yna--2020-02-19--(EDITORIAL from Korea Herald on Feb. 19)

The outcome of an opinion poll conducted last week sends an encouraging sign to the conservative bloc .
Forty-five percent @ @ @ @ @ need to keep the incumbent government in check , compared to 43 percent who supported @ @ @ @ @ , the view in favor of the Moon government prevailed over the stance against it @ @ @ @ @ percent .

Alternative force
:Merged conservative party should further reinvent self to retake power
With less than two months before the general election on April 15, the main opposition Liberty Korea Party and two minor parties launched a merged conservative party on Monday.
The formation of the tentatively named Party for United Future represents a partial success following months of efforts to build a big tent embracing conservative and centrist forces to defeat the ruling Democratic Party of Korea in the upcoming election.
Though joined by some right-leaning civic activists, the merged party may be seen as going little further beyond rebuilding the now-defunct Saenuri Party, which broke up in the wake of the Constitutional Court's decision to oust scandal-ridden President Park Geun-hye in 2017.
Hwang Kyo-ahn, chairman of the Liberty Korea Party, who served as prime minister in the Park administration, is at the helm of the merged party that will represent 113 seats in the 300-member National Assembly.
The new main opposition party is seeking to win the election by framing it as a judgment of what it denounces as the increasingly arbitrary and reckless way in which President Moon Jae-in and the ruling party have handled state affairs.
The outcome of an opinion poll conducted last week sends an encouraging sign to the conservative bloc. Forty-five percent of respondents agreed on the need to keep the incumbent government in check, compared to 43 percent who supported it. In previous polls, the view in favor of the Moon government prevailed over the stance against it by more or less 10 percent.
But the mere merger of conservative parties cannot be expected to draw voter support automatically.
The merged party should put forward concrete values, visions and alternatives to the Moon government's misguided policies.
It is also important to field as many fresh and competent figures as possible in the parliamentary election. So far, 19 seasoned lawmakers of the conservative bloc have declared they will not run in the election to give way to younger candidates. More senior legislators need to follow suit.
The merged party should continue to try to expand its boundaries to attract centrist forces into its fold.
Voter sentiment has turned increasingly negative to the Moon government as the economic slump is deepening and the North Korean nuclear issue remains far from being resolved. Moon and his aides cling to misguided policies despite mounting calls on them to change course.
Last year, the ruling party joined with three minor pro-government liberal and progressive parties to pass controversial bills, ignoring objections from the Liberty Korea Party and another conservative opposition party.
What has exacerbated public sentiment is Moon's silence to the outcome of a recent prosecutorial investigation that led to the indictment of 13 of presidential aides for being involved in illicit support for a ruling party candidate closely associated with him in the 2018 local election.
The division in the conservative bloc appears to have made the Moon government bolder in going its own way since it replaced the Park administration in 2017.
Conservative lawmakers, mostly complacent with their vested interests, were split between those who voted for Park's impeachment and others who voted against it.
Many voters have become disillusioned with the Moon government, but have remained reluctant to support the divisive conservative bloc.
Now the merged party is tasked with putting the brakes on the Moon government's insistence on going its own way.
During its launch ceremony, the party announced a five-point platform that it says is designed to put the country back on track to uphold the nation's constitutional values, which critics argue have been undermined since Moon took office.
The merged party needs to be more active in modifying itself to attract moderate undecided voters, who are expected to hold the key to the election outcome.
A centrist party being formed by Ahn Cheol-soo, a former presidential candidate, is poised to compete with it in occupying the middle ground.
Ahn has so far shown no interest in merging his envisioned party with the conservative bloc.
Still, the new merged party will have to continue efforts to join forces with Ahn and his supporters, if it wants to ensure an election outcome that could keep the ruling party at bay. If it is necessary to build a bigger tent, Hwang need not cling to the leadership post of the merged party.
(END)


yna--2020-02-19--Top headlines in major S. Korean newspapers

Korean-language dailies -- Helping hands blocked by new coronavirus outbreaks ( Kyunghyang Shinmun ) -- Drivers ' contracts unilaterally altered @ @ @ @ @ championing Tada shown ( Kookmin Daily ) -- Apartment issue tops list of civil complaints @ @ @ @ @ general election pledges ( Donga llbo ) -- 3 patients with sources of infection unknown @ @ @ @ @ phase ( Seoul Shinmun ) -- Gov't to announce 19th real estate policy measures as @ @ @ @ @ Times ) -- Dreadful 31st coronavirus patient struts outside for a week after high fever @ @ @ @ @ Most dangerous patient , first confirmed case in Daegu ( JoongAng Ilbo ) -- Gov't @ @ @ @ @ policy measures this week ( Hankyoreh ) -- President Moon notes 'emergency economic situation , @ @ @ @ @ up with all measures ( Hankook Ilbo ) -- Moon notes 'emergency economic situation , @ @ @ @ @ means ( Maeil Business Newspaper ) -- Moon notes 'emergency economic situation , ' calls @ @ @ @ @ Korea Economic Daily )

