yna--2020-08-10--(2nd LD) New daily virus cases fall below 30 as church-linked infections again loom larger

`` We are concerned that there has been an increase in the number of infections at local churches , with @ @ @ @ @ day care centers , door-to-door sales businesses and large-sized marketplaces , '' Yoon Tae-ho , @ @ @ @ @ said in a briefing .

(ATTN: ADDS details throughout; ADDS photo)
SEOUL, Aug. 10 (Yonhap) -- South Korea's new coronavirus infections fell below 30 on Monday as imported cases slowed, but church-traced infections continued to strain the country's anti-virus fight.
The country identified an additional 28 virus cases, including 17 local infections, raising the total caseload to 14,626, according to the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (KCDC).
It marked a slight drop from the 36 new virus cases, including 30 local infections, the previous day.
Imported cases, which fell to a single digit after increasing by double-digit numbers for 43 consecutive days, rebounded to 11.
Of the locally transmitted cases, 11 were reported in the densely populated capital city of Seoul. Nine new virus cases were tied to the Namdaemun Market in central Seoul. The surrounding Gyeonggi Province also identified five new cases.
Medical staff members carry out new coronavirus tests at a drive-thru clinic in Goyang, north of Seoul, on Aug. 9, 2020. (Yonhap)
Domestic cases fell to as low as just three on Aug. 3, but sporadic cluster infections, most tied to churches, have led to yet another uptick in the total number of cases.
A church in Goyang, north of Seoul, reported eight additional patients on Sunday, raising the total caseload to 24. Another church from the city added two more infections to report a combined 20 cases.
A church in Seoul's western district of Yeongdeungpo reported five patients. Health authorities said the related church members dined together without proper infection preventive measures.
Since reporting its first patient on Jan. 20, South Korea has never adopted a full lockdown but opted to prevent the spread of the virus through enhanced social distancing guidelines.
The measures included adopting a quick response (QR) code-based entry authentication system to quickly track the visitors at crowded establishments, such as bars, clubs, and churches.
South Korea had banned church members from having gatherings other than regular worship services amid the soaring number of related patients, but it decided to lift the regulation on July 24.
On Sunday, health authorities hinted they are considering readopting the scheme should the number of infections from churches not plateau.
This photo, provided by the Gangseo Ward of Seoul on Aug. 10, 2020, shows a civil servant helping COVID-19 patients remove their personal data, such as location history, online. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)
"We are concerned that there has been an increase in the number of infections at local churches, with the virus also spreading to day care centers, door-to-door sales businesses and large-sized marketplaces," Yoon Tae-ho, a senior health official, said in a briefing.
But over the past two weeks, the average number of new domestic infections fell to 12.1 cases, down from 19.9 cases two weeks earlier, according to health authorities.
South Korea said it will gradually increase the number of spectators at sports events, allowing baseball stadiums to be at 30 percent capacity starting Tuesday, up from the previous 10 percent.
Of the 11 imported cases reported on Monday, six were screened at quarantine checkpoints.
The Philippines and Bangladesh accounted for two cases each. The United States took up three of the newly added imported cases.
Among the accumulated 2,561 imported cases, South Korean nationals were responsible for 65.8 percent.
The country recently suffered a sharp increase in the number of such imported cases due to South Korean workers returning home from Iraq, along with sailors from Russian ships docked at its port.
Amid the rising number of COVID-19 cases from China's Xinjiang region and Vietnam's Danang, health authorities decided to reimpose two-week isolation for businesspeople returning home from such areas.
The country has not required the mandatory quarantine for South Korean businessmen returning home from China, Vietnam, and Cambodia since July 29.
The country reported no new virus deaths, keeping the number of fatalities at 305, according to the KCDC. The fatality rate reached 2.09 percent.
The number of patients fully cured of the virus reached 13,658, up 16 from the previous day, with more than 93 percent of the patients here having recovered.
South Korea has carried out 1,628,303 COVID-19 tests since Jan. 3.
colin@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-08-10--S. Korea to develop indigenous Iron Dome-like interceptor system against N.K. long-range artillery

Last month , South Korea announced that it has become able to develop solid-propellant space rockets under the new missile @ @ @ @ @ , saying the deal is expected to help sharply improve the military 's intelligence , @ @ @ @ @ ) capabilities .

By Choi Soo-hyang
SEOUL, Aug. 10 (Yonhap) -- South Korea will begin developing its own interceptor system like Israel's Iron Dome in the next five years to defend the country's core infrastructure in the capital area against North Korea's long-range artillery threats, the defense ministry said Monday.
Unveiling its defense blueprint for 2021-2025, the ministry also said it will officially begin procedures to acquire a light aircraft carrier next year and start the production of a homegrown fighter jet which is currently under development.
The five-year defense program calls for spending 300.7 trillion won (US$253 billion), a 6.1 percent on-year hike on average, over the next five years. Of the total, 100 trillion won was allocated for improving defense capabilities, while the remaining 200 trillion won was set for force management.
The actual deployment of the Korean version of Israel's Iron Dome air defense system is expected to be put into force in the late 2020s or early 2030s, officials said.
South Korea will also begin developing long-range air-to-surface and air-to-ship guided missiles to be loaded on the indigenous fighter jets.
When the production of the indigenous fighter jet is complete, South Korea will become the 13th country in the world to own a homegrown combat plane, the ministry said.
South Korea launched the 8.8 trillion-won KF-X project in 2016 to develop the homegrown fighter jet by 2026 to replace the country's aging fleet of F-4 and F-5 aircraft. Last week, the arms procurement agency said it has produced a prototype of an advanced radar system, a key part of the envisioned jet.
For the Navy, the ministry said the country will begin building 3,600-ton and 4,000-ton submarines during the period.
Following the recent revision in the country's missile guidelines, South Korea will also push to develop a space rocket to launch small-sized satellites.
Last month, South Korea announced that it has become able to develop solid-propellant space rockets under the new missile guidelines with the United States, saying the deal is expected to help sharply improve the military's intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities.
South Korea plans to put military surveillance satellites and unmanned surveillance planes into operation by 2025. It will also begin developing ultra-small surveillance satellites during the period to realize near real-time monitoring of the Korean Peninsula.
"The ministry will continue to cooperate with the monetary authorities to successfully push for the 2021-2025 defense plan," it said in a release.
Multiple projectiles are launched during a long-range artillery drill by the North Korean army's long-range artillery sub-units on March 2, 2020, in this photo released by the North's official Korean Central News Agency the next day. North Korean leader Kim Jong-un inspected the drill. The report came one day after South Korea said the North fired what appeared to be two ballistic missiles. (For Use Only in the Republic of Korea. No Redistribution) (Yonhap)
scaaet@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-08-10--S. Korea lowers travel alert for China's Hubei as pandemic eases

`` We have taken into account that the virus situation in Hubei province is being managed at a stable level @ @ @ @ @ parts of China , and that our nationals who are based there , self-employed people @ @ @ @ @ to return , '' the ministry said .

SEOUL, Aug. 10 (Yonhap) -- South Korea lowered the travel alert Monday for the Chinese province of Hubei, the original epicenter of the coronavirus pandemic, as the situation there has stabilized and travel demand is growing, the foreign ministry said.
The "red" travel warning for Hubei, meaning "advised to leave the area," has been lifted, and the region is now under the special travel advisory applied to the rest of the Chinese territories, the ministry said in a press release.
"We have taken into account that the virus situation in Hubei province is being managed at a stable level equivalent to those of other parts of China, and that our nationals who are based there, self-employed people and international students are hoping to return," the ministry said.
The government issued the red travel alert for Hubei on Jan. 25 in one of its first steps to prevent the spread of the virus in the early stage of the pandemic.
In late March, the government issued the special travel advisory for all foreign countries, except for those already under higher alert, as the pandemic took hold across the globe.
Meanwhile, the ministry raised the travel alert to "red" for the border areas of Azerbaijan and Armenia, after fresh tensions escalated between the two former Soviet republics in a decadeslong territorial dispute over an Azerbaijani region seized by ethnic Armenian separatists.
This image, provided by the foreign ministry on Aug. 10, 2020, shows the map of China before (L) and after the red travel alert was lifted. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)
elly@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-08-10--(LEAD) Typhoon Jangmi nears S. Korea amid persisting monsoon season, flights canceled

The monsoon season is also expected to set a fresh record as the longest one after a 49-day record in @ @ @ @ @ continued for 47 days and is likely to exceed 50 days , as seasonal rain @ @ @ @ @ mid-August .

(ATTN: RECASTS headline; ADDS details in paras 6-7, 12-14, photos)
SEOUL, Aug. 10 (Yonhap) -- Typhoon Jangmi, the season's fifth typhoon, moved closer to the country's southern resort island of Jeju on Monday while the country's first monsoon season to extend into mid-August in decades showed no signs of letting up.
Entire town submerged over weekend as heavy rain continues to batter Korea Youtube https://youtu.be/pDOIBNOzmPk
Rain was forecast for all regions of the country as Jangmi was traveling northeastward at a speed of 38 kilometers per hour at seas some 210 kilometers southeast of Seogwipo in Jeju as of 7 a.m.
More than 40 millimeters of rain per hour was forecast for South Gyeongsang Province, and showers of around 15 millimeters were forecast for parts of the southern coastal areas and Jeju.
High waves are seen at a beach in Seogwipo on the southern resort island of Jeju on Aug. 10, 2020, as typhoon Jangmi moved closer to the country. (Yonhap)
This photo, from Aug. 9, 2020, shows fishermen in the southeastern port city of Busan moving ships to dry land to prepare for typhoon Jangmi, which was expected to hit South Korea this week. (Yonhap)
Precipitation on Monday and Tuesday was expected to reach 50-150 mm for Chungcheong provinces, the southern region and Jeju, while up to 250 mm of heavy rain was expected for the southern coastal regions, Jeju's mountains, as well as Mount Jiri.
Some 30-80 mm of rain was expected for Seoul and Gyeonggi Province, as well as Gangwon Province, over the two days, while strong wind was expected for most of the country.
In Jeju, 22 domestic flights were canceled as part of a precautionary measure. An operation ban was also placed on fifteen ships that connect Jeju to other parts of the country via nine routes, with some 2,000 boats docked for safety.
Entry to Mount Halla, the island's highest peak and a treasured tourist spot, has been restricted. Authorities also advised visitors to refrain from walking on the island's trekking routes.
The typhoon, which means "rose" in Korean, came as the country is going through an unusually long monsoon season this year.
An electronic board at Jeju International Airport in Jeju displays flights that have been canceled in a precautionary measure against Typhoon Jangmi on Aug. 10, 2020. (Yonhap)
This photo, provided by the office of North Jeolla Province on Aug. 9, 2020, shows a road in Jangsu, North Jeolla Province, that was damaged due to the recent heavy downpours. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE)
This year's monsoon season, which began on June 24 in the central region, has shown no signs of letting up, and it is likely to end later than the Aug. 10 record in 1987.
The monsoon season is also expected to set a fresh record as the longest one after a 49-day record in 2013. The monsoon has continued for 47 days and is likely to exceed 50 days, as seasonal rain is forecast to extend to mid-August.
The seasonal rain, which has pounded the central region with heavy downpours in August, has left 42 people dead or missing and damaged 14,091 facilities. Nearly 7,000 have been displaced from their homes.
Cows stand on the roof of a cattle shed in the county of Gurye, South Jeolla Province, on Aug. 9, 2020, as the region suffered from flooding caused by recent heavy downpours. (Yonhap)
In a government response meeting, Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun urged officials to take "exhaustive" measures to brace against the typhoon while abiding by safety rules.
"While this typhoon is a small one, its speed is very quick, raising concerns over damage from strong winds," Chung said, "Please take exhaustive measures against strong winds in Jeju and the southern coastal areas which are under the typhoon's influence."
Chung, meanwhile, reminded the public to refrain from going out unnecessarily and officials to heed to safety during their rescue and at-the-scene duties.
mlee@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-08-10--The Korea Interbank Offered Rates (KORIBOR)

SEOUL , Aug. 10 ( Yonhap ) -- The Korea Interbank Offered Rates ( KORIBOR ) as posted by Yonhap @ @ @ @ @ and information arm of Yonhap News Agency , at 11:00 a.m .

