO headquarters in Geneva. "When they actually look at the candidates, to Japan, what's utmost important is the person's, the candidate's, competency and capability to save and enhance the WTO, and also to take up WTO reform. So in that regard, I will reach out to Japanese colleagues and will present my vision for the WTO."
Yoo said she would not comment on the ongoing Seoul-Tokyo dispute because it should be handled in accordance with relevant WTO procedures and rules.
She also noted that she was speaking as a candidate for the next director-general, not as a representative of the South Korean government.
"I would like to emphasize that Korea and Japan, we both share the understanding that we need to maintain, promote and enhance the multilateral trading system," the minister said. "Both of us are beneficiaries from the multilateral trading system and the WTO, and with the WTO in crisis, it's all the more important to work hard together to save and promote WTO."
The trade row began last July when Japan announced restrictions on South Korea-bound exports of three key materials used in the chip and display industries.
Japan said South Korea did not effectively control sensitive materials that could be diverted for military use, but Seoul contends the measures were retaliation for the court ruling.
Last month, Seoul reopened its case against Tokyo at the WTO.
Yoo said the two countries have cooperated on many issues within multilateral fora.
"I am confident they will also approach (the selection of the director-general) rather than from the perspectives of the disputes, but from the perspectives of saving and promoting the multilateral trading system," she said.
Yoo's bid comes as the WTO is stuck in its biggest crisis since its creation over growing uncertainties in global trade rules and fragile collaboration among member nations, in the wake of the U.S.-China trade war and the coronavirus pandemic.
The seven other candidates are from Mexico, Nigeria, Egypt, Moldova, Kenya, Saudi Arabia and Britain.
The minister said her vision for the world trade body centers on rebuilding trust in the multilateral trading system by making it "more relevant, resilient and responsive."
Asked about concerns that China could block her candidacy out of fear that regional-balance considerations would cause it to lose its deputy director-general seat, Yoo said she was unaware of the issue.
"I believe that with the WTO in crisis, facing a profound crisis, they would also think that what's utmost important at this point of time is to have the competent candidate, competent DG in the WTO," she said, adding that she built a good working relationship with China while working at the South Korean Embassy in Beijing, and as chief negotiator for the South Korea-China free trade agreement.
Yoo is the third South Korean to run for the top post of the Geneva-based trade body. Two South Koreans made unsuccessful bids in 1994 and 2012.
She was appointed as South Korea's trade minister in February last year, becoming the first woman to be named to the top-ranking position in the 70-year history of the trade ministry. She is fluent in English and served as the presidential office's spokesperson for foreign correspondents.
This image shows the eight candidates for the director-general of the World Trade Organization. (Yonhap)
(END)


yna--2020-07-17--S. Korea's trade minister confident Japan will consider credentials in choosing WTO chief

GENEVA, July 16 (Yonhap) -- South Korean Trade Minister Yoo Myung-hee voiced confidence Thursday that Japan will look at her credentials as a candidate rather than bilateral disputes in choosing its pick for the next World Trade Organization chief.
The global trade body is preparing to select a new director-general to succeed Roberto Azevedo of Brazil, who is set to step down next month.
Yoo, who is running against seven other candidates, faces opposition from Japan, which has been locking horns with South Korea in a tit-for-tat trade dispute stemming from a Seoul court's ruling that ordered Japanese firms to compensate victims of wartime forced labor.
This EPA photo shows South Korean Trade Minister Yoo Myung-hee speaking during a press conference on her candidacy for director-general of the World Trade Organization at the WTO headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland, on July 16, 2020. (Yonhap)
"I'm confident that Japan will also look at the candidates," she said during a press conference at the WTO headquarters in Geneva. "When they actually look at the candidates, to Japan, what's utmost important is the person's, the candidate's, competency and capability to save and enhance the WTO, and also to take up WTO reform. So in that regard, I will reach out to Japanese colleagues and will present my vision for the WTO."
Yoo said she would not comment on the ongoing Seoul-Tokyo dispute because it should be handled in accordance with relevant WTO procedures and rules.
She also noted that she was speaking as a candidate for the next director-general, not as a representative of the South Korean government.
"I am confident they will also approach this issue rather than from the perspectives of the disputes, but from the perspectives of saving and promoting the multilateral trading system," Yoo said, adding that the two countries have cooperated on many issues within multilateral fora.
"I would like to emphasize that Korea and Japan, we both share the understanding that we need to maintain, promote and enhance the multilateral trading system," the minister said. "Both of us are beneficiaries from the multilateral trading system and the WTO, and with the WTO in crisis, it's all the more important to work hard together to save and promote WTO."
(END)


yna--2020-07-17--Audi Korea to fill 35 pct of lineup with EVs by 2030

`` One of the biggest challenges for EVs in every country in the world is how do I charge my @ @ @ @ @ .
`` Korea is probably world leader in public charging infrastructure and that 's probably @ @ @ @ @ time for us to introduce the car because you only have to drive 30 kilometers @ @ @ @ @ . ''

HONGCHEON, South Korea, July 17 (Yonhap) -- Audi Korea said it plans to launch more all-electric vehicles to fill 35 percent of its lineup with the emission-free models by 2030 amid rising demand for environment friendly cars.
Early this month, the German carmaker launched the e-tron 55 quattro sport utility vehicle, its first fully electric model, in South Korea following rollouts in Germany, the United States and China last year.
"The switch from combustion engines to electric vehicles is coming worldwide, not just in Korea. I believe that emission-free driving is a part of sustainability, like a focus of automotive companies," Audi Executive Director Jeff Mannering in charge of South Korean operations told reporters after a media test drive event held Monday.
In this photo, provided by Audi Korea and taken on July 13, 2020, Executive Director Jeff Mannering in charge of Audi's South Korean operations answers questions from reporters on its business strategy in Korea after a media test drive event held at Sagewood Hongcheon resort in Hongcheon, 100 kilometers east of Seoul. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)
In the coming months, a lot of companies will start to introduce more electric vehicles in global markets, and Audi will do so as well, he said.
Audi currently sells the e-tron Sportback SUV in the U.S. and unveiled the Q4 e-tron SUV concept this month with an aim to mass-produce the model next year. It also unveiled the prototype of the e-tron S high-performance SUV in February.
The company said it is considering introducing the new e-tron models in the Korean market to take advantage of growing local appetite for EVs and improvements in the charging infrastructure.
Mannering said the rapidly increasing number of charging stations will enable the carmaker to launch more pure electric cars here.
"One of the biggest challenges for EVs in every country in the world is how do I charge my EV," said Mannering. "Korea is probably world leader in public charging infrastructure and that's probably why now is the right time for us to introduce the car because you only have to drive 30 kilometers to the next charging station."
Audi Korea's aggressive EV push is in line with Audi AG's long-term business plan to increase its proportion of electrified vehicles, including plug-in hybrid models, to 33 percent by 2025. Audi AG aims to launch more than 20 kinds of electrified models globally by 2025 to sell over 800,000 units a year.
The current global situation reinforces the importance of sustainability economically, socially and environmentally. And emission-free drive systems have their part to play, Mannering said.
The e-tron 55 quattro SUV comes with a higher-capacity 95-kWh battery pack, and its two electric motors fitted to each axle on the front and rear can generate a combined 360 horsepower.
The company said it will deliver a three-year warranty for the e-tron, with the guarantee period for the battery reaching eight years.
It can travel up to 307 kilometers on a single charge and accelerate from zero to 100 kilometers per hour in 6.6 seconds. The zero-emission SUV is available for 117 million won (US$98,000).
Audi Volkswagen Korea sells four brands -- Audi, Volkswagen, Lamborghini and Bentley -- in Asia's fourth-biggest economy.
Its overall sales from January to June more than quadrupled to 17,751 vehicles of the four brands from 4,442 units in the year-ago period, according to data from the Korean Automobile Importers and Distributors Association (KAIDA).
Sales of Audi badge vehicles jumped nearly fourfold to 10,071 units from 2,560 during the same period, KAIDA said.
Audi Volkswagen Group resumed sales in South Korea in early 2018 after suspending normal operations in 2016 following an emissions cheating scandal that hurt consumer confidence in the brand.
These photos, taken on July 13, 2020, show the front and rear of the all-electric Audi e-tron 55 quattro model. (Yonhap)
kyongae.choi@yna.co.kr
(END)