SEOUL, Feb. 19 (Yonhap) -- The following are the top headlines in major South Korean newspapers on Feb. 19.
Korean-language dailies
-- Helping hands blocked by new coronavirus outbreaks (Kyunghyang Shinmun)
-- Drivers' contracts unilaterally altered, true face of innovation championing Tada shown (Kookmin Daily)
-- Apartment issue tops list of civil complaints, may become focus of general election pledges (Donga llbo)
-- 3 patients with sources of infection unknown, coronavirus outbreak enters new phase (Seoul Shinmun)
-- Gov't to announce 19th real estate policy measures as early as tomorrow (Segye Times)
-- Dreadful 31st coronavirus patient struts outside for a week after high fever (Chosun Ilbo)
-- Most dangerous patient, first confirmed case in Daegu (JoongAng Ilbo)
-- Gov't to announce new real estate policy measures this week (Hankyoreh)
-- President Moon notes 'emergency economic situation,' instructs officials to come up with all measures (Hankook Ilbo)
-- Moon notes 'emergency economic situation,' calls for all available means (Maeil Business Newspaper)
-- Moon notes 'emergency economic situation,' calls for all available means (Korea Economic Daily)
English-language dailies
-- Third patient gets sick in mysterious way (Korea JoongAng Daily)
-- Moon calls for 'extraordinary measures' to shore up economy (Korea Herald)
-- Moon orders emergency economic policy (Korea Times)
(END)


yna--2020-02-19--(2nd LD) S. Korean presidential plane arrives back from Japan with 7 evacuees aboard

The evacuees , excluding the Japanese , were among 14 South Koreans who were aboard the Diamond Princess .
The @ @ @ @ @ the port in Yokohama since an outbreak of the COVID-19 aboard the ship early this @ @

(ATTN: CHANGES headline, lead, dateline; UPDATES throughout)
SEOUL, Feb. 19 (Yonhap) -- A South Korean presidential plane with six nationals and a Japanese spouse onboard arrived back from Japan on Wednesday, completing the mission to evacuate them from a coronavirus-hit cruise ship.
The Air Force VCN-235 arrived at Gimpo International Airport in western Seoul at 6:27 a.m. after departing from Tokyo's Haneda Airport at 2:23 a.m.
The evacuees, excluding the Japanese, were among 14 South Koreans who were aboard the Diamond Princess. The ship has been quarantined at the port in Yokohama since an outbreak of the COVID-19 aboard the ship early this month.
No South Koreans on the ship have contracted the disease.
Upon arrival, they are to go through health checks before being placed into isolation for 14 days, the virus' incubation period, at a facility in the quarantine office of Incheon International Airport, west of Seoul.
A South Korean presidential plane awaits takeoff at Tokyo's Haneda Airport on Feb. 19, 2020. The plane was sent to evacuate six South Koreans and a Japanese spouse from a coronavirus-hit cruise ship docked at Yokohama. (Yonhap)
According to Japanese news reports, 88 people on the vessel were diagnosed with the virus on Tuesday, bringing the total there to 542.
The eight South Koreans still aboard the ship are expected to disembark later this week if they test negative.
South Korea has reported 31 cases of the coronavirus, with no fatalities.
In late January and early this month, South Korea sent three planes to Wuhan, China -- the epicenter of the outbreak -- to evacuate some 800 South Koreans and their family members.
The evacuees have been quarantined at facilities in central South Korea.
The latest batch will be sent to a facility run by Incheon International Airport, the main gateway to South Korea.
(END)


yna--2020-02-19--(URGENT) Evacuation plane returns from Japan with 7 people from coronavirus-hit cruise ship

(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--2020-02-19--S. Korea seeks to soon unveil comprehensive economic measures against coronavirus

`` We 've announced measures for certain sectors like businesspeople , shipping , aviation and tourism , but I think @ @ @ @ @ come up with a package ( of measures ) , '' Kim said .
`` @ @ @ @ @ the first round of comprehensive measures as soon as possible . ''

WASHINGTON, Feb. 18 (Yonhap) -- South Korea seeks to soon unveil a package of comprehensive measures to contain the economic impact of the new coronavirus, a senior Seoul official said Tuesday.
Vice Foreign Minister Kim Yong-beom made the comment to reporters in Washington after expressing worries about the "shock" the COVID-19 virus outbreak is expected to deliver to the South Korean economy.
Vice Finance Minister Kim Yong-beom speaks to reporters at the headquarters of the World Bank in Washington on Feb. 18, 2020. (Yonhap)
"China is the second largest economy in the world, and we are closely tied to the Chinese economy, so I believe that a sizeable shock will be inevitable," he said on the margins of an event promoting Korean innovation and technologies, at the headquarters of the World Bank.
"We've announced measures for certain sectors like businesspeople, shipping, aviation and tourism, but I think we will have to soon come up with a package (of measures)," Kim said. "We are trying to produce the first round of comprehensive measures as soon as possible."
The vice minister was expanding on a policy report his ministry submitted to President Moon Jae-in on Monday. In that report, Finance Minister Hong Nam-ki said the measures will be introduced by the end of this month and include policy tools to support exports, consumption and investment.
Asked if the government is considering an extra budget to cope with the economic fallout, the vice minister refused to commit either way, saying that the country's financial reserves are "sufficient."
But he also noted that Moon on Tuesday spoke of an "emergency economic situation," which he said reflects the seriousness of the impact of the coronavirus.
"The president called for much more aggressive measures, but I think those will be difficult to prepare by the end of this month," he said, adding that such steps would be taken in line with the extent of damage.
hague@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-02-19--(2nd LD) Appeals court raises prison term for ex-President Lee Myung-bak, bail revoked

