yna--2020-01-09--(EDITORIAL from Korea Herald on Jan. 9)

(EDITORIAL from Korea Herald on Jan. 9)

As many as some 70 former and current Cheong Wa Dae officials are expected to run in the general election @ @ @ @ @ .
Some officials , even in the ruling party , are said to complain that @ @ @ @ @ It is questionable if they , distracted by the elections , did or are doing @ @ @ @ @ jobs at Cheong Wa Dae .
State affairs can be chaotic .
This is a @ @ @ @ @ )

Carrying on regardless
Moon vows to stay course despite side effects, focus on inter-Korean cooperation whatever the reality
President Moon Jae-in is set to enter the fourth year of his five-year presidency in May. For him, now is the time to look back with a cool head at what he has done so far and decide what to focus on for the rest of his term.
But his New Year's address was filled with self-praise rather than an objective assessment of his policies. He effectively declared that "I will keep doing things my way no matter what."
Moon vowed to push the changes and reforms his government has led more strongly. His avowal fuels concern, given persistent side effects of his policies and difficult situations in many fields including the economy and security.
His perceptions of economic reality are worrying.
Moon said the employment situation shows a clear trend of recovery and that the employment rate was the highest ever last year thanks to the creation of 280,000 new jobs. But most of them were temporary public-sector jobs. Decent jobs in private companies vanished quickly. Jobs created with taxes to gloss employment statistics will disappear when tax support stops. It is hard to call this a sign of recovery in employment.
Exports, which are Korea's growth engine, plunged 10.3 percent, the steepest fall in a decade, last year, but Moon did not mention this. Trade surplus shrank to a seven-year low, but he did not broach this, either. Instead, he noted 11 straight years of trade surplus.
The Federation of Korean Trade Unions, which habitually uses violence in industrial sites and rallies, has become the largest trade group in the nation. And yet Moon vowed to work harder to establish a society that respects labor. Militant unions of large companies hurt industrial competitiveness, but the government merely looks on.
The National Intelligence Service concluded it was impossible to negotiate with North Korea to scrap its nuclear programs in exchange for sanctions relief. Nevertheless, Moon emphasized inter-Korean cooperation to induce talks between Washington and Pyongyang. He asked North Korean leader Kim Jong-un again to visit South Korea in return for his visit to Pyongyang, but it is questionable if conditions are appropriate for such a proposal. He also proposed South and North Korea submit a joint bid to host the 2032 Summer Olympics.
The North vowed to develop "a new strategic weapon" and take a "shocking" action. Pyongyang poured out raw criticism of Moon's peace proposals.
His reiteration of inter-Korean relations sounds hollow and unrealistic. He did not mention how to denuclearize North Korea. Pursuit of cooperation with the North without a blueprint for denuclearization is putting the cart before the horse. His words are cause of concern that a hasty push for inter-Korean cooperation may weaken the US-led security cooperation against the communist state.
He avoided mentioning former Justice Minister Cho Kuk, regarded as the epitome of injustice, who caused a strong backlash from the people. Instead, he said his government made strenuous efforts to eliminate "foul play" and "undue privilege." This is a mockery to those who condemned the foul play and abuse of privilege shown by Cho's family.
Cheong Wa Dae is putting pressure on the prosecution apparently to prevent it from pursuing its investigations into corruption and election meddling allegations against figures close to Moon.
He defended the recently passed law on the establishment of an investigation agency that critics worry may sweep irregularities involving his cronies under the carpet. He called it a system for a fair and equal rule of law over everybody. It's a far-fetched interpretation.
In this situation, Cheong Wa Dae, the government and the ruling party will spend 62 percent of this year's budget in the first half of the year and as much of it as possible before April. They say that aims at stimulating the economy but by any reckoning, it targets the April 15 general election.
As many as some 70 former and current Cheong Wa Dae officials are expected to run in the general election for the 300-member National Assembly. Some officials, even in the ruling party, are said to complain that this is too many. It is questionable if they, distracted by the elections, did or are doing their best to perform their jobs at Cheong Wa Dae. State affairs can be chaotic. This is a worrying situation.
(END)


yna--2020-01-09--Top headlines in major S. Korean newspapers

Korean-language dailies -- Iran 'slaps U.S. in the face , ' but Trump says U.S. does n't want to use @ @ @ @ @ -- Prosecution reshuffle replaces all senior prosecutors who targeted presidential office ( Kookmin Daily ) @ @ @ @ @ attack , U.S. says will impose more sanctions on Iran ( Donga llbo ) -- @ @ @ @ @ replaced ( Seoul Shinmun ) -- Reshuffle replaces all aides of top prosecutor looking into @ @ @ @ @ ) -- Massacre of top prosecutor 's team that has been looking into Moon administration @ @ @ @ @ Massacre of prosecution , reshuffle mutilates hands and feet of top prosecutor ( JoongAng Ilbo @ @ @ @ @ close aides who had been investigating current administration all replaced ( Hankyoreh ) -- Iran @ @ @ @ @ Middle East wrapped in flames ( Hankook Ilbo ) -- Iran attacks U.S. bases , @ @ @ @ @ ( Maeil Business Newspaper ) -- Despite Iran 's missile attack , Trump says wo @ @ @ @ @ Economic Daily )

SEOUL, Jan. 9 (Yonhap) -- The following are the top headlines in major South Korean newspapers on Jan. 9.
Korean-language dailies
-- Iran 'slaps U.S. in the face,' but Trump says U.S. doesn't want to use missiles (Kyunghyang Shinmun)
-- Prosecution reshuffle replaces all senior prosecutors who targeted presidential office (Kookmin Daily)
-- Iran's retaliatory missile attack, U.S. says will impose more sanctions on Iran (Donga llbo)
-- Top prosecutor's team completely replaced (Seoul Shinmun)
-- Reshuffle replaces all aides of top prosecutor looking into presidential office (Segye Times)
-- Massacre of top prosecutor's team that has been looking into Moon administration (Chosun Ilbo)
-- Massacre of prosecution, reshuffle mutilates hands and feet of top prosecutor (JoongAng Ilbo)
-- Top prosecutor's close aides who had been investigating current administration all replaced (Hankyoreh)
-- Iran's revenge on U.S., Middle East wrapped in flames (Hankook Ilbo)
-- Iran attacks U.S. bases, tensions heighten in Middle East (Maeil Business Newspaper)
-- Despite Iran's missile attack, Trump says won't react militarily (Korea Economic Daily)
English-language dailies
-- Hormuz choice gets more fraught (Korea JoongAng Daily)
-- Iran fires missiles at U.S. bases in Iraq (Korea Herald)
-- Iran attack targets U.S. forces in Iraq (Korea Times)
(END)


yna--2020-01-09--(LEAD) Trump announces more sanctions on Iran after attack on U.S. bases

`` Iran appears to be standing down , '' the president said .
`` To the people and leaders of @ @ @ @ @ to have a future and a great future -- one that you deserve , one @ @ @ @ @ and harmony with the nations of the world .
The United States is ready to @ @ @ @ @ seek it . ''

(ATTN: UPDATES with details in paras 1, 6-9)
By Lee Haye-ah
WASHINGTON, Jan. 8 (Yonhap) -- U.S. President Donald Trump on Wednesday announced "powerful" sanctions on Iran in response to Tehran's attacks on two U.S. bases in Iraq, pulling back from the use of further military force.
Trump said in a televised address from the White House that there were no American casualties from Tuesday's ballistic missile strikes on the bases, which came in retaliation for the U.S. slaying of Gen. Qassem Soleimani, the head of Iran's elite Quds Force.
This Reuters photo shows U.S. President Donald Trump delivering a statement about Iran flanked by U.S. Defense Secretary Mark Esper, Army Chief of Staff Gen. James McConville and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Army Gen. Mark Milley in the Grand Foyer at the White House in Washington on Jan. 8, 2020. (Yonhap)
"As we continue to evaluate options in response to Iranian aggression, the United States will immediately impose additional punishing economic sanctions on the Iranian regime," the president said. "These powerful sanctions will remain until Iran changes its behavior."
Trump said the American military has been rebuilt under his administration to make it "stronger than ever before."
"The fact that we have this great military and equipment, however, does not mean we have to use it," he said. "We do not want to use it. American strength, both military and economic, is the best deterrent."
Tensions between the two countries had mounted after Trump ordered the killing of Soleimani last week. The Iranian general was responsible for recent attacks in Iraq that left one American dead and four American soldiers wounded. Trump said he was also planning new attacks on American targets.
Iran vowed to retaliate against the U.S. and announced it would no longer abide by the 2015 nuclear deal it signed with the U.S. and other world powers.
"As long as I am president of the United States, Iran will never be allowed to have a nuclear weapon," Trump said, urging Britain, Germany, France, Russia, and China to also abandon the deal he withdrew the U.S. from and work together to reach a deal with Iran that would make the world a safer and more peaceful place.
"Iran appears to be standing down," the president said. "To the people and leaders of Iran: We want you to have a future and a great future -- one that you deserve, one of prosperity at home, and harmony with the nations of the world. The United States is ready to embrace peace with all who seek it."
hague@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-01-09--Trump announces more sanctions on Iran after attack on U.S. bases

`` The fact that we have this great military and equipment , however , does not mean we have to @ @ @ @ @ said .
`` We do not want to use it .
American strength , both @ @ @ @ @ the best deterrent . ''

WASHINGTON, Jan. 8 (Yonhap) -- U.S. President Donald Trump on Wednesday announced "powerful" sanctions on Iran in response to Tehran's attacks on two U.S. bases in Iraq.
Trump said in a televised address from the White House that there were no American casualties from Tuesday's ballistic missile launches targeting the bases, which came in retaliation for the U.S. slaying of Gen. Qassem Soleimani, the head of Iran's elite Quds Force.
"As we continue to evaluate options in response to Iranian aggression, the United States will immediately impose additional punishing economic sanctions on the Iranian regime," the president said. "These powerful sanctions will remain until Iran changes its behavior."
Trump said the American military has been rebuilt under his administration to make it "stronger than ever before."
"The fact that we have this great military and equipment, however, does not mean we have to use it," he said. "We do not want to use it. American strength, both military and economic, is the best deterrent."
This Reuters photo shows U.S. President Donald Trump delivering a statement about Iran flanked by U.S. Defense Secretary Mark Esper, Army Chief of Staff General James McConville and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Army General Mark Milley in the Grand Foyer at the White House in Washington on Jan. 8, 2020. (Yonhap)
hague@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-01-09--(LEAD) Court rejects arrest warrant for ex-coast guard chief in Sewol probe

`` At this stage , it is difficult to recognize the need for arrest ( based on concerns the suspects @ @ @ @ @ evidence , '' Judge Lim Min-seong said , citing various factors , such as the @ @ @ @ @ prosecutors , the suspects ' jobs and their cooperation with the investigation .
Lim reviewed @ @ @ @ @ of the suspects , including Kim .