(Copyright)

The use of the content for any other purposes other than personal and noncommercial use is expressly prohibited without the @ @ @ @ @ News Agency .

All information carried by the Yonhap News Agency, including articles, photographs, graphics, audio and video images, and illustrations (collectively, the content) is owned by the Yonhap News Agency.
The use of the content for any other purposes other than personal and noncommercial use is expressly prohibited without the written consent of the Yonhap News Agency.
Any violation can be subject to a compensation claim or civil and criminal lawsuits.
Requests to use the content for any purpose besides the ones mentioned above should be directed in advance to Yonhap's Information Business Department at 82-2-398-3557 or 82-2-398-3552.
(END)


yna--2020-07-16--S. Korea trade minister outlines vision to rebuild trust in WTO

She added that the WTO needed to be reborn again through reform and outlined her `` 3R '' vision that @ @ @ @ @ more relevant , resilient and responsive to the needs of the times .
She said @ @ @ @ @ regain the confidence and trust of the world .

GENEVA, July 16 (Yonhap) -- South Korean Trade Minister Yoo Myung-hee on Thursday outlined her vision to restore trust in the World Trade Organization (WTO) so as to allow the global body to better handle negotiations and resolve disputes.
Outlining her bid to run for the director general post at a general meeting of members at the WTO's headquarters in Geneva, Yoo said the main challenge facing the organization was the breakdown of its role to act as the supreme court to mediate disputes and deadlock.
She then said the expansion of protectionism has fueled trade tensions, with the coronavirus pandemic threatening the principle of the WTO, which is to facilitate the free movement of goods and services.
She added that the WTO needed to be reborn again through reform and outlined her "3R" vision that strives to make the body more relevant, resilient and responsive to the needs of the times. She said this could help the WTO regain the confidence and trust of the world.
The minister, who announced her bid for the post in June, said that she would take full advantage of her 25 years of experience in trade negotiations to help carry out the transformation. She said her extensive experience made her the best qualified for the job.
After making her speech outlining her goals, she responded to questions raised by other members of the organization.
Yoo is one of eight people wanting to take over the WTO's top post from incumbent Roberto Azevedo of Brazil, who is set to step down next month.
The WTO said the selection process could take some two months, with a new director general to be picked around November.
South Korean Trade Minister Yoo Myung-hee (C) enters the headquarters of the World Trade Organization in Geneva on July 16, 2020. The official, who announced her bid to run for the WTO's director general post in June, delivered a campaign speech outlining her goals for the global trade body. (Yonhap)
(END)


yna--2020-07-16--Seoul mayor's ex-secretary makes new sexual harassment allegations

`` The victim had repeatedly requested to be transferred to another department every quarter since January 2016 but was frustrated @ @ @ @ @ able to work in a new position in July 2019 , '' according to the @ @ @ @

SEOUL, July 16 (Yonhap) -- A former secretary of Park Won-soon on Thursday raised further sexual harassment allegations against the late Seoul mayor, such as his refusal of her request to be transferred to another department, according to civic groups representing the woman.
In a statement, officials at the Korea Women's Hot Line and Korea Sexual Violence Relief Center said Park, the city's three-term mayor, had refused to approve the woman's repeated demands to be transferred to a different post.
Kim Jae-ryun (R), a lawyer representing a former secretary of late Seoul Mayor Park Won-soon, speaks at a press conference held at the Korea Women's Hot Line office in western Seoul on July 13, 2020. The panel called for a proper probe into Park's alleged sexual abuse and urged the public to stop attacking the former secretary. (Yonhap)
Park, one of the country's most renowned political figures, was found dead on a Seoul mountain in the early hours of Friday after hundreds of police and rescue officials searched for him following a missing persons report.
His abrupt death came a day after his former secretary filled a complaint with the police. On Monday, civic groups and her attorney held a press conference where they said the public servant suffered unwanted physical contact and received inappropriate messages from Park for over four years.
"The victim had repeatedly requested to be transferred to another department every quarter since January 2016 but was frustrated every time before finally being able to work in a new position in July 2019," according to the groups' statement.
Also, the victim further accused Park of sexually harassing her in his office by having her check his blood pressure, though the victim had told him the task should be done by doctors or family members.
The former mayor even called the victim "sweetie" and made sexually harassing comments, the activists said.
Also, the secretary said she had to leave Park's underwear outside a bathroom attached to the mayor's office when he was taking a shower.
The Seoul metropolitan government, meanwhile, did not release any comment on the new allegations.
The city government earlier said it will establish a joint investigative team involving women rights and human rights groups, along with legal experts, for the case, "to guarantee fairness and objectivity."
(END)


yna--2020-07-16--(4th LD) New virus infections spike again to above 60 on surge in imported cases

Health authorities said the number of imported cases coming from Iraq could increase further as more workers are set to @ @ @ @ @ , a senior official at health ministry , said the government will come up with @ @ @ @ @ working at construction sites in the Middle East .

