yna--2020-10-03--(3rd LD) Drive-thru rallies held in Seoul on national holiday amid virus outbreak

The court allowed nine people -- each in their cars -- to hold a rally for two hours but set @ @ @ @ @ the lowering of car windows and the chanting of slogans during the rally .

(ATTN: RECASTS lead; UPDATES on end of rallies, police comment in 5th para; RESTRUCTURES)
SEOUL, Oct. 3 (Yonhap) -- Conservative groups held drive-thru anti-government rallies in southern Seoul on Saturday with no major clashes with law enforcement, as protesters complied with rules set forth by the court for virus control.
Two separate groups staged rallies involving nine vehicles each on National Foundation Day after a local court conditionally approved such demonstrations under stricter anti-infection measures.
The court allowed nine people -- each in their cars -- to hold a rally for two hours but set forth conditions such as banning the lowering of car windows and the chanting of slogans during the rally.
The demonstrations came as the government has vowed a stern response against mass rallies after anti-government protests on Aug. 15 were partly blamed for a flare-up in new virus cases.
Conservative activists hold a drive-thru rally in southern Seoul on Oct. 3, 2020, to call for the resignation of Justice Minister Choo Mi-ae. (Yonhap)
Police said in a statement the rallies ended without a mass gathering of people, thanks to the measures taken to prevent a resurgence of the coronavirus and citizens' compliance with the measures.
Except for the two drive-thru protests, a court had rejected conservative groups' request to suspend the Seoul municipality's bans on their plans for rallies involving some 1,000 participants or a protest parade with about 200 cars on the national holiday.
Protesters held one of the rallies on a route that includes the neighborhoods of former and current justice ministers to oppose the liberal government's push for prosecution reform.
Police stepped up their guard throughout the day to prevent conservative activists from holding abrupt and illegal rallies in central Seoul.
Police set up inspection points in 90 locations connecting to central Seoul and checked entering vehicles. About 800 police officers were mobilized to respond to protests.
Police buses were placed in lines on the main streets linking Gwanghwamun and City Hall in central Seoul. Subways were not stopping at nearby stations.
They also set up fences in Gwanghwamun Square where outdoor rallies are often held, denying public access to the public plaza.
"Legal rallies need to be respected, as the Constitution stipulates freedom of assembly. But as for illegal demonstrations, police should respond to them with a no-tolerance principle," Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun said during his visit to the national police agency.
Despite the government's warning, several conservative groups attempted to enter the public plaza, but they were foiled by police. Instead, they held press conferences in the vicinity and condemned the government for denying freedom of assembly.
Police also thwarted some right-wing activists' attempt to hold a rally in central Seoul and disbanded them.
Police buses are parked in lines on streets around Gwanghwamun Square in central Seoul on Oct. 3, 2020, in a bid to prevent illegal rallies on National Foundation Day. (Yonhap)
The government has issued warnings against illegal anti-government rallies planned by some conservative groups on concerns that the mass gatherings could hamper the country's efforts to contain the spread of the new coronavirus.
Thousands of people, led by conservative groups, held massive rallies on Aug. 15, the country's Liberation Day, in central Seoul.
The country's daily infections spiked to triple-digit figures for more than a month from Aug. 14, until they slowed down on the back of tougher virus curbs. Cases tied to the rallies reached more than 600.
Health authorities remain on alert over a potential rebound in COVID-19 cases after the Chuseok fall harvest holiday that ran from Wednesday till Friday.
In a preemptive measure, the Seoul city government banned all rallies of 10 or more people and designated parts of central Seoul as no-assembly zones. The capital also banned rallies in the form of car parades.
Under the Level 2 social distancing rules imposed at a nationwide level, outdoor gatherings of 100 or more people are prohibited and indoor meetings of 50 or more are also banned.
Police seek to deter conservative activists' attempt to hold an anti-government rally on Oct. 3, 2020, National Foundation Day. (Yonhap)
sooyeon@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-10-03--Defense chief visits inter-Korean border sites ahead of expected civilian tour reopening

`` I also ask you to fulfill your duties based on the strong South Korea-U.S. alliance so that the bold @ @ @ @ @ at Panmunjom , a symbol of peace and harmony on the Korean Peninsula since the @ @ @ @ @ Military Agreement , '' he said , referring to the two signature inter-Korean agreements signed @ @ @ @ @ .

SEOUL, Oct. 3 (Yonhap) -- Defense Minister Suh Wook visited the inter-Korean border village of Panmunjom on Saturday, his office said, ahead of the expected resumption of a civilian tour program in the area.
Suh visited the southern side of the Joint Security Area (JSA) inside the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) bisecting the two Koreas for the first time since taking office last month. Also accompanying him was the United Nations Command (UNC) Commander Gen. Robert Abrams.
"When the JSA security tour resumes, we ask you to make every effort to ensure that our military can make peace with strong strength, comprehensively in consideration of the safety of our people in accordance with the COVID-19 situation and inter-Korean relations," his ministry quoted him as saying.
"I also ask you to fulfill your duties based on the strong South Korea-U.S. alliance so that the bold journey toward peace can restart at Panmunjom, a symbol of peace and harmony on the Korean Peninsula since the Panmunjom Declaration and the 9.19 Military Agreement," he said, referring to the two signature inter-Korean agreements signed under the Moon Jae-in government.
The minister also visited the Neutral Nations Supervisory Commission, an armistice monitoring panel launched with the truce to halt the 1950-53 Korean War, and had a brief meeting with officials there.
Saturday's visit was seen as part of efforts to check the preparedness and readiness posture and to encourage officers and men at the border posts, as the civilian tour program at the sites are expected to resume soon.
The U.S.-led UNC said early this week that it had authorized the resumption of the tour program on eased concerns over African swine fever, with the exact date of reopening to be announced soon.
Tours to the JSA and other sites inside the DMZ have remained suspended since September last year in an effort to stem the spread of the highly contagious animal disease.
Defense Minister Suh Wook visits the Joint Security Area (JSA) inside the Demilitarized Zone separating the two Koreas on Oct. 3, 2020, in this photo provided by his ministry. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)
elly@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-10-03--First lady Kim hopes for closer S. Korea-India ties in webinar to commemorate Gandhi

Kim added , `` As in the verses of the great Indian poet Rabindranath Tagore , I truly hope that @ @ @ @ @ the lamp that contributes to the peace and prosperity not just in Asia but around @ @ @ @

SEOUL, Oct. 3 (Yonhap) -- First lady Kim Jung-sook of South Korea expressed hope Saturday that her country and India will further strengthen their partnerships for peace and prosperity in the world.
She was speaking in a video message for an international webinar held as part of the 150th birth anniversary celebrations of Mahatma Gandhi.
Kim noted that South Korea and India have worked together to further bolster their "special strategic partnership," especially on the basis of "friendship and mutual trust" between the leaders of the two sides -- President Moon Jae-in and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
"In the midst of the global pandemic, we have reconfirmed our strong bilateral ties," she said, referring to the response to COVID-19.
Kim added, "As in the verses of the great Indian poet Rabindranath Tagore, I truly hope that Korea and India will become the lamp that contributes to the peace and prosperity not just in Asia but around the world."
First lady Kim Jung-sook of South Korea delivers a video message at an international webinar held in commemoration of Mahatma Gandhi on Oct. 3, 2020, in this photo provided by Cheong Wa Dae. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)
Tagore called South Korea the "Lamp of the East."
South Korea and India mark the 47th anniversary of establishing diplomatic ties this year.
Modi joined the webinar, hosted by the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR), with the theme of "Weaving Relations: Textile Traditions."
It was the last official event to commemorate Gandhi on the occasion of his 150th birth anniversary, according to Cheong Wa Dae.
Last year, Moon attended a special event to honor Gandhi that took place in New York on the sidelines of the U.N. General Assembly.
In 2018, the first lady made a solo visit to India at the invitation of Modi to join the Diwali festival of lights as chief guest.
On Kim's video message for the webinar, Cheong Wa Dae's deputy spokesperson Lim Se-eun said it is expected to help South Korea deepen ties with India, a key partner for its New Southern Policy.
lcd@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-10-03--S. Korea to send condolence delegation to Kuwait over death of emir

The delegation , led by Land Minister Kim Hyun-mee , was set to make a three-day visit to Kuwait City @ @ @ @ @ over the death of Sheikh Sabah al-Ahmad al-Jaber al-Sabah , announced earlier this week .
@ @ @ @

SEOUL, Oct. 3 (Yonhap) -- South Korea will send a delegation of government officials to Kuwait early this week to offer condolences over the passing of its ruler, the foreign ministry said Saturday.
The delegation, led by Land Minister Kim Hyun-mee, was set to make a three-day visit to Kuwait City starting Sunday to pay respects over the death of Sheikh Sabah al-Ahmad al-Jaber al-Sabah, announced earlier this week. He was 91.
The delegation will also deliver a letter from President Moon Jae-in congratulating the new emir, Sheikh Nawaf al-Ahmad al-Jaber Al-Sabah, the late leader's half brother.
Foreign Minister Kang Kyung-wha plans to visit the Kuwaiti Embassy in Seoul on Monday to express her condolences.
Moon's office sent a telegram to the Arab state Thursday, offering deep condolences over the ruler's passing and highly evaluating his leadership centered on humanism that brought political stability and economic prosperity to Kuwait.
This undated photo shows late Kuwaiti leader Sheikh Sabah al-Ahmad al-Jaber al-Sabah. (Yonhap)
elly@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-10-03--BTS ends 'BTS Week' special on Jimmy Fallon show with 'Dynamite' performance

`` I want to sincerely thank @ BTS_twt for choosing to spend a week with us .
And to the @ @ @ @ @ say ?
You are a dream .
You complete the picture .
Keep shining .
@ @ @ @ @ tweet read .