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


yna--2020-08-10--Biz groups join relief efforts for victims of heavy rains

To help victims , Samsung Group , the country 's largest conglomerate , on Friday announced it will donate 3 @ @ @ @ @ 2.5 million ) to the Korean Red Cross .
On Sunday , Hyundai Motor Group @ @ @ @ @ Group also joined the move , each donating 2 billion won to help those affected @ @ @ @

SEOUL, Aug. 10 (Yonhap) -- South Korea's major business groups are providing donations to support relief efforts for those affected by recent heavy rainfall, industry insiders said Monday.
Weeklong heavy downpours have left more than 40 people dead or missing and damaged 14,000 facilities in South Korea. Nearly 7,000 have been displaced from their homes.
To help victims, Samsung Group, the country's largest conglomerate, on Friday announced it will donate 3 billion won (US$2.5 million) to the Korean Red Cross. On Sunday, Hyundai Motor Group, SK Group and LG Group also joined the move, each donating 2 billion won to help those affected by torrential rainfall.
In addition to financial aid, local companies are providing services to support recovery efforts.
This photo, provided by Samsung Electronics Co. on Aug. 7, 2020, shows the company's service workers checking flood-damaged electronic products to help victims of heavy rains in Yeoncheon County, Gyeonggi Province. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)
Samsung Electronics Co. said it is offering free repair services for electronic products and has sent laundry and food trucks to the regions severely hit by heavy rains and floods.
Samsung C&T Corp., a builder under Samsung Group, said it will dispatch heavy construction equipment to help rain damage restoration efforts.
Hyundai Motor Co. and Kia Motors Corp. are offering on-site inspections of cars damaged by floods. The automakers will deliver damaged vehicles to service centers and will give a 50 percent discount if consumers want to fix their cars.
Both automakers said they will also support owners of damaged cars when they seek rental cars or buy new cars.
SK Group said its telecom affiliates, SK Telecom Co. and SK broadband Co., have sent workers to fix communications lines and to offer free Wi-Fi and IPTV services at shelters.
SK's car rental business unit will offer a discount when victims in the special disaster zones use its services.
LG Electronics Inc. said it has set up a service base station in Daejeon, and it is offering free repair of electronic products.
LG Household & Health Care Ltd. said it has donated 8,600 bottles of water and 4,000 relief kits of household goods to South Chungcheong Province, which has been hit hard by heavy rainfall.
kdon@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-08-10--KBO's stumbling leader to run into hottest club

The Dinos will visit the Lotte Giants in Busan , 450 kilometers southeast of Seoul , for a three-game series @ @ @ @ @ have n't lost in August , going 5-0 to move past the Samsung Lions for @ @ @ @ @ to within a game of the fifth and final playoff spot .
The Giants had @ @ @ @ @ the Doosan Bears in Seoul rained out and pushed to Monday , though more inclement @ @ @ @ @ cancellation but at least keep the Giants ' winning streak intact .

By Yoo Jee-ho
SEOUL, Aug. 10 (Yonhap) -- The NC Dinos ended July with a six-game lead over the Kiwoom Heroes for first place in the Korea Baseball Organization (KBO). But after the first full week of action in August, that advantage over the Heroes has been halved.
It may not be the time to press the panic button just yet, but the Dinos, 3-7 over their past 10 games, are certainly looking in the rearview mirror a little more closely than they were just a few weeks ago.
Yang Eui-ji of the NC Dinos (C) high-fives his teammates in the dugout after hitting a two-run home run against the Kia Tigers during a Korea Baseball Organization regular season game at Gwangju-Kia Champions Field in Gwangju, 330 kilometers south of Seoul, on Aug. 9, 2020. (Yonhap)
And at the onset of the new week, they'll try to maintain or extend their lead while facing the league's hottest team.
The Dinos will visit the Lotte Giants in Busan, 450 kilometers southeast of Seoul, for a three-game series starting Tuesday. The Giants haven't lost in August, going 5-0 to move past the Samsung Lions for seventh place and to get to within a game of the fifth and final playoff spot. The Giants had their Sunday's game against the Doosan Bears in Seoul rained out and pushed to Monday, though more inclement weather may lead to another cancellation but at least keep the Giants' winning streak intact.
Members of the NC Dinos celebrate their 8-1 victory over the Kia Tigers in a Korea Baseball Organization regular season game at Gwangju-Kia Champions Field in Gwangju, 330 kilometers south of Seoul, on Aug. 9, 2020. (Yonhap)
The Heroes, now breathing down the Dinos' neck, have a great opportunity to keep pace or get even closer this week. They'll host the last-place Hanwha Eagles for their Tuesday-Thursday series at Gocheok Sky Dome in Seoul. The Heroes have won all six meetings with the Eagles so far this season.
The Heroes have also gone 9-2 since former National League All-Star Addison Russell joined them on July 28.
Lee Seung-ho of the Kiwoom Heroes pitches against the LG Twins in a Korea Baseball Organization regular season game at Gocheok Sky Dome in Seoul on Aug. 9, 2020. (Yonhap)
Also for the midweek series, the LG Twins will bring home the Kia Tigers to Seoul for a key showdown between teams ranked fourth and fifth.
Both clubs lost Sunday, and the Twins stayed 1.5 games ahead of the Tigers. The Twins won their most recent meeting last week, taking two out of three games in Gwangju, the Tigers' home located some 330 kilometers south of Seoul.
Starting Tuesday, the Bears, who have slipped behind the Heroes to third place and are also in danger of falling to fourth, will visit the Lions in Daegu, 300 kilometers southeast of the capital. The Lions have faded away after an encouraging start, and entered Monday's makeup game against the SK Wyverns in eighth place.
Kim Hye-seong of the Kiwoom Heroes follows through on a two-run single against the LG Twins in a Korea Baseball Organization regular season game at Gocheok Sky Dome in Seoul on Aug. 9, 2020. (Yonhap)
For the Friday-Sunday weekend series, the Bears will host the KT Wiz, who are trying to qualify for the first postseason in franchise history. Following their 6-3 victory over the Eagles on Sunday, the Wiz, now in their sixth season, are just half a game back of the Tigers.
Also on the weekend, the Heroes will face the Giants in Busan, and the Twins will travel to Changwon, 400 kilometers south of the capital, to take on the Dinos.
After playing two sets of three-game series this week, teams will begin playing two-game series from Aug. 18 to Sept. 27. Then they'll resume playing three-game series, from Sept. 29 to Oct. 18.
Mel Rojas Jr. of the KT Wiz celebrates his two-run home run against the Hanwha Eagles during a Korea Baseball Organization regular season game at Hanwha Life Eagles Park in Daejeon, 160 kilometers south of Seoul, on Aug. 9, 2020. (Yonhap)
jeeho@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-08-10--Big Hit launches character brand modeled after K-pop band BTS

`` In TinyTAN , not only are the distinct characteristics of the seven members reflected but also the music , @ @ @ @ @ of the band are encompassed as well , '' Big Hit IP said .

SEOUL, Aug. 10 (Yonhap) -- Big Hit Entertainment, the label-management agency of K-pop group BTS, said Monday it has launched a new character brand called TinyTAN, inspired by and modeled after the band's seven members.
TinyTAN, consisting of BTS-inspired animated characters, revolves around a fictional universe in which the alter egos of BTS members are personified into adorable figurine-like characters representing the group, according to Big Hit.
Big Hit IP, a character-merchandise subsidiary of Big Hit Entertainment, said it plans to present various content and products using the TinyTAN brand. A teaser video for TinyTAN was unveiled on Saturday.
"In TinyTAN, not only are the distinct characteristics of the seven members reflected but also the music, performance and the good-minded influence of the band are encompassed as well," Big Hit IP said.
Big Hit plans to roll out TinyTAN products through the company's mobile fan community-commerce platform Weverse in the future.
TinyTAN will also be used in third-party product commercials as well. Big Hit has recently reached a deal with Proctor and Gamble to use the TinyTAN characters in an advertisement for the fabric softener product Downy.
This promotional image provided by Big Hit Entertainment shows TinyTAN, a character brand inspired by and modeled after the company's mega popular K-pop band BTS. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)
odissy@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-08-10--Renault Samsung to launch new EV in S. Korea next week

The Renault ZOE is priced at 39.95 million won-44.95 million won ( US $ 33,600- $ 37,800 ) , but @ @ @ @ @ 27.59 million-32.59 million won with state subsidies , the company said in a statement .