(ATTN: UPDATES with details in paras 3-5)
SEOUL, Jan. 9 (Yonhap) -- A Seoul court on Thursday denied a request for a warrant to arrest a former coast guard chief for his alleged mishandling of one of the country's worst maritime disasters, in which more than 300 people died.
The Seoul Central District Court dismissed the prosecution's request to arrest Kim Suk-kyoon, who led the Korea Coast Guard when the 6,800-ton ferry Sewol sank in waters off the country's southwestern coast on April 16, 2014.
The court also denied arrest warrants for five other incumbent and former coast guard officials who took part in the rescue operations in the aftermath of the Sewol sinking.
"At this stage, it is difficult to recognize the need for arrest (based on concerns the suspects may) flee or destroy evidence," Judge Lim Min-seong said, citing various factors, such as the level of evidence submitted by prosecutors, the suspects' jobs and their cooperation with the investigation. Lim reviewed the warrant requests for three of the suspects, including Kim.
Judge Shin Jong-yeol, who reviewed the warrant requests for the other three, offered similar reasons in declining their arrests.
Former Korea Coast Guard chief Kim Suk-kyoon speaks to reporters ahead of attending an arrest warrant hearing at the Seoul Central District Court on Jan. 8, 2020. (Yonhap)
Upon arriving at the district court early Wednesday morning, Kim told reporters that he would "modestly follow the court's decision if it can help heal the wounded hearts of the victims' families" when questioned about his responsibility over the failed rescue operations.
He stressed, however, that the coast guard had "put in all its might to rescue one more person in an urgent situation."
On Monday, state prosecutors filed a request to detain Kim and the five other officials for failing to properly carry out rescue operations during the ferry accident, leading to the deaths of 303 passengers and injuries of 142 others.
They also charged some of the officials with forging official documents to cover up their failings.
Prosecutors have been looking into the 2014 accident after a special investigative unit was established in November to determine the exact cause of the fatal disaster and probe any mishandling of the rescue operations by the former conservative administration.
More than five years have passed since the tragedy, but many people still believe the truth behind it and the government's search-and-rescue operations and other responses have yet to come to light.
Yellow flags and ribbons mourning the deaths of Sewol victims decorate a port in Jindo, South Jeolla Province on Nov. 30, 2019. (Yonhap)
mlee@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-01-09--Court rejects arrest warrant for ex-coast guard chief in Sewol probe

More than five years have passed since the tragedy , but many people still believe the truth behind it and @ @ @ @ @ and other responses have yet to come to light .

SEOUL, Jan. 9 (Yonhap) -- A Seoul court on Thursday denied a request for a warrant to arrest a former coast guard chief for his alleged mishandling of one of the country's worst maritime disasters, in which more than 300 people died.
The Seoul Central District Court dismissed the prosecution's request to arrest Kim Suk-kyoon, who led the Korea Coast Guard when the 6,800-ton ferry Sewol sank in waters off the country's southwestern coast on April 16, 2014.
Upon arriving at the district court early morning, Kim told reporters that he would "modestly follow the court's decision if it can help heal the wounded hearts of the victims' families" when questioned about his responsibility over the failed rescue operations.
He stressed, however, that the coast guard had "put in all its might to rescue one more person in an urgent situation."
Former Korea Coast Guard chief Kim Suk-kyoon speaks to reporters ahead of attending an arrest warrant hearing at the Seoul Central District Court on Jan. 8, 2020. (Yonhap)
On Monday, state prosecutors filed a request to detain Kim and five other officials for failing to properly carry out rescue operations during the ferry accident, leading to the deaths of 303 passengers and injuries of 142 others.
They also charged the officials with forging official documents to cover up their failings.
Prosecutors have been looking into the 2014 accident after a special investigative unit was established in November to determine the exact cause of the fatal disaster and probe any mishandling of the rescue operations by the former conservative administration.
More than five years have passed since the tragedy, but many people still believe the truth behind it and the government's search-and-rescue operations and other responses have yet to come to light.
Yellow flags and ribbons mourning the deaths of Sewol victims decorate a port in Jindo, South Jeolla Province on Nov. 30, 2019. (Yonhap)
mlee@yna.co.kr
(END)


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(END)


yna--2020-01-08--Ex-justice minister's wife seeks bail

Ex-justice minister's wife seeks bail

SEOUL , Jan. 8 ( Yonhap ) -- Former Justice Minister Cho Kuk 's wife , who was arrested over @ @ @ @ @ 's college admission and a financial investment , has applied for bail on grounds of @ @ @ @ @ to defense , the court said Wednesday .

SEOUL, Jan. 8 (Yonhap) -- Former Justice Minister Cho Kuk's wife, who was arrested over allegations related to their daughter's college admission and a financial investment, has applied for bail on grounds of failing health and her right to defense, the court said Wednesday.
Chung Kyung-sim, a university professor, filed the request at the Seoul Central District Court.
She was arrested in late October and faces trial on 15 counts related to her involvement in a dubious private equity fund and alleged fabrication of her daughter's credentials for school admission.
Prosecutors said they are opposed to granting bail, citing the possibility that Chung could destroy evidence.
(END)


yna--2020-01-08--(LEAD) S. Korea replaces senior prosecutors leading probes into high-profile scandals

Involved in the shakeup was Han Dong-hoon , the head of the anti-corruption department , who has been in charge @ @ @ @ @ by Cho 's family and his suspected role in ending an inspection into bribery allegations @ @ @ @ @ mayor .

(ATTN: UPDATES with details throughout; ADDS byline)
By Kim Kwang-tae
SEOUL, Jan. 8 (Yonhap) -- The Justice Ministry on Wednesday replaced senior prosecutors who have led investigations into a raft of scandals involving former Justice Minister Cho Kuk and some presidential officials.
The surprise move affected 32 senior posts at the prosecution office, relegating Prosecutor General Yoon Seok-youl's key lieutenants to provincial and less important positions.
The reshuffle came amid escalating tensions between the prosecution and the presidential office over its probes into Cho, a former presidential aide and one of the staunchest proponents of prosecution reform, and other Cheong Wa Dae officials.
Prosecutor General Yoon Seok-youl (L) and senior prosecutors, Han Dong-hoon (R) and Kang Nam-il, walk toward a memorial tower at Seoul National Cemetery on Jan. 2, 2020. (Yonhap)
Involved in the shakeup was Han Dong-hoon, the head of the anti-corruption department, who has been in charge of probes into alleged irregularities by Cho's family and his suspected role in ending an inspection into bribery allegations involving a former Busan vice mayor.
Han was assigned to the No. 2 post in the prosecutors office in the southeastern port city of Busan.
Another key prosecutor replaced in the reshuffle is Park Chan-ho, who had been in charge of probes into allegations that the presidential office helped President Moon Jae-in's close friend win the 2018 mayoral election in Ulsan, an industrial city located about 400 kilometers southeast of Seoul.
Park was named as the head of the prosecution office in the southern resort island of Jeju.
Some incumbent and former presidential officials are suspected of conspiring to help Moon's close friend, Ulsan mayor Song Cheol-ho, win the mayoral race in the southeastern city in 2018 and of covering up an inquiry into a bribery case of former Busan Vice Mayor Yoo Jae-soo.
The probes have blown up into major cases involving multiple raids at government offices, including the presidential office and the finance ministry. Key figures, including former Justice Minister Cho, have also been questioned in relation to the allegations.
The presidential office has flatly denied the suspicions.
The reshuffle came five days after new Justice Minister Choo Mi-ae took office with a pledge to reform the prosecution in what she called "the demand of the times."
The post of justice minister had been vacant for more than two months since her predecessor, Cho Kuk, stepped down amid a prosecution probe into his family's alleged academic fraud and financial wrongdoing.
The ministry had wrangled with Supreme Prosecutors Office over a procedure under which the justice minister is required to listen to the prosecutor general's opinions on a reshuffle of prosecutors.
Prosecutor General Yoon was strongly trusted by Moon as he led intense probes into crimes committed by figures of the Park Geun-hye administration.
Still, Yoon's ties with the presidential office appeared to have soured as prosecutors have zeroed in on those close to Moon, especially Cho, who led the prosecution reform drive.
Jun Hee-kyung, a spokeswoman of the conservative Liberty Korea Party, condemned the reshuffle and claimed that the justice minister could face charges of abuse of power.
"The reshuffle is tantamount to an order by the presidential office that prosecutors stop investigations into those crimes," she said.
The Supreme Prosecutors Office said it had no plan to make an official statement on the reshuffle, though prosecutors said ongoing probes will continue unabated.
The ruling Democratic Party called on the prosecution to use the reshuffle as momentum to proceed with its self-reform.
Prosecution reform is one of Moon's top presidential campaign pledges.
On Tuesday, Moon instructed the Cabinet to quickly take measures to launch a non-prosecution agency tasked with investigating corruption by high-ranking government officials, following a related law that was passed late last year.
The envisioned agency would be armed with the authority to probe high-profile corruption scandals and the right to indict state prosecutors, judges and senior police officers.
This would break the prosecution's decadeslong monopoly over the right to indict.
entropy@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-01-09--PM regrets chief prosecutor's behavior over personnel reorganization

`` It is regrettable , in light of the attitude of a public servant , that the prosecutor general refused @ @ @ @ @ to hear his opinions in the process of a personnel reshuffle , a process stipulated @ @ @ @ @ , '' Prime Minister Lee was quoted as saying by his office .