(ATTN: UPDATES with more details in paras 10, 19, 22)
SEOUL, July 16 (Yonhap) -- South Korea's new virus cases bounced back to surpass 60 again on Thursday as imported cases continued to rise amid a slowdown in local infections.
The country added 61 cases, including 47 imported cases, raising the total caseload to 13,612, according to the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (KCDC).
The tally marked a sharp rise from 39 new cases reported Wednesday and 33 new cases Tuesday.
It is also the second time this week that the daily rise of virus cases went above 60 following 62 new infections reported on Monday.
Infections coming in from overseas have been on a high plateau for weeks, with double-digit numbers for 21 consecutive days.
Thursday's newly identified imported cases mark the highest number since March 25, when the country reported 51 such infections.
Of the 47 additional imported cases, 20 of them are South Korean construction workers returning from Iraq, health authorities said. The total number of imported cases is now 1,966.
Health authorities said the number of imported cases coming from Iraq could increase further as more workers are set to return home. Yoon Tae-ho, a senior official at health ministry, said the government will come up with measures to protect South Koreans working at construction sites in the Middle East.
Citizens wait to receive virus tests at a medical center in Seoul on July 16, 2020. (Yonhap)
Imported cases have rebounded to double-digit numbers since June 26 as global virus cases have resurged amid eased lockdowns, while the number of foreign workers entering the country increased recently due to demand at local farms and factories for the summer season, experts here said.
In the southeastern city of Busan, health authorities are keeping close tabs on a Russia-flagged vessel that reported 17 virus-infected crewmen. Two other Russians on two separate ships at port have also been found to be infected. All 19 newly confirmed patients have been moved to a local hospital for treatment.
Last month, Busan saw cluster infections tied to Russia-flagged ships, with 19 related cases reported.
Due to rising cases involving Russian seafarers, health authorities said they will conduct virus tests on all crewmembers of Russian ships that have a lot of contact with local workers.
To stem the rise of imported cases, South Korea since Monday has required arrivals from four high-risk nations -- Bangladesh, Pakistan, Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan -- to submit a certificate showing they tested negative for the virus.
South Korea will add two more countries next Monday, although it has not specified the countries for diplomatic reasons.
Health authorities said they will also impose strict quarantine measures regarding crew transfers.
Previously, foreigners entering the country for ship crew changes were eligible for visa-free entry. But starting on July 24, they will be required to hold a visa and need to submit a health certificate proving that they tested negative for COVID-19.
The regulation will apply to all countries, except for 21 nations that signed a visa waiver agreement with South Korea.
A health official clad in protective gear prepares to work at a virus testing center in Seoul on July 16, 2020. (Yonhap)
Of the 14 local transmissions, 11 were reported in the nation's Seoul metropolitan area -- six in Seoul, three in Gyeonggi Province and two in Incheon.
There were three additional COVID-19 cases at an office building in downtown Seoul, with the total for the capital city hitting 1,457 infected people.
Gwangju, Daejeon and Gangwon Province also reported one case apiece.
The number of new local infections stayed below 20 for the fourth straight day, though health authorities are still wary of sporadic outbreaks of COVID-19 across the country.
South Korea reported two additional deaths, bringing the death toll to 291, the KCDC said. Two more fatalities have been reported, but they have not been included in the official daily update. The most recent deaths all involved seniors in their 80s and 90s.
The total number of people released from quarantine after full recoveries stood at 12,396, up 48 from the previous day, while 925 are currently under treatment, up 11 from a day earlier.
The country has carried out 1,441,348 tests since Jan. 3.
The KCDC said South Korea so far has supplied remdesivir, an experimental drug conventionally used for Ebola, to 57 coronavirus patients in critical condition.
For the development of blood plasma-based treatments, so far 950 people who fully recovered from the virus have expressed their willingness to donate their blood plasma. Among them, health authorities said they have collected samples of plasma from 444 people.
Health workers clad in protective gears conduct virus tests at a drive-thru testing center in Gwangju on July 16, 2020. (Yonhap)
kdon@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-07-16--Bucheon film fest closes amid coronavirus pandemic

At the same time , selected films were screened in eight theaters in Bucheon under the strict quarantine guidelines .
@ @ @ @ @ and movie fans also took place during the eight-day period .
( END )

SEOUL, July 16 (Yonhap) -- South Korea's largest annual genre film festival came to a close Thursday after showcasing films both online and offline amid the new coronavirus pandemic.
The 24th Bucheon International Fantastic Film Festival (BIFAN) ran from July 9 in Bucheon, 50 kilometers west of Seoul, featuring a total of 194 titles from 42 countries both digitally and in brick-and-mortar theaters.
This undated photo, provided by the Bucheon International Fantastic Film Festival, shows the audience at a theater amid the novel coronavirus outbreak. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)
A closing ceremony was hosted with a limited audience of only 80 people, including winners.
"Pelican Blood," directed by Katrin Gebbe, grabbed Best of Bucheon, and Rose Glass won the Best Director Choice for his "Saint Maud," BIFAN organizers said. "Lapsis," directed by Noah Hutton, won Jury's Choice, and "Sheep without a Shepherd," directed by Sam Quah, won the Audience Award.
This year, the annual film festival -- devoted to horror, thriller, mystery, fantasy and sci-fi flicks -- made a fresh attempt to showcase films both online and offline as part of the global social distancing campaign.
Many movies were streamed on Watcha, a South Korea-based streaming platform, while other programs, like lectures by famous directors, were also available online.
At the same time, selected films were screened in eight theaters in Bucheon under the strict quarantine guidelines. Special discussion sessions with directors and movie fans also took place during the eight-day period.
(END)


yna--2020-07-16--(2nd LD) Another virus outbreak reported on Russian vessel in Busan

In addition to the Regul , a sailor who arrived in Busan onboard a 2,461-ton Russian reefer ship and another @ @ @ @ @ deep-sea fishing vessel , tested positive for the virus during the day , quarantine officials @ @ @ @ @ been sent to Busan Medical Center for treatment and observation .

(ATTN: RECASTS lead; UPDATES with more details throughout)
BUSAN, July 16 (Yonhap) -- Health authorities said Thursday that 17 crewmen on a Russian ship docked in the southeastern port city of Busan have tested positive for the novel coronavirus, fueling concerns over potential group infections amid a rising number of imported cases in the country.
The virus-infected sailors were on the Regul, a Russia-flagged, 825-ton fishing vessel that entered the harbor in Gamcheon last month, according to the city's health authorities. The ship is currently docked at a repair shipyard.
Health authorities initially announced three COVID-19 cases among the 39-member crew, with the total rising by 14 following further testing. Test results on the remaining 22 seafarers, currently isolated on the ship, are expected to be announced soon.
In addition to the Regul, a sailor who arrived in Busan onboard a 2,461-ton Russian reefer ship and another crew member from a 2.083-ton deep-sea fishing vessel, tested positive for the virus during the day, quarantine officials said. All 19 have been sent to Busan Medical Center for treatment and observation.
The outbreaks come as earlier this week, a Russian sailor aboard a Tuvalu-flagged deep-sea fishing vessel docked at Gamcheon Port tested positive for COVID-19. The other 43 crew members tested negative in virus tests, though they will be checked again during their two-week quarantine that runs through July 28.
The latest cases follow cluster infections tied to Russia-flagged ships last month that put health authorities in Busan on alert, with 19 related cases reported.
Port authorities said that starting in June, it discovered 39 infected Russian sailors who arrived in the city on six vessels.
South Korea has been conducting onboard quarantine checks of foreign ships arriving from high-risk countries after assessing the degree of risks.
For Russian ships that need a lot of contact with local workers, health authorities said they will conduct virus tests on all crewmembers.
A Russian fishing vessel is anchored at a repair shipyard in Busan on July 17, 2020. Health authorities said three Russian crewmen from the ship have tested positive for COVID-19. (Yonhap)
(END)


yna--2020-07-16--(3rd LD) Highest court remands Gyeonggi governor's case to lower court, effectively saving his gover