SEOUL, Oct. 3 (Yonhap) -- K-pop superstar BTS marked the finale of nearly weeklong performances in a special series on NBC's "The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon" on Friday (U.S. time) by singing its billboard-topping single "Dynamite."
The seven-member boy band sang and danced on a stage set like a roller-skating rink as they ended their pre-recorded live performances aired every day since Tuesday, which included two unique performances in which they donned traditional Korean "hanbok" attire at South Korea's royal palaces.
In a tweet, Fallon thanked BTS and its fans, known as "Army," for watching his show.
[BTS NEWS] 'BTS week' on NBC successful/ New album “BE” ready to hit Hot 100/ BLM /DNA hits 1.1 bln Youtube https://youtu.be/jF4pb0-Fnz8
"I want to sincerely thank @BTS_twt for choosing to spend a week with us. And to the Army ... what can I say? You are a dream. You complete the picture. Keep shining. xo Chimmy," his tweet read.
BTS sang its hit song "Mikrokosmos" from its EP "Map of the Soul: Persona" the previous day on Gyeonghoeru, an iconic pavilion in Gyeongbok Palace.
On Tuesday, it performed another hit, "IDOL," in front of Geunjeongjeon Hall of the palace.
The show was designed to showcase different music performances by the band each night, including live performances, comedy bits and virtual interviews.
BTS’ “Dynamite” is a masterpiece, ready to win 2021 Grammy Awards Youtube https://youtu.be/OT1ZS7S8GPM
This photo, provided by Big Hit Entertainment on Oct. 3, 2020, shows BTS singing "Dynamite" during the "BTS Week" special on NBC's "The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon." (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)
(END)


yna--2020-10-03--(2nd LD) Drive-thru rallies held in Seoul on national holiday amid virus outbreak

(ATTN: UPDATES with more details, photo throughout)
SEOUL, Oct. 3 (Yonhap) -- Conservative groups held drive-thru anti-government rallies in southern Seoul on Saturday, a national holiday, amid concerns about the spread of the new coronavirus.
Two separate groups staged rallies involving nine vehicles each on National Foundation Day after a local court conditionally approved such demonstrations under stricter anti-infection measures.
The court allowed nine people -- each in their cars -- to hold a rally for two hours but set forth conditions such as banning the lowering of car windows and the chanting of slogans during the rally.
Conservative activists hold a drive-thru rally in southern Seoul on Oct. 3, 2020, to call for the resignation of Justice Minister Choo Mi-ae. (Yonhap)
Protesters held one of the rallies on a route that includes the neighborhoods of former and current justice ministers to oppose the liberal government's push for prosecution reform.
The demonstrations came as the government has vowed a stern response against mass rallies after anti-government protests on Aug. 15 were partly blamed for a flare-up in new virus cases.
Police stepped up their guard throughout the day to prevent conservative activists from holding abrupt and illegal rallies in central Seoul.
Except for the two drive-thru protests, a court has rejected conservative groups' request to suspend the Seoul municipality's bans on their plans for rallies involving some 1,000 participants or a protest parade with about 200 cars on the national holiday.
Police set up inspection points in 90 locations connecting to central Seoul and checked entering vehicles. About 800 police officers were mobilized to respond to protests.
Police buses were placed in lines on the main streets linking Gwanghwamun and City Hall in central Seoul. Subways were not stopping at nearby stations.
Police also set up fences in Gwanghwamun Square where outdoor rallies are often held, denying public access to the public plaza.
"Legal rallies need to be respected as the Constitution stipulates freedom of assembly. But as for illegal demonstrations, police should respond to them with a no-tolerance principle," Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun said during his visit to the national police agency.
Despite the government's warning, several conservative groups attempted to enter the public plaza, but they were foiled by police. Instead, they held press conferences in the vicinity and condemned the government for denying freedom of assembly.
Police also thwarted some right-wing activists' attempt to hold a rally in central Seoul and disbanded them.
Police buses are parked in lines on streets around Gwanghwamun Square in central Seoul on Oct. 3, 2020, in a bid to prevent illegal rallies on National Foundation Day. (Yonhap)
The government has issued warnings against illegal anti-government rallies planned by some conservative groups on concerns that the mass gatherings could hamper the country's efforts to contain the spread of the new coronavirus.
Thousands of people, led by conservative groups, held massive rallies on Aug. 15, the country's Liberation Day, in central Seoul.
The country's daily infections spiked to triple-digit figures for more than a month from Aug. 14, until they slowed down on the back of tougher virus curbs. Cases tied to the rallies reached more than 600.
Health authorities remain on alert over a potential rebound in COVID-19 cases after the Chuseok fall harvest holiday that ran from Wednesday till Friday.
In a preemptive measure, the Seoul city government banned all rallies of 10 or more people and designated parts of central Seoul as no-assembly zones. The capital also banned rallies in the form of car parades.
Under the Level 2 social distancing rules imposed at a nationwide level, outdoor gatherings of 100 or more people are prohibited and indoor meetings of 50 or more are also banned.
Police seek to deter conservative activists' attempt to hold an anti-government rally on Oct. 3, 2020, National Foundation Day. (Yonhap)
sooyeon@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-10-03--Kim Kwang-hyun's excellent rookie season ends with Cardinals' elimination from playoffs

Kim acquitted himself in his first big league start on Aug. 17 , giving up a run on three hits @ @ @ @ @ the Chicago Cubs .
Then the left-hander went on an impressive run over his next @ @ @ @ @ straight innings without surrendering an earned run and lowering his ERA all the way to @ @

By Yoo Jee-ho
SEOUL, Oct. 3 (Yonhap) -- An up-and-down rookie major league season for the South Korean pitcher Kim Kwang-hyun has ended with the St. Louis Cardinals' exit from the first round of the postseason.
The Cardinals lost to the San Diego Padres 4-0 in Game 3 of their National League Wild Card Series on Friday (local time), and bowed out of the best-of-three series 2-1. The Cardinals won the first game of the series 7-4 on Wednesday, with Kim as the surprising starter, but couldn't finish off the upstart Padres over the next two games.
In this Associated Press photo, Kim Kwang-hyun of the St. Louis Cardinals pitches against the San Diego Padres during the bottom of the first inning of Game 1 of the National League Wild Card Series at Petco Park in San Diego on Sept. 30, 2020. (Yonhap)
This concludes an excellent rookie campaign in Major League Baseball (MLB) for Kim, who signed a two-year, US$8 million contract with the Cardinals in December after spending 13 years with the SK Wyverns in the Korea Baseball Organization (KBO).
During the regular season, Kim went 3-0 with a save and a 1.62 ERA in eight appearances, including seven starts. In Game 1 against the Padres, Kim gave up three earned runs in 3 2/3 innings, leaving the game with the Cardinals up 6-3 and coming up four outs shy of qualifying for a victory.
Kim was an MVP-winning starting pitcher in South Korea, but the Cardinals didn't guarantee him a spot in their rotation right away. Instead, they promised Kim an opportunity to earn his place at spring training.
Kim held up his end of the bargain, pitching eight scoreless innings across four spring training games, including two starts, while recording 11 strikeouts against just one walk.
In this Associated Press photo, Kim Kwang-hyun of the St. Louis Cardinals reacts to a pitch thrown against the San Diego Padres during the bottom of the first inning of Game 1 of the National League Wild Card Series at Petco Park in San Diego on Sept. 30, 2020. (Yonhap)
But then the coronavirus outbreak hit MLB, which halted spring training and didn't open the regular season until late July. When clubs returned in mid-July for some last-minute summer camp, Kim was unexpectedly named the Cardinals' new closer, despite his lack of closing experience in South Korea.
Kim recorded his first career save on Opening Day on July 24, while giving up two runs -- one unearned run -- in the ninth inning in a 5-4 victory against the Pittsburgh Pirates.
The COVID-19 pandemic wasn't done wreaking havoc on MLB. Due to an outbreak within their clubhouse, the Cardinals were forced to go on a two-week hiatus. And when they returned, Kim was thrust into the rotation to fill in for injured veterans.
Kim acquitted himself in his first big league start on Aug. 17, giving up a run on three hits in 3 2/3 innings against the Chicago Cubs. Then the left-hander went on an impressive run over his next four outings, pitching 24 straight innings without surrendering an earned run and lowering his ERA all the way to 0.63.
After his start on Sept. 1, Kim suffered a kidney ailment and spent a night at a Chicago hospital during a road trip. Kim spent a dozen days on the injured list and then fired seven shutout innings against the Milwaukee Brewers in what was his best start of 2020.
In this EPA photo, Kim Kwang-hyun of the St. Louis Cardinals reacts to a pitch thrown against the San Diego Padres during the bottom of the first inning of Game 1 of the National League Wild Card Series at Petco Park in San Diego on Sept. 30, 2020. (Yonhap)
Kim gave up five earned runs over his final 10 1/3 innings of the season, not enough to put a dent on a fine season in which he's had to overcome many hurdles.
Kim received the Game 1 nod against the Padres ahead of more established big league arms, Adam Wainwright and Jack Flaherty. Things looked promising early when the Cardinals scored four runs in the top of the first inning, but Kim gave a run back in each of his first three innings, unable to last long enough to put himself in line for a win.
The Cardinals' exit leaves just one South Korean player in the postseason -- Tampa Bay Rays' first baseman Choi Ji-man. The Rays knocked out the Toronto Blue Jays in two straight games of their Wild Card Series this week, with South Korean ace Ryu Hyun-jin getting saddled with the loss in Game 2. Ryu gave up seven runs -- four unearned -- on eight hits in just 1 2/3 innings in that disastrous start.
Choi, who didn't face Ryu, came on as a pinch hitter later in Game 2 and went 0-for-2. Choi didn't have a hit in three at-bats in that series.
jeeho@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-10-03--(LEAD) Drive-thru rallies held in Seoul on national holiday amid virus outbreak