A lower court found that Lee was the de facto owner of DAS and that he used his presidential power @ @ @ @ @ himself , including accepting bribes from Samsung Electronics Co. in the form of retaining fees @ @ @

(ATTN: UPDATES with details in last two paras)
SEOUL, Feb. 19 (Yonhap) -- An appellate court on Wednesday delivered a heavier prison term of 17 years to former President Lee Myung-bak on bribery and embezzlement charges, bringing him back into custody after he was released on bail.
The prison term is higher than the 15 years of imprisonment that a lower court handed down in October 2018 to Lee who ruled the country from 2008-2013.
He was ordered to pay a fine of 13 billion won (US$10.9 million) and forfeit 5.78 billion won.
The conviction brought Lee back into custody after he was released on bail on health concerns in March 2019.
The 78-year-old Lee was charged with bribery and embezzlement in connection with his brother's auto parts company DAS, becoming the fourth ex-South Korean leader to be criminally convicted.
A lower court found that Lee was the de facto owner of DAS and that he used his presidential power to benefit the firm and himself, including accepting bribes from Samsung Electronics Co. in the form of retaining fees for DAS.
"The defendant ignored the duty and responsibility (that were imposed on the president) and made wrongdoings, such as accepting bribes from public servants or a private company," said the Seoul High Court, the appellate court.
In January, the prosecution demanded the appeals court hand down a 23-year prison term for Lee. Prosecutors condemned Lee for not repenting for his wrongdoings and blaming others to avoid responsibility.
The appellate court found that Lee embezzled 25.2 billion won from DAS and accepted bribes totaling 9.4 billion won, including 8.9 billion won from Samsung.
These amounts were higher than the embezzlement of 24.6 billion won and bribes worth 8.5 billion won that a lower court recognized.
Throughout his political career, Lee was dogged by suspicions over whether he is the real owner of DAS.
Lee has flatly denied the allegations, repeating his claim that he is not the owner of DAS.
Lee's attorney, Kang Hoon, said he cannot "accept the court's decision," adding they will appeal the ruling.
The prosecution said the case uncovered corrupt ties between politics and business circles and vowed to do its best to ensure "a conclusion that is in line with law and common sense."
Former President Lee Myung-bak heads to a Seoul court on Feb. 19, 2020, to attend a hearing, in which the appellate court delivered a heavier prison term of 17 years to him on bribery and embezzlement charges. (Yonhap)
sooyeon@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-02-19--(2nd LD) S. Korea fills vacant Wuhan consul general post to support citizens in virus epicenter

`` Together with our staffers at the consulate office , we will do our utmost , based on our experience @ @ @ @ @ citizens and overcome the difficulties at this crucial time , '' the new consul general @ @

(ATTN: UPDATES story with more info, Kang's comment in paras 5-6)
SEOUL, Feb. 19 (Yonhap) -- South Korea on Wednesday appointed a new consul general for the coronavirus-hit Chinese city of Wuhan to fill the post that had been left vacant for some three months, the foreign ministry said.
Kang Seung-seok, former chief of the Korean Consular Office in China's Dalian, took the position amid Seoul's stepped-up efforts to provide consular assistance to some 100 South Koreans in Wuhan, the epicenter of the deadly COVID-19 virus, and its vicinity.
His predecessor, Kim Young-geun, stepped down in November after he reportedly came under fire for improper remarks.
Kang will depart for Wuhan on Wednesday night aboard a cargo plane that South Korea plans to send to Wuhan to deliver relief items, including medical gloves.
"I've been given a heavy responsibility and am assuming the post in Wuhan today," he said during a video conference in Seoul that took place between Foreign Minister Kang Kyung-wha and heads of South Korean missions in China.
"Together with our staffers at the consulate office, we will do our utmost, based on our experience, to protect the remaining citizens and overcome the difficulties at this crucial time," the new consul general said.
Entering the foreign service in 1988, Kang has served in various China-based posts, including those in Qingdao, Hong Kong and Shenyang.
Kang Seung-seok, new consular general for the coronavirus-hit Chinese city of Wuhan (Yonhap)
sshluck@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-02-19--Diplomats of S. Korea, U.K. discuss bilateral ties, climate change

Kim briefed Moore on the upcoming summit of the Partnering for Green Growth and the Global Goals ( P4G ) @ @ @ @ @ advance solutions for delivering on the U.N .
Sustainable Development Goals and the Paris climate @ @ @ @ @ in South Korea in late June .
He asked London to send a high-level delegation @ @ @ @

SEOUL, Feb. 19 (Yonhap) -- Senior diplomats of South Korea and the United Kingdom held talks in Seoul on Wednesday on ways to boost bilateral ties and cooperation on climate change, the foreign ministry said.
Kim Gunn, deputy foreign minister for political affairs, met with Richard Moore, director general for political affairs at U.K.'s Foreign & Commonwealth Office, the ministry said in a release.
Kim briefed Moore on the upcoming summit of the Partnering for Green Growth and the Global Goals (P4G), a global conference to advance solutions for delivering on the U.N. Sustainable Development Goals and the Paris climate agreement, to be held in South Korea in late June. He asked London to send a high-level delegation to the forum.
Moore replied that his country will consider Seoul's request and added that Seoul's leadership would also be of importance for the U.N. Climate Change Conference (COP26) set to be held in Scotland in November.
The two sides agreed to promote active high-level exchanges this year, noting that the two countries have been key partners in various fields, including politics, economy and security.
They also shared assessments and agreed to continue cooperation on regional security issues, including denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula and the situation in the Middle East, the ministry said.
Kim Gunn (R), South Korea's deputy foreign minister for political affairs, speaks with Richard Moore, director general for political affairs at U.K.'s Foreign & Commonwealth Office, during their meeting in Seoul on Feb. 19, 2020, in this photo provided by the foreign ministry. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)
elly@yna.co.kr
(END)