(3rd LD) Highest court remands Gyeonggi governor's case to lower court, effectively saving his governorship

The governor was indicted on four charges , including power abuse and violating the national election law in December 2018 @ @ @ @ @ he used his official position to lock his elder brother in a mental hospital against @ @ @ @ @ .
Lee denied involvement in the forced hospitalization on television debate shows in 2018 .

(ATTN: ADDS more details in lead; RECONSTRUCTS)
By Woo Jae-yeon
SEOUL, July 16 (Yonhap) -- Gyeonggi Province Gov. Lee Jae-myung will retain his position, as the Supreme Court on Thursday sent his case back to a lower court for reconsideration, saying he should not be found guilty of violating election law.
The decision salvaged his governorship and political fate as one of the ruling party's potential presidential candidates.
By law, elected public officials lose their posts and are not allowed to run for a public post for five years if they receive a sentence heavier than imprisonment or are fined more than 1 million won for violating the election law and political funding act.
"Lee is not punishable for spreading false information," for his remarks made during televised debate shows in the run-up to the 2018 local elections, Chief Justice Kim Myeong-su said in delivering a verdict on the case.
Lee's comments, which came during fierce debates with political opponents, should not be seen as a deliberate and determined act to spread misinformation, the chief justice said.
"It is more important to guarantee freedom of expression (during a debate) to offer (debaters) room, free of legal responsibilities," Kim said, adding that it is impossible to hold a politician accountable for every inaccurate expression he makes.
People watch the live broadcast of the Supreme Court's ruling for Gyeonggi Province Gov. Lee Jae-myung in Seoul Station in the capital city on July 16, 2020. (Yonhap)
The governor was indicted on four charges, including power abuse and violating the national election law in December 2018, related to allegations that he used his official position to lock his elder brother in a mental hospital against his will in June 2012. Lee denied involvement in the forced hospitalization on television debate shows in 2018.
In May 2019, the Seongnam branch of the Suwon District Court found Lee not guilty of the four criminal charges. But the Suwon High Court fined him 3 million won (US$2,506) in September for spreading false information about the hospitalization on television.
Gyeonggi Governor Lee Jae-myung goes to his office in Suwon, Gyeonggi Province, on July 16, 2020. (Yonhap)
Lee's trial has attracted national attention for its political implications. He governs the country's biggest administrative division with a population of 13 million and is considered one of the ruling Democratic Party's strong presidential hopefuls. In 2017, he unsuccessfully ran against President Moon Jae-in in the party's presidential primary.
In a recent survey, he ranked second on a list of favorite politicians whom the respondents want for the next president.
The survey, conducted by Gallup Korea on 1,100 people and released last week, showed former Prime Minister Lee Nak-yon was cited the most often with 24 percent, followed by the governor with 13 percent.
Although his legal case is not fully closed, the win on Thursday is expected to give Lee Jae-myung badly needed political momentum and a breakthrough in the 2022 presidential race.
The court's decision also saved face for the ruling party after mayoralties in the country's two biggest cities, Seoul and Busan, were left vacant. Seoul Mayor Park Won-soon died last week in an apparent suicide after his former secretary filed a sexual harassment complaint against him. Busan Mayor Oh Ge-don stepped down in April amid sexual misconduct allegations. Both were affiliated with the ruling party.
Given the case's political importance and the level of public interest, the ruling was broadcast live on television and YouTube, for the second time ever. The court broadcast its first-ever live ruling in August on the corruption case of former President Park Geun-hye.
Right after the verdict came out, Lee thanked the court for what he called a "fair and right decision" on his Facebook page.
"I feel thankful for the opportunity to keep working, but my shoulders feel heavy with responsibilities at the same time," he wrote. "I will walk forward to create a fair world, a world where everyone lives harmoniously."
Lee Jae-myung's supporters cheer upon hearing the verdict in front of the Supreme Court in Seoul on July 16, 2020. (Yonhap)
jaeyeon.woo@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-07-16--S. Korea extends travel ban on 6 countries in Middle East, Africa

The decision was made based on the conclusion that these areas are suffering political unrest and exposed to constant risks @ @ @ @ @ will likely continue for a considerable period of time , the ministry said .

SEOUL, July 16 (Yonhap) -- South Korea extended its travel ban on six countries in the Middle East and Africa for another six months, given the unabating security risks in the regions, the foreign ministry said Thursday.
The extension applies to Iraq, Syria, Yemen, Somalia, Afghanistan and Libya and also parts of the Philippines, and it takes effect on Aug. 1, the ministry said in a statement.
The decision was made based on the conclusion that these areas are suffering political unrest and exposed to constant risks of terrorist attacks, which will likely continue for a considerable period of time, the ministry said.
Seoul has banned travel to Iraq, Syria, Somalia and Afghanistan since 2007. It imposed restrictive measure for Yemen in 2011 and Libya in 2014.
elly@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-07-16--U.S. Embassy to resume nonimmigrant visa services for student, exchange program participants

In March , the embassy announced the suspension of all routine visa interviews in line with a State Department measure @ @ @ @ @ pandemic as Seoul was seen as a country hit hard by the COVID-19 outbreak , @ @ @ @ @ from its southeastern region .

SEOUL, July 16 (Yonhap) -- The U.S. Embassy in Seoul said Thursday it will resume nonimmigrant visa services for students and exchange program participants, partially rolling back the suspension of all visa operations put in place over coronavirus fears.
The new measure will take effect Monday, the embassy said.
"The United States Embassy in Seoul will resume certain nonimmigrant visa services for F, M and J nonimmigrant visa applicants. While the Embassy will process applications as soon as practicable, applicants may experience increased wait times due to substantial backlogs," it said in a press release.
In March, the embassy announced the suspension of all routine visa interviews in line with a State Department measure to respond to the virus pandemic as Seoul was seen as a country hit hard by the COVID-19 outbreak, with a surge in cases from its southeastern region.
South Korea has flattened the curve on the back of aggressive containment efforts, with its daily virus cases hovering at 40-60 in recent weeks. Its total caseload stood at 13,612 on Thursday.
elly@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-07-16--(LEAD) Samsung heir visits electronics parts maker amid uncertainties

Prosecutors suspect that Lee and the group 's senior executives were involved in a calibrated scheme to intentionally lower the @ @ @ @ @ T Corp. prior to its merger with Cheil Industries Inc. in 2015 , so as @ @ @ @ @ succession from his ailing father , Lee Kun-hee .