(ATTN: RECASTS headline, lead; UPDATES with more details, photos throughout)
SEOUL, Oct. 3 (Yonhap) -- Conservative groups held drive-thru anti-government rallies in southern Seoul on Saturday, a national holiday, amid concerns about the spread of the new coronavirus.
Two separate groups staged rallies involving nine vehicles each on National Foundation Day after a local court conditionally approved such demonstrations under stricter anti-infection measures.
The court allowed nine people -- each in their cars -- to hold a rally for two hours but set forth conditions such as banning the lowering of car windows and the chanting of slogans during the rally.
The demonstrations came as health authorities remain on alert over a potential rebound in virus cases after the Chuseok fall harvest holiday that ran from Wednesday till Friday.
Police stepped up their guards throughout the day to prevent conservative activists from holding abrupt and illegal rallies in central Seoul.
Except for the two drive-thru protests, a court has rejected conservative groups' request to suspend the Seoul municipality's bans on their plans for rallies involving some 1,000 participants or a protest parade with about 200 cars on the national holiday.
Conservative activists hold a drive-thru rally in southern Seoul on Oct. 3, 2020, to call for the resignation of Justice Minister Choo Mi-ae. (Yonhap)
Police buses were placed in lines on the main streets linking Gwanghwamun and City Hall in central Seoul. Subways were not stopping at nearby stations.
Police also set up fences in Gwanghwamun Square where outdoor rallies are often held, denying public access to the public plaza.
"Legal rallies need to be respected as the Constitution stipulates freedom of assembly. But as for illegal demonstrations, police should respond to them with a no-tolerance principle," Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun said during his visit to the national police agency.
The government has issued warnings against illegal anti-government rallies planned by some conservative groups on concerns that the mass gatherings could hamper the country's efforts to contain the spread of the new coronavirus.
Thousands of people, led by conservative groups, held massive rallies on Aug. 15, the country's Liberation Day, in central Seoul. The protests have been partly blamed for a resurgence in COVID-19 cases since mid-August, with cases tied to the rallies reaching more than 600.
The country's daily infections spiked to triple-digit figures for more than a month from Aug. 14, until they slowed down on the back of tougher virus curbs.
In a preemptive measure, the Seoul city government banned all rallies of 10 or more people and designated parts of central Seoul as no-assembly zones. The capital also banned rallies in the form of car parades.
Under the Level 2 social distancing rules imposed at a nationwide level, outdoor gatherings of 100 or more people are prohibited and indoor meetings of 50 or more are also banned.
Police buses are placed in lines on streets around Gwanghwamun Square in central Seoul on Oct. 3, 2020, in a bid to prevent illegal rallies on National Foundation Day. (Yonhap)
sooyeon@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-10-03--(2nd LD) New virus cases below 100 for 3rd day; holiday effect on COVID-19 spread in focus

The country is wary of the impact of drive-thru rallies and possible abrupt demonstrations by conservative groups later in the @ @ @ @ @ spread of the coronavirus , after it reported more than 600 virus cases tied to @ @ @ @ @ Seoul in mid-August .

(ATTN: UPDATES with more details throughout; CHANGES photo)
SEOUL, Oct. 3 (Yonhap) -- South Korea's new coronavirus cases stayed below 100 for the third straight day Saturday, but health authorities remain on alert over a potential rebound in virus cases after an extended fall harvest holiday.
The country added 75 more COVID-19 cases, including 52 local infections, raising the total caseload to 24,027, according to the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA).
It marked an increase from 63 new cases reported Friday but stayed lower than 77 cases Thursday. After daily infections hit 133 on Wednesday, they have declined back to double-digit figures. But the fall in daily cases was in part affected by fewer tests during the holiday.
This photo, taken on Oct. 2, 2020, shows Jeju International Airport bustling with people preparing to depart the southern resort island of Jeju after spending the Chuseok fall harvest holiday there. (Yonhap)
As South Koreans took the three-day Chuseok autumn holiday from Wednesday to Friday and are enjoying an uninterrupted weekend, health authorities remain on alert over the impact of people's mass movement to visit their hometowns or travel on the spread of coronavirus.
During the traditional holiday, many South Koreans usually travel across the country to reunite with family members and relatives.
Health authorities designated Monday to Oct. 10 as a special two-week period for toughened virus curbs on concerns that new virus cases may resurge again.
"New virus cases have been on the decline, but chances for explosive cluster infections at facilities, such as hospitals and welfare institutions, still linger as the virus is quietly spreading," Kwon Joon-wook, deputy director of the Central Disease Control Headquarters, said in a press briefing.
Of those who visited the southeastern port city of Busan during the holiday, two people have tested positive for COVID-19, according to health authorities.
"How well people kept social distancing rules during the holiday will decide the course of the virus outbreak after mid-October and subsequent responses," Kwon said.
The country is wary of the impact of drive-thru rallies and possible abrupt demonstrations by conservative groups later in the day in Seoul on the spread of the coronavirus, after it reported more than 600 virus cases tied to an anti-government rally in central Seoul in mid-August.
A court approved a drive-thru rally involving less than 10 vehicles on National Foundation Day under strict quarantine steps at a time when the Seoul city government has banned rallies of 10 or more people.
The country's new virus cases had been in the triple digits for more than a month since Aug. 14, due mainly to cases tied to a church in northern Seoul and the protest on Aug. 15. Daily infections soared to 441 on Aug. 27.
But new COVID-19 cases have slowed on the back of tightened social distancing rules. The country reported 38 new cases Tuesday, marking the first time that daily infections fell below 50 since Aug. 11.
This photo, taken on Oct. 3, 2020, shows a gate closed at Gwanghwamun Station with a sign that says subways are not stopping to ensure passenger safety and contain the spread of COVID-19. (Yonhap)
Of the newly identified local infections, 25 cases were reported in Seoul and eight cases in Gyeonggi Province that surrounds the capital. Incheon, west of Seoul, reported seven more cases.
Other municipalities reported new infections, with the country's largest port city of Busan adding eight cases and the central city of Daejeon reporting one new case.
Sporadic cluster infections and untraceable cases still put a strain on the country's virus fight. South Korea is implementing the Level 2 social distancing guidance in its three-tier scheme across the nation.
Cases traced to a hospital in northern Seoul reached 46 as of noon, up 13 from the previous day. Infections linked to a church in Incheon added four to 10. Cases tied to a public bath in Busan reached 14, up one case over the past 24 hours.
Untraceable cases accounted for 18.3 percent of the total cases reported over the past two weeks.
The country, meanwhile, added 23 imported cases, increasing the total to 3,270. Five cases came from Uzbekistan, followed by four from the Philippines and three from Ukraine.
South Korea reported four additional deaths, raising the death toll to 420. The fatality rate was 1.75 percent.
The number of seriously or critically ill COVID-19 patients came to 104 as of midnight, down three from the previous day.
The country has so far administered remdesivir, an experimental drug conventionally used for Ebola, to 529 coronavirus patients in critical condition here, according to the KDCA.
The total number of people released from quarantine after making full recoveries stood at 21,787, up 54 from the previous day.
The country has carried out 2,339,859 coronavirus tests since Jan. 3.
Citizens wait in line to receive coronavirus tests at a testing site in central Seoul on Oct. 2, 2020. (Yonhap)
sooyeon@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-10-03--Today in Korean history

Today in Korean history

2014 -- The curtain falls on the Incheon Asian Games after 16 days of tough competition by participating athletes and @ @ @ @ @ sports fans on the continent but with familiar results : China placed first , South @ @ @ @ @ in the medal standings .

Oct. 4
1935 -- South Korea's first sound film "Chunhyangjeon" premieres at a Seoul theater.
1950 -- The American Forces Korean Network (AFKN) radio starts broadcasting.
2007 -- South Korea and North Korea announce the "Declaration of the Advancement of South-North Korean Relations, Peace and Prosperity" following a summit between President Roh Moo-hyun and leader Kim Jong-il. President Roh visited Pyongyang from Oct. 2-4.
2014 -- The curtain falls on the Incheon Asian Games after 16 days of tough competition by participating athletes and friendships shared by billions of sports fans on the continent but with familiar results: China placed first, South Korea second and Japan third in the medal standings.
North Korea sent a high-ranking delegation to the South for the Incheon Asian Games closing ceremony.
2018 -- A group of South Korean government officials, politicians and civic and religious leaders visits North Korea to take part in an event to jointly celebrate the anniversary of the 2007 inter-Korean summit.
(END)


yna--2020-10-03--(LEAD) Trump diagnosis to strengthen dollar, but high market volatility not likely: experts

Analysts said Trump testing positive is expected to raise uncertainty in financial markets , prompting investors to snap up the @ @ @ @ @ are not likely to post a sharp rise or decline only on the Trump news @ @ @ @ @ new U.S. stimulus measures , they said .

(ATTN: UPDATES with more details in paras 11-12)
SEOUL, Oct. 3 (Yonhap) -- U.S. President Donald Trump's infection with the new coronavirus is expected to strengthen the dollar due to investors' chasing after safe assets, but financial markets are not likely to undergo high volatility, market experts here said Saturday.
Trump and first lady Melania Trump tested positive for COVID-19 on Friday, sending Wall Street's main stock indexes lower. The dollar index, a gauge of the greenback's value against a basket of six foreign currencies, rose 0.14 percent.
Analysts said Trump testing positive is expected to raise uncertainty in financial markets, prompting investors to snap up the dollar. But global markets are not likely to post a sharp rise or decline only on the Trump news in light of hopes for new U.S. stimulus measures, they said.
This photo, provided by AFP on Sept. 29, 2020, shows U.S. President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)
"The FX market is expected to be affected by Trump's symptoms, but there is a slim possibility for the market seeing high volatility with the single issue," a currency analyst said.
South Korea's foreign exchange authorities are also closely monitoring the global financial markets to gauge the impact of Trump's infection.
"As talks for a fresh U.S. stimulus package are gaining traction, it may offset investor sentiment for safe assets," an official at the Bank of Korea said.
"The financial market is not likely to see a herd behavior nor undergo sharp volatility, but we will closely monitor the market," the official added.
South Korea's financial markets closed for the third straight day Friday due to the Chuseok fall harvest holiday.
The country's main stock index rose 0.86 percent to end at 2,327.89 on Tuesday, and the Korean currency closed at 1,169.5 won per dollar, up 4.1 won from the previous session's close.
Analysts said Trump's diagnosis is expected to have a limited impact on the South Korean stock market, but there is a need to be cautious about political and economic uncertainty that could be raised by his illness.
"Rather than Trump's infection itself, spillover factors could have an impact on the stock market. Concerns are growing that negotiations for additional stimulus may be delayed due to his infection," Kiwoom Securities Co. analyst Suh Sang-young said.
Global investment bank Citi Bank said the Trump news is not likely to cause forced selling of risky assets, given that uncertainty from the U.S. presidential election has been factored in the market to some degree.
Electronic signboards at the trading room of Hana Bank in Seoul show the benchmark Korea Composite Stock Price Index (KOSPI) closed at 2,327.89 on Sept. 29, 2020, up 19.81 points or 0.86 percent from the previous session's close. (Yonhap)
sooyeon@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-10-03--Korean chipmakers to benefit from U.S. restrictions on China's SMIC: analysts

The U.S. Commerce Department recently added SMIC to its blacklist , saying that exports to the Chinese firm pose an @ @ @ @ @ being used for Beijing 's military activities .
The move prevents U.S. firms from exporting @ @ @ @ @ SMIC without obtaining a license .