SEOUL, Jan. 9 (Yonhap) -- Prime Minister Lee Nak-yon expressed regret Thursday over the prosecutor general's failure to comply with due procedure ahead of the announcement the previous day of a personnel reshuffle of senior prosecutors, which affected most of his close aides.
On Wednesday, the justice ministry announced the reassignment of 32 senior prosecutors, including those who are close to Prosecutor General Yoon Seok-youl and leading probes in high-profile scandals involving former Justice Minister Cho Kuk and other presidential officials.
The justice minister and the chief prosecutor are supposed to consult before the minister makes a recommendation to the president regarding personnel changes among prosecutors.
Justice Minister Choo Mi-ae said that she had followed due process by asking Yoon to submit his opinions several times, but he refused to do so. In a parliamentary meeting Thursday, she said Yoon "disobeyed her order."
"It is regrettable, in light of the attitude of a public servant, that the prosecutor general refused the justice minister's request to hear his opinions in the process of a personnel reshuffle, a process stipulated by the prosecution office act," Prime Minister Lee was quoted as saying by his office.
Lee ordered the justice minister to review and take "necessary measures," his office added, though it did not specify what those measures would be.
In this photo, provided by the Prime Minister's Secretariat, Prime Minister Lee Nak-yon talks with Justice Minister Choo Mi-ae on the phone over the reshuffle of senior prosecutors, in his office in Seoul on Jan. 9, 2020. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)
The reshuffle drew strong protest from the main opposition Liberty Korea Party, which called it an attempt to hamper the investigations into officials closely associated with the presidential office.
It came five days after Minister Choo took office with a pledge to reform the prosecution in what she called "the demand of the times."
The post of justice minister had been vacant for more than two months since her predecessor, Cho Kuk, stepped down amid a prosecution probe into his family's alleged academic fraud and financial wrongdoing.
Yoon was strongly trusted by President Moon Jae-in but ties between the two appear to have soured as Yoon's team has zeroed in Cho, a close aide to the president and key architect of his prosecution reform drive.
(END)


yna--2020-01-09--S. Korea defeats Kazakhstan to top group at Olympic women's volleyball qualifying tournament

South Korea jumped out to a 5-0 lead in the second set , but Kazakhstan crept back into the match @ @ @ @ @ South Korea .
But then South Korea pulled away to a 17-11 lead , with @ @ @ @ @ kills and Yang Hyo-jin 's aces .

SEOUL, Jan. 9 (Yonhap) -- South Korea beat Kazakhstan to win its group in the preliminary round of the Olympic women's volleyball qualifying tournament on Thursday.
Lee Jae-yeong put up 18 points, helping world No. 9 South Korea past the 23rd-ranked Kazakhstan 3-0 (25-20, 25-16, 25-21) for its third straight victory in Pool B at Korat Chatchai Hall in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand. South Korea didn't drop a set during the preliminary stage.
The winner of this tournament will compete at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.
In this photo provided by FIVB on Jan. 9, 2020, South Korean players celebrate a point against Kazakhstan in their Pool B match of the Asian Olympic women's volleyball qualification tournament at Korat Chatchai Hall in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)
Both South Korea and Kazakhstan had secured their semifinals berths with their victories on Wednesday, and South Korea clinched the top seed in Pool B with Thursday's win.
As the Pool B winner, South Korea will face the Pool A runner-up in Saturday's semifinals. The other semifinal match will pit Kazakhstan against the Pool A winner.
Pool A teams are: Thailand, Chinese Taipei and Australia. Thailand and Australia will meet in their final Pool A match later Thursday.
Barring major upsets, South Korea and Thailand are expected to clash in Sunday's final. South Korea is pursuing its third straight appearance in the Olympics, while Thailand has never played in the Olympics.
South Korea overcame an undisclosed injury to its captain and top offensive player, Kim Yeon-koung, midway through the first set.
She was pulled with South Korea holding on to a 16-15 lead. Other attacking stars, Kang So-hwi and Lee Jae-yeong, stepped up their games and put South Korea ahead 22-18. And Lee scored the set point with a powerful spike.
South Korea jumped out to a 5-0 lead in the second set, but Kazakhstan crept back into the match and made it 10-9 for South Korea. But then South Korea pulled away to a 17-11 lead, with a combination of Kang's kills and Yang Hyo-jin's aces.
South Korea briefly trailed 9-8 in the third before going ahead 17-12. Kazakhstan refused to go away easily and pulled into an 18-18 tie.
With the teams tied at 20-20, South Korea's Kim Su-ji scored three consecutive aces. Then with a 23-21 lead, Lee Jae-yeong got in a spike to set up the match point. Her twin sister, Lee Da-yeong, closed out the contest with an ace, South Korea's sixth of the day.
In this photo provided by FIVB on Jan. 9, 2020, Kim Yeon-koung of South Korea (L) hits a spike against Alessya Safronova of Kazakhstan in their Pool B match of the Asian Olympic women's volleyball qualification tournament at Korat Chatchai Hall in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)
jeeho@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-01-09--Finance minister vows more support for SMEs to increase exports

The move came as many young South Koreans seek to strike a balance between work and life , and it @ @ @ @ @ Moon Jae-in 's key election pledges to enhance the quality of life for workers and @ @ @ @ @ say that the shorter workweek could undermine corporate competitiveness , including for companies in the @ @ @ @ @ Some workers also complain that the reduced working hours have led to a drop in @ @ @

SEJONG, Jan. 9 (Yonhap) -- Finance Minister Hong Nam-ki said Thursday the government will provide more support for small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to increase their exports this year.
Hong made the remarks as he visited a ventilator maker in the city of Hwaseong, south of Seoul, earlier in the day.
South Korea's exports have dropped for 13 consecutive months since December 2018.
Hong said the government expanded its contract-based loan guarantees for SMEs to 200 billion won (US$172 million) this year, compared with 50 billion won last year.
Also, the government will look into its plan for how to deal with a looming shorter workweek at smaller firms, Hong said.
Finance Minister Hong Nam-ki visits a ventilator maker in Hwaseong, south of Seoul, on Jan. 9, 2020. (Yonhap)
In 2018, the 52-hour workweek went into effect for companies with more than 300 employees. Firms with 50 to 299 workers have been subject to the new rule since the start of the year, while those with five to 49 employees will be subject to the rule from July 1, 2021.
The move came as many young South Koreans seek to strike a balance between work and life, and it is in line with President Moon Jae-in's key election pledges to enhance the quality of life for workers and help create jobs.
Critics say that the shorter workweek could undermine corporate competitiveness, including for companies in the research and development sector. Some workers also complain that the reduced working hours have led to a drop in their earnings.
kdh@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-01-09--(2nd LD) S. Korea's NSC checks emergency response system in Middle East

Vice Finance Minister Kim Yong-beom and Vice Industry , Trade and Energy Minister Cheong Seung-il provided briefings on the potential @ @ @ @ @ economy , including the supply of oil and gas , from the crisis in the @ @ @ @ @ Wa Dae .

(ATTN: CHANGES headline; UPDATES throughout with NSC meeting results)
SEOUL, Jan. 9 (Yonhap) -- South Korea's top security officials on Thursday reviewed the country's "emergency response system" for its citizens and firms in the Middle East and ships sailing through the area where military tensions have increased, Cheong Wa Dae said.
In a standing committee session of the National Security Council (NSC), they assessed the current security conditions involving the stand-off between Iran and the United States, which have traded tit-for-tat attacks.
Vice Finance Minister Kim Yong-beom and Vice Industry, Trade and Energy Minister Cheong Seung-il provided briefings on the potential impact to Asia's fourth-largest economy, including the supply of oil and gas, from the crisis in the region, according to Cheong Wa Dae.
The NSC members agreed to continue closely monitoring related situations and take measures if necessary, it added.
They also reviewed ways to cooperate with the international community to help promptly ease tensions and stabilize security conditions there.
The economic policymakers attended the NSC session, although they are not formal members of the panel.
With Chung Eui-yong, director of Cheong Wa Dae's national security office, travelling to Washington, D.C., for consultations with his American and Japanese counterparts, Noh Young-min, presidential chief of staff, presided over the meeting.
It marked the second session of the NSC standing committee this week, following the previous one on Monday.
lcd@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-01-09--S. Korea stays alive in Olympic men's volleyball qualifying tournament with narrow win

Qatar , which earlier defeated India and Australia by 3-0 , still finished first in Pool B with seven points @ @ @ @ @ a 3-1 win are both worth three points , and a 3-2 win is worth @ @ @ @ @ and one point for the loser .

SEOUL, Jan. 9 (Yonhap) -- South Korea advanced to the semifinals of the Asian Olympic men's volleyball qualifying tournament on Thursday, beating Qatar in a five-set thriller in China to stay alive in the competition.
Park Chul-woo led all players with 20 points, as 24th-ranked South Korea prevailed over 33rd-ranked Qatar 3-2 (25-18, 28-26, 22-25, 20-25, 15-13) in the final Pool B match at Jiangmen Sports Center Gymnasium in Jiangmen, China.
South Korea nearly blew a 2-0 set lead, and was down 9-7 in the fifth set before staging a late rally.
South Korea finished second in Pool B, behind Qatar, and those two countries are moving on to Saturday's semifinals. Only the winner of the tournament will compete at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.
In this photo provided by FIVB on Jan. 9, 2020, Jeon Kwang-in of South Korea (R) hits a spike against Belal Nabel Abunabot of Qatar in their Pool B match of the Asian Olympic men's volleyball qualification tournament at Jiangmen Sports Center Gymnasium in Jiangmen, China. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)
South Korea's last appearance in Olympic men's volleyball came at Sydney 2000.
Qatar, which earlier defeated India and Australia by 3-0, still finished first in Pool B with seven points. A 3-0 win and a 3-1 win are both worth three points, and a 3-2 win is worth two points for the winner and one point for the loser.
South Korea opened the tournament with a 3-2 loss to Australia, but defeated India 3-0 and then had another five-setter on Thursday, earning six points.
In the semis, South Korea and Qatar will be joined by the top two nations from Pool A, Iran and China.
Those two secured their semifinals berths after Wednesday's wins, and they'll clash later Thursday with the top seed in Pool A at stake.
As the No. 2 seed from Pool B, South Korea will face the Pool A winner in the semifinals.
Coached by Im Do-hun, South Korea faced a must-win situation against Qatar, which stunned No. 15 Australia in straight sets on Wednesday. Given that South Korea lost to Australia earlier in the week, the team's chances of getting past Qatar didn't appear all that great.
But South Korea came out firing early on, taking a 7-1 lead in the first set and building a seemingly comfortable 18-8 advantage. Qatar got it to 19-16, before Jung Ji-seok and Choi Min-ho went on a tear to take the set at 25-18.
South Korea held the set point in the next frame at 24-23, but the teams went to deuce. With South Korea up 27-26, Jeon Kwang-in's clinching spike gave South Korea a 2-0 set lead.
South Korea dropped the next two sets, as Qatar shored up its defense. And in the deciding fifth set, South Korea battled to take a 12-11 lead. And with a 14-13 lead, South Korea lucked into the win thanks to Qatar's blunder with the serve.
In this photo provided by FIVB on Jan. 9, 2020, Shin Yung-sik of South Korea celebrates a point against Qatar in the teams' Pool B match of the Asian Olympic men's volleyball qualification tournament at Jiangmen Sports Center Gymnasium in Jiangmen, China. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)
jeeho@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-01-09--(LEAD) Rival parties agree to handle non-contentious bills first in plenary session