Yonhap News Summary

SEOUL -- South Korea will send another batch of relief items to the new coronavirus-hit Chinese city of Wuhan later @ @ @ @ @ efforts to provide urgent assistance to help the neighboring country cope with the disease , @ @ @ @ @

The following is the second summary of major stories moved by Yonhap News Agency on Wednesday.
-----------------
(6th LD) Alarmed by cluster of 15 new virus cases, S. Korea struggles to contain further spread
SEOUL -- South Korea confirmed 20 more cases of the novel coronavirus Wednesday, bringing the total number of infections here to 51, with most new patients traced to church services, stoking concerns that the country may identify more virus patients despite tighter quarantine measures.
According to the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (KCDC), 18 of the new patients are in Daegu, 300 kilometers southeast of Seoul, and in the adjacent North Gyeongsang region.
-----------------
(4th LD) Coronavirus 'super spreader' at church services raises concerns of more cases coming
SEOUL -- The spread of the new coronavirus in South Korea may be accelerating, with the country's probable first "super spreader" having infected as many as 14 out of the 20 newly reported virus cases at church services.
The country's 31st COVID-19 patient, who resides in Daegu, 300 kilometers southeast of Seoul, is judged to have infected at least 15 others, according to the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (KCDC) on Wednesday.
-----------------
(LEAD) Appeals court raises prison term for ex-President Lee Myung-bak, bail revoked
SEOUL -- An appellate court on Wednesday delivered a heavier prison term of 17 years to former President Lee Myung-bak on bribery and embezzlement charges, bringing him back into custody after he was released on bail.
The prison term is higher than the 15 years of imprisonment that a lower court handed down in October 2018 to Lee who ruled the country from 2008-2013.
-----------------
S. Korea to conduct tests for novel coronavirus on everyone with symptoms
SEOUL -- South Korea plans to check those who show symptoms for the novel coronavirus as it grapples with new infections without links to existing spreading and overseas travel, health authorities here said Wednesday.
From Thursday, the measure will be effective to broaden screening for more people and make it easier to detect and isolate COVID-19 cases, the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said.
-----------------
(LEAD) Court rules ride-hailing service Tada is legitimate rental car service
SEOUL -- A Seoul court ruled in favor of the ride-hailing service Tada as a legitimate rental car service Wednesday, in a landmark decision that will likely support the mobility platform industry.
The Seoul Central District Court acquitted Lee Jae-woong, car-sharing app operator SoCar, and Park Jae-uk, head of SoCar's subsidiary Value Creators & Company (VCNC), of charges of violating the passenger transportation service act with the new service.
-----------------
(LEAD) S. Korea to send more relief items to virus-hit Wuhan
SEOUL -- South Korea will send another batch of relief items to the new coronavirus-hit Chinese city of Wuhan later Wednesday as part of its efforts to provide urgent assistance to help the neighboring country cope with the disease, the foreign ministry said.
An Asiana Airlines cargo flight carrying masks, protective clothing and other relief goods will depart from Incheon International Airport, west of Seoul, at 11:45 p.m., according to the ministry.
-----------------
Fitch Solutions cuts Korea's 2020 growth outlook to 2.2 pct on virus
SEOUL -- Fitch Solutions Inc. downgraded its outlook for South Korea's 2020 economic growth to 2.2 percent from 2.5 percent Wednesday, citing the fallout of the novel coronavirus outbreak.
The latest forecast by the consultancy arm of global credit appraiser Fitch Group is lower than the Bank of Korea's prediction of 2.3 percent expansion for this year.
-----------------
Hyundai Motor Group chief to quit director post for flagship unit
SEOUL -- Hyundai Motor Group Chairman Chung Mong-koo will no longer serve as executive director of flagship Hyundai Motor Co., the company said Wednesday, in a move that will strengthen his only son's position in leading the South Korean automotive group.
Hyundai Motor's board of directors has not reappointed the 81-year-old as an executive director for another three-year term, the group said.
(END)


yna--2020-02-19--Large-scale K-pop concert featuring BTS postponed over coronavirus outbreaks in Daegu

Broadcasting channel SBS , the organizer of the concert set for March 8 at Daegu Stadium , said on the @ @ @ @ @ ( we ) unfortunately decided to indefinitely postpone the concert for the prevention of the @ @ @ @ @ safety of the audience and artists . ''