SEOUL, Oct. 3 (Yonhap) -- South Korea's chipmakers are expected to benefit from the United States' export restrictions against China's leading foundry firm, Semiconductor Manufacturing International Corporation (SMIC), analysts here said Saturday, as the ban could give them more opportunities to secure orders.
The U.S. Commerce Department recently added SMIC to its blacklist, saying that exports to the Chinese firm pose an "unacceptable risk" of being used for Beijing's military activities. The move prevents U.S. firms from exporting their products and technologies to SMIC without obtaining a license.
The restriction means SMIC, also the world's fourth largest foundry firm, could struggle to get advanced chip materials and equipment from U.S., and have difficulties in filling their customers' orders.
Against this backdrop, analysts here said the U.S. move will benefit foundry firms here, such as Samsung Electronics Co. and DB HiTek Co., as well as local chip equipment suppliers.
This image from Yonhap News TV shows the corporate logo of South Korean chipmakers Samsung Electronics Co. and SK hynix Inc. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)
As of the third quarter, Samsung is the world's second largest contract chipmaker behind Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing (TSMC), according to market researcher TrendForce. DB HiTek is the 10th largest foundry firm.
"DB HiTek is likely to benefit the most from the ban as its business area largely overlaps with SMIC," Kim Yang-jae, an analyst at KTB Investment & Securities, said.
"The portion of SMIC is very small in local chip equipment makers' sales. But in the long term, they will see benefits as Samsung expands its foundry capacity."
SK hynix Inc., South Korea's No. 2 chipmaker, was also tipped to benefit from the U.S. ban on SMIC as its foundry unit could see a good opportunity to expand its presence.
"Chinese smartphone, PC and home appliance makers could place rush orders to build inventories," said Kim Dong-won, an analyst at KB Securities. "SK hynix system ic Inc., a wholly subsidiary of SK hynix, is set to fully operate its foundry plant in China from the fourth quarter and is expected to see improvements in its earnings."
Since the U.S. move will also impact Huawei Technologies Co., which is already suffering from restrictions on exports to the U.S., analysts said South Korean firms that compete against the Chinese tech titan can achieve further growth.
In particular, Samsung has been trying hard to fend off Huawei in the smartphone market.
This photo provided by Samsung Electronics Co. on May 21, 2020, shows the company's chip plant in Pyeongtaek, south of Seoul. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)
Huawei has been hit by the U.S. sanctions that ban the supply of semiconductors made with American equipment and technology to the Chinese firm without prior approval from Washington.
"SMIC's biggest customer is Huawei, which accounts for 18.7 percent of its sales," Lee Seung-woo, an analyst at Eugene Securities, said. "The latest U.S. move further chokes Huawei and leaves the company with no exits."
kdon@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-10-03--Air traffic to stay below pre-pandemic levels next year

`` Airline passenger volume could improve faster than we forecast if an effective vaccine is distributed sooner than we believe @ @ @ @ @ success in containing the pandemic .
However , we foresee flat demand in 2021 that @ @ @ @ @ base should there be limited progress on this measure , '' it said .

SEOUL, Oct. 3 (Yonhap) -- Airline traffic in South Korea and other countries in the Asia-Pacific region will remain well below 2019 levels next year due to the coronavirus's impact on the airline industry, according to a global ratings agency Saturday.
The pace of the recovery will depend on each market's relative success in bringing the COVID-19 pandemic under control to help improve passenger confidence and reduce the risk of further travel restrictions, Fitch Ratings said.
"Airline passenger volume could improve faster than we forecast if an effective vaccine is distributed sooner than we believe or if there is more success in containing the pandemic. However, we foresee flat demand in 2021 that is well below the 2019 base should there be limited progress on this measure," it said.
This file photo, taken July 29, 2020, shows planes parked at Incheon International Airport, west of Seoul. (Yonhap)
The ratings firm picked China as the country whose air passenger traffic shows a rapid recovery thanks to its success in containing the pandemic.
Korean airlines have suspended most of their flights on international routes since March as more than 180 countries and territories strengthened entry restrictions amid virus fears.
Korean Air Lines Co. and Asiana Airlines Inc., the country's two biggest carriers, posted deepened net losses in the January-June period compared with a year earlier amid virus woes.
Korean Air's net losses widened to 619.49 billion won (US$523 million) in the first half from 482.01 billion won a year ago, while Asiana's net losses also deepened to 633.26 billion won from 291.62 billion won during the same period.
kyongae.choi@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-10-03--Trump diagnosis to strengthen dollar, but high market volatility not likely: experts

SEOUL, Oct. 3 (Yonhap) -- U.S. President Donald Trump's infection with the new coronavirus is expected to strengthen the dollar due to investors' chasing after safe assets, but financial markets are not likely to undergo high volatility, market experts here said Saturday.
Trump and first lady Melania Trump tested positive for COVID-19 on Friday, sending Wall Street's main stock indexes lower. The dollar index, a gauge of the greenback's value against a basket of six foreign currencies, rose 0.14 percent.
Analysts said Trump testing positive is expected to raise uncertainty in financial markets, prompting investors to snap up the dollar. But global markets are not likely to post a sharp rise or decline only on the Trump news in light of hopes for new U.S. stimulus measures, they said.
This photo, provided by AFP on Sept. 29, 2020, shows U.S. President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)
"The FX market is expected to be affected by Trump's symptoms, but there is a slim possibility for the market seeing high volatility with the single issue," a currency analyst said.
South Korea's foreign exchange authorities are also closely monitoring the global financial markets to gauge the impact of Trump's infection.
"As talks for a fresh U.S. stimulus package are gaining traction, it may offset investor sentiment for safe assets," an official at the Bank of Korea said.
"The financial market is not likely to see a herd behavior nor undergo sharp volatility, but we will closely monitor the market," the official added.
South Korea's financial markets closed for the third straight day Friday due to the Chuseok fall harvest holiday.
The country's main stock index rose 0.86 percent to end at 2,327.89 on Tuesday, and the Korean currency closed at 1,169.5 won per dollar, up 4.1 won from the previous session's close.
Global investment bank Citi Bank said the Trump news is not likely to cause forced selling of risky assets, given that uncertainty from the U.S. presidential election has been factored in the market to some degree.
Electronic signboards at the trading room of Hana Bank in Seoul show the benchmark Korea Composite Stock Price Index (KOSPI) closed at 2,327.89 on Sept. 29, 2020, up 19.81 points or 0.86 percent from the previous session's close. (Yonhap)
sooyeon@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-10-03--Rate of workers taking child care leave still low in private sector: lawmaker

Of the 13.9 million subscribers , a total of 14,857 fathers were on child care leave as of June , @ @ @ @ @ same period last year .
A majority of them were working for big companies with @ @ @ @ @ the report also showed .

SEOUL, Oct. 3 (Yonhap) -- Although child care leave was introduced by the country more than 30 years ago, the rate of workers who use such leave at private companies is still significantly lower than that of civil servants, a lawmaker said on Saturday, citing recent official data.
A total of 4.5 percent, or more than 54,800, of about 1.22 million government employee pension holders, were on child care leave as of June this year, Rep. Kang Byung-won of the ruling Democratic Party said. He cited data from the Korea Workers' Compensation & Welfare Service and Government Employees Pension Service.
But the corresponding rate among subscribers to the general employment insurance who are mostly private sector workers was only one-tenth of the figure for government employees.
The data showed only 0.42 percent, or 58,750, of the around 13.9 million subscribers were taking leave of absence for child care.
Given that the number of subscribers includes employees of state-run companies and government agencies, the actual rate of workers on child care leave at private companies may be even lower, the lawmaker said.
The benefit of child care leave, allowed for both mothers and fathers, was adopted in 1987 as unpaid leave and has evolved into a paid one, partly funded by the government.
Of the 13.9 million subscribers, a total of 14,857 fathers were on child care leave as of June, up 34.1 percent from the same period last year. A majority of them were working for big companies with 300 or more employees, the report also showed.
This computer-created image is provided by Yonhap News TV. (Yonhap)
pbr@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-10-04--Listed firms' Q3 earnings tipped to sharply rebound

SEOUL , Oct. 4 ( Yonhap ) -- Major listed firms in South Korea are likely to have racked up @ @ @ @ @ quarter this year , with their operating profit expected to have soared about 20 percent @ @ @ @ @ , analysts said on Sunday .

SEOUL, Oct. 4 (Yonhap) -- Major listed firms in South Korea are likely to have racked up decent profits in the third quarter this year, with their operating profit expected to have soared about 20 percent despite the new coronavirus outbreaks, analysts said on Sunday.
The third-quarter operating income of 147 listed firms on the main bourse was estimated at 35.4 trillion won on a consolidated basis, up 19.4 percent from a year ago, according to financial research firm FnGuide.
Their sales are expected to have jumped 12.6 percent, and their net profit is estimated to have risen 54.7 percent, compared to a quarter ago.
The third-quarter performance estimates represent a sharp leap from the 19.2 percent growth in operating profit and 25.2 percent rise in net profit in the April-June period.
"The corporate earnings are on a rebound from the COVID-19 gloom," said Hyundai Motor Securities analyst Lee Chang-hwan.
"We are positive that the overall economy is playing up to the second-half recovery scenario," he added.
Brokerages expected a jump in operating profit for chipmakers, automakers and battery makers. Contact-free businesses, such as internet and mobile platform service providers and biopharmaceuticals, were also set to log decent profits, they said.
However, hotels, leisure industries and airline companies are expected to continue facing slumps due to virus fears, along with travel agencies and department stores.
jwc@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-10-04--SK hynix to post mediocre Q3 earnings on weak chip prices: analysts

`` North American data companies are expected to begin their server DRAM purchases from the fourth quarter and expand their @ @ @ @ @ of 2021 , '' said Kim Dong-won , an analyst at KB Securities .
`` @ @ @ @ @ expected to go up from the first quarter of 2021 as Chinese phone makers will @ @ @ @ @ of Huawei . ''