(ATTN: ADDS more info from 11th para, 2nd photo)
SEOUL, July 16 (Yonhap) -- Samsung Electronics Vice Chairman Lee Jae-yong on Thursday visited its electronics components manufacturing unit to check on the company's future strategy amid global uncertainties.
Lee, the de facto leader of the top conglomerate Samsung Group, visited Samsung Electro-Mechanics Co.'s plant in Busan, which produces automotive multi layer ceramic capacitors (MLCCs).
MLCC is a core component used in almost every electronics item, feeding necessary electricity need.
Samsung said Lee discussed Samsung Electro-Mechanics' plan for its automotive MLCC business, as demand for such products is expected to sharply increase on the back of developments in electric vehicles, autonomous driving technology, as well as 5G and artificial intelligence solutions.
"The pace of change is getting faster," Lee said. "We should lead innovation from the front."
This photo, provided by Samsung Electronics Co. on July 16, 2020, shows Samsung Electronics Vice Chairman Lee Jae-yong (C) checking on Samsung Electro-Mechanics Co.'s multi layer ceramic capacitor production facility with workers at the company's plant in Busan. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)
Lee previously met with Samsung Electro-Mechanics officials in June last year and checked on their investment and growth strategies.
Lee's latest visit marks his seventh on-site inspection of Samsung's business units this year.
Starting with Samsung Electronics' plants in Brazil in January, Lee had visited the company's smartphone factory, chip research center and consumer electronics unit in South Korea.
He also inspected Samsung Display Co. and Semes Co., an affiliate that produces semiconductors and display manufacturing equipment.
In his recent visits, Lee has been consistently emphasizing that Samsung needs to overcome global uncertainties caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and renewed tensions between the United States and China.
This photo, provided by Samsung Electronics Co. on July 16, 2020, shows Samsung Electronics Vice Chairman Lee Jae-yong (R) looking at Samsung Electro-Mechanics Co.'s package substrate product at the company's plant in Busan. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)
Lee's on-site inspection also comes amid speculation that the prosecution could indict the heir apparent later this month over the controversial merger of two Samsung units.
Prosecutors suspect that Lee and the group's senior executives were involved in a calibrated scheme to intentionally lower the value of Samsung C&T Corp. prior to its merger with Cheil Industries Inc. in 2015, so as to facilitate Lee's managerial succession from his ailing father, Lee Kun-hee.
An independent panel of experts -- made up of civil activists, legal experts and others -- concluded last month that prosecutors should not indict Lee.
But since the panel's decision is not legally binding, there has been speculation that prosecutors could push for the indictment of Lee.
kdon@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-07-16--14 more USFK-affiliated Americans test positive for new coronavirus

On Thursday , South Korea added 47 imported COVID-19 cases , which is the highest since March 25 when the @ @ @ @ @ according to the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention ( KCDC ) .
The @ @ @ @ @ and the country 's total caseload came to 13,612 .

SEOUL, July 16 (Yonhap) -- Fourteen more Americans affiliated with the U.S. Forces Korea (USFK) have tested positive for the new coronavirus upon arrival in South Korea, the U.S. military said Thursday, amid growing concerns over a surge in imported virus cases.
USFK has seen a marked increase in the number of COVID-19 patients among newly assigned service members and related personnel in recent weeks along with the fast spread of the virus in the U.S.
The latest cases brought the total number of USFK-related infections to 88. Of them, 52 were reported in July.
Of the 14 new patients, 12 were service members and two were dependents, and they tested positive after arriving here between July 9 and 15, according to USFK.
Nine soldiers and two family members arrived at Osan Air Base in Pyeongtaek, 70 kilometers south of Seoul, on a U.S. government-chartered flight. The remaining three arrived at Incheon International Airport, west of Seoul, from their home country on commercial flights, it added.
Of them, five individuals displayed "very minor symptoms," such as a headache or runny nose, USFK said. It is not immediately known if they were symptomatic before their departure.
"All individuals were tested prior to entering quarantine, and have since been transferred to an isolation facility designated for confirmed COVID-19 cases on either Camp Humphreys or Osan Air Base," USFK said in a statement.
All USFK-affiliated individuals arriving in South Korea are required to undergo the virus test and are quarantined for 14 days. Medical personnel administer a second test prior to their release.
On Thursday, South Korea added 47 imported COVID-19 cases, which is the highest since March 25 when the figure stood at 51, according to the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (KCDC). The local infections were 14, and the country's total caseload came to 13,612.
Passangers await entry procedures at Incheon International Airport on July 16, 2020. (Yonhap)
graceoh@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-07-16--(2nd LD) S. Korea on alert over imported virus cases coming from Iraq

`` Iraq has shut down its international airport , so the only way to fly out from the country is @ @ @ @ @ '' Kwon Jun-wook , deputy director of the Central Disease Control Headquarters , said in @ @ @ @ @ We believe there were no quarantine checks before they boarded the plane . ''

(ATTN: CHANGES slug, lead, photo; ADDS more info in paras 2-3, 6, 8-9, 11)
SEJONG, July 16 (Yonhap) -- South Korean health authorities said Thursday they are keeping a close eye on workers returning from Iraq after a slew of them tested positive for the novel coronavirus amid escalating concerns over imported cases.
South Korea reported 61 additional COVID-19 infections Thursday, with 47 of them being imported cases, according to the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (KCDC).
Of the newly identified imported cases, 20 of them were South Korean construction workers who returned from Iraq, health authorities said.
"We are getting reports that cluster infections have occurred in the Middle East region, especially around construction sites in Iraq," Yoon Tae-ho, a senior health ministry official, told reporters. "We think our people working at Iraqi construction sites may have been exposed to the virus."
He added the government will come up with measures to protect South Koreans working at construction sites in the Middle East.
According to data from the World Health Organization (WHO), Iraq has reported 81,757 cases of COVID-19, with the death toll reaching 3,345, as of Wednesday. The daily rise in COVID-19 cases in Iraq is nearly 3,000, health officials here added.
Health authorities said so far 34 South Korean construction workers from Iraq have tested positive for COVID-19, with 28 of them detected at quarantine checkpoints at the airport.
This photo taken on July 16, 2020, shows people wearing face masks at Incheon International Airport in Incheon. (Yonhap)
All of the virus-infected workers departed from Iraq on chartered planes and took connecting flights from Doha, Qatar, to arrive in South Korea, the KCDC said.
"Iraq has shut down its international airport, so the only way to fly out from the country is using a charted plane," Kwon Jun-wook, deputy director of the Central Disease Control Headquarters, said in a press briefing. "We believe there were no quarantine checks before they boarded the plane."
Health authorities said the number of cases coming from Iraq could increase as more workers are set to return home.
The virus-infected workers all reportedly worked in Karbala, central Iraq. More than 680 South Koreans, including workers from major builders like Hyundai Engineering & Construction Co., are reportedly staying there for construction projects.
Health authorities said they will look into options on applying special quarantine procedures to workers from Iraq.
South Korea has been dealing with a rise of imported cases recently, with the daily rise of such cases staying double-digit numbers for 21 consecutive days.
The number of imported cases in South Korea has reached 1,966 as of Thursday, with the country's total caseload of COVID-19 standing at 13,612.
kdon@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-07-16--(URGENT) U.S. Embassy to resume visa services for students and other nonimmigration visa applicants