Industry watchers expect the three data bills , if passed , to help local firms enhance their global competitiveness in @ @ @ @ @ resolution by easing regulations on the use of personal information , as well as credit @ @

(ATTN: RECASTS lead paras; UPDATES with details on data-related legislation in last 5 paras; ADDS photo)
SEOUL, Jan. 9 (Yonhap) -- Ruling and opposition parties agreed Thursday to prioritize the handling of pending non-contentious bills aimed at improving people's livelihoods.
Once a plenary session of the National Assembly opens, the ruling Democratic Party (DP) and the main opposition Liberty Korea Party (LKP) plan to put a host of relevant bills to vote immediately.
But they agreed to put several contentious fast-tracked bills on the back burner. Those included proposed legislation on granting police more investigative authority.
The DP and the LKP have left the door open for negotiations on the prosecution reform bills before they are introduced formally at the plenary session, probably on Friday.
Also at issue is a package of bills on toughening regulations on private pre-schools with state subsidies to enhance the transparency of their accounting practices.
The ruling party warned that the LKP is running out of time.
The DP leader, Rep. Lee Hae-chan, said his party would be able to wrap up the long-delayed legislative process by the middle of this month.
Earlier in the day, parliament's legislation and judiciary committee passed three revision bills on personal data use -- the Personal Information Protection Act, the Protection of Credit Information Act and the Information and Communications Network Act.
The revision bills are intended to enable the use of personal information, offered under alias and processed technologically to conceal the provider's identity, without his or her consent for compiling statistics and industrial research purposes.
Industry watchers expect the three data bills, if passed, to help local firms enhance their global competitiveness in response to the fourth industrial resolution by easing regulations on the use of personal information, as well as credit information.
In August 2018, President Moon Jae-in stated that "data economy" is a key to South Korea's innovative growth. He expressed his determination to improve a legal system so that South Korea can emerge as a global powerhouse in data use, beyond an internet-savvy nation.
The panel, however, did not touch on the so-called anti-Tada bill on banning taxi-style services with rented mini-vans and outsourced drivers.
lcd@yna.co.kr
(END)


Yonhap News Summary

`` I think the stance of the United States and ours can not always be the same in political analysis @ @ @ @ @ with countries in the Middle East , '' Kang told lawmakers in a meeting at @ @ @ @

The following is the second summary of major stories moved by Yonhap News Agency on Thursday.
----------------
Top diplomats of S. Korea, U.S. to hold talks in San Francisco next week
SEOUL -- The top diplomats of South Korea and the United States will hold talks in San Francisco next week to discuss peace efforts with North Korea, tensions in the Middle East and the bilateral alliance, Seoul's foreign ministry said Thursday.
Foreign Minister Kang Kyung-wha and her U.S. counterpart Mike Pompeo were set to meet Tuesday, the ministry said, as Seoul and Washington face a set of tricky issues, including tense defense cost-sharing negotiations.
----------------
FM says S. Korea's stance cannot always be aligned with U.S.
SEOUL -- Seoul cannot always be on the same page as Washington, Foreign Minister Kang Kyung-wha told lawmakers Thursday when asked about the government's stance on sending troops to the Strait of Hormuz.
"I think the stance of the United States and ours cannot always be the same in political analysis and when considering bilateral ties with countries in the Middle East," Kang told lawmakers in a meeting at the National Assembly.
----------------
Another Korean victim of forced labor wins suit against Japanese firm
SEOUL -- A South Korean victim of wartime forced labor in Japan again won a compensation lawsuit against a Japanese company Thursday.
The Seoul Central District Court ordered Japan's Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Ltd. to pay 10 million won (US$8,610) to a South Korean man surnamed Kim to compensate for his forced labor during Japan's brutal colonial rule of the Korean Peninsula.
----------------
(LEAD) NSC to hold this week's second meeting on Iran issue
SEOUL -- South Korea's top security officials were poised to open another National Security Council (NSC) session Thursday to focus on Middle East security conditions.
It will be the second session of the NSC standing committee this week following the previous one on Monday.
----------------
(LEAD) Top court orders review of ex-senior prosecutor's jail term in MeToo case
SEOUL -- South Korea's top court on Thursday ordered a lower court to reconsider its jail sentence for a former senior prosecutor who allegedly reassigned a junior colleague he sexually harassed to a remote area in an attempt to cover up the case, which later sparked the MeToo movement here.
Seo Ji-hyun claimed that Ahn Tae-geun groped her during a funeral dinner in 2010 and later meddled in a 2015 reshuffle to send her to the coastal city of Tongyeong as rumors of the sexual abuse began to spread within the prosecution.
----------------
(LEAD) (CES 2020) LG's rollable TV could go on sale as early as H1: CEO
LAS VEGAS -- LG Electronics Inc. may begin selling its rollable OLED TV as early as the first half of the year, the South Korean company's new CEO said Wednesday, expressing hope the launch will help expand the company's presence in the premium TV sector.
Brian Kwon, who became LG Electronics' CEO in late November, said the company's rollable TV is expected to hit the market no later than the end of the third quarter.
----------------
N. Korea ranks No.1 in military spending as percentage of GDP
SEOUL -- North Korea ranked No.1 in the world in terms of the proportion of military spending in gross domestic product between 2007-2017, though the total amount accounts for only one-tenth of South Korea's military expenditure, a U.S. State Department report showed.
According to the State Department's World Military Expenditures and Arms Transfers 2019 report, the North's military expenditure averaged about US$3.6 billion a year. That accounts for 13.4 to 23.3 percent of the country's average GDP of $17 billion during the period.
----------------
Major talent agencies see exodus of contract artists
SEOUL -- IU, one of the most loved South Korean female soloists and actresses, recently parted with the management agency she had been with for her entire entertainment career, deciding to move on to a new, smaller agency.
The decision relocated IU, whose legal name is Lee Ji-eun, to EDAM Entertainment from Kakao M, whose former name was Loen Entertainment. Under Loen, the 27-year-old debuted in 2008 and built a solid career.
(END)


yna--2020-01-09--(LEAD) Hyundai, Kia's U.S. sales rise 4.6 pct on brisk demand for SUVs in 2019

The new models include the GV80 SUV and G80 sedan to be launched under Hyundai 's independent Genesis brand the @ @ @ @ @ first half of 2020 and Hyundai 's Tucson SUV and Kia 's Sportage SUV and @ @ @ @ @ in the second half .

(ATTN: CHANGES headline and lead; UPDATES Hyundai's sales figures to include Genesis model sales; ADDS details in paras 5, 10-11)
By Choi Kyong-ae
SEOUL, Jan. 9 (Yonhap) -- Hyundai Motor Co. and its affiliate Kia Motors Corp. said Thursday their combined sales in the United States rose 4.6 percent last year, helped by robust sales of SUVs.
In 2019, Hyundai and Kia sold a combined 1,304,109 vehicles in the world's most important automobile market, up 4.6 percent from 1,257,307 units the previous year, the companies' sales data showed.
The annual figures include sales of Genesis models that are sold under Hyundai's independent Genesis brand.
Hyundai and Genesis' U.S. sales climbed 4.7 percent on-year to 710,044 units last year from 667,944 a year earlier. Kia's climbed 4.4 percent to 615,338 from 589,673 during the same period.
The G70, G80 and G90 models are available in the U.S. market, and the GV80, the first SUV under the Genesis brand, is set to be launched on Jan. 15 in South Korea.
SUV sales accounted for over 50 percent of Hyundai's total sales in the U.S. last year, the data showed. Hyundai's SUV lineup includes the flagship SUV Palisade and compact, entry-level SUV Venue.
This file photo provided by Kia shows the carmaker's Telluride SUV. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)
Kia's sales were also helped by SUV models such as the Sportage, Sorento and Telluride.
"The unprecedented consumer interest in the Telluride boosted Kia's sales and demand for the model continues to outpace supply more than 11 months after its introduction," Kia said in a statement.
The Telluride, manufactured in Kia's U.S. plant and sold in North American markets only, was named the 2020 SUV of the year by MotorTrend.
Hyundai and Kia's sales growth far outpaced those of German and Japanese carmakers in the U.S., where overall vehicle sales fell 1.2 percent on-year to 17,108,156 last year. Local auto giant General Motors Co. reported a 2.3 percent on-year sales decline to 2,887,046 units, according to Automotive News.
BMW and Mercedes-Benz posted 1.8 percent and 0.8 percent on-year growth to 362,238 and 358,409 units, respectively. Toyota Motors Corp. suffered a 1.8 percent on-year drop to 2,383,348 units, the weekly auto magazine said.
Hyundai and Kia sold a combined 7.19 million autos in global markets last year, missing their annual sales target of 7.55 million units on lower demand in China, the world's biggest automobile market.
In 2020, they are aiming to sell 7.54 million autos by launching a series of fully revamped models in major markets.
The new models include the GV80 SUV and G80 sedan to be launched under Hyundai's independent Genesis brand the Genesis G80 sedan in the first half of 2020 and Hyundai's Tucson SUV and Kia's Sportage SUV and Carnival van to be released in the second half.
kyongae.choi@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-01-09--(LEAD) FM says S. Korea's stance cannot always be aligned with U.S. on Strait of Hormuz dispatch

The foreign minister said the government has not yet reached a conclusion on dispatching troops to help safeguard the Strait @ @ @ @ @ vital area that serves as a route to the open ocean for more than one-sixth @ @ @ @ @ some 70 percent of South Korea 's oil imports .