SEOUL, Oct. 4 (Yonhap) -- SK hynix Inc., South Korea's No. 2 chipmaker, is expected to report mediocre third-quarter earnings in the face of memory price decline, analysts here said Sunday.
SK hynix was projected to log 7.9 trillion won (US$6.7 billion) in sales in the July-September period, up 15.5 percent from a year earlier, while operating profit was estimated to surge 183 percent on-year to 1.3 trillion won over the period, according to Yonhap Infomax, the financial news arm of Yonhap News Agency, which compiled data from 13 brokerage houses.
The estimated figures show a sharp on-year increase in its earnings due to a base effect, analysts said, since the company suffered one of its worst performances last year due to an industrywide slump.
When compared to the second quarter, SK hynix was projected to see an 8.9 percent decline in sales and a 36.5 percent drop in operating profit.
This undated file photo shows the corporate logo of South Korean chipmaker SK hynix Inc. (Yonhap)
Analysts have been expecting lukewarm earnings for SK hynix in the third quarter due to price declines in DRAM and NAND flash chips prompted by excess inventory in the industry.
SK hynix was the world's second-largest DRAM supplier and fourth-largest NAND flash vendor in the second quarter, according to market researcher TrendForce.
"It is estimated that the average selling price of DRAM and NAND flash suffered quarter-on-quarter declines of 9 percent and 7 percent, respectively," Lee Soon-hak, an analyst at Hanwha Investment & Securities, said. "The Korean won-dollar exchange rate dropping 1.3 percent from the previous quarter also appears to have a negative impact on its earnings."
However, analysts said SK hynix avoided the worst scenario as rush orders from China's Huawei Technologies Co. apparently pushed up the bit growth of its DRAM and NAND flash chips.
Huawei, the world's top network equipment maker and No. 2 smartphone producer, was aggressively procuring semiconductors ahead of the U.S. export restrictions that went into place on Sept. 15.
"Considering Huawei's rush orders placed in August and September, we are raising SK hynix's DRAM bit growth for the third quarter to 2 percent from minus 7 percent decline," said Lee Seung-woo, an analyst at Eugene Securities.
This photo provided by SK hynix Inc. on July 2, 2020, shows the company's HBM2E DRAM chips. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)
Analysts said SK hynix is expected to make a rebound from next year after memory prices hit bottom in the fourth quarter of the year.
"North American data companies are expected to begin their server DRAM purchases from the fourth quarter and expand their orders in the first quarter of 2021," said Kim Dong-won, an analyst at KB Securities. "Mobile DRAM prices are also expected to go up from the first quarter of 2021 as Chinese phone makers will try to fill the gap of Huawei."
kdon@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-10-04--Pompeo cancels visit to S. Korea after Trump's virus diagnosis

`` Secretary Pompeo expects to be traveling to Asia again in October and will work to reschedule visits on that @ @ @ @ @ just a few weeks off , '' the statement said .

SEOUL, Oct. 4 (Yonhap) -- U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo canceled a planned visit to South Korea, the State Department announced Sunday, after President Donald Trump tested positive for COVID-19.
The State Department released an update on Pompeo's planned Asia visit, which included a single travel itinerary to Tokyo on Oct. 4-6.
The update did not include the previously announced trips to South Korea and Mongolia.
"Secretary Pompeo expects to be traveling to Asia again in October and will work to reschedule visits on that trip, that is now just a few weeks off," the statement said.
odissy@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-10-04--Galaxy Note 20 Ultra's camera rated best performer: report

The latest Note smartphones come with the S Pen that boasts 9 milliseconds of latency and 80 percent faster response @ @ @ @ @ according to Samsung .
The stylus has an upgraded `` air actions '' feature , @ @ @ @ @ users to easily control their smartphones .

SEOUL, Oct. 4 (Yonhap) -- Samsung Electronics Co.'s latest flagship smartphone, the Galaxy Note 20 Ultra, topped the list of handsets with the best-performing cameras available in the market, a report showed Sunday.
The Galaxy Note 20 Ultra, a high-end version of Samsung's phablet series, posted the highest marks among the latest smartphones, according to the report by U.S. Consumer Reports.
The high-end Note 20 Ultra has a 108MP wide-angle lens as well as 12MP telephoto and ultrawide cameras on the back. It features a maximum zoom range of 50x, instead of the 100x that was featured in the Galaxy S20 Ultra smartphone.
The standard Note 20 features a triple rear camera setup with a 12-megapixel (MP) wide-angle lens, a 64MP telephoto camera and a 12MP ultrawide shooter.
A Galaxy Note 20 smartphone is displayed at a shop located in southern Seoul on Aug. 7, 2020. (Yonhap)
Other Samsung smartphones were also included on the list, taking up nine of the 12 handsets recommended by the influential American consumer magazine. The tech giant's archrival Apple Inc. accounted for one.
In terms of shooting videos, however, the magazine said the iPhone 11 Pro and iPhone 11 Pro Max boasted the best performance.
The Note 20 Ultra comes with 12GB RAM and 256GB storage as well, which can be expanded up to 1TB with a micro SD card. It uses a 4,500-mAh battery.
The latest Note smartphones come with the S Pen that boasts 9 milliseconds of latency and 80 percent faster response time than its predecessor, according to Samsung. The stylus has an upgraded "air actions" feature, touchless gesture control that allows users to easily control their smartphones.
colin@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-10-04--(URGENT) U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo cancels visit to S. Korea after Trump tests positive fo

(URGENT) U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo cancels visit to S. Korea after Trump tests positive for COViD-19

(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--2020-10-04--S. Korea's food self-sufficiency under 50 pct in 2019

The country 's food self-sufficiency rate came to 45.8 percent in 2019 , falling sharply from 56.2 percent posted in @ @ @ @ @ data released by Rep. Eoh Kiy-ku of the ruling Democratic Party .

SEOUL, Oct. 4 (Yonhap) -- South Korea's self-sufficiency rate of major food products fell more than 10 percentage points over the past 10 years to stay below 50 percent in 2019, data showed Sunday.
The country's food self-sufficiency rate came to 45.8 percent in 2019, falling sharply from 56.2 percent posted in 2009, according to the data released by Rep. Eoh Kiy-ku of the ruling Democratic Party.
Over the cited period, the country's self-sufficiency rate of grains fell 8.6 percentage points to reach 21 percent.
In 2013, South Korea announced a blueprint to increase the country's self-sufficiency rate of foodstuffs to 57 percent in 2017, but the figure actually managed to reach only 48.9 percent.
South Korea later revised its target to have its self-sufficiency rate of food at 55.4 percent by 2022, with that of grains standing at 27.3 percent.
colin@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-10-04--U.S. conducts training, reconnaissance missions in East Sea

The recent U.S. military movements around the Korean Peninsula also come after an incident in which North Korean troops shot @ @ @ @ @ official who was adrift in the waters of the North , bringing the ever-fragile inter-Korean @ @ @ @ @ juncture .

SEOUL, Oct. 4 (Yonhap) -- The United States recently conducted military training and reconnaissance missions in and around the Korean Peninsula amid fragile inter-Korean relations and an upcoming North Korean military parade to mark the anniversary of the country's ruling party.
A pair of B-1B Lancers took off from U.S. Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, to conduct a joint and bilateral "Bomber Task Force" mission with a F-15J aircraft from the Japanese Air Self-Defense Force in the East Sea on Sept. 30, according to the American Pacific Air Forces on Sunday.
This file photo shows an American B-1B Lancer bomber in flight at the Seoul International Aerospace & Defense Exhibition held at the Seoul Airport in Seongnam, south of the capital, on Oct. 21, 2017. (Yonhap)
The U.S. bombers also conducted joint training with a U.S. Navy E/A-18G Growler, an electronic carrier-based aircraft, deployed to Misawa Air Base, Japan, in the East Sea.
Upon completion of training, the two B-1s returned to their home station at Ellsworth AFB, South Dakota.
The American Navy deployed its EP-3E reconnaissance aircraft on Friday above South Korea's western shores near Incheon, about 40 kilometers west of Seoul, according to the aviation tracking website No callsign.
The U.S. Air Force also flew an E-3 Sentry and an E-8 Joint STARS over the inland air space of South Korea after passing through the western region on Thursday.
An E-3 Sentry Airborne Warning and Control System aircraft takes off from Osan Air Base in Pyeongtaek, south of Seoul, on Sept. 15, 2017. (Yonhap)
The surveillance-focused planes are presumed to have been deployed to gather intelligence and monitor any developments on an upcoming military parade expected to be held on Oct. 10 in Pyongyang to mark the 75th founding anniversary of North Korea's ruling Workers' Party.
North Korea tends to mark every fifth or 10th anniversary with larger-scale events, such as military provocations, including missile launches, or parades of troops, newly developed strategic weapons and other military hardware.
In his New Year's message, North Korean leader Kim Jong-un said he will showcase a "new strategic weapon," which could be an intercontinental ballistic missile or a submarine-launched ballistic missile, according to experts and observers.
The recent U.S. military movements around the Korean Peninsula also come after an incident in which North Korean troops shot a 47-year-old South Korean fisheries official who was adrift in the waters of the North, bringing the ever-fragile inter-Korean relations to a new crucial juncture.
odissy@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-10-04--(LEAD) New infection cases under 100 for 4th day; post-Chuseok virus fight in focus

Despite the latest decrease in the number of new cases , the slowdown was in part attributable to fewer COVID-19 @ @ @ @ @ holiday .
More than 10,000 tests are normally carried out over weekdays , while they @ @ @ @ @

(ATTN: ADDS details throughout; CHANGES photo)
SEOUL, Oct. 4 (Yonhap) -- South Korea's new coronavirus cases hovered below 100 for the fourth consecutive day on Sunday, but the daily tally may bounce back as millions of people traveled over the Chuseok fall harvest holiday.
The country added 64 more COVID-19 cases, including 47 local infections, raising the total caseload to 24,091, according to the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA).
It marked a slight decrease from 75 cases reported on Saturday and a rise from 63 identified on Friday. After daily infections hit 133 on Wednesday, they have declined back to double-digit figures.
Sunday marks the end of the extended Chuseok autumn holiday that began on Wednesday. Millions of people traveled across the country to meet their family members and relatives over the Korean equivalent of Thanksgiving.
Travelers board a train at Seoul Station in central Seoul on Oct. 3, 2020. (Yonhap)
Health authorities designated Monday to Oct. 10 as a special two-week period for toughened virus curbs on concerns that new virus cases may resurge again due to the long holiday.
So far, only two people who visited the southeastern port city of Busan during the holiday have tested positive for the virus.
The country also has a three-day break from Oct. 9 to 11, when Hangeul Day, which celebrates the Korean alphabet, is combined with the weekend.
Despite the latest decrease in the number of new cases, the slowdown was in part attributable to fewer COVID-19 tests carried out during the holiday. More than 10,000 tests are normally carried out over weekdays, while they halved over the holiday.
Considering the incubation period of the virus, there could be a number of travelers who have not yet suffered symptoms of the virus as well.
Over the past two weeks, 18 percent of the newly added patients had unknown infection routes. More than 28 percent were traced to cluster infections as well.
Of the newly identified local infections, 16 cases were reported in Seoul and 14 cases in Gyeonggi Province that surrounds the capital. Incheon, west of Seoul, reported five more cases.
Other municipalities reported new infections, with the country's largest port city of Busan adding five cases and the central city of Daejeon reporting two new cases.
Cases traced to a hospital in northern Seoul reached 46 as of Saturday.
Infections linked to a church in Incheon reached 10, and cases tied to a public bath in Busan came to 14.
People enjoy picnics at a park in Seoul on Oct. 3, 2020. (Yonhap)
On Saturday, local authorities sealed off the Gwanghwamun area in central Seoul to prevent illegal protests. The move came as an anti-government rally in central Seoul held in mid-August emerged as a hotbed for South Korea's virus pandemic, with more than 600 infections being traced to the gathering.
Conservative groups staged "drive-thru" anti-government rallies in southern Seoul after winning court approval to hold demonstrations only under certain conditions to prevent another coronavirus resurgence from mass gatherings.
The country's new virus cases had been in the triple digits for more than a month since Aug. 14, due mainly to cases tied to a church in northern Seoul and the anti-government rally. Daily infections soared to 441 on Aug. 27.
But new COVID-19 cases have slowed on the back of tightened social distancing rules. The country reported 38 new cases Tuesday, marking the first time that daily infections fell below 50 since Aug. 11.
Imported cases came to 17.
Of the imported cases, the Philippines and India accounted for three cases each. There were patients from Russia, Iran, Britain and the United States as well.
South Korea added one additional death, raising the death toll to 421.
The fatality rate reached 1.75 percent.
The number of patients in serious or critical condition came to 105, up one from the previous day.
The total number of people released from quarantine after making full recoveries stood at 21,845, up 58 from the previous day. More than 90 percent of the patients reported here have been cured.
South Korea has carried out 2,346,345 COVID-19 tests since Jan. 3, including 6,486 from the previous day.
colin@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-10-04--LG to launch new rotating-screen smartphone this week