(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--2020-07-16--Former Kolon chairman indicted in drug development scandal

Prosecutors also alleged that Lee , who stepped down from the chairman 's post in November 2018 , was involved @ @ @ @ @ TissueGene , a U.S. subsidiary that played a key role in the development of Invossa @ @ @ @ @ inducing an equity investment worth $ 10 million from the Export-Import Bank of Korea without @ @ @ @ @ ordered by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to suspend clinical trials for Invossa in @ @ @

SEOUL, July 16 (Yonhap) -- Former Kolon Group Chairman Lee Woong-yeol was indicted without detention on Thursday and referred for court trial on charges of having committed fraud and other illegalities in the development and sales of a controversial gene therapy drug.
The Seoul Central District Prosecutors Office announced Lee's indictment, wrapping up its year-long investigation into allegations that Lee masterminded Kolon Life Science's fraudulent development of Invossa, a cell and gene therapy for osteoarthritis, by instructing the company to submit false research data to authorities.
Lee is also accused of making about 16 billion won (US$13.3 million) by selling Fluid 2 of Invossa produced with a kidney cell that can cause tumors, instead of cartilage as stated in the document submitted for approval, from November 2017 to March 2019.
Former Kolon Group Chairman Lee Woong-yeol enters the Seoul Central District Court to attend his arrest warrant hearing in this file photo taken on June 30, 2020. (Yonhap)
Prosecutors also alleged that Lee, who stepped down from the chairman's post in November 2018, was involved in listing fraud of Kolon TissueGene, a U.S. subsidiary that played a key role in the development of Invossa. Lee is suspected of inducing an equity investment worth $10 million from the Export-Import Bank of Korea without disclosing that Kolon TissueGene was ordered by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to suspend clinical trials for Invossa in June 2016.
Kolon Group raised about 200 billion won by listing Kolon TissueGene on the tech-heavy KOSDAQ market in November 2017 without disclose the suspension of Invossa's clinical trials and the true ingredients of the drug, prosecutors said.
In this regard, the prosecution applied capital market law violation and manipulation of security prices to Lee's criminal charges, in addition to fraud, breach of trust, obstruction of business, and violations of the pharmaceutical affairs and real-name financial transaction acts.
Late last month, prosecutors requested an arrest warrant for Lee on the criminal charges, but the Seoul Central District Court rejected it, saying the circumstances and timing had not been sufficiently explained with regard to when Lee and other members of the company became aware of the exact substance used in Invossa.
Lee has persistently denied all charges, attributing all responsibility to working-level executives and officials, while his lawyers have said everything was caused by misunderstanding and Lee will faithfully deal with future court proceedings.
Lee had been heavily involved in the development of Invossa, which he called his "fourth child," since the late 1990s. He has a 51.65 percent share of the group's holding company, Kolon Corp., and a 17.8 percent share in Kolon TissueGene.
Prosecutors have indicted Kolon Life Science CEO Lee Woo-suk and six other Kolon executives over breach of pharmaceutical affairs and capital market laws.
Kolon Life Science, a unit of Kolon Group, initially received approval for Invossa from the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety in 2017. But approval was revoked last year after the drugmaker was found to have falsely reported an ingredient used in the drug and violated labeling rules.
Prosecutors and government regulators suspect that the company intentionally submitted false data to the authorities in the process of obtaining an item approval for Invossa. The company acknowledged that a substance in the joint pain treatment drug had been mislabeled but claimed no one suffered from any medical complications from use of Invossa.
ycm@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-07-16--N.K. leader made least number of public appearances in first half of year: report

He made only two appearances in relation to the North 's economic projects , according to the report .
In @ @ @ @ @ fertilizer factory in Sunchon , north of the capital Pyongyang , and he made another @ @ @ @ @ attend an event marking its completion .

SEOUL, July 16 (Yonhap) -- North Korean leader Kim Jong-un made the least number of public appearances in the first half of this year since he assumed power in 2012, amid efforts to prevent an outbreak of the new coronavirus in the country, a recent report said Thursday.
According to data released by the Korea Institute for National Unification, a state-run think tank, Kim appeared in public on 19 occasions in the first half of this year.
This contrasts with the first half of 2013 when he made nearly 100 public appearances, including visits to factories and military facilities. Between 2017 and 2019, he made an average of 40 to 50 appearances.
Kim's absence from public view in May sparked rumors globally about his heath and even the possibility of his death.
Among his public appearances this year, field inspections of major military exercises or installations accounted for over half of his activities.
He made only two appearances in relation to the North's economic projects, according to the report. In January, Kim inspected a fertilizer factory in Sunchon, north of the capital Pyongyang, and he made another visit in early May to attend an event marking its completion.
The decline in the number of his public appearances reflects the North's concerns over the new coronavirus, the report said.
"He appears to be avoiding public activities to be as cautious as possible because an infected patient within the group of officials accompanying him can affect Kim's health," it said.
The report said Kim's public appearances will "likely remain limited in the second half of the year as well as long as the COVID-19 virus pandemic does not ease in the near future."
North Korean leader Kim Jong-un (C) inspects a fertilizer factory under construction in Sunchon, north of the capital Pyongyang, in his first "field guidance" of the new year, in this photo provided by the Korean Central News Agency on Jan. 7, 2020. (For Use Only in the Republic of Korea. No Redistribution) (Yonhap)
julesyi@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-07-16--(LEAD) Seoul prosecutors open probe into N. Korean leader's sister over liaison office demolition

It is virtually impossible for Seoul prosecutors to punish the North Korean officials , legal experts here said .
The @ @ @ @ @ the charges due to difficulties in evidence collection , they speculated .
Even if the @ @ @ @ @ in a local court , there is no way to execute the verdict , they @ @