SEOUL, Feb. 19 (Yonhap) -- A high-profile K-pop concert featuring BTS and other idol stars scheduled for early March in Daegu was postponed Wednesday following the confirmation of multiple cases of the novel coronavirus in the southeastern city.
Broadcasting channel SBS, the organizer of the concert set for March 8 at Daegu Stadium, said on the concert's website that "(we) unfortunately decided to indefinitely postpone the concert for the prevention of the coronavirus' spread and the safety of the audience and artists."
SBS said it will announce a rescheduled date for the show in the future.
The SBS Super Concert in Daegu had been a major focus of K-pop fans as its lineup involves unusually high-profile idol stars including BTS, Zico and NCT 127.
According to the part of the lineup released so far, the participating artists also include boy bands Pentagon, SF9 and The Boyz and girl band Cherry Bullet.
The first round of applications for the concert tickets was to begin on Tuesday, but the organizers held off the ticketing process after the city's first case of coronavirus was confirmed Tuesday morning.
The organizers then completely put off the concert Wednesday after a cluster of Daegu residents was reported to have been infected with the highly contagious virus.
On Wednesday, South Korea confirmed 20 additional coronavirus cases, an unusually high number reported in a single day, and more than 10 cases were from Daegu, 300 kilometers southeast of Seoul.
Daegu Stadium accommodates up to 66,000 spectators, and the concert, if held as initially scheduled, could have attracted a massive number of fans from in and outside of South Korea.
A related online public petition was uploaded on the website of the presidential office Cheong Wa Dae on Wednesday, calling for the show's cancellation.
"At least 8,000 fans will enter the country from China, Thailand, Taiwan, Hong Kong and other countries (for the concert) ... It will become impossible to track down and fumigate (infection sources)," the citizen who submitted the petition said.
This promotional poster for SBS Super Concert was provided by SBS. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)
pbr@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-02-19--(4th LD) Coronavirus 'super spreader' at church services raises concerns of more cases coming

Jung also said the incident was one of `` super spread '' but that further epidemiological investigation should be conducted @ @ @ @ @ source of infection and what its route was .

(ATTN: UPDATES numbers in paras 2, 3, 11, 13)
SEOUL, Feb. 19 (Yonhap) -- The spread of the new coronavirus in South Korea may be accelerating, with the country's probable first "super spreader" having infected as many as 14 out of the 20 newly reported virus cases at church services.
The country's 31st COVID-19 patient, who resides in Daegu, 300 kilometers southeast of Seoul, is judged to have infected at least 15 others, according to the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (KCDC) on Wednesday.
A worker disinfects a church in Daegu, 300 kilometers southeast of Seoul, on Feb. 19, 2020. The country's 31st patient attends the church, with 10 patients judged to be infected at the site. (Yonhap)
A preliminary epidemiological investigation shows that the potential super spreader attended the same church service as 14 of the newly confirmed patients and had person-to-person contact with one person at a Daegu hospital.
"We believe that there were many contacts at the church and we are planning to conduct kit tests for the entire church," Jung Eun-kyeong, chief of the KCDC, said in a regular briefing.
Jung also said the incident was one of "super spread" but that further epidemiological investigation should be conducted to determine who was the source of infection and what its route was.
The patient was hospitalized at a Daegu hospital from Feb. 7-17. The KCDC said that the patient has had contact with 166 people, who have now placed themselves into self-quarantine.
What constitutes a super spreader is not clearly defined, but people can be labeled such if they transmit the disease to more than 10 others.
There have been several reports of "super spreaders" globally, including in Singapore and Britain, who are allegedly responsible for disproportionately infecting a large number of people with COVID-19.
The public health authorities said earlier it is still unclear how the 31st patient contracted the virus as she had not made contact with other confirmed patients or been abroad recently.
The KCDC, meanwhile, said the 31st patient had refused to take the COVID-19 kit tests upon her visit to the hospital on Feb. 8 despite doctors' recommendation.
They are trying to find out how three other patients who reside near the city were infected, after those who had made contact with them unwittingly contracted the illness.
The health authorities said they are not considering a lockdown on the city as the situation is very manageable.
South Korea reported 20 new virus cases Wednesday, bringing the total number of infections here to 51. The country has released 16 virus patients from quarantine so far after they made full recoveries, the KCDC said.
khj@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-02-19--(LEAD) Hyundai Motor Group chief to quit director post for flagship unit

The maker of the Sonata sedan and the Santa Fe sport-utility vehicle said it has also changed the purpose of @ @ @ @ @ association into a car manufacturing and future mobility service provider from the previous car manufacturer @

(ATTN: ADDS details in paras 5, 8-10)
SEOUL, Feb. 19 (Yonhap) -- Hyundai Motor Group Chairman Chung Mong-koo will no longer serve as executive director of flagship Hyundai Motor Co., the company said Wednesday, in a move that will strengthen his only son's position in leading the South Korean automotive group.
Hyundai Motor's board of directors has not reappointed the 81-year-old chairman as an executive director for another three-year term, the group said.
Chung's term as executive director at Hyundai Motor ends on March 16, the auto parts affiliate of the group, a company spokesman said.
This file photo, provided by Hyundai Motor Group, shows the group Chairman Chung Mong-koo. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE)(Yonhap)
"But the chairman will continue to serve as chairman of Hyundai Motor Group," he said. Chairman Chung currently serves as executive director at Hyundai Mobis Co.
At a shareholders' meeting scheduled for March 19, the group's heir apparent Euisun, 49, is widely expected to get shareholders' approval to replace his father as representative director at Hyundai Motor.
In recent years, Hyundai Motor Group Executive Vice Chairman Chung Euisun has led the carmaker's drive to transform itself into a "smart mobility solutions provider."
The maker of the Sonata sedan and the Santa Fe sport-utility vehicle said it has also changed the purpose of its business in articles of association into a car manufacturing and future mobility service provider from the previous car manufacturer.
The change in the company's articles of association is also subject to approval at the shareholders' meeting.
Hyundai Motor's net profit nearly doubled to 3.26 trillion won in 2019 from 1.65 trillion won a year earlier helped by an improved product mix and a weak won.
In 2020, the company aims to sell a total of 4.58 million vehicles in global markets. The target is 3.5 percent higher than the 4.42 million units it sold last year.
kyongae.choi@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-02-19--(6th LD) Alarmed by cluster of 20 new virus cases, S. Korea struggles to contain further spread