SEOUL, Aug. 10 (Yonhap) -- Renault Samsung Motors Corp., the South Korean unit of Renault S.A., said Monday it will launch the Renault ZOE all-electric car next week to boost its lackluster sales.
The company will receive orders for the Renault ZOE from Aug. 18, with a plan to deliver ordered vehicles from September, a company spokesman said.
The pure electric subcompact will be imported from France after being assembled at the French carmaker's Flins plant outside Paris, he said.
This image provided by Renault Samsung shows the Renault ZOE all-electric model. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)
The Renault ZOE is priced at 39.95 million won-44.95 million won (US$33,600-$37,800), but it will be available for 27.59 million-32.59 million won with state subsidies, the company said in a statement.
Renault Samsung has one all-electric model in its lineup -- the SM3 Z.E. compact sedan. Its three other models are the SM6 sedan, the XM3 sport utility vehicle and the QM6 SUV.
The company has struggled with weak sales in Korea due to a lack of new models. Its sales fell 25 percent to 76,588 units in the January-July period from 101,718 a year earlier.
Renault holds an 81 percent stake in Renault Samsung.
kyongae.choi@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-08-10--(LEAD) New daily virus cases fall below 30 as church-linked infections again loom larger

Of the locally transmitted cases , 11 were reported in the densely populated capital city of Seoul .
Nine new @ @ @ @ @ the Namdaemun Market in central Seoul .
The surrounding Gyeonggi Province also identified five new @ @

(ATTN: ADDS details throughout)
SEOUL, Aug. 10 (Yonhap) -- South Korea's new coronavirus infections fell below 30 on Monday as imported cases slowed, but church-traced infections continued to strain the country's anti-virus fight.
The country identified an additional 28 virus cases, including 17 local infections, raising the total caseload to 14,626, according to the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (KCDC).
It marked a slight drop from the 36 new virus cases, including 30 local infections, the previous day.
Imported cases, which fell to a single digit after increasing by double-digit numbers for 43 consecutive days, rebounded to 11.
Of the locally transmitted cases, 11 were reported in the densely populated capital city of Seoul. Nine new virus cases were tied to the Namdaemun Market in central Seoul. The surrounding Gyeonggi Province also identified five new cases.
Medical staff members carry out new coronavirus tests at a drive-thru clinic in Goyang, north of Seoul, on Aug. 9, 2020. (Yonhap)
Domestic cases fell to as low as just three on Aug. 3, but sporadic cluster infections, most tied to churches, have led to yet another uptick in the total number of cases.
A church in Goyang, north of Seoul, reported eight additional patients on Sunday, raising the total caseload to 24. Another church from the city added two more infections to report a combined 20 cases.
A church in Seoul's western district of Yeongdeungpo reported five patients. Health authorities said the related church members dined together without proper infection preventive measures.
Since reporting its first patient on Jan. 20, South Korea has never adopted a full lockdown but opted to prevent the spread of the virus through enhanced social distancing guidelines.
The measures included adopting a quick response (QR) code-based entry authentication system to quickly track the visitors at crowded establishments, such as bars, clubs, and churches.
South Korea had banned church members from having gatherings other than regular worship services amid the soaring number of related patients, but it decided to lift the regulation on July 24.
On Sunday, health authorities hinted they are considering readopting the scheme should the number of infections from churches not plateau.
Of the 11 imported cases reported on Monday, six were screened at quarantine checkpoints.
The Philippines and Bangladesh accounted for two cases each. The United States took up three of the newly added imported cases.
Among the accumulated 2,561 imported cases, South Korean nationals were responsible for 65.8 percent.
The country recently suffered a sharp increase in the number of such imported cases due to South Korean workers returning home from Iraq, along with sailors from Russian ships docked at its port.
The country reported no new virus deaths, keeping the number of fatalities at 305, according to the KCDC. The fatality rate reached 2.09 percent.
The number of patients fully cured of the virus reached 13,658, up 16 from the previous day, with more than 93 percent of the patients here having recovered.
South Korea has carried out 1,628,303 COVID-19 tests since Jan. 3.
colin@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-08-10--New daily virus cases fall below 30 as church-linked infections again loom larger

SEOUL, Aug. 10 (Yonhap) -- South Korea's new coronavirus infections fell below 30 on Monday as imported cases slowed, but church-traced infections continued to strain the country's anti-virus fight.
The country identified an additional 28 virus cases, including 17 local infections, raising the total caseload to 14,626, according to the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (KCDC).
It marked a slight drop from the 36 new virus cases, including 30 local infections, the previous day.
Imported cases, which fell to a single digit after increasing by double-digit numbers for 43 consecutive days, rebounded to 11.
Of the locally transmitted cases, 11 were reported in the densely populated capital city of Seoul. Nine new virus cases were tied to the Namdaemun Market in central Seoul. The surrounding Gyeonggi Province also identified five new cases.
Medical staff members carry out new coronavirus tests at a drive-thru clinic in Goyang, north of Seoul, on Aug. 9, 2020. (Yonhap)
Domestic cases fell to as low as just three on Aug. 3, but sporadic cluster infections, most tied to churches, have led to yet another uptick in the total number of cases.
A church in Goyang, north of Seoul, reported eight additional patients on Sunday, raising the total caseload to 24. Another church from the city added two more infections to report a combined 20 cases.
A church in Seoul's western district of Yeongdeungpo reported five patients. Health authorities said the related church members dined together without proper infection preventive measures.
Since reporting its first patient on Jan. 20, South Korea has never adopted a full lockdown but opted to prevent the spread of the virus through enhanced social distancing guidelines.
The measures included adopting a quick response (QR) code-based entry authentication system to quickly track the visitors at crowded establishments, such as bars, clubs, and churches.
South Korea had banned church members from having gatherings other than regular worship services amid the soaring number of related patients, but it decided to lift the regulation on July 24.
On Sunday, health authorities hinted they are considering readopting the scheme should the number of infections from churches not plateau.
Of the 11 imported cases reported on Monday, six were screened at quarantine checkpoints.
The country recently suffered a sharp increase in the number of such imported cases due to South Korean workers returning home from Iraq, along with sailors from Russian ships docked at its port.
The country reported no new virus deaths, keeping the number of fatalities at 305, according to the KCDC.
The number of patients fully cured of the virus reached 13,658, up 16 from the previous day.
colin@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-08-10--(URGENT) 16 more patients released from coronavirus treatment, total now at 13,658: KCDC


yna--2020-08-10--(URGENT) S. Korea reports no new coronavirus death, death toll at 305: KCDC


yna--2020-08-10--(URGENT) S. Korea reports 28 more cases of new coronavirus, total now at 14,626: KCDC


yna--2020-08-10--N.K. leader's reserve grain arrives at flood-hit village to help victims

His decision to open up the grain reserves for the flood victims appears intended to allay public grievances , as @ @ @ @ @ to prevent an outbreak of COVID-19 in the North for over six months in an @ @ @ @ @ sanctions .

By Yi Wonju
SEOUL, Aug. 10 (Yonhap) -- A shipment of grain that North Korean leader Kim Jong-un promised to provide for flood victims has reached those in need, state media reported Monday, stressing that the aid shows the leader's "great loving care" for his people.
Kim promised to release grain from his own special stock for flood victims during a visit last week to the Taechong-ri area of Unpha County in North Hwanghae Province, where more than 900 homes and 600 hectares of rice fields were inundated after a dyke broke.
On Monday, the Korean Central News Agency reported that trucks carrying grain arrived at Unpha County on Sunday morning, and a ceremony was held for "conveying the solicitude shown by the Supreme Leader for the people."
"Great loving care of Supreme Leader Kim Jong-un who prioritizes safety and happiness of people and spares nothing for them has reached people in the flood-hit area of Unpha County," KCNA said.
Kim's grain reserve refers to a special stockpile of grain that can be used under his orders in the event of a crisis or war.
His decision to open up the grain reserves for the flood victims appears intended to allay public grievances, as the poverty-stricken country has struggled to prevent an outbreak of COVID-19 in the North for over six months in an economy already faltering under international sanctions.
On Friday, KCNA reported Unpha Country received heavy rainfall, flooding nearly 730 homes and 600 hectares of rice fields and destroying 179 homes.
Heavy rainfall is expected to continue on Monday and Tuesday, with as much as 50 to 150 millimeters pouring in Hwanghae Province, according to the North's weather agency.
Flooding in Hwanghae Province is likely to affect the North's crop output as it is one of the main regions of grain production.
In this photo captured from the Korean Central Television Broadcasting Station on Aug. 7, 2020, many houses are damaged and flooded at a flood-ravaged village in Unpha, North Hwanghae Province, which North Korean leader Kim Jong-un visited. The broadcaster stopped short of saying when he made the visit, but Kim is believed to have visited the village the previous day. (For Use Only in the Republic of Korea. No Redistribution) (Yonhap)
The Rungrado 1st of May Stadium in North Korea's capital city of Pyongyang is flooded due to heavy rain, in this photo captured from the North's Korean Central Television on Aug. 8, 2020. (For Use Only in the Republic of Korea. No Redistribution) (Yonhap)
julesyi@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-08-10--Local crime thriller scores big at weekend box office

Directed by Hong Won-chan , the film follows the story of In-nam , an assassin played by Hwang who becomes @ @ @ @ @ Ray , played by Lee , pursues him to avenge his dead brother .

SEOUL, Aug. 10 (Yonhap) -- "Deliver Us From Evil," a homegrown action film, attracted over 1 million moviegoers in South Korea over the weekend, bringing the number of accumulative viewers to over 2 million, data showed Monday.
The crime action thriller starring Hwang Jung-min and Lee Jung-jae attracted 1,071,248 moviegoers between Saturday and Sunday, according to data from the Korean Film Council.
Combined audience members for "Evil" reached 2.02 million within five days, breaking the 2 million-mark two days faster than director Yeon Sang-ho's zombie blockbuster "Peninsula."
Directed by Hong Won-chan, the film follows the story of In-nam, an assassin played by Hwang who becomes embroiled in unexpected incidents as Ray, played by Lee, pursues him to avenge his dead brother.
This image, provided by CJ Entertainment, shows a scene from South Korean action film "Deliver Us From Evil" featuring lead actor Lee Jung-jae. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)
Political action film "Steel Rain 2: Summit" came in second, drawing 155,814 attendees, with the number of accumulative viewers reaching 1.54 million. "Peninsula," sequel to 2016's top grossing film "Train to Busan," finished third, with 74,279 viewers. The film's combined attendees reached 3.69 million.
"Evil" has also apparently given a much-needed boost to the film industry in terms of drawing people to the box office.
The number of daily moviegoers reached 729,450 on Saturday, setting the biggest daily high since the 1.22 million figure on Jan. 27, just before the mass outbreak of COVID-19.
Due to the fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic, the South Korean box office was in a deep slump for about four months, with daily admissions slumping to as low as 15,000 in April.
The stars of the movie "Deliver Us From Evil" -- Park Jung-min (L) and Lee Jung-jae (R) -- along with director Hong Won-chan (C) pose for a photo during a publicity event on July 28, 2020. (Yonhap)
odissy@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-08-10--Cluster infections break out at Seoul's Namdaemun Market

All the infected merchants were working on the ground floor of Kennedy Complex , and there were around five other @ @ @ @ @ floors of the shopping mall , the officials said .