(ATTN: ADDS the lawyer's remarks, past cases in last 5 paras)
SEOUL, July 16 (Yonhap) -- South Korean prosecutors have begun an investigation into North Korean leader Kim Jong-un's sister and the North's military chief on charges of blowing up an inter-Korean liaison office in Kaesong last month, officials said Thursday.
The unprecedented and symbolic probe into Kim Yo-jong, the sister now serving as the first vice department director of the ruling Workers' Party's Central Committee, and Army Gen. Pak Jong-chon, chief of the General Staff of the North Korean army, came after a South Korean lawyer filed a criminal complaint against them over the Kaesong office demolition in mid-June.
Seoul-based lawyer Lee Kyung-jae filed the complaint against the North Korean figures with the Seoul Central District Prosecutors Office on July 8, and the case was assigned to the office's public investigation division on Monday, according to the officials informed of the case.
Lawyer Lee Kyung-jae speaks about his complaint against North Korean officials during a news conference at his office in Seoul on July 9, 2020. (Yonhap)
North Korea destroyed the inter-Korean liaison office in its border city of Kaesong on June 16 apparently in anger over propaganda leaflets criticizing leader Kim, following Kim Yo-jong's warning of such a demolition in a statement issued on June 13.
The Seoul prosecution plans to review Lee's complaint before deciding whether to apply charges against Kim and Pak, the officials said.
It is virtually impossible for Seoul prosecutors to punish the North Korean officials, legal experts here said. The prosecutors may choose to drop the charges due to difficulties in evidence collection, they speculated. Even if the North Koreans were found guilty in a local court, there is no way to execute the verdict, they added.
Lee also admitted to the realistic limit but said he wanted to bring public attention to the North's act of destruction and inform the North Korean people of their leader's hypocrisy.
"It is difficult to arrest Kim and Pak and bring them to justice, but an investigation can be conducted. We should let 25 million North Koreans know about their ruling family's false image and hypocrisy, as well as about the legal order of our free democracy," Lee said.
He noted intentional destruction of state property can be punished with more than 10 years in prison or life imprisonment even under North Korean criminal law.
He also emphasized that under the Constitution, North Korea is under South Korea's jurisdiction.
The explosion is close to a declaration of war because the liaison office is a pseudo-diplomatic mission, he added.
On July 7, the Seoul Central District Court ordered Kim Jong-un and North Korea to compensate two former prisoners of war for forced labor during their captivity in the North.
It was the first time that a South Korean court has claimed its jurisdiction over North Korea and its people and issued a compensation order against them.
The ruling may affect several other cases against the North Korean leader currently pending at the prosecution office, including a complaint filed by conservative civic groups over his "crimes against humanity."
ycm@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-07-16--Korean Air to raise over 1.1 tln won following successful rights offering

The air carrier , a flagship affiliate of South Korea 's transportation conglomerate Hanjin Group , has been pushing for @ @ @ @ @ capital so it can overcome a liquidity crisis caused by the novel coronavirus pandemic .

SEOUL, July 16 (Yonhap) -- Korean Air Lines Co., South Korea's top flag carrier, is expected to secure more than 1.1 trillion won (US$901 million) after the company reported a successful rights offering Thursday.
Korean Air said its rights offering to stock investors oversubscribed with a subscription competition rate of 124.51:1. The total guarantee money deposited for the subscription surpassed 3.7 trillion won, it added.
About 2.1 million shares were released for subscription on Tuesday and Wednesday after existing shareholders and the employee stock ownership association completed their subscriptions on new shares.
Last week, Korean Air received subscriptions for new shares from existing shareholders and the employee stock ownership association, with the subscription rate reaching 97.35 percent.
The new shares will be listed on July 29, the company said.
The air carrier, a flagship affiliate of South Korea's transportation conglomerate Hanjin Group, has been pushing for the rights issues to raise capital so it can overcome a liquidity crisis caused by the novel coronavirus pandemic.
This photo taken on July 7, 2020, shows aircraft of Korean Air Lines Co. parked at Incheon International Airport in Incheon. (Yonhap)
kdon@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-07-17--Moon urges prudent approach on levying more capital gains taxes on stock investors

`` It should not be ( implemented in ) a way to shrink the stock market or discourage retail investors @ @ @ @ @ quoted as saying by Cheong Wa Dae spokesman Kang Min-seok at a press briefing .

SEOUL, July 17 (Yonhap) -- President Moon Jae-in on Friday stressed the need to encourage retail stock investors here, in response to a strong backlash to the government's announced proposal to expand South Korea's capital gains taxes on equity investment.
"It should not be (implemented in) a way to shrink the stock market or discourage retail investors," the president was quoted as saying by Cheong Wa Dae spokesman Kang Min-seok at a press briefing.
Moon pointed out that the nation's retail investors, often called "gaemi," or ants, have played a role in propping up the local stock market amid the COVID-19 crisis, Kang added.
The finance ministry earlier announced a scheme to impose taxes of up to 25 percent on annual capital gains exceeding 20 million won (US$16,000) for retail investors starting in 2023.
President Moon Jae-in in a file photo (Yonhap)
lcd@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-07-17--S. Korean assembly speaker proposes peace talks with N. Korean counterpart

`` The arbiters of the Korean Peninsula 's fate should be South and North Korea ... As the first step @ @ @ @ @ I ) officially propose inter-Korean assembly talks to the representative of North Korea 's Supreme @ @ @ @ @ Park said in his speech marking the 72nd anniversary of the establishment of South Korea @ @ @

SEOUL, July 17 (Yonhap) -- National Assembly Speaker Rep. Park Byeong-seug on Friday proposed talks with his North Korean counterpart to discuss ways to enhance peace and cooperation between the two countries.
The dialogue offer by Park, who left the ruling Democratic Party last month to serve as the assembly speaker, came as inter-Korean relations are stalemated after the North's provocative detonation of an inter-Korean liaison office in its territory a month earlier.
"The arbiters of the Korean Peninsula's fate should be South and North Korea ... As the first step to that end, (I) officially propose inter-Korean assembly talks to the representative of North Korea's Supreme People's Assembly," Park said in his speech marking the 72nd anniversary of the establishment of South Korea's Constitution.
"I am prepared to discuss inter-Korean relations and issues sincerely, with an open mind, at any time and in any place," Park said.
"Let us (meet) to declare a commitment to peace on the peninsula and coprosperity and find ways to institutionally back up inter-Korean relations," Park said.
The assembly speaker also said he wishes to discuss inter-Korean cooperation in sectors like disease prevention, health, agriculture and forestry as well as railroads linking the countries during the envisioned talks.
National Assembly Speaker Rep. Park Byeong-seug (C) and lawmakers pay their respects at the National Cemetery in Seoul on July 17, 2020, to mark Constitution Day. (Yonhap)
pbr@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-07-17--Seoul stocks extend gains late Friday morning amid stimulus hopes

Investor sentiment further improved on reports that the U.S. Senate is likely to roll out a virus relief package worth @ @ @ @ @ next week .