(ATTN: RECASTS headline, ADDS details in last para)
SEOUL, Jan. 9 (Yonhap) -- Seoul cannot always be on the same page as Washington, Foreign Minister Kang Kyung-wha told lawmakers Thursday when asked about the government's stance on sending troops to the Strait of Hormuz.
"I think the stance of the United States and ours cannot always be the same in political analysis and when considering bilateral ties with countries in the Middle East," Kang told lawmakers in a meeting at the National Assembly.
"We have sustained economic ties with Iran for a long time and at the moment are continuously trying (to carry out exchanges) in humanitarian assistance and education."
The foreign minister said the government has not yet reached a conclusion on dispatching troops to help safeguard the Strait of Hormuz, a strategically vital area that serves as a route to the open ocean for more than one-sixth of global oil production and some 70 percent of South Korea's oil imports.
Kang's remarks come two days after the U.S. ambassador to South Korea voiced hopes for a possible dispatch of South Korean troops to the strait amid heightened tensions in the Middle East following the U.S. killing of a top Iranian general.
In an interview with South Korean broadcaster KBS, Amb. Harry Harris pinned hopes on the plan, noting that Seoul gets much of its energy from the Middle East.
Kang, meanwhile, said relocating part of the Cheonghae Unit, South Korea's anti-piracy unit currently stationed in the Gulf of Aden off Somalia, could be an option.
The Gulf of Aden is around 1,800 kilometers, or four days' sailing, from the Strait of Hormuz. Earlier this month, the National Assembly passed a motion to extend its mission, which started in 2009, through the end of next year.
The foreign minister said the government has been reviewing how to utilize its assets, adding that a legal review of the details of the dispatch would be necessary.
Seoul is expected to discuss issues related to the ongoing Middle East crisis next week at a bilateral ministerial meeting between Seoul and Washington in San Fransisco.
South Korean Foreign Minister Kang Kyung-wha speaks to lawmakers at the National Assembly in Seoul on Jan. 9, 2020. (Yonhap)
mlee@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-01-09--Samsung Electronics shares hit all-time high on recovery hopes

The stock rally came amid fast-spreading optimism that the company 's earnings will improve this year on the back of @ @ @ @ @ chipmaking sector and a low base effect after bottoming out in the fourth quarter of @ @ @

SEOUL, Jan. 9 (Yonhap) -- Samsung Electronics shares hit a record high Thursday on expectations of a faster-than-expected recovery in global chip demand and prices.
The world's largest chipmaker closed at 58,600 won (US$50.53), up 3.17 percent from the previous session's close.
The adjusted stock price is the tech giant's highest since it was listed on the Seoul bourse in 1975. The previous record was 57,220 won on Nov. 1, 2017.
Samsung Electronics' preferred stocks jumped 3.64 percent to a yearly high of 48,400 won.
The stock rally came amid fast-spreading optimism that the company's earnings will improve this year on the back of a recovery in the global chipmaking sector and a low base effect after bottoming out in the fourth quarter of last year.
On Wednesday, Samsung Electronics estimated its fourth-quarter operating income at 7.1 trillion won, down 34.26 percent from a year earlier but well above the median market estimate of 6.5 trillion won.
"The profitability in Samsung's memory chip business has shown a faster recovery than expected," said Daeshin Securities analyst Lee Soo-bin.
Lee estimated Samsung's annual operating profit this year would reach 39.3 trillion won, up 42 percent from the previous year's estimate of 27.7 trillion won.
jwc@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-01-09--Major talent agencies see exodus of contract artists

Female soloist Baek Yerin is the latest example .
The 22-year-old topped a series of single charts operated by online @ @ @ @ @ month with `` Square , '' the lead track of `` Every Letter I Sent @ @ @ @ @ album since leaving JYP in September last year .

By Park Boram
SEOUL, Jan. 9 (Yonhap) -- IU, one of the most loved South Korean female soloists and actresses, recently parted with the management agency she had been with for her entire entertainment career, deciding to move on to a new, smaller agency.
The decision relocated IU, whose legal name is Lee Ji-eun, to EDAM Entertainment from Kakao M, whose former name was Loen Entertainment. Under Loen, the 27-year-old debuted in 2008 and built a solid career.
"IU plans to come up with a variety of more active activities with the new company," her side said, adding that EDAM will pursue various entertainment projects including concert and record production.
This image of IU was provided by Kakao M. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)
Big-size talent management agencies, represented by the top three agencies for K-pop stars -- SM, JYP and YG Entertainment -- have long ruled show business as a major source of star artists' debuts and entertainment content.
The supremacy enjoyed by big-name talent agencies has been on the downturn, however, with the diversification and digitization of the entertainment industry.
Equipped with the power of social network services and video-sharing platforms, K-pop sensation BTS built a global career under Big Hit Entertainment, once a novice talent agency, even without big agencies' coveted networking, marketing and producing specialties.
Sunmi, who launched a successful band career as a member of Wonder Girls with JYP, also successfully converted into a soloist after leaving the KOSDAQ-listed entertainment giant in 2017.
Female soloist Baek Yerin is the latest example. The 22-year-old topped a series of single charts operated by online music streaming service operators last month with "Square," the lead track of "Every Letter I Sent You.," her first album since leaving JYP in September last year.
The song was the first English-lyric number that has topped local online real-time music charts, a major experimental feat achieved under her indie label, Blue Vinyl.
Another JYP soloist, Park Ji-min, the winner of the first season of SBS survival audition show "K-pop Star," left the big-name agency to pursue a solo career outside of the company.
YG and SM also saw some of their celebrated artists depart for good last year.
CL, a member of the disbanded YG girl band 2NE1, terminated her contract with the agency of her debut last year and dropped her first solo album, "In the Name of Love," last month outside of YG.
CL has not signed with a new agency and is working on her own.
This image of CL was provided by herself. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)
Lee Hi, who came in second on the first season of the "K-pop Star" audition show, also left YG last year.
Also last year, SM let two members of its girl band f(x) go. Luna and Taiwanese-American member Amber terminated their contracts with SM to seek entertainment careers separately.
The growing popularity of the reality idol audition show format is also paring down the dominance of major talent agencies as a channel for K-pop debuts.
Dancing diva Chungha grew into one of the top-rung female soloists under a small-size entertainment company, MNH Entertainment, after debuting through the first season of Mnet audition show "Produce 101."
Debuting as a member of Wanna One through the second season of the show, Kang Daniel also built a solid solo career under a one-man talent agency, Konnect, which he established himself.
Chungha poses for photos during a photo wall event of the 9th Gaon Chart Music Awards in Seoul on Jan. 8, 2020. (Yonhap)
pbr@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-01-09--(LEAD) Top court orders review of ex-senior prosecutor's jail term in MeToo case

In her interview with cable broadcaster JTBC , she said it took her eight years to realize being a victim @ @ @ @ @ her fault and that she wanted to share the message with other victims .

(ATTN: REWRITES throughout with updates; ADDS photos, byline)
By Lee Minji
SEOUL, Jan. 9 (Yonhap) -- South Korea's top court on Thursday ordered a lower court to reconsider its jail sentence for a former senior prosecutor who allegedly reassigned a junior colleague he sexually harassed to a remote area in an attempt to cover up the case, which later sparked the MeToo movement here.
Seo Ji-hyun claimed that Ahn Tae-geun groped her during a funeral dinner in 2010 and later meddled in a 2015 reshuffle to send her to the coastal city of Tongyeong as rumors of the sexual abuse began to spread within the prosecution.
A special investigative team that launched a probe following Seo's public confession in 2018 charged Ahn with abusing his power to influence the reshuffle and relocate Seo to prevent the allegations from spreading and hurting his reputation.
While Ahn denied the allegation saying he was not aware of his action, the lower court ruled in favor of Seo early last year, handing down a two-year jail term to the former senior prosecutor.
An appellate court in July upheld the ruling, saying Ahn meddled in the reorganization "to induce (Seo's) resignation or strike a fatal blow to Seo's reputation."
Former senior prosecutor Ahn Tae-geun leaves a detention center in eastern Seoul after being released on bail following a Supreme Court ruling on Jan. 9, 2020. (Yonhap)
In Thursday's ruling, however, the Supreme Court ordered the lower court to review its decision, saying Ahn's acts do not fully constitute abuse of power.
The top court said the reshuffle was within the lines of a normal reorganization and that Ahn, who was then working at the Ministry of Justice, had the discretion to send her to the regional office.
Ahn was released on bail.
Seo immediately decried the ruling. In a message sent to reporters, her attorney said the decision that "exonerated power abuse" is "utterly hard to accept," adding a detailed statement will be released upon analyzing the ruling's full text.
Seo emerged as a symbol of the MeToo movement here as her confession triggered a series of similar statements by other women in various sectors, including politics, sports and culture.
In her interview with cable broadcaster JTBC, she said it took her eight years to realize being a victim of sexual abuse was not her fault and that she wanted to share the message with other victims.
The revelation was seen as rare and courageous, considering Seo worked in the prosecution, which is a customarily rigid and conservative work culture.
The lower courts have acknowledged that the sexual abuse happened, but no legal decision could be made as the deadline for a victim to accuse the perpetrator has expired.
A file photo of prosecutor Seo Ji-hyun (Yonhap)
mlee@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-01-09--(LEAD) Korean stocks, won jump 1 pct on eased Mideast concerns

`` The possibility of the friction between the two countries leading to a full-fledged war has dwindled .
President Trump @ @ @ @ @ will switch its measures against Iran to economic sanctions , '' Noh said , adding @ @ @ @ @ cheered at the reduced possibility of war .
The price of risky assets has returned @ @ @ @ @ . ''