LG already announced there would be no preorder reservations for the Wing .
Instead , the company decided to hold @ @ @ @ @ month of October , which gives Wing buyers a 70 percent discount coupon if they @ @ @ @ @ of the phone within two years after purchase .

SEOUL, Oct. 4 (Yonhap) -- LG Electronics Inc. said Sunday its new dual-screen smartphone will go on sale in South Korea this week as the tech firm aims to boost its handset sales amid the pandemic.
The Wing will hit local shelves on Tuesday, with a price tag of 1,098,900 won (US$940), according to LG.
In the United States, the Wing will be released on Oct. 15, the company added.
LG already announced there would be no preorder reservations for the Wing. Instead, the company decided to hold a promotion for the full month of October, which gives Wing buyers a 70 percent discount coupon if they have to replace the display of the phone within two years after purchase.
The Wing, which was unveiled on Sept. 14, is highlighted by its two separate displays, with the main screen swiveling 90 degrees horizontally to reveal a secondary screen under it and creating a T-shape design.
It is equipped with "gimbal motion camera" technology with six motion sensors, which gives a great level of stabilization especially when users shoot videos with the device.
This photo provided by LG Electronics Inc. on Sept. 14, 2020, shows the company's new rotating-screen smartphone, the Wing. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)
kdon@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-10-04--S. Korea fares better than other OECD members in Q2

Experts also warned that the virus pandemic may strain the country 's economy for the fourth quarter as well , @ @ @ @ @ virus cases rebound later in October in the aftermath of the five-day Chuseok holiday that @ @ @ @

SEOUL, Oct. 4 (Yonhap) -- South Korea performed relatively better in terms of economic growth over the second quarter of the year compared to other members of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), data showed Sunday.
South Korea's economy contracted 3.2 percent on-year in the April-June period, which marked the smallest decrease among the 36 member countries of the Paris-based organization, according to the data compiled by the Bank of Korea.
Over the cited period, China, which is not a member of the OECD, advanced 11.5 percent, while Russia decreased by 3.2 percent, the central bank also said.
Among member states of the OECD, Finland followed with a 4.4 percent decrease in its GDP, trailed by Norway and Estonia with 5.1 percent and 5.6 percent each.
Britain posted the sharpest decrease of 20.4 percent on-year in the second quarter, while Spain slipped 17.8 percent.
South Korea's economy may have further lost ground over the July-September period, given that the country rolled out an enhanced social distancing scheme in the third quarter in line with efforts to curb the spread of COVID-19.
South Korea rolled out the Level 2 social distancing scheme throughout the country from end-August to mid-September, with more restrictions added to the greater Seoul area that houses around half of its population.
Under the Level 2 scheme, indoor meetings of more than 50 people and open-air gatherings of over 100 people are banned in principle. So-called risk-prone facilities, including karaoke rooms, clubs, PC cafes and buffets, have been ordered to shut down.
Such measures are anticipated to have weighed down on the country's consumption.
Experts also warned that the virus pandemic may strain the country's economy for the fourth quarter as well, should the number of new virus cases rebound later in October in the aftermath of the five-day Chuseok holiday that runs through Sunday.
colin@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-10-04--New infection cases under 100 for 4th day; post-Chuseok virus fight in focus

SEOUL, Oct. 4 (Yonhap) -- South Korea's new coronavirus cases hovered below 100 for the fourth consecutive day on Sunday, but the daily tally may bounce back as millions of people traveled over the Chuseok fall harvest holiday.
The country added 64 more COVID-19 cases, including 47 local infections, raising the total caseload to 24,091, according to the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA).
It marked a slight decrease from 75 cases reported on Saturday and a rise from 63 identified on Friday. After daily infections hit 133 on Wednesday, they have declined back to double-digit figures.
Sunday marks the end of the extended Chuseok autumn holiday that began on Wednesday. Millions of people traveled across the country to meet their family members and relatives over the Korean equivalent of Thanksgiving.
A protester wearing a mask participates in a rally held in central Seoul on Oct. 3, 2020. (Yonhap)
Health authorities designated Monday to Oct. 10 as a special two-week period for toughened virus curbs on concerns that new virus cases may resurge again due to the long holiday.
So far, only two people who visited the southeastern port city of Busan during the holiday have tested positive for the virus.
The country also has a three-day break from Oct. 9 to 11, when Hangeul Day, which celebrates the Korean alphabet, is combined with the weekend.
Despite the latest decrease in the number of new cases, the slowdown was in part attributable to fewer COVID-19 tests carried out during the holiday. More than 10,000 tests are normally carried out over weekdays, while they halved over the holiday.
Considering the incubation period of the virus, there could be a number of travelers who have not yet suffered symptoms of the virus as well.
Over the past two weeks, 18 percent of the newly added patients had unknown infection routes. More than 28 percent were traced to cluster infections as well.
Of the newly identified local infections, 16 cases were reported in Seoul and 14 cases in Gyeonggi Province that surrounds the capital. Incheon, west of Seoul, reported five more cases.
Other municipalities reported new infections, with the country's largest port city of Busan adding five cases and the central city of Daejeon reporting two new cases.
Cases traced to a hospital in northern Seoul reached 46 as of Saturday.
Infections linked to a church in Incheon reached 10, and cases tied to a public bath in Busan came to 14.
People enjoy picnics at a park in Seoul on Oct. 3, 2020. (Yonhap)
On Saturday, local authorities sealed off the Gwanghwamun area in central Seoul to prevent illegal protests. The move came as an anti-government rally in central Seoul held in mid-August emerged as a hotbed for South Korea's virus pandemic, with more than 600 infections being traced to the gathering.
Conservative groups staged "drive-thru" anti-government rallies in southern Seoul after winning court approval to hold demonstrations only under certain conditions to prevent another coronavirus resurgence from mass gatherings.
The country's new virus cases had been in the triple digits for more than a month since Aug. 14, due mainly to cases tied to a church in northern Seoul and the anti-government rally. Daily infections soared to 441 on Aug. 27.
But new COVID-19 cases have slowed on the back of tightened social distancing rules. The country reported 38 new cases Tuesday, marking the first time that daily infections fell below 50 since Aug. 11.
Imported cases came to 17.
South Korea added one additional death, raising the death toll to 421.
The total number of people released from quarantine after making full recoveries stood at 21,845, up 58 from the previous day.
colin@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-10-04--(URGENT) 58 more patients released from coronavirus treatment, total now at 21,845: KDCA


yna--2020-10-04--(URGENT) S. Korea reports 1 additional coronavirus death, total now at 421: KDCA


yna--2020-10-04--(URGENT) S. Korea reports 64 more cases of new coronavirus, total now at 24,091: KDCA


yna--2020-10-04--Card transactions down 1.6 pct in Aug. amid virus pandemic

The number of transactions made with plastic later rebounded in May on the back of the country 's emergency relief @ @ @ @ @ local households to cope with the economic fallout of the pandemic .

SEOUL, Oct. 4 (Yonhap) -- The number of purchases made with cards by South Koreans edged down 1.6 percent in August from a year earlier as more people stayed home and refrained from making unnecessary purchases amid the new coronavirus pandemic, data showed Sunday.
In August, the number of purchases made with plastic, including credit and debit cards, came to 1.9 billion, totaling 74 trillion won (US$63.5 billion), according to the Credit Finance Association.
The combined number of transactions decreased 7.1 percent and 3.7 percent on-year in March and April, respectively, due to a sharp increase in the number of COVID-19 patients in the country.
Consumers shop for groceries at a supermarket located in Seoul on Sept. 28, 2020. (Yonhap)
The number of transactions made with plastic later rebounded in May on the back of the country's emergency relief handout scheme designed to help local households to cope with the economic fallout of the pandemic.
The government provided 1 million won each to households with four or more members, 800,000 won to three-person households, 600,000 won to two-person households and 400,000 won to single-person households.
After the transactions increased on-year through July, they again lost ground in August as the country experienced yet another rebound in the number of COVID-19 patients, traced to a conservative church in northern Seoul and an anti-government rally.
South Korea also rolled out the Level 2 social distancing scheme in greater Seoul on Aug. 16 and nationwide on Aug. 23.
Under the Level 2 scheme, indoor meetings of more than 50 people and open-air gatherings of over 100 people are banned in principle. So-called risk-prone facilities, including karaoke rooms, clubs, PC cafes and buffets, have been ordered to shut down.
In terms of value, the amount advanced 3.7 percent, but it hovered far below the average increase of 7 percent posted before the pandemic, the data showed.
colin@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-10-04--School violence down but juvenile sex offenses up sharply

The number of teenagers arrested for acts of school violence totaled 13,584 last year , marking a decrease of 3 @ @ @ @ @ , according to the data from the National Police Agency ( NPA ) .