SEOUL, Aug. 10 (Yonhap) -- Eight merchants working at Namdaemun Market in central Seoul and at least one family member have tested positive for the new coronavirus, officials said Monday, raising concern about a fresh cluster of pandemic infections at the nation's largest traditional market.
According to municipal officials, eight merchants who belong to the sprawling market's women's fashion shopping mall, called Kennedy Complex, had been found to be infected with COVID-19 as of Sunday afternoon.
The latest cluster of infections appears to be traced to a female Kennedy Complex employee, a resident of Goyang, just northwest of Seoul, who tested positive last Friday, the officials speculated.
Soon after, quarantine authorities conducted coronavirus tests on 20 merchants who were working on the same floor as the Goyang resident, and seven of them produced positive results, they said.
Most shops at Seoul's Namdaemun Market are closed on Aug. 9, 2020, due to summer holidays. (Yonhap)
The Goyang woman's child was additionally found to be infected, they added.
The authorities are planning to conduct more COVID-19 tests after examining if there were others who came into contact with the Goyang woman and the infected merchants.
All the infected merchants were working on the ground floor of Kennedy Complex, and there were around five other merchants who work on other floors of the shopping mall, the officials said.
The Seoul metropolitan government has sent out public text massages asking all shoppers who may have recently come into contact with Kennedy Complex merchants to take the coronavirus test.
Kennedy Complex is located between Exit 5 and Exit 6 of Hoehyeon Station on Seoul Subway Line 4. Namdaemun Market is the largest traditional market in Korea with shops selling all kinds of consumer goods, including clothes, glasses, kitchenware, toys, stationery, accessories, ginseng and imported goods.
ycm@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-08-10--Typhoon Jangmi nears S. Korea amid persisting monsoon season

SEOUL, Aug. 10 (Yonhap) -- Typhoon Jangmi, the season's fifth typhoon, moved closer to the country's southern resort island of Jeju on Monday while the country's first monsoon season to extend into mid-August in decades showed no signs of letting up.
Rain was forecast for all regions of the country as Jangmi was traveling northeastward at a speed of 38 kilometers per hour at seas some 210 kilometers southeast of Seogwipo in Jeju as of 7 a.m.
More than 40 millimeters of rain per hour was forecast for South Gyeongsang Province, and showers of around 15 millimeters were forecast for parts of the southern coastal areas and Jeju.
This photo, from Aug. 9, 2020, shows fishermen in the southeastern port city of Busan moving ships to dry land to prepare for typhoon Jangmi, which was expected to hit South Korea this week. (Yonhap)
Precipitation on Monday and Tuesday was expected to reach 50-150 mm for Chungcheong provinces, the southern region and Jeju, while up to 250 mm of heavy rain was expected for the southern coastal regions, Jeju's mountains, as well as Mount Jiri.
Some 30-80 mm of rain was expected for Seoul and Gyeonggi Province, as well as Gangwon Province, over the two days, while strong wind was expected for most of the country.
The typhoon, which means "rose" in Korean, came as the country is going through an unusually long monsoon season this year.
This photo, provided by the office of North Jeolla Province on Aug. 9, 2020, shows a road in Jangsu, North Jeolla Province, that was damaged due to the recent heavy downpours. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE)
This year's monsoon season, which began on June 24 in the central region, has shown no signs of letting up, and it is likely to end later than the Aug. 10 record in 1987.
The monsoon season is also expected to set a fresh record as the longest one after a 49-day record in 2013. The monsoon has continued for 47 days and is likely to exceed 50 days, as seasonal rain is forecast to extend to mid-August.
The seasonal rain, which has pounded the central region with heavy downpours in August, has left 42 people dead or missing and damaged 14,091 facilities. Nearly 7,000 have been displaced from their homes.
Cows stand on the roof of a cattle shed in the county of Gurye, South Jeolla Province, on Aug. 9, 2020, as the region suffered from flooding caused by recent heavy downpours. (Yonhap)
mlee@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-08-10--S. Korea's 5G subscribers top 7 million in June: data

The number of 5G subscriptions is expected to rise later this year , considering launches of new phones that will @ @ @ @ @ Samsung Electronics Co. 's Galaxy Note 20 and Apple Inc. 's iPhone .

SEOUL, Aug. 10 (Yonhap) -- The number of subscribers to 5G mobile networks topped 7 million in June, after the country began to offer the fastest mobile service in April last year, data showed on Monday.
The country had 7.37 million 5G users as of June, up 493,101 from the previous month, according to data compiled by the Ministry of Science and ICT.
The latest figure accounts for over 10 percent of the country's 69.6 million mobile subscriptions in total.
The number of 5G subscriptions is expected to rise later this year, considering launches of new phones that will use the network, including Samsung Electronics Co.'s Galaxy Note 20 and Apple Inc.'s iPhone.
A 5G phone is shown at KT Corp.'s headquarter building in central Seoul, in this file photo taken on June 8, 2020. The country's 5G subscribers accounted for over 10 percent of total mobile subscribers in June. (Yonhap)
The 4G network remained the most popular, holding 55 million subscriptions and representing roughly 80 percent of total mobile accounts.
SK Telecom Co. had the most 5G subscribers at 3.35 million, followed by KT Corp. at 2.24 million and LG Uplus Corp. at 1.78 million.
The steady growth in 5G users comes as the country pushes for the network's wider deployment despite the COVID-19 pandemic, which has delayed related investment plans for the year.
The three major telecom operators promised last month to invest up to 25.7 trillion won to speed up improvements to 5G services and install a nationwide network by 2022.
According to a government report last week, the network's accessibility in public locations installed with 5G equipment hovered below 70 percent.
yunhwanchae@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-08-10--Mahindra to renounce controlling stake in SsangYong if investor comes up

`` It is hard for Mahindra to find a new investor in SsangYong if it sticks to the majority stake @ @ @ @ @ to lower its stake to below 50 percent to invite more investors , '' the @ @ @

SEOUL, Aug. 10 (Yonhap) -- Indian carmaker Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. will give up its status as the biggest shareholder of SsangYong Motor Co. if it finds a new investor, the South Korean company said Monday.
Mahindra's board of directors recently agreed to lower the company's 74.65 percent stake in SsangYong Motor to below 50 percent if an investor comes up for the cash-strapped automaker, a SsangYong spokesman said over the phone.
Mahindra Managing Director Pawan Goenka made the remark during a conference call on its second-quarter earnings results, according to SsangYong. He was also quoted as saying talks with potential investors are underway.
This photo, taken on April 5, 2020, shows SsangYong Motor's plant in Pyeongtaek, 70 kilometers south of Seoul. (Yonhap)
"It is hard for Mahindra to find a new investor in SsangYong if it sticks to the majority stake. So it has decided to lower its stake to below 50 percent to invite more investors," the spokesman said.
Mahindra made it clear in the conference call that it does not have a plan to inject fresh capital into SsangYong.
Mahindra has hinted at the possibility of giving up control of SsangYong Motor since June when Goenka said "SsangYong needs a new investor and Mahindra is working with the company for that purpose."
Early this year, Mahindra said it would inject 230 billion won (US$194 million) into SsangYong for the next three years after obtaining approval from its board. But its board voted against the plan in April, as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to affect vehicle sales in global markets.
Instead, Mahindra said it would consider a special one-time infusion of up to 40 billion won over the next three months to help SsangYong continue operations.
The one-time cash injection falls far short of the 500 billion won Goenka had said is needed to turn SsangYong around by 2022.
SsangYong Motor has struggled with declining sales due to a lack of new models and Mahindra's recent decision not to invest in the unit.
The SUV-focused carmaker has reported net losses in the past 14 quarters through the second quarter of this year. Its net losses narrowed to 8.85 billion won in the second quarter from 51.45 billion won a year earlier.
From January to July, SsangYong sold a total of 56,846 vehicles, down 28 percent from 78,687 units in the year-ago period.
Its lineup consists of the flagship G4 Rexton, as well as the Tivoli, Korando and Rexton Sports sport utility vehicles.
In 2011, Mahindra acquired a 70 percent stake in SsangYong Motor for 523 billion won.
kyongae.choi@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-08-10--(5th LD) As Typhoon Jangmi dissipates, more downpours expected overnight

In Jeju , which was among the first areas to be affected by Jangmi , 36 domestic flights were canceled @ @ @ @ @ An operation ban was also placed on 15 ships that connect Jeju to other parts @ @ @ @ @ routes , with some 2,000 boats docked for safety .

(ATTN: CHANGES headline, lead, photos; UPDATES with new info in paras 1-6, 18-19)
SEOUL, Aug. 10 (Yonhap) -- Typhoon Jangmi dissipated on Monday afternoon after it passed through the southeastern tip of South Korea, leaving limited damage, the national weather agency said.
But torrential rains are likely to continue in some parts of the country into Tuesday after downpours that started on Aug. 1 wreaked havoc, leaving 42 people dead or missing.
The first typhoon to affect the country this season made landfall on the southeastern island of Geoje at 2:50 p.m, the Korea Meteorological Administration said. It weakened to an extratropical cyclone at around 5 p.m., while moving over 10 kilometers northwest of nearby Ulsan. No major damage was reported.
The typhoon dissipated some 38 hours after it formed at seas some 600 kilometers southwest of Okinawa, Japan, the previous day.
The agency said heavy rain and strong wind are expected to continue in some parts of the country at night, including the Seoul metropolitan area and Gangwon, Chungcheong and Gyeongsang provinces.
A pedestrian walks through heavy rain in the southeastern city of Busan on Aug. 10, 2020. (Yonhap)
On the eastern coast of Gyeongsang and Gangwon provinces, wind speed was forecast to reach up to 35-60 km per hour, peaking at 90 km per hour.
The weather agency projected clouds and rain to hover over the country into Tuesday.
Precipitation for the two-day period was expected at 50-150 millimeters in the southern areas of Gyeonggi and Gangwon provinces, as well as Chungcheong Province and North Jeolla.
Rain of 30 to 80 mm was also forecast for parts of Seoul, Gyeonggi and Gangwon provinces as well as South Jeolla and Gyeongsang provinces.
The weather agency advised preventive measures against possible damage, warning that ground could have weakened due to recent downpours.
High waves are seen at Haeundae Beach in the southeastern port city of Busan on Aug. 10, 2020, as Typhoon Jangmi moved northward. (Yonhap)
A pedestrian struggles to carry an umbrella as heavy rain fell at Haeundae Beach in the southeastern port city of Busan on Aug. 10, 2020, as Typhoon Jangmi moved northward. (Yonhap)
High waves are seen at Haeundae Beach in the southeastern port city of Busan on Aug. 10, 2020, as Typhoon Jangmi moved northward. (Yonhap)
An electronic board at Jeju International Airport in Jeju displays flights that have been canceled in a precautionary measure against Typhoon Jangmi on Aug. 10, 2020. (Yonhap)
High waves are seen at a beach in Seogwipo on the southern resort island of Jeju on Aug. 10, 2020, as typhoon Jangmi moved closer to the country. (Yonhap)
This photo, from Aug. 9, 2020, shows fishermen in the southeastern port city of Busan moving ships to dry land to prepare for Typhoon Jangmi, which was expected to hit South Korea this week. (Yonhap)
In Jeju, which was among the first areas to be affected by Jangmi, 36 domestic flights were canceled as a precautionary measure. An operation ban was also placed on 15 ships that connect Jeju to other parts of the country via nine routes, with some 2,000 boats docked for safety.
Damage, however, was limited, with wind speed measuring at 1 to 5 meters per second at noon. A typhoon advisory was lifted as of 1 p.m.
Still, authorities said around 30-80 millimeters of rain is expected to fall on the island until Tuesday morning.
The typhoon, which means "rose" in Korean, came as the country is going through an unusually long monsoon season this year.
Ships are docked at a port in Tongyeong, South Gyeongsang Province, on Aug. 10, 2020, in a precautionary measure against Typhoon Jangmi that was moving northward. (Yonhap)
Visitors enjoy nature at a cafe in Seogwipo on the country's southern resort island of Jeju on Aug. 10, 2020. Damage from Typhoon Jangmi, which passed near the island earlier in the day, was limited. (Yonhap)
This photo, provided by the office of North Jeolla Province on Aug. 9, 2020, shows a road in Jangsu, North Jeolla Province, that was damaged due to the recent heavy downpours. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)
This year's monsoon season, which began on June 24 in the central region, has shown no signs of letting up, and it is likely to end later than the Aug. 10 record in 1987.
The monsoon season is also expected to set a fresh record as the longest one after a 49-day record in 2013. The monsoon has continued for 47 days and is likely to exceed 50 days, as seasonal rain is forecast to extend to mid-August.
The seasonal rain, which has pounded the central region with heavy downpours in August, has left 42 people dead or missing and damaged 17,958 facilities. Nearly 7,000 have been displaced from their homes.
The prolonged inclement weather has hampered restoration works nationwide, with only 50 percent of the damaged facilities having been repaired.
Cows stand on the roof of a cattle shed in the county of Gurye, South Jeolla Province, on Aug. 9, 2020, as the region suffered from flooding caused by recent heavy downpours. (Yonhap)
In a government response meeting, Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun urged officials to take "exhaustive" measures to brace against the typhoon while abiding by safety rules.
"While this typhoon is a small one, its speed is very quick, raising concerns over damage from strong winds," Chung said, "Please take exhaustive measures against strong winds in Jeju and the southern coastal areas which are under the typhoon's influence."
Chung, meanwhile, reminded the public to refrain from going out unnecessarily and officials to heed to safety during their rescue and at-the-scene duties.
mlee@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-08-10--KBO's reigning saves leader out 2 months with shoulder injury