(ATTN: UPDATES with additional information in paras 11-12; ADDS bond yields at bottom, photo)
SEOUL, Jan. 9 (Yonhap) -- South Korean stocks closed sharply higher Thursday on eased concerns over a conflict between the United States and Iran that earlier sent global oil prices skyrocketing. The local currency also jumped nearly 1 percent against the U.S. dollar.
The benchmark Korea Composite Stock Price Index (KOSPI) surged 35.14 points, or 1.63 percent, to close at 2,186.45. Trading volume was moderate at 583 million shares worth 7.04 trillion won (US$6.08 billion), with winners far outnumbering losers 737 to 136.
Dealers at a KEB Hana Bank trading room in Seoul watch their computer monitors after the South Korean stock market closed on an upbeat note on Jan. 9, 2020. The benchmark KOSPI jumped more than 1 percent on eased concerns over military conflict in the Middle East. (Yonhap)
The rise marks a sharp turnaround from a slump for the South Korean stock market, as well as other major markets in Asia, that came after Iran's missile attacks on U.S. military bases in retaliation for the U.S. killing a top Iranian general late last week.
U.S. President Trump on Wednesday (U.S. time), however, said no U.S. personnel were killed or injured in the barrage of missile attacks against U.S. military bases in Iraq.
The U.S. leader said his country will respond with punishing economic sanctions instead of military attacks that he earlier warned of in case of Iranian retaliation.
"Iran appears to want to minimize the possibility of its military conflict with the United States," NH Securities analyst Noh Dong-kil noted, citing reports that Iran had notified Iraq of its intended missile attacks in advance.
"The possibility of the friction between the two countries leading to a full-fledged war has dwindled. President Trump too has said his country will switch its measures against Iran to economic sanctions," Noh said, adding, "The financial market cheered at the reduced possibility of war. The price of risky assets has returned to the pre-Iran crisis level."
Japan's Nikkei spiked 535.11 points, or 2.31 percent, while the Shanghai Composite Index was up 0.69 percent as of 3:45 p.m. (Seoul time).
In Seoul, foreigners remained net buyers for a fifth consecutive session, scooping up a net 91.6 billion won, while individuals purchased a net 190 billion won. Institutions offloaded a net 283.5 billion won.
Most large caps ended in positive terrain, with chipmakers continuing to build up gains on an outlook for a recovery in the global market.
Market bellwether Samsung Electronics spiked 3.17 percent to 58,600 won, reaching an all-time high since the company was listed June 11, 1975. The previous record was 57,220 won posted on Nov. 1, 2017.
No. 2 chipmaker SK hynix soared 1.64 percent to 99,000 won while top chemical company LG Chem advanced 1.49 percent to 306,500 won.
Leading pharmaceutical company Celltrion surged 2.31 percent, while top chemical company LG Chem added 1.49 percent to 306,500 won.
Automakers extended their losses, with industry leader Hyundai Motor slipping 0.45 percent to 111,500 won, while its smaller affiliate Kia Motors plunged 1.33 percent to 40,750 won.
The local currency closed at 1,159.10 won to the dollar, sharply up 11.70 won, or 0.9 percent, from the previous session's close.
Bond prices, which move inversely to yields, closed lower. The yield on three-year Treasurys added 5.3 basis points to 1.416 percent, while the return on the benchmark five-year government bond gained 5.6 basis points to 1.516 percent.
bdk@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-01-09--S. Korean Bond Yields on Jan. 9, 2020

S. Korean Bond Yields on Jan. 9, 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--2020-01-09--N. Korea ranks No.1 in military spending as percentage of GDP

Oman was a distant second on the list , spending around 12.1 percent of its GDP on the military , @ @ @ @ @ 9.3 percent , according to the report .

SEOUL, Jan. 9 (Yonhap) -- North Korea ranked No.1 in the world in terms of the proportion of military spending in gross domestic product between 2007-2017, though the total amount accounts for only one-tenth of South Korea's military expenditure, a U.S. State Department report showed.
According to the State Department's World Military Expenditures and Arms Transfers 2019 report, the North's military expenditure averaged about US$3.6 billion a year. That accounts for 13.4 to 23.3 percent of the country's average GDP of $17 billion during the period.
The percentage is expressed as a range due to the different methods of converting currencies to U.S. dollars, the report said.
Oman was a distant second on the list, spending around 12.1 percent of its GDP on the military, followed by Saudi Arabia with 9.3 percent, according to the report.
In absolute terms, however, the North's annual military spending during the period ranked only 47th at $3.6 billion, nearly one tenth of the average $34.8 billion South Korea spends on the military.
South Korea's military spending accounts for about 2.6 percent of its GDP.
The U.S. ranked No. 1 in the world with $741 billion a year on average, followed by China's $176 billion.
It was also the biggest arms exporter in the world, selling an average $143 billion worth of weapons to foreign countries annually during the period, followed by Russia's $97 billion.
julesyi@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-01-09--(LEAD) Kakao hits yearly high on Q4 earnings hope

During the third quarter of last year , Kakao 's sales hiked 31 percent to a quarterly record of 783.2 @ @ @ @ @ operating profit shot up 93 percent on-year to a quarterly record of 27.7 billion won @

(ATTN: CHANGES lead paras to highlight Kakao closing price)
SEOUL, Jan. 9 (Yonhap) -- Shares of Kakao Corp., the operator of South Korea's largest messaging app, Kakao Talk, climbed to a yearly high on the Seoul bourse Thursday, helped by a rosy quarterly earnings outlook.
Kakao stocks closed at 164,000 won (US$141.56), up 2.82 percent from the previous session's close.
The tech firm's stock rally came amid high hopes for the firm's earnings last year.
NH Investment & Securities estimated Kakao's quarterly sales to grow 26.4 percent to 85.1 billion won in the October-December period from a year ago, with its operating profit to gain 1,539.1 percent on-year to 70.4 billion won.
Samsung Securities also said that Kakao's operating profit will continue to grow through 2020.
"Kakao's performance is strongly backed by its high-margin portfolios, such as advertisement, mobile gift sending, gaming and music businesses," the brokerage said, estimating Kakao's operating profit to reach 67.7 billion won in the fourth quarter of 2019.
During the third quarter of last year, Kakao's sales hiked 31 percent to a quarterly record of 783.2 billion won, and its operating profit shot up 93 percent on-year to a quarterly record of 27.7 billion won.
During the same period, the firm's net profit skyrocketed to 51.1 billion won, nearly six times higher than a year earlier.
jwc@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-01-09--Sejong Center seeks to allow eating, drinking during performances

`` We set the slogan of 'Enjoy Sejong ' for 2020 , '' Kim Sung-kyu , the head of the @ @ @ @ @ a press briefing on Monday .
`` We will bring in some fresh changes so @ @ @ @ @ the difference . ''

By Kim Boram
SEOUL, Jan. 9 (Yonhap) -- The Sejong Center for the Performing Arts, built in downtown Seoul in 1978, was the mecca of classical music and fine arts in South Korea and remained mostly closed to pop artists for years.
When Korean pop singer Patti Kim staged a performance at the grand theater of the Sejong Center in 1983, groups of classical musicians strongly opposed it, claiming that the concert hall was not designed for commercial arts.
For the next four decades, however, the Sejong Center has kept lowering the barrier and opening its stage to pop singers and blockbuster musicals.
Furthermore, it has been making fresh efforts to ease the solemn and rigid atmosphere of its concerts and meet the rising demand for casual shows by allowing people to bring drinks, including alcohol, and snacks.
Sejong Center for the Performing Arts (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)
Last year, attendees were permitted to bring glasses or bottles of beer to the center when watching the "Introduction to Indie Music" concerts in December. It was the first time that a South Korean art center let patrons imbibe during a show.
For 2020, moreover, the center came up with new, ambitious gourmet programs.
"We set the slogan of 'Enjoy Sejong' for 2020," Kim Sung-kyu, the head of the Sejong Center, said in a press briefing on Monday. "We will bring in some fresh changes so that our patrons can feel the difference."
Kim Sung-kyu, the head of the Sejong Center for the Performing Arts, speaks in a press briefing at the center in Seoul on Jan. 6, 2020. (Yonhap)
During the upcoming concerts, including a "film concert" of the "Harry Potter" series in August, people will be able to enjoy the show with boxes of pop corn and bottles of soda.
Also, the Sejong Center said it plans to allow patrons to drink wine while seeing operas this year.
Moreover, fans of the League of Legends (LOL), a globally popular online game, will be allowed to leave their smartphones on during the LOL music live concert slated for November so as to participate in the interactive show.
"We want to help people enjoy quality performances in a more relaxed environment," another official from the Sejong Center said. "Detailed plans will be announced later."
brk@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-01-09--(LEAD) NSC to hold this week's second meeting on Iran issue

The economic policymakers plan to take part due to the need for discussions on the possible impact on the economy @ @ @ @ @ and the United States , including oil prices , Cheong Wa Dae added .

(ATTN: UPDATES with Cheong Wa Dae's revised statement; ADDS graphic image)
SEOUL, Jan. 9 (Yonhap) -- South Korea's top security officials were poised to open another National Security Council (NSC) session Thursday to focus on Middle East security conditions.
It will be the second session of the NSC standing committee this week following the previous one on Monday.
Vice Finance Minister Kim Yong-beom and Vice Industry, Trade and Energy Minister Cheong Seung-il be present at Thursday's meeting, although they are not formal members of the panel, according to Cheong Wa Dae.
Cheong Wa Dae spokesperson Ko Min-jung earlier announced that Finance Minister Hong Nam-ki and Industry, Trade and Energy Minister Sung Yun-mo would join the meeting but corrected the list of attendees.
The economic policymakers plan to take part due to the need for discussions on the possible impact on the economy from military tensions between Iran and the United States, including oil prices, Cheong Wa Dae added.
With Chung Eui-yong, director of Cheong Wa Dae's national security office, travelling to Washington, D.C., for consultations with his American and Japanese counterparts, Noh Young-min, presidential chief of staff, is to preside over the meeting.
On Monday, the NSC reviewed ways for South Korea to contribute to the international community's efforts to help stabilize regional security conditions.
lcd@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-01-09--Rival parties agree to handle non-contentious bills first in plenary session

The ruling Democratic Party ( DP ) and the main opposition Liberty Korea Party ( LKP ) plan to put @ @ @ @ @ to vote immediately .
But they agreed to put several contentious fast-tracked bills on the @ @ @ @ @ proposed legislation on granting police more investigative authority .