SEOUL, Oct. 4 (Yonhap) -- Overall school violence has been on a steady decline in recent years, but the number of juvenile sex offenders has spiked significantly, police data showed on Sunday.
The number of teenagers arrested for acts of school violence totaled 13,584 last year, marking a decrease of 3 percent from 14,000 in 2017, according to the data from the National Police Agency (NPA).
School violence is classified into four types -- sexual violence, assaults, extortion and others -- and offenders include elementary, middle and high school students and out-of-school youths.
Contrary to the downward trend in overall school violence, the number of teenagers arrested for sexual offenses, including rape, forced harassment and illegal shooting, surged 80.5 percent from 1,695 in 2017 to 3,060 last year, the data showed.
Among the 40,951 school violence offenders caught by police between 2017 and 2019, out-of-school youths accounted for the largest number at 15,196, followed by high school students (12,718), middle school students (11,231) and elementary school students (1,806).
"Increasing sexual offenses committed by teenagers are mostly digital sexual crimes," said Rep. Kim Young-bae of the ruling Democratic Party, who released the NPA data.
"The authorities should strengthen relevant education for students and adolescents and more aggressively crack down on harmful video content," he said.
This composite photo, provided by Yonhap News TV, shows crimes among teenagers and the logo of the National Police Agency. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)
nyway@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-10-04--Department stores renovate outlets targeting young customers

It broke the practice of placing the cosmetics section on the first floor , moving it to the third floor @ @ @ @ @ The third floor is connected to a nearby train station , making it easier for @ @ @ @ @ store , according to company officials .

SEOUL, Oct. 4 (Yonhap) -- Major local department stores have renovated their outlets in bustling areas and realigned sales sections in an effort to attract a new clan of young customers amid faltering sales hit by the new coronavirus outbreak, industry sources said Sunday.
Industry leader Lotte Department Store and its main rivals Shinsegae and Hyundai department stores are targeting the MZ generation, those born between 1980 and the early 2000s as a combination of millennials and Generation Z.
Local retailers are scrambling to catch a new group of consumers as they have emerged as powerful customers who do not hesitate to spend money for personal satisfaction.
Retail giants suffered from slumps in sales this year as the COVID-19 pandemic made people refrain from visiting offline stores.
Against this backdrop, No. 3 player Hyundai Department Store reopened its U-Plex outlet targeting young customers in Bucheon, west of Seoul, on Sept. 23 for the first time in 11 years.
This photo, provided by Hyundai Department Store, shows the sports section of its U-Plex outlet in Bucheon, west of Seoul. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)
The store is filled with shops selling 130 trendy local and foreign brands, and its sports-focused section drew 34 brands, according to company officials.
Earlier, Hyundai Department Store renovated its U-Plex outlet in Seoul's university district of Shinchon to better attract the MZ generation.
"To cater to their demand, we plan to continue to refurbish other U-Plex stores," a company official said.
Lotte Department Store recently overhauled its outlet in Yeongdeungpo, western Seoul, in a bid to help young customers shop there conveniently.
It broke the practice of placing the cosmetics section on the first floor, moving it to the third floor of the Yeongdeungpo store. The third floor is connected to a nearby train station, making it easier for people to visit the department store, according to company officials.
No. 2 player Shinsegae Department Store also renovated its outlet in Yeongdeungpo, aiming to nurture it as a landmark department store in southwestern Seoul.
It set up the young fashion section collecting 33 brands that appeal to customers in their 20s, the company said.
This photo, provided by Shinsegae Department Store, shows its Time Square outlet in Yeongdeungpo, western Seoul. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)
sooyeon@yna.co.kr
(END)


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(END)


yna--2020-10-04--(LEAD) S. Korea slightly revises down number of people injected with mishandled flu vaccines

SEOUL , Oct. 4 ( Yonhap ) -- South Korea 's health authorities on Sunday slightly revised down the number @ @ @ @ @ injected with flu vaccines that may have been exposed to room temperature , after local @ @ @ @ @

(ATTN: ADDS details in paras 6-8)
SEOUL, Oct. 4 (Yonhap) -- South Korea's health authorities on Sunday slightly revised down the number of people who have been injected with flu vaccines that may have been exposed to room temperature, after local governments provided confirmed data.
The Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA) had reported that 2,303 people received the potentially defective flu vaccines as of last Friday, but the number was revised down to 2,295.
The number "slightly declined because some local governments corrected the data," the KDCA said.
The number of people who have reported abnormal reactions, such as a fever and chills, stood at 12, unchanged from the previous day.
Last month, the KDCA temporarily halted its plan to offer free seasonal flu shots after some of about 5.78 million doses of flu vaccines were partially exposed to temperatures outside the storage range.
South Korea has planned to preemptively offer free flu shots to prevent people from potentially being infected with both the flu and the new coronavirus.
The KDCA has checked the 5.78 million doses of flu vaccines, and the quality inspection is expected to end early next week.
The KDCA said it will announce plans to offer free flu shots when the inspection is over.
Inactivated vaccines should be stored in a refrigerator, and exposure to room temperature could result in decreased vaccine potency and increased risk of vaccine-preventable diseases.
But the safety of those vaccines exposed to room temperature has yet to be determined.
(END)


yna--2020-10-04--S. Korea slightly revises down number of people injected with mishandled flu vaccines

SEOUL, Oct. 4 (Yonhap) -- South Korea's health authorities on Sunday slightly revised down the number of people who have been injected with flu vaccines that may have been exposed to room temperature, after local governments provided confirmed data.
The Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA) had reported that 2,303 people received the potentially defective flu vaccines as of last Friday, but the number was revised down to 2,295.
The number "slightly declined because some local governments corrected the data," the KDCA said.
The number of people who have reported abnormal reactions, such as a fever and chills, stood at 12, unchanged from the previous day.
Last month, the KDCA temporarily halted its plan to offer free seasonal flu shots after some of about 5.78 million doses of flu vaccines were partially exposed to temperatures outside the storage range.
Inactivated vaccines should be stored in a refrigerator, and exposure to room temperature could result in decreased vaccine potency and increased risk of vaccine-preventable diseases.
But the safety of those vaccines exposed to room temperature has yet to be determined.
(END)


yna--2020-10-04--(LEAD) S. Korea to impose face mask fine starting Nov. 13

The general public will be required to wear masks on public transportation and at demonstrations as well as medical and @ @ @ @ @ the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency ( KDCA ) .

(ATTN: ADDS details in paras 6-8)
SEOUL, Oct. 4 (Yonhap) -- South Korea will impose a fine on people who fail to wear face masks in public spaces and on transportation starting Nov. 13 to better combat the coronavirus pandemic, officials said Sunday.
The general public will be required to wear masks on public transportation and at demonstrations as well as medical and care facilities, according to the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA).
If people do not wear masks in such spaces, they will face a fine of up to 100,000 won (US$85.50), the KDCA said.
However, the obligation will be exempted for people aged under 14 and those who are unable to wear masks due to medical conditions, officials said.
The fine could also be applied to people who wear masks under their noses in such spaces, the KDCA said.
The nation will launch a 30-day grace period for mandatory masks in such spaces starting Oct. 13.
A scarf or certain types of masks that cannot protect others from the virus will not be allowed under the obligation, the KDCA said.
Local governments could adjust the grace period, depending on their situation over virus infections, the KDCA said.
South Korea's new coronavirus cases hovered below 100 for the fourth consecutive day Sunday, but the daily tally may bounce back, as millions of people traveled over the Chuseok fall harvest holiday.
The country added 64 more COVID-19 cases, including 47 local infections, raising the total caseload to 24,091, the KDCA said.
It marked a slight decrease from 75 cases reported Saturday and a rise from 63 identified Friday. After hitting 133 on Wednesday, daily infections have declined back to double-digit figures.
A medical worker carries out research on the new coronavirus at a test lab in Gwangju, 330 kilometers south of Seoul, on Oct. 4, 2020. (Yonhap)
(END)


yna--2020-10-04--S. Korea to impose face mask fine starting Nov. 13

SEOUL, Oct. 4 (Yonhap) -- South Korea will impose a fine on people who fail to wear face masks in public spaces and on transportation starting Nov. 13 to better combat the coronavirus pandemic, officials said Sunday.
The general public will be required to wear masks on public transportation and at demonstrations as well as medical and care facilities, according to the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA).
If people do not wear masks in such spaces, they will face a fine of up to 100,000 won (US$85.50), the KDCA said.
However, the obligation will be exempted for people aged under 14 and those who are unable to wear masks due to medical conditions, officials said.
The fine could also be applied to people who wear masks under their noses in such spaces, the KDCA said.
South Korea's new coronavirus cases hovered below 100 for the fourth consecutive day Sunday, but the daily tally may bounce back, as millions of people traveled over the Chuseok fall harvest holiday.
The country added 64 more COVID-19 cases, including 47 local infections, raising the total caseload to 24,091, the KDCA said.
It marked a slight decrease from 75 cases reported Saturday and a rise from 63 identified Friday. After hitting 133 on Wednesday, daily infections have declined back to double-digit figures.
A medical worker carries out research on the new coronavirus at a test lab in Gwangju, 330 kilometers south of Seoul, on Oct. 4, 2020. (Yonhap)
(END)


yna--2020-10-04--(LEAD) FM Kang's spouse makes personal trip to U.S. despite travel advisory

Lee is presumed to be planning to purchase a yacht and travel around on board in the U.S. , according @ @ @ @ @ professor emeritus has shared the plan on his personal blog since several months back .