The 29-year-old took a long and winding road through the U.S. minor leagues and Japanese league before arriving at the @ @ @ @ @ former outfielder had dabbled at pitching while in the minors for the Chicago Cubs .
@ @ @ @ @ with the Tokyo Yakult Swallows in 2016 and converted to the mound for good with @ @ @

By Yoo Jee-ho
SEOUL, Aug. 10 (Yonhap) -- The reigning saves king in South Korean baseball will likely miss the rest of this season with a shoulder injury.
The SK Wyverns of the Korea Baseball Organization (KBO) announced Monday that reliever Ha Jae-hoon will be sidelined for two months with right shoulder pains. An MRI taken Saturday revealed damage to his pitching shoulder, and doctors recommended a two-month rehab.
In this file photo, from May 6, 2020, Ha Jae-hoon of the SK Wyverns reacts to a play during the top of the ninth inning of a Korea Baseball Organization regular season game against the Hanwha Eagles at SK Happy Dream Park in Incheon, 40 kilometers west of Seoul. (Yonhap)
That will essentially rule him out for this season. The KBO has scheduled regular season games through Oct. 18, with rained-out games to be made up between Oct. 19 and Nov. 2. The Wyverns, in ninth place among 10 clubs at 25-52-1 (wins-losse-ties), are well out of playoff contention, and it'd be pointless trying to bring back Ha late in this lost season.
In 2019, the right-hander led the KBO with 36 saves and posted a 1.98 ERA. He parlayed that into a 150 million won (US$126,370) deal for this season, up from 27 million won. It represented the largest rate of annual increase in salary in KBO history at 455.6 percent.
But Ha's average fastball velocity dipped from 146.3 kilometers per hour to 143.7 kilometers per hour, and he had a 7.62 ERA across 15 appearances this season before getting booted to the minor league on June 22. Though Ha picked up four saves, he also allowed 19 hits and eight walks in just 13 innings.
Ha's and other relievers' struggles in the bullpen contributed to the Wyverns' dismal start to this season. Ha made a minor league appearance last Friday but threw only four pitches. He had an 11.57 ERA in three minor league games.
The 29-year-old took a long and winding road through the U.S. minor leagues and Japanese league before arriving at the KBO last season. The former outfielder had dabbled at pitching while in the minors for the Chicago Cubs. He returned to the outfield with the Tokyo Yakult Swallows in 2016 and converted to the mound for good with the Wyverns.
In this file photo, from March 12, 2020, Ha Jae-hoon of the SK Wyverns throws during practice at SK Happy Dream Park in Incheon, 40 kilometers west of Seoul. (Yonhap)
jeeho@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-08-10--High court affirms guilty verdicts for Samsung execs, except one, in union sabotage case

Lee and 31 other former and incumbent Samsung executives and officials were indicted in 2018 on charges of leading and @ @ @ @ @ neutralize the labor union at Samsung Electronics Service , a customer service affiliate , by @ @ @ @ @ and leaking sensitive personal data to force them to leave the union .

SEOUL, Aug. 10 (Yonhap) -- An appellate court on Monday acquitted Lee Sang-hoon, former chairman of Samsung Electronics Co.'s board of directors, of disrupting union activities at a Samsung affiliate in violation of labor laws, overturning a jail sentence by a lower court.
Lee and 31 other former and incumbent Samsung executives and officials were indicted in 2018 on charges of leading and engaging in group-wide efforts to neutralize the labor union at Samsung Electronics Service, a customer service affiliate, by gathering personal information about members and leaking sensitive personal data to force them to leave the union.
Lee Sang-hoon, former chairman of the board of Samsung Electronics Co., attends a hearing at the Seoul Central District Court in southern Seoul on Dec. 17, 2019. (Yonhap)
Lee, 65, was sentenced by a Seoul district court in December last year to 1 1/2 years in prison after being convicted of violating labor laws, with 25 others convicted on similar charges.
But the Seoul High Court reversed the lower court's verdict for Lee and acquitted him of all charges, though it maintained guilty verdicts for 25 others and reduced or upheld their sentences.
The appellate court reduced the prison sentence for Samsung Electronics Vice President Kang Kyung-hoon, also indicted for violating labor laws through the alleged union-busting operations, from 1 1/2 years to one year and four months.
It also slashed prison sentences for Choi Pyeong-seok and Park Sang-bum, who formerly served as Samsung Electronics Service's executive director and CEO, respectively, by two months to one year and one and four months.
The court upheld suspended jail sentences for Won Gee-chan, CEO of Samsung Lions, Chung Keum Yong, CEO of Samsung C&T Corp., and Park Yong-ki, vice president of Samsung Electronics, though their probation periods were slightly reduced.
Lee, Kang and others allegedly engaged in the union-disrupting operations, beginning in 2013, while working at Samsung Group's Future Strategy Office, which served as the top conglomerate's control tower for formulating and executing labor-management strategies.
The Seoul High Court said all the defendants had extensively engaged in illegal labor activities and inflicted mental suffering on union workers by ignoring their labor rights.
The court, however, said it decided to acquit Lee because evidence about his alleged illegalities was illicitly collected.
"This court has finally decided to give a not-guilty verdict to Lee after accepting his innocence claim but this doesn't mean Lee was not involved in the union-busting operations," the court said.
The evidence allegedly involving Lee was discovered by prosecutors raiding Samsung offices as part of their probe into a suspected bribery case involving former President Lee Myung-bak.
ycm@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-08-10--(LEAD) Moon names three new senior secretaries, no announcement on chief of staff

He is the `` right figure to support a smooth push for policy tasks and contribute to the restoration of @ @ @ @ @ advancement of national unity on the basis of brisk communication with opposition parties , '' @ @ @ @ @ briefing .

(ATTN: UPDATES with details from 3rd para; MODIFIES lead, headline; CHANGES photo)
SEOUL, Aug. 10 (Yonhap) -- President Moon Jae-in picked three new key senior Cheong Wa Dae secretaries Monday amid public anger over the government's real estate policies that have been unsuccessful so far.
He named Choi Jae-sung, a former four-term ruling party lawmaker, as senior secretary for political affairs; Kim Jong-ho, secretary general of the Board of Audit and Inspection, for civil affairs and justice; and Kim Je-nam, secretary for climate and environment, for civic and social affairs, according to Cheong Wa Dae spokesman Kang Min-seok.
The president will formally appoint them Tuesday, Kang added.
Their predecessors -- Kang Gi-jung, Kim Jo-won and Kim Geo-sung -- tendered their resignations last Friday, saying the move was to take "comprehensive responsibility for the recent situation."
Moon's Chief of Staff Noh Young-min, Kim Oe-sook, senior secretary for personnel affairs, and Yoon Do-han, senior secretary for public communication, also offered to quit.
Kang, however, did not announce their replacements.
Asked whether the president will accept their resignations, a presidential official said, "It's hard to comment, as it's a matter related to the president's personnel affairs rights."
On the nomination of Choi, Kang said he has expertise in political affairs, as well as the ability to get things done and map out policy plans.
He is the "right figure to support a smooth push for policy tasks and contribute to the restoration of politics of cooperation and the advancement of national unity on the basis of brisk communication with opposition parties," Kang said at a press briefing.
Kim, the nominee to become senior secretary for civil affairs and justice, is a veteran state auditor. He served as Moon's first secretary for civil service discipline at Cheong Wa Dae.
"He receives an assessment that he has a high level of understanding on the Moon Jae-in administration's philosophy of state management," Kang said.
The incoming secretary for civic and social affairs, a former lawmaker with the progressive Justice Party, had long worked at a nongovernmental environmental group.
"She's expected to preemptively adjust and resolve various issues of conflict in our society," Kang said.
Moon's approval rating has been on a notable decline over the past weeks. Many say that public uproar over relentless home price hikes mainly in Seoul and nearby Gyeonggi Province is among major reasons. Despite a number of stated policy measures, the government has failed to stabilize the housing market.
lcd@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-08-10--Gov't, Seoul city form task force for supply of public housing

Experts and analysts said the new supply plan wo n't have an immediate effect on the market as it will @ @ @ @ @ five years before the proposed homes will be ready for the people in need .