SEOUL, July 17 (Yonhap) -- South Korean stocks traded higher late Friday morning on the back of growing expectations for stimulus measures in major economies.
The benchmark Korea Composite Stock Price Index (KOSPI) rose 14.02 points, or 0.64 percent, to 2,197.78 as of 11:20 a.m.
The gains were fueled by stimulus efforts in Europe and the United States.
The European Central Bank kept its large-scale emergency monetary stimulus unchanged, citing the ongoing economic impact of the new coronavirus pandemic.
Investor sentiment further improved on reports that the U.S. Senate is likely to roll out a virus relief package worth some US$1 trillion next week.
Most large caps traded higher in Seoul.
Market bellwether Samsung Electronics gained 1.12 percent, and No. 2 chipmaker SK hynix rose 0.48 percent.
Top pharmaceutical firm Samsung BioLogics dipped 1.64 percent, with leading chemical maker LG Chem losing 1.53 percent.
South Korea's largest automaker, Hyundai Motor, jumped 2.73 percent, with giant steelmaker POSCO climbing 0.54 percent.
Internet giant Naver added 2.01 percent, with its rival Kakao advancing 0.78 percent.
The local currency was trading at 1,205.95 won against the U.S. dollar, down 0.35 won from the previous session's close.
jwc@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-07-17--S. Korea reiterates vow to crack down on anti-Pyongyang leaflets

SEOUL , July 17 ( Yonhap ) -- Efforts to improve the human rights of North Koreans , including guaranteeing @ @ @ @ @ should be made in a way that does not escalate tensions , the unification ministry @ @ @ @ @ pledge to crack down on launches of leaflets into the communist nation .

SEOUL, July 17 (Yonhap) -- Efforts to improve the human rights of North Koreans, including guaranteeing their right to know, should be made in a way that does not escalate tensions, the unification ministry said Friday, renewing its pledge to crack down on launches of leaflets into the communist nation.
The remark comes after a local newspaper reported Friday that Park Sang-hak, the defector activist heading Fighters for a Free North Korea, and an international organization are preparing to file a petition to the United Nations against the South Korean government.
"Sending leaflets to the North heightens inter-Korean tension and jeopardizes the safety of residents in border areas, and it must be immediately halted," Cho Hey-sil, the ministry's deputy spokesperson, told a regular press briefing.
"Efforts to improve human rights in North Korea and to guarantee North Koreans their 'right to know' must be done in a way that does not create inter-Korean tensions and avoids any harm to the resident," she said.
"The U.N. and the international community have also maintained that dialogue and cooperation between the two Koreas contributes to establishing peace in the Korean Peninsula and improving the North's human rights situation," she added.
The spokesperson also dismissed speculation that the government reached out to the North proposing a parliamentary meeting between the two sides, saying there are no plans as of now.
Earlier in the day, National Assembly Speaker Park Byeong-seug said that he "proposes an inter-Korean parliamentary meeting to the leader of Supreme People's Assembly" in a ceremony marking the 72nd anniversary of Constitution Day.
julesyi@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-07-17--(LEAD) New virus cases hover around 60 for 2nd day, imported cases in focus

`` We will soon confirm how many chartered flights should be sent to Iraq after surveying workers there , '' @ @ @ @ @ health ministry said .
`` Once the workers arrive home , they will be isolated @ @ @ @ @ two weeks . ''

(ATTN: ADDS more info in paras 8, 17-19; CHANGES 1st photo)
SEOUL, July 17 (Yonhap) -- South Korea's new daily virus cases came in at around 60 for the second straight day on Friday as the country grapples with rising imported cases and an uptick in local infections.
The country added 60 cases, including 39 imported cases, raising the total to 13,672, according to the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (KCDC).
It marks the third time this week that the daily rise of virus cases reached 60 or above, following 62 new infections reported on Monday and 61 cases on Thursday.
Infections coming in from overseas have been on high plateau for weeks, rising by double-digit numbers for 22 consecutive days.
Of the 39 additional imported cases, 25 were detected at quarantine checkpoints of airports and sea ports. The total number of imported cases is now 2,005.
Health workers conduct virus tests at a testing center in Jeju on Jeju Island on July 17, 2020. (Yonhap)
Of the cases coming in from overseas, a large portion has traced to Iraq, with dozens of South Korean workers returning home from the Middle Eastern country testing positive for COVID-19 in recent days.
To bring the remaining workers home safely, the government said it plans to send chartered flights to Iraq next week. At least 800 South Korean workers are in Iraq, for a slew of construction projects, where the daily number of virus infections reaches around 2,000.
"We will soon confirm how many chartered flights should be sent to Iraq after surveying workers there," a senior official at the health ministry said. "Once the workers arrive home, they will be isolated at a temporary shelter for two weeks."
South Korea is also alert over potential group infections tied to Russian-flagged vessels docked in the southern city of Busan. At least 19 virus-infected crewmen were confirmed to have contracted the virus on three ships.
It follows a cluster infection linked to Russia-flagged ships in Busan last month when 19 related cases reported.
Due to rising cases involving Russian seafarers, health authorities said they will conduct virus tests on all crewmembers of Russian ships that have a lot of contact with local workers.
To stem a further rise in imported cases, South Korea since Monday has required arrivals from four high-risk nations -- Bangladesh, Pakistan, Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan -- to submit a certificate showing they tested negative for the virus.
South Korea will add two more countries from Monday, although it has not specified the countries for diplomatic reasons.
This photo taken on July 16, 2020, shows a health official clad in protective gear working at a nursing home in the southeastern city of Gwangju. (Yonhap)
The number of new local infections bounced back to surpass 20 for the first time in five days following sporadic outbreaks of COVID-19 across the country.
Of the 21 local transmissions, seven were reported in Seoul, five in Gyeonggi Province, surrounding the nation's capital.
Gwangju added five more cases. The country's southern resort island of Jeju also confirmed three cases of the novel coronavirus.
South Korea last month adopted a three-tier social distancing scheme that adjusts the intensity of virus prevention guidelines depending on the severity of the COVID-19 outbreak.
The country is currently at "Level 1" social distancing, although some municipalities have raised the level to stem the spread of the virus in the region.
Health authorities said each municipality can raise the social distancing level when the basic reproduction rate, which denotes the number of people one patient can infect, reaches 1.3. For the greater Seoul area, if the daily number of virus cases reaches 40 or above on average for a one-week period, it can also raise the social distancing level.
South Korea reported two additional deaths from the virus, bringing the death toll to 293, according to the KCDC.
The total number of people released from quarantine after full recoveries stood at 12,460, up 64 from the previous day, while 919 are currently under treatment, down six from a day earlier.
The country has carried out 1,451,017 tests since Jan. 3.
kdon@yna.co.kr
(END)