The number of people being checked for the virus and under quarantine came to 1,149 as of late Wednesday , @ @ @ @ @ the day , the KCDC said .
South Korea has screened 11,173 people for COVID-19 @ @ @ @ @ 9,973 testing negative and 16 people having been discharged from quarantine after making full recoveries @

(ATTN: CHANGES lead; UPDATES with more details in paras 2-5, 14)
SEOUL, Feb. 19 (Yonhap) -- South Korea confirmed 20 more cases of the novel coronavirus Wednesday, bringing the total number of infections here to 51, with most new patients traced to church services, stoking concerns that the country may identify more virus patients despite tighter quarantine measures.
According to the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (KCDC), 18 of the new patients are in Daegu, 300 kilometers southeast of Seoul, and in the adjacent North Gyeongsang region.
The country's 31st patient, probably a coronavirus "super spreader," is believed to have infected at least 15 others and came in contact with 166 people. The 61-year-old woman, a Daegu resident, started to complain of a fever on Feb. 10 and was confirmed to be infected Tuesday.
A preliminary epidemiological investigation shows that the potential super spreader attended several of the same church services as the other newly confirmed patients and had direct contact with one person at a Daegu hospital.
The health authorities said they plan to conduct COVID-19 tests on those who attended services along with the patient as a precautionary measure.
The patient also visited Seoul late last month and went about her everyday life, using public transportation among other things, adding to concerns that she might have infected others.
What constitutes a super spreader is not clearly defined, but people can be labeled as such if they transmit the disease to more than 10 others.
Workers at Hanyang University Hospital in Seoul post a notice saying the emergency center is temporarily closed on Feb. 19, 2020, to prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus. (Yonhap)
Health authorities said there is a growing risk of COVID-19 spreading in the community, and they respond to the latest cases without links to existing spreading in South Korea, China or other countries, and contain further spread.
The spike in infections is a grave development, but it is still too early to say that the situation is turning into a full-blown outbreak, authorities said, vowing to go all-out to prevent further spreading.
They said that more stringent measures, including the raising of the infectious disease alert status from the current "orange" to the highest level "red" will be decided after the latest cases are investigated. A red alert means that widespread infection is taking place in society.
The health authorities said that two other cases are reported in Seoul. The 11-year-old daughter of the country's 20th patient, who was confirmed to be infected on Feb. 5, also tested positive for the illness, becoming the country's youngest patient to be infected with COVID-19.
A 77-year-old man has also been diagnosed with the virus, according to the KCDC. He has not traveled abroad.
All newly infected people have been placed in quarantine and are undergoing treatment.
So far, at least four people, including the 77-year-old man, have tested positive for the virus without links to known clusters of COVID-19.
A Daegu city worker disinfects a church in Daegu, 300 kilometers southeast of Seoul, on Feb. 19, 2020. The country's 31st patient attends the church, with authorities believing 10 people were infected at the site. (Yonhap)
The number of people being checked for the virus and under quarantine came to 1,149 as of late Wednesday, up from 1,030 earlier in the day, the KCDC said. South Korea has screened 11,173 people for COVID-19 since Jan. 3, with 9,973 testing negative and 16 people having been discharged from quarantine after making full recoveries.
The KCDC said Tuesday that the country is entering a "new phase" with some confirmed cases not linked to existing spreads, which means that those patients are judged to have contracted the COVID-19 virus without traveling abroad or coming into contact with other infected patients.
The public health agency admitted that it is not clear how some recent patients contracted the virus.
KCDC director Jung Eun-kyeong said in a press conference on Tuesday that the country needs to tighten quarantine controls over arrivals from abroad and self-quarantine rules, while coming up with countermeasures to prevent community spread, she said.
Health and Welfare Minister Park Neung-hoo told the National Assembly earlier that health authorities have been preparing for the possibility of community spread.
"The seeming lull in new confirmed cases last week can be seen as a transition period leading to a 'second peak' stage," the minister said.
The health authorities said that the number of virus-screening stations across the country stands at 464, with efforts under way to make 5,000 coronavirus tests available per day, enabling infected people to be better identified so they cannot spread the virus to others.
yonngong@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-02-19--(2nd LD) Court rules ride-hailing service Tada is legitimate rental car service

`` The ruling excluded a judgment on how illegal operations by Tada have prompted the passenger transportation industry to collapse @ @ @ @ @ exoneration of Tada , which uses lots of capital and a large law firm , @ @ @ @ @ service providers said in a joint statement .