SEOUL, Aug. 10 (Yonhap) -- The central and the Seoul city governments will work together to provide more public housing in the capital and adjacent areas, the transport ministry said Monday.
The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport and the Seoul Metropolitan Government have formed a task force to explore aged residential buildings that can be reconstructed to supply more public housing to the underprivileged, the ministry said in a statement.
The move is in line with the government's plan to supply 132,000 housing units in Seoul and its neighboring areas by 2028 by easing regulations for reconstruction of aged apartments, which centers on allowing up to 50 floors for redeveloped residential buildings, far higher than the current limit of 35 floors.
This photo taken on July 15, 2020, shows high-rise apartment buildings in the southeastern Seoul ward of Songpa (Yonhap)
The plan, unveiled last week, will allow state-run companies, such as the Korea Land & Housing Corp. (LH) and the Seoul Housing & Communities Corp. (SH), to carry out apartment rebuilding projects to supply public housing.
But the projects have drawn lukewarm responses from owners of apartment complexes because they do not bring expected gains from the reconstruction of the complexes.
The government said it will determine the first candidate buildings in the greater Seoul area as quickly as possible to proceed with the home supply plan.
The Aug. 4 measures follow dozens of previous ones under the Moon Jae-in administration in the past three years to stabilize housing prices. But the past measures fell short of having brought rising housing prices under control.
Experts and analysts said the new supply plan won't have an immediate effect on the market as it will take at least three to five years before the proposed homes will be ready for the people in need.
They said it will be possible to provide more public housing through redevelopment of areas with smaller residences, instead of reconstructing existing apartment complexes.
With the presale price cap for newly built apartments and the system to retrieve excessive gains from the reconstruction already a headache for them, residents do not want SH and LH take the lead in their apartment reconstruction projects due to lack of returns, Kwon Dae-jung, a professor in the department of real estate at Myungji University, said.
kyongae.choi@yna.co.kr
(END)


Yonhap News Summary

SEOUL -- For a group that debuted less than 72 hours ago , the hopes and anticipation riding on TREASURE @ @ @ @ @ under YG Entertainment , as well as the pressure it has come to bear , @ @ @ @ @ heavier .

The following is the second summary of major stories moved by Yonhap News Agency on Monday.
-----------------
N.K. believed to have received more rain in August than in 2007 major flooding: unification ministry
SEOUL -- North Korea appears to have received more rainfall this month than the corresponding period of 2007 when the communist nation was hit by some of the worst flooding, the unification ministry said Monday.
"We expect North Korea to be affected by the flood in the entire region and have problems in controlling the water flow," Yoh Sang-key, the ministry's spokesperson, said in a regular press briefing.
------------------
Foreign visitors to S. Korea slump 98 pct on-year in June: tally
SEOUL -- The number of foreigners who traveled to South Korea slumped 97.5 percent on-year in June, data showed Monday, highlighting the drastic impact the new coronavirus is having on the local tourism sector.
The number of foreigners who visited the country came in at 36,943 in June, compared with 1.48 million in the same month last year, according to the data by the Korea Tourism Organization (KTO).
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(3rd LD) New daily virus cases fall below 30 as church-linked infections again loom larger
SEOUL -- South Korea's new coronavirus infections fell below 30 on Monday as imported cases slowed, but church-traced infections continued to strain the country's anti-virus fight.
The country identified an additional 28 virus cases, including 17 local infections, raising the total caseload to 14,626, according to the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (KCDC).
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Moon says gov't to mull agency to oversee housing market in response to soaring home prices
SEOUL -- President Moon Jae-in said Monday that the government will consider setting up a separate supervisory body, if needed, to make sure that existing policy steps to curb home price hikes work properly.
He also proposed a review of ways to alleviate the tax burden of low- to mid-priced single-house owners as part of "complementary" measures.
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(LEAD) 3 new mutated COVID-19 strains detected in S. Korea: KCDC
SEOUL -- South Korea's public health authorities said Monday they have found three new mutated genome sequences of the novel coronavirus among imported cases.
Genetic mutations were detected to "spike protein," the major surface protein of the virus, from the three COVID-19 imported cases -- two from Pakistan and one from Uzbekistan -- according to the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (KCDC).
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(LEAD) USFK eases anti-virus restrictions peninsula-wide amid slowdown in new cases
SEOUL -- U.S. Forces Korea (USFK) eased anti-coronavirus restrictions for its personnel across the peninsula Monday, allowing service members and their families to dine at restaurants and conduct other off-base activities except for visiting bars and clubs.
The lowering of the Health Protection Condition (HPCON) level by one notch to the second-lowest level of "Bravo" from "Charlie" came as South Korea has seen a marked slowdown in the number of new COVID-19 cases.
--------------------
(Yonhap Interview) Instead of pressure, TREASURE feels grateful, giddy about long-awaited debut
SEOUL -- For a group that debuted less than 72 hours ago, the hopes and anticipation riding on TREASURE, the new boy band under YG Entertainment, as well as the pressure it has come to bear, couldn't be bigger or heavier.
As arguably this year's "monster rookie" in K-pop, the media spotlight on TREASURE, formed of the final survivors of idol audition TV show "YG Jewel Box" on cable network JTBC, has built up considerably, considering the band is YG's first new act after the successful debut of BLACKPINK in 2016.
---------------------
Finance minister calls for quick relief aid over heavy rains
SEOUL -- South Korea's finance minister called Monday for quick relief aid to help recovery efforts as heavy rains left a trail of devastation across the country.
Finance Minister Hong Nam-ki instructed officials to act swiftly in tapping the reserve fund worth 2 trillion won (US$1.6 billion), in addition to the existing budget, to provide assistance to those affected by recent heavy downpours.
---------------------
(3rd LD) Typhoon Jangmi lands on S. Korea's southern coastal area
SEOUL -- Typhoon Jangmi, the season's first typhoon to land here, arrived at the country's southern coastal area on Monday afternoon, keeping the country on alert over possible damage following the deadly downpours that recently battered its central region.
The typhoon landed on the southern tip of Geoje Island near Tongyeong in South Gyeongsang Province at 2:50 p.m. after forming at seas some 600 kilometers southwest of Okinawa, Japan, the previous day.
---------------------
Moon names three new senior secretaries
SEOUL -- President Moon Jae-in appointed three new key senior Cheong Wa Dae secretaries Monday amid public anger over the government's real estate policies that have been unsuccessful so far.
He named Choi Jae-sung, a former four-term ruling party lawmaker, as senior secretary for political affairs; Kim Jong-ho, secretary general of the Board of Audit and Inspection, for civil affairs and justice; and Kim Je-nam, secretary for climate and environment, for civic and social affairs, according to Cheong Wa Dae.
(END)


yna--2020-08-10--Moon names three new senior secretaries

Moon names three new senior secretaries

Moon 's approval rating has been on a notable decline over the past weeks .
Many say that public uproar @ @ @ @ @ mainly in Seoul and nearby Gyeonggi Province is among major reasons .
Despite a number @ @ @ @ @ the government has failed to stabilize the housing market .

SEOUL, Aug. 10 (Yonhap) -- President Moon Jae-in appointed three new key senior Cheong Wa Dae secretaries Monday amid public anger over the government's real estate policies that have been unsuccessful so far.
He named Choi Jae-sung, a former four-term ruling party lawmaker, as senior secretary for political affairs; Kim Jong-ho, secretary general of the Board of Audit and Inspection, for civil affairs and justice; and Kim Je-nam, secretary for climate and environment, for civic and social affairs, according to Cheong Wa Dae.
Their predecessors -- Kang Gi-jung, Kim Jo-won and Kim Geo-sung -- tendered their resignations last Friday, saying the move was to take "comprehensive responsibility for the recent situation."
Moon's approval rating has been on a notable decline over the past weeks. Many say that public uproar over relentless home price hikes mainly in Seoul and nearby Gyeonggi Province is among major reasons. Despite a number of stated policy measures, the government has failed to stabilize the housing market.
Moon's Chief of Staff Noh Young-min and Yoon Do-han, senior secretary for public communication, also offered to quit, along with the three officials. But Cheong Wa Dae has not announced their replacements yet.
Cheong Wa Dae spokesman Kang Min-seok announces the appointments of three new senior presidential secretaries on Aug. 10, 2020. (Yonhap)
lcd@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-08-10--(4th LD) Typhoon Jangmi to weaken to extratropical cyclone as it moves northward

(ATTN: UPDATES headline, lead, first eight paras with details, photos)
SEOUL, Aug. 10 (Yonhap) -- Typhoon Jangmi, which landed in South Korea on Monday afternoon as the season's first typhoon, is expected to weaken to an extratropical cyclone before moving away from the country.
The typhoon was moving northeast at a speed of 50 kilometers per hour after landing on the southern tip of Geoje Island near Tongyeong in South Gyeongsang Province at 2:50 p.m. after forming at seas some 600 kilometers southwest of Okinawa, Japan, the previous day.
The Korea Meteorological Administration said while strong winds accompanied by the typhoon will weaken, heavy rain will fall on some parts of the country, including the Seoul metropolitan area and Gangwon, Chungcheong and Gyeongsang provinces.
On the eastern coast of Gyeongsang and Gangwon provinces, wind speed was forecast to reach up to 35-60 km per hour, peaking at 90 km per hour.
The weather agency projected clouds and rain to hover over the country into Tuesday.
Precipitation for the two-day period was expected at 50-150 millimeters in the southern areas of Gyeonggi and Gangwon provinces, as well as Chungcheong Province and North Jeolla.
Rain of 30 to 80 mm was also forecast for parts of Seoul, Gyeonggi and Gangwon provinces as well as South Jeolla and Gyeongsang provinces.
The weather agency advised preventive measures against possible damage, warning that ground could have weakened due to recent downpours.
High waves are seen at Haeundae Beach in the southeastern port city of Busan on Aug. 10, 2020, as Typhoon Jangmi moved northward. (Yonhap)
A pedestrian struggles to carry an umbrella as heavy rain fell at Haeundae Beach in the southeastern port city of Busan on Aug. 10, 2020, as Typhoon Jangmi moved northward. (Yonhap)
High waves are seen at Haeundae Beach in the southeastern port city of Busan on Aug. 10, 2020, as Typhoon Jangmi moved northward. (Yonhap)
An electronic board at Jeju International Airport in Jeju displays flights that have been canceled in a precautionary measure against Typhoon Jangmi on Aug. 10, 2020. (Yonhap)
High waves are seen at a beach in Seogwipo on the southern resort island of Jeju on Aug. 10, 2020, as typhoon Jangmi moved closer to the country. (Yonhap)
This photo, from Aug. 9, 2020, shows fishermen in the southeastern port city of Busan moving ships to dry land to prepare for Typhoon Jangmi, which was expected to hit South Korea this week. (Yonhap)
In Jeju, which was among the first areas to be affected by Jangmi, 36 domestic flights were canceled as a precautionary measure. An operation ban was also placed on 15 ships that connect Jeju to other parts of the country via nine routes, with some 2,000 boats docked for safety.
Damage, however, was limited, with wind speed measuring at 1 to 5 meters per second at noon. A typhoon advisory was lifted as of 1 p.m.
Still, authorities said around 30-80 millimeters of rain is expected to fall on the island until Tuesday morning.
The typhoon, which means "rose" in Korean, came as the country is going through an unusually long monsoon season this year.
Ships are docked at a port in Tongyeong, South Gyeongsang Province, on Aug. 10, 2020, in a precautionary measure against Typhoon Jangmi that was moving northward. (Yonhap)
Visitors enjoy nature at a cafe in Seogwipo on the country's southern resort island of Jeju on Aug. 10, 2020. Damage from Typhoon Jangmi, which passed near the island earlier in the day, was limited. (Yonhap)
This photo, provided by the office of North Jeolla Province on Aug. 9, 2020, shows a road in Jangsu, North Jeolla Province, that was damaged due to the recent heavy downpours. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE)
This year's monsoon season, which began on June 24 in the central region, has shown no signs of letting up, and it is likely to end later than the Aug. 10 record in 1987.
The monsoon season is also expected to set a fresh record as the longest one after a 49-day record in 2013. The monsoon has continued for 47 days and is likely to exceed 50 days, as seasonal rain is forecast to extend to mid-August.
The seasonal rain, which has pounded the central region with heavy downpours in August, has left 42 people dead or missing and damaged 14,091 facilities. Nearly 7,000 have been displaced from their homes.
Cows stand on the roof of a cattle shed in the county of Gurye, South Jeolla Province, on Aug. 9, 2020, as the region suffered from flooding caused by recent heavy downpours. (Yonhap)
In a government response meeting, Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun urged officials to take "exhaustive" measures to brace against the typhoon while abiding by safety rules.
"While this typhoon is a small one, its speed is very quick, raising concerns over damage from strong winds," Chung said, "Please take exhaustive measures against strong winds in Jeju and the southern coastal areas which are under the typhoon's influence."
Chung, meanwhile, reminded the public to refrain from going out unnecessarily and officials to heed to safety during their rescue and at-the-scene duties.
mlee@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-08-10--Finance minister calls for quick relief aid over heavy rains