SEOUL, Jan. 9 (Yonhap) -- A plenary session of the National Assembly looked set to open Thursday afternoon following a deal between ruling and opposition parties to prioritize the handling of pending bills aimed at improving people's livelihoods.
The ruling Democratic Party (DP) and the main opposition Liberty Korea Party (LKP) plan to put a host of relevant bills to vote immediately. But they agreed to put several contentious fast-tracked bills on the back burner. Those included proposed legislation on granting police more investigative authority.
The DP and the LKP have left the door open for negotiations on the prosecution reform bills before they are introduced formally at the plenary session, probably on Friday.
Also at issue is a package of bills on toughening regulations on private pre-schools with state subsidies to enhance the transparency of their accounting practices.
The ruling party warned that the LKP is running out of time.
The DP leader, Rep. Lee Hae-chan, said his party would be able to wrap up the long-delayed legislative process by the middle of this month.
Earlier in the day, the parliament's legislation and judiciary committee passed three bills on collecting and using personal data for compiling statistics and research purposes for the public interest.
The bills are apparently on course to be passed on Thursday.
The panel, however, did not touch on the so-called anti-Tada bill on banning Taxi-style services with rented mini-vans and outsourced drivers.
lcd@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-01-09--Korean stocks, won jump 1 pct on eased Mideast concerns

SEOUL, Jan. 9 (Yonhap) -- South Korean stocks closed sharply higher Thursday on eased concerns over a conflict between the United States and Iran that earlier sent global oil prices skyrocketing. The local currency also jumped nearly 1 percent against the U.S. dollar.
The benchmark Korea Composite Stock Price Index (KOSPI) surged 35.14 points, or 1.63 percent, to close at 2,186.45. Trading volume was moderate at 583 million shares worth 7.04 trillion won (US$6.08 billion), with winners far outnumbering losers 737 to 136.
The rise marks a sharp turnaround from a slump for the South Korean stock market, as well as other major markets in Asia, that came after Iran's missile attacks on U.S. military bases in retaliation for the U.S. killing a top Iranian general late last week.
U.S. President Trump on Wednesday (U.S. time), however, said no U.S. personnel were killed or injured in the barrage of missile attacks against U.S. military bases in Iraq.
The U.S. leader said his country will respond with punishing economic sanctions instead of military attacks that he earlier warned of in case of Iranian retaliation.
"Iran appears to want to minimize the possibility of its military conflict with the United States," NH Securities analyst Noh Dong-kil noted, citing reports that Iran had notified Iraq of its intended missile attacks in advance.
"The possibility of the friction between the two countries leading to a full-fledged war has dwindled. President Trump too has said his country will switch its measures against Iran to economic sanctions," Noh said, adding, "The financial market cheered at the reduced possibility of war. The price of risky assets has returned to the pre-Iran crisis level."
Japan's Nikkei spiked 535.11 points, or 2.31 percent, while the Shanghai Composite Index was up 0.69 percent as of 3:45 p.m. (Seoul time).
In Seoul, foreigners remained net buyers for a fifth consecutive session, scooping up a net 91.6 billion won, while individuals purchased a net 190 billion won. Institutions offloaded a net 283.5 billion won.
Most large caps ended in positive terrain, with chipmakers continuing to build up gains on an outlook for a recovery in the global market.
Market bellwether Samsung Electronics spiked 3.17 percent to 58,600 won, with No. 2 chipmaker SK hynix advancing 1.64 percent to 99,000 won.
Leading pharmaceutical company Celltrion soared 2.31 percent, while top chemical company LG Chem added 1.49 percent to 306,500 won.
Automakers extended their losses, with industry leader Hyundai Motor slipping 0.45 percent to 111,500 won, while its smaller affiliate Kia Motors plunged 1.33 percent to 40,750 won.
The local currency closed at 1,159.10 won to the dollar, sharply up 11.70 won, or 0.9 percent, from the previous session's close.
bdk@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-01-10--Seoul stocks open higher on upcoming U.S.-China trade deal

The eased concerns over the geopolitical tension in the Middle East also led to optimism .
Responding to Iran 's @ @ @ @ @ bases in Iraq , U.S. President Donald Trump said Washington will retaliate with economic sanctions @ @ @ @ @

SEOUL, Jan. 10 (Yonhap) -- South Korean stocks opened higher Friday ahead of a trade deal between the United States and China set to be signed next week that could mark an initial end to the prolonged trade dispute between the world's largest economies.
The benchmark Korea Composite Stock Price Index (KOSPI) added 10.16 points, or 0.46 percent, to reach 2,196.61 in the first 15 minutes of trading.
The rise came ahead of a Chinese trade delegation's scheduled visit to Washington next week to sign the so-called phase-one trade deal between the world's top two economies.
The eased concerns over the geopolitical tension in the Middle East also led to optimism. Responding to Iran's missile attacks on U.S. military bases in Iraq, U.S. President Donald Trump said Washington will retaliate with economic sanctions instead of military attacks.
Most large caps were in positive terrain in Seoul.
Top market cap Samsung Electronics rose 1.71 percent, and its smaller rival LG Electronics moved up 0.9 percent. No. 2 chipmaker SK hynix moved up 0.61 percent.
Leading chemical firm LG Chem gained 0.16 percent, and top cosmetics maker AmorePacific rose 1.89 percent.
No. 1 carmaker Hyundai Motor rose 1.35 percent, and its auto parts affiliate Hyundai Mobis increased 0.41 percent. Kia Motors added 0.12 percent.
The local currency was trading at 1,160.35 won to the dollar, down 1.25 won from the previous session's close.
colin@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-01-10--(LEAD) N. Korea's Yangdok spa resort begins operations

The radio station also said Masikryong Ski Resort , located on the outskirts of the eastern city of Wonsan , @ @ @ @ @ year on Wednesday .
The ski resort opened in December 2013 as one of the @ @ @ @ @ , who is known to like skiing .

(ATTN: ADDS more info in 5th para)
SEOUL, Jan. 10 (Yonhap) -- North Korea began operations of a new spa resort in the country's central region Friday, according to state media, as Pyongyang pushes to attract more foreign tourists in the face of global sanctions crippling its economy.
The construction of the Yangdok spa resort in the North's South Pyongan Province was completed last month, which the North's leader Kim Jong-un described as a demonstration of "steady development and prosperity" achieved by the country despite "the worst adversity."
"Visitors will receive various services that combine both treatment and relaxation ... at the Yangdok Hot Spring Cultural Recreation Center," the North's state radio said the previous day.
Kim visited the spa resort multiple times last year, highlighting his strong determination to build a competitive tourism industry.
The radio station also said Masikryong Ski Resort, located on the outskirts of the eastern city of Wonsan, began receiving tourists for this year on Wednesday. The ski resort opened in December 2013 as one of the pet projects of the leader, who is known to like skiing.
In October, North Korea demanded South Korea tear down all the facilities it built at the Mount Kumgang resort on the North's east coast in an apparent threat to end their joint tour project, saying it will build a new international tourist destination of its own.
North Korea is building a new tourist zone in the Wonsan-Kalma region on the east coast, with the construction expected to wrap up in April by the birthday of late state founder and Kim's grandfather, Kim Il-sung.
In this file photo, provided by the North's official Korean Central News Agency on Oct. 25, 2019, North Korean leader Kim Jong-un (in white shirt) visits the construction site of a spa resort in Yangdok, South Pyongan Province, which was then under construction. (For Use Only in the Republic of Korea. No Redistribution) (Yonhap)
scaaet@yna.co.kr
(END)


Friday's weather forecast

SEOUL , Jan. 10 ( Yonhap ) -- The following is the weather forecast for South Korea 's 12 major @ @ @ @ @ .


KOSPI 2,189.48 UP 3.03 points (open)


KOSDAQ 668.79 UP 2.70 points (open)


yna--2020-01-10--Dollar opens at 1,159.2 won UP from 1,159.1 won


yna--2020-01-10--S. Korea closely monitoring tension in Middle East: finance minister

The Middle East accounted for 70 percent of South Korea 's imports of crude over the January-November period of 2019 @ @ @ @ @ of its liquefied natural gas ( LNG ) came from the region .

SEOUL, Jan. 10 (Yonhap) -- South Korea is closely monitoring tensions in the Middle East, although a conflict between the United States and Iran is not escalating, Finance Minister Hong Nam-ki said Friday.
Hong said volatility at local financial markets showed signs of easing as the U.S. and Iran moved to defuse tension, but uncertainties remain.
The government is "closely monitoring the situation and will take actions if necessary," Hong told a meeting with economy-related ministers.
However, Hong said there is no short-term impact on South Korea from the Middle East tension.
Finance Minister Hong Nam-ki speaks at a meeting with economy-related ministers on Jan. 10, 2020. (Yonhap)
Tensions had been sharply rising since the recent killing of Gen. Qassem Soleimani, arguably Iran's most powerful commander, by a U.S. air strike. Iran conducted a revenge missile attack at a Iraqi military base that houses U.S. troops.
Since then, both Washington and Teheran have showed measured responses.
The Middle East accounted for 70 percent of South Korea's imports of crude over the January-November period of 2019 and an estimated 38 percent of its liquefied natural gas (LNG) came from the region.
South Korea, the world's fifth-largest importer of crude oil, has said it will consider releasing oil from its strategic reserves if there is a crisis in securing oil supplies.
kdh@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-01-10--Yonhap news advisory for Friday, Jan. 10

The following stories are scheduled to be covered by Yonhap News Agency .
Your queries are welcome .
Yonhap 's @ @ @ @ @ reached by telephone at 82-2-398-3451 ( general ) and 82-2-398-3460 ( economics ) , and @ @ @ @ @ yna.co.kr or sam @ yna.co.kr .

The following stories are scheduled to be covered by Yonhap News Agency. Your queries are welcome. Yonhap's English-language news desk can be reached by telephone at 82-2-398-3451 (general) and 82-2-398-3460 (economics), and by email at sshim@yna.co.kr or sam@yna.co.kr.
General
-- IOC to announce the host of 2024 Winter Youth Olympics
-- Director Bong Joon-ho's translator in the spotlight
-- FM's remarks at meeting with press corps
Economy & Finance
-- Finance minister to chair special meeting to check effect of Mideast tensions
-- South Korea's gov't debt issuance grows at 4-year high in 2019
(END)


yna--2020-01-10--(2nd LD) Trump meets top Seoul official amid N.K. tensions

The two `` reaffirmed close U.S.-ROK coordination on North Korea , '' the State Department said in a readout , @ @ @ @ @ Korea 's official name , the Republic of Korea .
They also `` affirmed the @ @ @ @ @ alliance and reiterated their commitment to cooperation in the Indo-Pacific . ''