(ATTN: UPDATES with reaction from Kang, political parties at bottom)
SEOUL, Oct. 4 (Yonhap) -- The spouse of South Korea's top diplomat has traveled to the United States, presumably for a yacht tour, despite a government travel advisory asking people to avoid making overseas trips due to COVID-19 concerns, a broadcaster has reported.
Public broadcaster KBS on Saturday reported that Lee Yill-byung, the husband of South Korean Foreign Minister Kang Kyung-wha and professor emeritus of computer science at Yonsei University, departed for America via Incheon International Airport for personal travel.
"I'm going on a free (self-guided) travel. Corona (COVID-19) isn't going to disappear in a day or two. I just can't remain at home all the time," Lee said on camera at the airport.
This file photo shows South Korean Foreign Minister Kang Kyung-wha (R) and her husband Lee Yill-byung, professor emeritus of computer science at Yonsei University, at Kang's appointment ceremony at the presidential office Cheong Wa Dae in Seoul on June 18, 2017. (Yonhap)
Lee is presumed to be planning to purchase a yacht and travel around on board in the U.S., according to the report. The professor emeritus has shared the plan on his personal blog since several months back.
The travel comes amid the South Korean government having put in place a special travel advisory since March 23, asking the public to either cancel or postpone all overseas trip schedules in order to curb the transmissions of the new coronavirus.
While the advisory does not legally restrict a private individual's overseas travel, Lee's trip has raised questions as to whether it is appropriate for direct family of a Cabinet member to travel overseas freely against the government recommendation.
Lee's trip also came just a little over two weeks after Kang's ministry extended the special travel advisory until Oct. 19. The advisory can be extended again.
The foreign ministry has remained silent on Lee's travel, citing it as a "personal matter."
Amid the controversy, Kang addressed the issue during a meeting with senior ministry officials.
"In light of the public abstaining from overseas travel and outside activities, I feel sorry for such an incident occurring," Kang reportedly said during a meeting with the ministry's senior managers.
Political parties from both sides of the aisle criticized the overseas trip by Kang's spouse.
"While small business owners and the self employed are suffering due to COVID-19, families of dignitaries are purchasing yachts and enjoying the YOLO (you only live once) life," said Rep. Kim Eun-hye, spokesperson for the main opposition People Power Party.
Rep. Lee Nak-yon, head of the ruling Democratic Party (DP), also blasted the excursion by Kang's husband, describing it as "inappropriate from the perspective of the public."
odissy@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-10-04--Gov't to ban Hangeul Day rallies amid virus fears: prime minister

Chung , however , stressed that now is not the time to relax , pointing out how patients can remain @ @ @ @ @ even when infected .
`` There is the possibility that new infections could grow fast @ @ @ @ @

SEOUL, Oct. 4 (Yonhap) -- The government will ban anti-government protests planned by conservative groups in central Seoul for later this week, the prime minister said Sunday.
"The government plans to ban protests to protect the lives and safety of the people," Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun said during a session of the Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasure Headquarters for COVID-19 held at the government complex in Seoul.
Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun speaks during a session of the Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasure Headquarters for COVID-19 held at the government complex in Seoul on Oct. 4, 2020. (Yonhap)
Chung's remarks came as several conservative groups earlier announced plans to hold rallies on Hangeul Day, which falls on Friday, at Gwanghwamun Square in central Seoul.
The government has taken a hard-line stance against mass public rallies after anti-government protests on Aug. 15 were partly blamed for a flare-up in new virus cases.
On Saturday, the government physically and legally blocked anti-government protests that were previously announced, prompting protestors to resort to limited "drive-thru" rallies in southern Seoul after winning conditional court approval.
"We ask those preparing for rallies to immediately suspend their attempts to carry out illegal protests," said Chung.
According to Chung, South Korea has seen a daily average of 62 new COVID-19 cases during the extended Chuseok fall harvest holiday since Wednesday, when millions of people normally travel across the country to meet their families and relatives.
This year, the government has mandated a special two-week period around Chuseok, during which people were advised to stay home to curb virus transmissions.
"The reason why the situation has gotten relatively better is because people have refrained from travel and abided by disease control guidelines," the prime minister said.
Chung, however, stressed that now is not the time to relax, pointing out how patients can remain without symptoms for 14 days even when infected. "There is the possibility that new infections could grow fast from silent transmissions."
Police check vehicles heading to Gwanghwamun Square in central Seoul on Oct. 3, 2020, in an effort to prevent abrupt and illegal rallies amid the virus outbreak. (Yonhap)
odissy@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-10-04--(3rd LD) New infection cases under 100 for 4th day; post-Chuseok virus fight in focus

`` Considering that fewer tests were carried out over the holiday , along with the increase in the number of @ @ @ @ @ able to deliver an accurate assessment of the current situation around the middle of this @ @ @ @ @ ministry said in a statement .

(ATTN: ADDS details throughout)
SEOUL, Oct. 4 (Yonhap) -- South Korea's new coronavirus cases hovered below 100 for the fourth consecutive day on Sunday, but the daily tally may bounce back as millions of people traveled over the Chuseok fall harvest holiday.
The country added 64 more COVID-19 cases, including 47 local infections, raising the total caseload to 24,091, according to the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA).
It marked a slight decrease from 75 cases reported on Saturday and a rise from 63 identified on Friday. After daily infections hit 133 on Wednesday, they have declined back to double-digit figures.
Sunday marks the end of the extended Chuseok autumn holiday that began on Wednesday. Millions of people traveled across the country to meet their family members and relatives over the Korean equivalent of Thanksgiving.
Travelers head to the departure hall of Jeju International Airport on the southern resort island of Jeju on Oct. 4, 2020. (Yonhap)
Health authorities designated Monday to Oct. 11 as a special two-week period for toughened virus curbs on concerns that new virus cases may resurge again due to the long holiday.
So far, only two people who visited the southeastern port city of Busan during the holiday have tested positive for the virus.
The country also has a three-day break from Oct. 9 to 11, when Hangeul Day, which celebrates the Korean alphabet, is combined with the weekend.
Despite the latest decrease in the number of new cases, the slowdown was in part attributable to fewer COVID-19 tests carried out during the holiday. More than 10,000 tests are normally carried out over weekdays, while they halved over the holiday.
Considering the incubation period of the virus, there could be a number of travelers who have not yet suffered symptoms of the virus as well.
"Considering that fewer tests were carried out over the holiday, along with the increase in the number of travelers, we will be able to deliver an accurate assessment of the current situation around the middle of this week," the health ministry said in a statement.
"People should remain vigilant until Oct. 11, when the toughened antivirus scheme ends," it added.
South Korea plans to come up with more details for its social distancing guidelines following the deadline after keeping tabs on new coronavirus cases this week.
Over the past two weeks, 18.4 percent of newly added patients had unknown infection routes. Around 26.6 percent were traced to cluster infections as well, according to the latest data.
The average number of daily new COVID-19 cases came to 66.5 over the past two weeks, down 54.4 from the two-week period earlier.
Of the newly identified local infections, 16 cases were reported in Seoul and 14 cases in Gyeonggi Province that surrounds the capital. Incheon, west of Seoul, reported five more cases.
Other municipalities reported new infections, with the country's largest port city of Busan adding five cases and the central city of Daejeon reporting two new cases.
Cases traced to an art high school in western Seoul reached seven as of Sunday at noon, up six from the previous day. Six of them were staff members, and the other was one of their family members.
A hospital in Bucheon, west of Seoul, reported seven more patients, raising the related caseload to 11.
Cases traced to a factory in the southeastern port city of Pohang came to six, up five from a day earlier.
The Gwanghwamun area in central Seoul is nearly empty on Oct. 4, 2020, the last day of the Chuseok holiday. (Yonhap)
On Saturday, local authorities sealed off the Gwanghwamun area in central Seoul to prevent illegal protests. The move came as an anti-government rally in central Seoul held in mid-August emerged as a hotbed for South Korea's virus pandemic, with more than 600 infections being traced to the gathering.
Conservative groups staged "drive-thru" anti-government rallies in southern Seoul after winning court approval to hold demonstrations only under certain conditions to prevent another coronavirus resurgence from mass gatherings.
The country's new virus cases had been in the triple digits for more than a month since Aug. 14, due mainly to cases tied to a church in northern Seoul and the anti-government rally. Daily infections soared to 441 on Aug. 27.
But new COVID-19 cases have slowed on the back of tightened social distancing rules. The country reported 38 new cases Tuesday, marking the first time that daily infections fell below 50 since Aug. 11.
Imported cases came to 17.
Of the imported cases, the Philippines and India accounted for three cases each. There were patients from Russia, Iran, Britain and the United States as well.
South Korea added one additional death, raising the death toll to 421.
The fatality rate reached 1.75 percent.
Seoul Station in central Seoul is filled with travelers on Oct. 4, 2020, the final day of the Chuseok holiday. (Yonhap)
So far, there have been no deaths among patients aged 29 and below. More than 20 percent of the victims were aged 80 and above.
The number of patients in serious or critical condition came to 105, up one from the previous day.
The total number of people released from quarantine after making full recoveries stood at 21,845, up 58 from the previous day. More than 90 percent of the patients reported here have been cured.
South Korea has carried out 2,346,345 COVID-19 tests since Jan. 3, including 6,486 from the previous day.
colin@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-10-04--S. Korea to maintain toughened virus curbs this week

SEOUL , Oct. 4 ( Yonhap ) -- South Korea plans to keep its toughened social distancing scheme in greater @ @ @ @ @ concerns that the country may experience yet another rebound in the number of virus cases @ @ @ @ @ health authorities said Sunday .

SEOUL, Oct. 4 (Yonhap) -- South Korea plans to keep its toughened social distancing scheme in greater Seoul this week amid rising concerns that the country may experience yet another rebound in the number of virus cases after the Chuseok holiday, health authorities said Sunday.
Sunday marked the end of the extended Chuseok autumn harvest holiday that began Wednesday. Millions of people traveled across the country to meet their family members and relatives over the Korean equivalent of Thanksgiving.
The country, however, also has a three-day break from Oct. 9 to 11, when Hangeul Day, which celebrates the Korean alphabet, is combined with the weekend.
This bird's eye view of Duryu Park in Daegu, 302 kilometers south of Seoul, shows families and groups of people enjoying picnics on Oct. 4, 2020, under government-mandated social distancing guidelines. (Yonhap)
To prevent the spread of the virus over the holidays, South Korea adopted the so-called special antivirus regime starting Sept. 28 and running through Oct. 11.
Under the measures, South Korea will continue to ban indoor gatherings of 50 or more people nationwide, along with operations of door-to-door sales businesses.
All sports games, including baseball and soccer, cannot have spectators.
High-risk facilities, such as karaoke rooms, bars and clubs, will remain shut in greater Seoul until this week. Those in other areas, however, will be allowed to open their doors starting Monday.
Local health authorities plan to keep tabs on new coronavirus cases this week before deciding whether to lift more regulations starting Oct. 12.
South Korea has not yet adopted a full lockdown, but it has been implementing different scales of social distancing policies in sync with the number of new COVID-19 cases.
South Korea temporarily adopted the so-called Level 2.5 social distancing scheme for greater Seoul in late August, which ran through Sept. 13.
The updated measures had banned restaurants from having dine-in customers after 9 p.m.
The country added 64 more COVID-19 cases Sunday, including 47 local infections, raising the total caseload to 24,091, according to the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA).
colin@yna.co.kr
(END)