The ruling Democratic Party said it will hold a consultative meeting with the government on Wednesday to discuss whether to @ @ @ @ @ budget , in addition to three batches of supplementary budgets aimed at fighting the pandemic-caused @ @ @ @ @ with damage caused by heavy rains .

SEOUL, Aug. 10 (Yonhap) -- South Korea's finance minister called Monday for quick relief aid to help recovery efforts as heavy rains left a trail of devastation across the country.
Finance Minister Hong Nam-ki instructed officials to act swiftly in tapping the reserve fund, which has dwindled to about 2 trillion won (US$1.6 billion), in addition to the existing budget, to provide assistance to those affected by recent heavy downpours.
This year's monsoon season, which began on June 24 in the central region, has shown no signs of letting up.
High waves are seen at a beach in Seogwipo on the southern resort island of Jeju on Aug. 10, 2020, as typhoon Jangmi moved closer to the country. (Yonhap)
The seasonal rain has left 42 people dead or missing and damaged 14,091 facilities. Nearly 7,000 have been displaced from their homes.
The ruling Democratic Party said it will hold a consultative meeting with the government on Wednesday to discuss whether to draw up a fourth extra budget, in addition to three batches of supplementary budgets aimed at fighting the pandemic-caused economic slowdown, to cope with damage caused by heavy rains.
A ruling party official said a fourth extra budget would be worth less than 3 trillion won (US$2.5 billion).
In July, the National Assembly passed the third extra budget worth 35.1 trillion won to mitigate the economic fallout of the new coronavirus pandemic.
Also Monday, Hong said the government should seek public understanding over its latest measures meant to curb a further rise in housing prices.
Last week, the government unveiled an unprecedented plan to supply more than 130,000 homes in Seoul and adjacent areas over the next eight years.
The measures follow dozens of previous measures ironed out by the government in the past three years to stabilize the real estate market. But the past measures did not manage to bring rising housing prices under control.
entropy@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-08-10--(Yonhap Interview) Instead of pressure, TREASURE feels grateful, giddy about long-awaited debut

As arguably this year 's `` monster rookie '' in K-pop , the media spotlight on TREASURE , formed of @ @ @ @ @ audition TV show `` YG Jewel Box '' on cable network JTBC , has built @ @ @ @ @ band is YG 's first new act after the successful debut of BLACKPINK in 2016 @ @ @ @ @ responsibility to uphold YG 's artistic and commercial pedigree amassed by other senior acts -- @ @ @ @ @ .

By Chang Dong-woo
SEOUL, Aug. 10 (Yonhap) -- For a group that debuted less than 72 hours ago, the hopes and anticipation riding on TREASURE, the new boy band under YG Entertainment, as well as the pressure it has come to bear, couldn't be bigger or heavier.
As arguably this year's "monster rookie" in K-pop, the media spotlight on TREASURE, formed of the final survivors of idol audition TV show "YG Jewel Box" on cable network JTBC, has built up considerably, considering the band is YG's first new act after the successful debut of BLACKPINK in 2016. It also has the responsibility to uphold YG's artistic and commercial pedigree amassed by other senior acts -- 2NE1, BIGBANG and WINNER.
But instead of being disoriented by the hype, members of the 12-piece boy band said on Monday they feel excited and thankful for finally being able to make their long-awaited debut, since the final line-up was official announced in January of 2019.
The rookie group's excitement was as big as the dream of member Hyunsuk, one of two leaders of TREASURE, wishing to become famous enough to one day perform at the half time show of the NFL Super Bowl.
"The mere fact that we were debuting was exciting in and of itself. We're going to debut one way or another, let's just have fun, we told ourselves," Hyunsuk said during a group media interview held at YG's office in western Seoul.
"The good results (since the debut) have become a great source of motivation," the rapper-singer added.
On Friday, the group, formed of eight South Korean and four Japanese members, released its debut single album, "The First Step: Chapter One," digitally. Upon release, "Boy," the lead track, topped 19 Apple iTunes Top Song charts in 19 countries and regions, including in Hong Kong, Mexico, Singapore and Saudi Arabia.
K-pop boy band TREASURE poses for photos during a group interview held at a YG Entertainment office in western Seoul on Aug. 10, 2020, in this photo provided by YG. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)
Even before the band's debut, when it had no releases under its belt, TREASURE attracted quite a following online, consisting mostly of fans who followed the team starting with "YG Jewel Box."
The team's YouTube channel, filled largely with vlogs featuring the members' daily lives, amassed 1.39 million followers during its pre-debut days. Retail preorders for the new album surpassed 170,000 units, a remarkable feat even for more established K-pop boy bands.
The band has also made it onto Billboard's Social 50 chart for six straight weeks, while the band's lead vocalist, Yedam, released a solo track in June. Yedam was first introduced to the public at the age of 11 after finishing second place on music audition program "K-Pop Star" in 2012.
After Friday's debut and presenting their first performance on television over the weekend, TREASURE members said they felt a genuine sense of excitement.
"It felt really great, the fact that the debut was nearing and even the uneasiness," Junghwan said.
Up to this day, members said they were heavily influenced by senior YG boy bands, most notably BIGBANG, with all of the Japanese members citing BIGBANG as the reason they wanted to become K-pop artists.
"My sister was a big fan of BIGBANG. I had the chance to naturally listen to the group. Then I saw BIGBANG's performance and was blown away," Japanese member Yoshi said in the interview.
BIGBANG wasn't limited to a source of inspiration but also become a great mentor during production, members recollected.
"(BIGBANG member) G-Dragon gave me tips after listening to my rapping, while (BIGBANG member) Taeyang offered tips to Jihoon and Yedam for choreography," Hyunsuk said.
As a group produced under YG, which has traditionally presented and courted music largely rooted in hip-hop with an alternative flare, TREASURE offers something new, with sounds and visuals that are more in line with other conventional K-pop groups with a more electronic-heavy sound palette and strong dance choreography.
The massive 12-man line-up also represents a stark departure from the label's previous bands with mostly four to five members, and it is more in line with acts such as NCT 127 and Seventeen. TREASURE even has two group leaders.
K-pop boy band TREASURE poses for photos during a group interview held at a YG Entertainment office in western Seoul on Aug. 10, 2020, in this photo provided by YG. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)
The two-tier leadership was initially introduced when dividing up the team for practices. YG decided to fully adopt what was once a temporary system after seeing positive aspects from it.
"Our team chemistry is great and the members are all energetic. We enjoy talking to one another a lot and also offer each other feedback for improvement a lot," Jihoon, the other half of TREASURE's leadership, said.
All major K-pop acts have corresponding fan communities and TREASURE is no exception. The group members said they feel a great sense of camaraderie with its dedicated fan base, named TREASURE Maker.
"We've been through a lot together since the days of the survival audition TV program, so it feels as if we've become very close. I feel like the fans are our friends," Hyunsuk said.
As for goals, TREASURE hopes to sweep rookie of the year honors during the year-end music award season, not just in South Korea but also in Japan, if and when they make an official debut in the neighboring country.
"As our goal is to become rookie of the year in South Korea, our goal is to win rookie of the year in Japan, too," Japanese member Yoshi said.
odissy@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-08-10--(LEAD) Seoul stocks hit over 2-yr high on Hyundai Motor, tech stocks

SEOUL , Aug. 10 ( Yonhap ) -- South Korea 's stock market extended its winning streak to a sixth @ @ @ @ @ an over two-year high Monday , as automakers and major tech stocks advanced on hopes @ @ @ @ @ States and upbeat data .
The Korean won fell against the U.S. dollar .