(ATTN: UPDATES with Chung's meeting with Biegun in last 3 paras)
By Lee Haye-ah
WASHINGTON, Jan. 9 (Yonhap) -- U.S. President Donald Trump met with the top national security advisers of South Korea and Japan in Washington on Wednesday, the White House said, as nuclear talks between Washington and North Korea remain deadlocked.
Trump met briefly with Chung Eui-yong, director of Cheong Wa Dae's national security office, and his Japanese counterpart, Shigeru Kitamura, and noted that the two countries are among the strongest U.S. allies in the Indo-Pacific, according to a White House readout sent late Wednesday.
The president also expressed appreciation for the "support and deep friendship" the U.S. shares with both countries, it said.
This photo, posted on Twitter by the White House National Security Council, shows Chung Eui-yong (R), director of Cheong Wa Dae's national security office, meeting with his U.S. and Japanese counterparts -- Robert O'Brien (C) and Shigeru Kitamura, respectively -- in Washington on Jan. 8, 2020. (Yonhap)
Chung arrived in the U.S. capital this week to hold three-way consultations with his American and Japanese counterparts on recent developments with North Korea.
The visit came after North Korean leader Kim Jong-un threatened in a New Year's message to take "shocking actual action" and showcase a "new strategic weapon" in protest of stalled denuclearization talks with Washington.
U.S. National Security Adviser Robert O'Brien had "great bilateral and trilateral meetings" with his Korean and Japanese counterparts on Wednesday, the White House National Security Council said on Twitter.
"Discussions covered Iran, DPRK-related developments and the importance of trilateral security cooperation," it said, referring to North Korea by its official name, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea.
South Korea has been looking at ways to support U.S. security operations in the Middle East amid heightened tensions between Washington and Iran. Key among them is the possibility of deploying South Korean troops to the critical waterway in the Strait of Hormuz.
Washington has also emphasized the importance of trilateral security cooperation with Seoul and Tokyo in countering rising threats from North Korea and China.
Such insistence helped stop the two U.S. allies from terminating their bilateral military intelligence-sharing pact in November.
Chung also met with Deputy Secretary of State Stephen Biegun, Washington's top envoy for denuclearization negotiations with North Korea.
The two "reaffirmed close U.S.-ROK coordination on North Korea," the State Department said in a readout, using the initialism for South Korea's official name, the Republic of Korea. They also "affirmed the enduring strength of the U.S.-ROK alliance and reiterated their commitment to cooperation in the Indo-Pacific."
The two discussed recent events in the Middle East and ongoing coordination on global security issues, the department added.
hague@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-01-10--S. Korea, UAE to forge deeper energy ties amid growing Mideast unrest

Seoul , the world 's fifth-largest importer of crude , earlier said the unrest in the Middle East has yet @ @ @ @ @ on its local industry but that it will consider releasing its reserves should there be @ @ @ @ @ supplies .

SEOUL, Jan. 10 (Yonhap) -- South Korea said Friday it plans to forge deeper ties with the United Arab Emirates in the energy segment and continue to keep a watchful eye on the growing tension between the United States and Iran.
Joo Young-joon, deputy minister for energy and resources at South Korea's Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy, plans to visit Abu Dhabi later this week and hold meetings with government and business officials to share opinions on the escalating uncertainties in the Middle East.
Iran carried out a series of missile attacks against a U.S. air base in Iraq earlier this week, further heightening tensions in the Middle East that began when the U.S. killed a top Iranian general in a drone strike.
The two countries are expected to discuss ways to enhance their bilateral cooperation in the energy sector, including South Korea's oil inventories.
Seoul, the world's fifth-largest importer of crude, earlier said the unrest in the Middle East has yet to have any direct impact on its local industry but that it will consider releasing its reserves should there be increased difficulties in securing oil supplies.
As of end-November, the government's oil reserves stood at 96.5 million barrels. When considering those held by the private sector, the amount is estimated at 200 million barrels.
The Middle East accounted for 70 percent of South Korea's crude imports between January and November of 2019, during which an estimated 38 percent of its liquefied natural gas (LNG) imports also came from the region.
During the visit, Joo also plans to participate in the International Renewable Energy Agency's annual assembly and promote South Korea's new energy drive that centers on utilizing more clean sources, such as hydrogen and less carbon-emitting fossil fuels.
colin@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-01-10--N. Korea's Yangdok spa resort begins operations

In October , North Korea demanded South Korea tear down all the facilities it built at the Mount Kumgang resort @ @ @ @ @ coast in an apparent threat to end their joint tour project , saying it will @ @ @ @ @ destination of its own .

SEOUL, Jan. 10 (Yonhap) -- North Korea began operations of a new spa resort in the country's central region Friday, according to state media, as Pyongyang pushes to attract more foreign tourists in the face of global sanctions crippling its economy.
The construction of the Yangdok spa resort in the North's South Pyongan Province was completed last month, which the North's leader Kim Jong-un described as a demonstration of "steady development and prosperity" achieved by the country despite "the worst adversity."
"Visitors will receive various services that combine both treatment and relaxation ... at the Yangdok Hot Spring Cultural Recreation Center," the North's state radio said the previous day.
Kim visited the spa resort multiple times last year, highlighting his strong determination to build a competitive tourism industry.
In October, North Korea demanded South Korea tear down all the facilities it built at the Mount Kumgang resort on the North's east coast in an apparent threat to end their joint tour project, saying it will build a new international tourist destination of its own.
North Korea is building a new tourist zone in the Wonsan-Kalma region on the east coast, with the construction expected to wrap up in April by the birthday of late state founder and Kim's grandfather, Kim Il-sung.
In this file photo, provided by the North's official Korean Central News Agency on Oct. 25, 2019, North Korean leader Kim Jong-un (in white shirt) visits the construction site of a spa resort in Yangdok, South Pyongan Province, which was then under construction. (For Use Only in the Republic of Korea. No Redistribution) (Yonhap)
scaaet@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-01-10--(EDITORIAL from Korea JoongAng Daily on Jan. 10)

The Blue House and the Justice Ministry must not hamper the prosecution 's investigations .
There are rumors that they @ @ @ @ @ a follow-up reshuffle of prosecutors across the country .
Even if the Blue House does @ @ @ @ @ replace prosecutors who have been directly dealing with the cases .
The government must not @ @ @ @ @ prosecutor general Kim Joon-gyu , who said , `` Former democracy movement activists are destroying @ @ @ @ @ democracy . ''
( END )

The Justice Ministry massacre
We are disappointed at the Moon Jae-in administration's reshuffle of top prosecutors dealing with criminal cases involving the Blue House. Some critics called it a "massacre" that is unprecedented in a modern democracy. Prosecutors have denounced the Ministry of Justice for trying to force them to follow its apparent investigation guidelines.
The reshuffle of top posts in the prosecution is nothing but cruel revenge on prosecutors who have led probes into the corruption of former Justice Minister Cho Kuk and his family and the Blue House's alleged meddling in the Busan mayoral elections last year to help Moon's longtime friend win the race. The head of the Seoul Central District Prosecutors' Office — which has been investigating the two cases — was abruptly transferred to head the Institute of Justice, a think tank.
The head post of the Seoul Central District Prosecutors' Office was filled by a senior prosecutor who graduated from the same law school as Moon. Some 32 senior prosecutors were replaced in a Blitzkrieg operation to retaliate against their investigations into various cases of corruption involving the Blue House and Moon's aides.
New Justice Minister Choo Mi-ae clearly violated the law because she pressed ahead with the reshuffle without taking into account Prosecutor General Yoon Seok-youl's opinion — as required by the law. Choo came up with an awkward explanation that Yoon refused to comply with her request for his views. But that does not make sense because she had already fixed replacements in close consultation with the Blue House. The justice minister must take responsibility — legal and political — for obstruction of justice.
The prosecution's probe of the Blue House is at a crossroads. If prosecutors succumb to pressure from the ministry — and by extension the Blue House — and wrap up investigations prematurely, that's a blot on their integrity. They must investigate to the end so as to clear up all suspicions about the Blue House and ruling Democratic Party.
The Blue House and the Justice Ministry must not hamper the prosecution's investigations. There are rumors that they will hinder the probe through a follow-up reshuffle of prosecutors across the country. Even if the Blue House does that, it must not replace prosecutors who have been directly dealing with the cases. The government must not forget a warning from former prosecutor general Kim Joon-gyu, who said, "Former democracy movement activists are destroying the very foundation of our democracy."
(END)


yna--2020-01-10--(EDITORIAL from Korea Times on Jan. 10)

(EDITORIAL from Korea Times on Jan. 10)

There seems to be no argument that the reshuffle reflected the general perception among Moon 's supporters and liberal politicians @ @ @ @ @ Kuk and the presidential office were motivated by `` political '' prosecutors to deter reform @ @ @ @ @ .
Given that Cho , a law professor , was the architect of the reform @ @ @ @ @ prosecution has a shameful history of political intervention , their claims that these probes have @ @ @ @ @ '' are partly understandable .
However , it is true that the ongoing investigations will @ @ @ @ @ reassignments .
It is also not hard to imagine how frustrating the replacements are for @ @ @ @ @

Reshuffle of prosecutors
Ongoing investigations likely to be hampered
The Ministry of Justice has conducted a sweeping reassignment of 32 senior prosecutors, including those who are believed to be close to Prosecutor General Yoon Seok-youl.
This came after the National Assembly passed a controversial bill on creating a new investigative body that would exclusively handle corruption cases involving high-ranking public officials ― including prosecutors and judges ― despite strong protests from the prosecution. A separate bill on readjusting investigative rights of the prosecution and the police in ways to reduce the prosecution's power is awaiting a parliamentary vote, and it seems highly likely to also be passed very soon.
We note that Justice Minister Choo Mi-ae visited President Moon Jae-in at Cheong Wa Dae just before the reassignment was made public Wednesday night. Choo, as supervisor of the prosecution, had reportedly asked Yoon to visit her with his opinions about the shake-up plan, but he did not do so, regarding her request as only a "formality." Choo, a former judge, publicly denounced Yoon, Thursday, for "disobeying" his supervisor, saying she waited for him for six hours, but he did not show up.
So it is widely believed that the reassignment of prosecutors close to Yoon demonstrates that President Moon has lost confidence in the "defiant" prosecutor general. This is because they had led investigations into high-profile scandals involving former Justice Minister Cho Kuk and some presidential aides. They include Han Dong-hoon, who was in charge of an investigation into alleged irregularities by Cho and his family, and Park Chan-ho, who led a probe into allegations that Cheong Wa Dae intervened in the 2018 mayoral election in Ulsan to help President Moon's close friend Song Cheol-ho win. Park was also in charge of a separate investigation into suspicions that the presidential office covered up a bribery case involving former Busan Vice Mayor Yoo Jae-soo. The prosecution believes former minister Cho was also deeply involved in the alleged election meddling and cover-up.
There seems to be no argument that the reshuffle reflected the general perception among Moon's supporters and liberal politicians that the investigations into Cho Kuk and the presidential office were motivated by "political" prosecutors to deter reform and protect their vested interests. Given that Cho, a law professor, was the architect of the reform plans and that the Korean prosecution has a shameful history of political intervention, their claims that these probes have been "unfair and excessive" are partly understandable. However, it is true that the ongoing investigations will lose momentum due to the reassignments. It is also not hard to imagine how frustrating the replacements are for Yoon and his followers.
Cheong Wa Dae and the ruling party say the President has the legal right to appoint senior prosecutors and there was nothing wrong in the way the reshuffle was conducted. But we can hardly deny that they are the biggest beneficiaries of the reassignments.
(END)