(ATTN: UPDATES with reaction from taxi industry in paras 18-20; ADDS more details in paras 21-24)
SEOUL, Feb. 19 (Yonhap) -- A Seoul court ruled in favor of the ride-hailing service Tada as a legitimate rental car service Wednesday, in a landmark decision that will likely support the mobility platform industry.
The Seoul Central District Court acquitted Lee Jae-woong, head of car-sharing app operator SoCar, and Park Jae-uk, head of SoCar's subsidiary Value Creators & Company (VCNC), of charges of violating the passenger transport service act with the new service.
The two were indicted in October 2019 without physical detention for allegedly running a transportation business without a license.
"The Tada service is provided in a contract that offers users a tailored rental service in time of need via minute-based reservation. It is a rental car service based on mobile application," the court said.
The prosecution earlier requested a one-year jail term for each of them and a 20 million-won (US$16,785) fine against VCNC.
VCNC operates Tada with vans rented from SoCar. Tada's app boasts over 1.7 million users.
"Tada is not guilty. Innovation is the future. I deeply appreciate the court's wise decision," Lee wrote on his Facebook account after the ruling.
The ruling will likely lend support to the mobility platform industry, for which the government seeks to ease excessive regulations as part of its efforts to nurture the innovative growth.
Lee Jae-woong (L), the chief of car-sharing app operator SoCar, and Park Jae-uk, who leads SoCar's subsidiary Value Creators & Company, answer questions from reporters on Feb. 19, 2020, after a Seoul court acquitted them over illegality of the app-based business. (Yonhap)
Tada -- which means "to ride" in Korean -- was launched in October 2018 and has rapidly grown to become South Korea's leading ride-offering service. It operates mostly in the Seoul metropolitan area, offering services for 11-seat vans instead of sedans.
The centerpiece of the controversy lies in whether Tada should be considered a type of rental car service or an illegal taxi service operating without a license.
Taxi drivers claim that Tada threatens their livelihood and violates the transportation law that forbids rented vehicles from offering rides in exchange for money.
Tada has argued that its business is within legal boundaries based on a written exception that specifically allows rented vans -- or vans with 11 to 15 seats -- to be offered with drivers.
Local transport laws allow rental cars with a capacity of 11-15 seats to be legally leased with a driver.
The local taxi industry argues this is an arbitrary application of the rule, irrelevant to its original purpose of promoting tourism.
In court sessions, Lee criticized the prosecution for turning a blind eye to the changing mobility industry and the government's move to ease regulations that apply to new technologies.
SoCar, meanwhile, welcomed the court's ruling, saying it will allow the mobility platform provider to continue its services to a sustainable future within the boundaries of laws and regulations.
"We will further focus on improving the convenience of the underprivileged in terms of transportation, making working environments better for Tada drivers, and seek win-win synergies between Tada and taxi services," SoCar said in a statement.
But the taxi industry vehemently protested the ruling, pledging to continue to fight against the Tada service.
"The ruling excluded a judgment on how illegal operations by Tada have prompted the passenger transportation industry to collapse. The decision amounts an exoneration of Tada, which uses lots of capital and a large law firm," four associations of taxi service providers said in a joint statement.
Tensions between the shared mobility industry and the taxi sector have not shown signs of abating despite the government's efforts to mediate between them. Several taxi drivers have set themselves on fire in protest at Tada.
The ruling may affect the National Assembly's review of a bill to revise the passenger transport service act, commonly seen as a means of outlawing Tada.
The bill, submitted by a ruling party lawmaker, calls for restricting the outsourcing of drivers of rental vans with 11-15 seats to tour purposes only.
Vehicles should be rented for at least six hours and users would be required to possess boarding passes if vehicles are rented or returned at airports or seaports, according to the bill's stipulations.
If the bill is passed at parliament and signed into law, it could drive Tada out its current business. But ahead of the April 15 general elections, it is not certain how the National Assembly will deal with the measure.
sooyeon@yna.co.kr
kyongae.choi@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-02-19--(URGENT) S. Korea reports 5 more cases of novel coronavirus, total now at 51.


yna--2020-02-19--S. Korea to conduct tests for novel coronavirus on everyone with symptoms

SEOUL , Feb. 19 ( Yonhap ) -- South Korea plans to check those who show symptoms for the novel @ @ @ @ @ new infections without links to existing spreading and overseas travel , health authorities here said @ @

SEOUL, Feb. 19 (Yonhap) -- South Korea plans to check those who show symptoms for the novel coronavirus as it grapples with new infections without links to existing spreading and overseas travel, health authorities here said Wednesday.
From Thursday, the measure will be effective to broaden screening for more people and make it easier to detect and isolate COVID-19 cases, the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said.
Under the latest revision, front-line doctors will be allowed to actively conduct coronavirus tests if they think a person may have contracted the sickness.
South Korea has a capacity to conduct 5,000 coronavirus tests a day, but the figure will be increased to 10,000 by the end of the month.
In addition, the country plans to check those who suffer from pneumonia due to unknown causes.
A Seongdong Ward quarantine worker disinfects the street outside a community health service center that was used by a person who tested positive for the coronavirus on Feb. 19, 2020. (Yonhap)
(END)


yna--2020-02-19--(LEAD) Seoul stocks close nearly flat on heightened coronavirus concerns

`` The index had a good start following the news that U.S. President Donald Trump had rebuked his administration 's @ @ @ @ @ restrictions on China , '' said Ha In-hwan , an analyst at Meritz Securities .
@ @ @ @ @ apparently affected by the news that multiple coronavirus patients were confirmed in the country .
@