(ATTN: ADDS bond yields at bottom, photo)
SEOUL, Aug. 10 (Yonhap) -- South Korea's stock market extended its winning streak to a sixth straight session to close at an over two-year high Monday, as automakers and major tech stocks advanced on hopes for stimulus in the United States and upbeat data. The Korean won fell against the U.S. dollar.
The benchmark Korea Composite Stock Price Index (KOSPI) rose 34.71 points, or 1.48 percent, to close at 2,386.38, marking the highest since 2,404.04 points on June 15, 2018.
Trading volume was high at about 775 million shares worth some 19.3 trillion won (US$16.3 billion), with gainers outnumbering losers 549 to 303.
Foreigners sold a net 130 billion won, while retail investors purchased a net 353 billion won. Institutions offloaded a net 230 billion won, selling for a 10th consecutive session.
Electronic signboard at the trading room of Hana Bank in Seoul show the benchmark Korea Composite Stock Price Index (KOSPI) closed at 2,386.38 on Aug. 10, 2020, up 34.71 points or 1.48 percent from the previous session's close. (Yonhap)
The rally came after the KOSPI rose by nearly 5 percent last week on hopes for additional stimulus measures in the United States.
"Strong gains by giant automakers have been pulling up the index, adding a favorable atmosphere to the market," Daeshin Securities analyst Lee Kyung-min said.
Auto-related shares spiked on expectations of a sales jump at home, and some major tech stocks remained in positive terrain.
Hyundai Motor, the country's largest automaker, skyrocketed 15.65 percent to a new 52-week high at 170,000 won. Its smaller affiliate Kia Motors also spiked 9.70 percent to 46,350 won.
Hyundai Mobis, the top auto parts maker, also surged 6.49 percent to 238,000 won.
Other large caps closed higher in Seoul.
Market bellwether Samsung Electronics gained 0.52 percent to 57,800 won, and No. 2 chipmaker SK hynix rose 0.99 percent to 81,400 won.
Top pharmaceutical firm Samsung Biologics advanced 0.39 percent to 771,000 won, and Celltrion climbed 0.16 percent to 315,000 won.
Internet giant Naver shed 0.16 percent to 313,500 won, but its rival Kakao added 0.85 percent to 356,000 won.
Leading chemical maker LG Chem lost 3.49 percent to 720,000 won, and EV battery maker Samsung SDI retreated 2.97 percent to 473,500 won.
The local currency closed at 1,185.60 won against the U.S. dollar, down 0.90 won from the previous session's close.
Bond prices, which move inversely to yields, closed lower. The yield on three-year Treasurys rose 2.0 basis points to 0.830 percent, and the return on the benchmark five-year government bond added 3.7 basis points to 1.095 percent.
jwc@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-08-10--S. Korean Bond Yields on Aug. 10, 2020

S. Korean Bond Yields on Aug. 10, 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--2020-08-10--Hyundai Green Food Q2 net income down 18.2 pct. to 25.4 bln won

Operating profit for the April-June period was 22 billion won , down 21.6 percent from a year ago , the @ @ @ @ @ filing .
Sales rose 3.3 percent to 785.8 billion won .
( END )

SEOUL, Aug. 10 (Yonhap) -- Hyundai Green Food Co. on Monday reported its second-quarter net profit of 25.4 billion won (US$ 21.4 million), down 18.2 percent from a year earlier.
Operating profit for the April-June period was 22 billion won, down 21.6 percent from a year ago, the company said in a regulatory filing. Sales rose 3.3 percent to 785.8 billion won.
(END)


yna--2020-08-10--(LEAD) USFK eases anti-virus restrictions peninsula-wide amid slowdown in new cases

`` We must keep in mind the risk of COVID-19 still exists , and USFK must remain good ambassadors by @ @ @ @ @ mask when out in the local community .
Everyone has a vital role in preventing @ @ @ @ @ , '' USFK Commander Gen. Robert Abrams said .

(ATTN: UPDATES with additional infections reported among USFK personnel in last 5 paras)
By Choi Soo-hyang
SEOUL, Aug. 10 (Yonhap) -- U.S. Forces Korea (USFK) eased anti-coronavirus restrictions for its personnel across the peninsula Monday, allowing service members and their families to dine at restaurants and conduct other off-base activities except for visiting bars and clubs.
The lowering of the Health Protection Condition (HPCON) level by one notch to the second-lowest level of "Bravo" from "Charlie" came as South Korea has seen a marked slowdown in the number of new COVID-19 cases.
USFK lowered the HPCON level to Bravo for most parts of the country in May but had maintained the restrictions for the greater Seoul metropolitan area except for the capital's central district of Yongsan.
The measure took effect at 4 p.m.
Under the eased status, service members are allowed to dine at restaurants, shop offline and conduct outdoor activities as long as they adhere to basic anti-virus guidelines, according to USFK.
"We must keep in mind the risk of COVID-19 still exists, and USFK must remain good ambassadors by being respectful and wearing a mask when out in the local community. Everyone has a vital role in preventing the spread of the virus," USFK Commander Gen. Robert Abrams said.
The U.S. military said it will immediately snap back to a heightened HPCON posture if a resurgence of the virus threat appears.
On Monday, USFK reported five additional coronavirus infections -- three service members, a civilian employee and a civilian contractor of the Department of Defense -- upon their arrivals here.
They arrived at Incheon International Airport from the U.S. on commercial flights and are now at an isolation facility at Camp Humphreys in Pyeongtaek, south of Seoul.
USFK said none of them have interacted with anyone residing within its installations or the local community.
The new cases raised total virus cases among the USFK-related population to 144, most of which were confirmed upon personnel's arrival in South Korea. USFK has not recorded an internal positive COVID-19 case since mid-April, it said.
South Korea reported 28 new cases of the virus the same day, raising the total caseload to 14,626.
This file photo shows a gate of the U.S. base Camp Humphreys in Pyeongtaek, south of Seoul. (Yonhap)
scaaet@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-08-10--Seoul stocks hit over 2-yr high on Hyundai Motor, tech stocks

SEOUL, Aug. 10 (Yonhap) -- South Korea's stock market extended its winning streak to a sixth straight session to close at an over two-year high Monday, as automakers and major tech stocks advanced on hopes for stimulus in the United States and upbeat data. The Korean won fell against the U.S. dollar.
The benchmark Korea Composite Stock Price Index (KOSPI) rose 34.71 points, or 1.48 percent, to close at 2,386.38, marking the highest since 2,404.04 points on June 15, 2018.
Trading volume was high at about 775 million shares worth some 19.3 trillion won (US$16.3 billion), with gainers outnumbering losers 549 to 303.
Foreigners sold a net 130 billion won, while retail investors purchased a net 353 billion won. Institutions offloaded a net 230 billion won, selling for a 10th consecutive session.
The rally came after the KOSPI rose by nearly 5 percent last week on hopes for additional stimulus measures in the United States.
"Strong gains by giant automakers have been pulling up the index, adding a favorable atmosphere to the market," Daeshin Securities analyst Lee Kyung-min said.
Auto-related shares spiked on expectations of a sales jump at home, and some major tech stocks remained in positive terrain.
Hyundai Motor, the country's largest automaker, skyrocketed 15.65 percent to a new 52-week high at 170,000 won. Its smaller affiliate Kia Motors also spiked 9.70 percent to 46,350 won.
Hyundai Mobis, the top auto parts maker, also surged 6.49 percent to 238,000 won.
Other large caps closed higher in Seoul.
Market bellwether Samsung Electronics gained 0.52 percent to 57,800 won, and No. 2 chipmaker SK hynix rose 0.99 percent to 81,400 won.
Top pharmaceutical firm Samsung Biologics advanced 0.39 percent to 771,000 won, and Celltrion climbed 0.16 percent to 315,000 won.
Internet giant Naver shed 0.16 percent to 313,500 won, but its rival Kakao added 0.85 percent to 356,000 won.
Leading chemical maker LG Chem lost 3.49 percent to 720,000 won, and EV battery maker Samsung SDI retreated 2.97 percent to 473,500 won.
The local currency closed at 1,185.60 won against the U.S. dollar, down 0.90 won from the previous session's close.
jwc@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-08-10--Grand Korea Leisure swings to loss in Q2

The company said in a regulatory filing that it posted an operating loss of 32.1 billion won for the April-June @ @ @ @ @ profit of 26.4 billion won a year ago .
Sales fell 80.2 percent to 23.3 @ @ @ @ @ )

SEOUL, Aug. 10 (Yonhap) -- Grand Korea Leisure Co. on Monday reported its second-quarter net loss of 23.6 billion won (US$ 19.9 million), shifting from a profit of 20.1 billion won a year earlier.
The company said in a regulatory filing that it posted an operating loss of 32.1 billion won for the April-June period, compared with a profit of 26.4 billion won a year ago. Sales fell 80.2 percent to 23.3 billion won.
(END)


yna--2020-08-10--(LEAD) 3 new mutated COVID-19 strains detected in S. Korea: KCDC

Genetic mutations were detected to `` spike protein , '' the major surface protein of the virus , from the @ @ @ @ @ two from Pakistan and one from Uzbekistan -- according to the Korea Centers for Disease @ @ @ @ @ ) .

(ATTN: ADDS more info in paras 4, 6)
SEOUL, Aug. 10 (Yonhap) -- South Korea's public health authorities said Monday they have found three new mutated genome sequences of the novel coronavirus among imported cases.
Genetic mutations were detected to "spike protein," the major surface protein of the virus, from the three COVID-19 imported cases -- two from Pakistan and one from Uzbekistan -- according to the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (KCDC).
The KCDC said the new mutations are different from 78,810 viral genome sequences registered at the GISAID database on the virus run by the World Health Organization.
Medical staff members carry out new coronavirus tests at a drive-thru clinic in Goyang, north of Seoul, on Aug. 9, 2020. (Yonhap)
"(Three people) were self-isolated upon entering the country. There were no people who had contact with them in the country," KCDC chief Jeong Eun-kyeong said in a press briefing
The finding was based on the KCDC's analysis of sequenced genomes of a total of 776 COVID-19 patients, including 597 local infections and 179 imported cases.
Jeong said further experiments should be conducted to determine the level of infectivity and pathogens.
The new coronavirus is classified into seven strains -- S, V, L, G, GH, GR and the rest -- in accordance with an amino acid, according to the GISAID database.
The GH clade was detected in 437 local infections, with most linked to a warehouse by the country's leading e-commerce operator, the KCDC said.
The GH clade, which mutated from the S strain, proliferates well in cells and is more infectious, which may make it spread faster.
The second-most-common coronavirus clade in South Korea was V, with 120 locally transmitted cases falling into the genetic strain, the KCDC said.
According to the KCDC, 32 local cases were grouped under S clade, and eight cases under GR.
Of the 179 imported cases, 100, or 56 percent, were classified as GR clade, 40 as GH clade and 18 as G clade, the KCDC said.
The country identified an additional 28 virus cases on Monday, including 17 local infections, raising the total caseload to 14,626, the KCDC said.
khj@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-08-10--Military police recommend airman be charged with AWOL in 'emperor-like military service' case

The probe began in June after an online petition at the presidential office website claimed that the conscript enjoyed a @ @ @ @ @ having a noncommissioned officer do errands for him , thanks to his father 's position @ @ @ @ @ a major financial firm .

SEOUL, Aug. 10 (Yonhap) -- Military police wrapped up an investigation into allegations that an enlisted airman enjoyed preferential treatment due to his father's influence, recommending that the military prosecution charge him with going absent without leave, officials said Monday.
The probe began in June after an online petition at the presidential office website claimed that the conscript enjoyed a variety of privileges, including having a noncommissioned officer do errands for him, thanks to his father's position as a vice chairman of a major financial firm.
The allegations, dubbed in the media the "emperor-like military service" case, sparked a public uproar and the father of the airman stepped down from his position shortly after the allegations surfaced.
After monthslong investigation, the military police sent the case to the prosecution seeking indictment over allegations the conscript went AWOL five times but said there was no evidence to prove that preferential treatment was given.
The airman was accused of going home after getting approval to leave the base for medical treatment.
The military police also recommended the prosecution not to indict other officers involved in the case over preferential treatment allegations, though saying disciplinary measures will be sought for their failure to properly supervise and monitor the enlistee's behavior.
scaaet@yna.co.kr
(END)