(ATTN: ADDS photo, bond yields at bottom)
SEOUL, Feb. 19 (Yonhap) -- South Korean stocks closed nearly flat Wednesday as investors remained wary over the spread of the novel coronavirus in the country. The Korean won rose slightly against the U.S. dollar.
The benchmark Korea Composite Stock Price Index (KOSPI) rose 1.46 points, or 0.07 percent, to close at 2,210.34. Trading volume was moderate at 581 million shares worth 6.9 trillion won (US$5.8 billion), with losers outnumbering gainers 537 to 305.
The index had a solid start, reaching as high as 2,226.00, but quickly fell below the flat line after local health authorities reported 15 additional novel coronavirus infections, the biggest daily jump in confirmed cases here, raising the total to 46.
After touching an intraday day low of 2,192.20 points, the index bounced back, but couldn't gain further momentum.
This file photo taken on Feb. 18, 2020, shows currency dealers at a dealing room at Hana Bank in Seoul. (Yonhap)
"The index had a good start following the news that U.S. President Donald Trump had rebuked his administration's plan to impose additional trade restrictions on China," said Ha In-hwan, an analyst at Meritz Securities. "But the market was apparently affected by the news that multiple coronavirus patients were confirmed in the country."
Foreigners dumped a net 220 billion worth of local shares, while institutional investors sold a net 19 billion won. Retail investors bought a net 167 billion won.
Large caps were mixed, although tech shares closed up.
Market kingpin Samsung Electronics rose 0.67 percent to 60,200 won, while No. 2 chipmaker SK hynix advanced 1.47 percent to 103,500 won.
Leading carmaker Hyundai Motor slid 0.75 percent to 131,500 won, and its sister company Kia Motors fell 0.12 percent to 41,300 won.
The country's No. 1 chemical firm, LG Chem, plunged 3.35 percent to 404,000 won, and pharmaceutical giant Celltrion slipped 1.63 percent to 181,500 won.
The local currency closed at 1,189.3 won against the dollar, up 0.2 won from the previous session's close.
Bond prices, which move inversely to yields, closed mixed. The yield on three-year Treasurys rose 1.3 basis points to 1.284 percent, and the return on the benchmark five-year government bond dropped 0.1 basis point to 1.380 percent.
(END)


yna--2020-02-19--Hyundai Motor Group chief to quit director post for flagship unit

The maker of the Sonata sedan and the Santa Fe sport-utility vehicle also changed the purpose of its business in @ @ @ @ @ car manufacturing and future mobility service provider from the previous car manufacturer , the filing @ @

SEOUL, Feb. 19 (Yonhap) -- Hyundai Motor Group Chairman Chung Mong-koo will no longer serve as executive director of flagship Hyundai Motor Co., the company said Wednesday, in a move that will strengthen his only son's position in leading the South Korean automotive group.
Hyundai Motor's board of directors has not reappointed the 81-year-old as an executive director for another three-year term, the group said.
Chung's term as executive director at Hyundai Motor ends on March 16. He currently serves as executive director at Hyundai Mobis Co., the auto parts affiliate of the group, a company spokesman said.
"But the chairman will continue to serve as chairman of Hyundai Motor Group," he said.
In recent years, Hyundai Motor Group Executive Vice Chairman Chung Euisun has led the carmaker's drive to transform itself into a "smart mobility solutions provider."
The maker of the Sonata sedan and the Santa Fe sport-utility vehicle also changed the purpose of its business in articles of association into a car manufacturing and future mobility service provider from the previous car manufacturer, the filing said.
This file photo, provided by Hyundai Motor Group, shows the group Chairman Chung Mong-koo. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE)(Yonhap)
kyongae.choi@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-02-19--S. Korean Bond Yields on Feb. 19, 2020

S. Korean Bond Yields on Feb. 19, 2020


yna--2020-02-19--Cheong Wa Dae accepts conglomerates' call for policy steps against virus

At the request of Hyundai , for instance , the government has decided to ease the tariff burden on imports @ @ @ @ @ on air freight will be on par with those on ocean cargo , which would @ @ @ @ @ according to Yoon .

SEOUL, Feb. 19 (Yonhap) -- Cheong Wa Dae announced a set of policy measures Wednesday to help South Korea's major conglomerates cope with the unrelenting spread of the coronavirus, accepting "all" demands made by their chiefs during a meeting with President Moon Jae-in less than a week earlier.
"(We) are fully accepting all suggestions from the business circle related to the COVID-19 (response)," Yoon Jae-kwan, deputy spokesman for the presidential office, said at a press briefing.
He was referring to policy recommendations delivered during Moon's roundtable session with the leaders of six major South Korean conglomerates last Thursday -- Samsung Electronics Vice Chairman Lee Jae-yong, SK Group Chairman Chey Tae-won, LG Group Chairman Koo Gwang-mo, CJ Group Chairman Lee Jae-hyun, Hyundai Motor Vice Chairman Yoon Yeo-chul and Lotte Group Vice Chairman Hwang Kag-gyu.
The government intended to respond quickly to corporate calls to deal with the emergency situation, Yoon said.
"(We) hope that firms have trust in the government and carry out their investments as planned before the COVID-19 outbreak," he said.
This file photo shows President Moon Jae-in (front, 3rd from L) holding a meeting with leaders of South Korea's conglomerates at the headquarters of the Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Seoul on Feb. 13, 2020.
At the request of Hyundai, for instance, the government has decided to ease the tariff burden on imports of core materials. Tariffs on air freight will be on par with those on ocean cargo, which would drastically reduce such costs, according to Yoon.
The transport ministry plans to approve the expansion of cargo flights from China in response to a formal request from SK for emergency supplies of memory chip parts.
On CJ's call for additional support for the content-production field, the government is scheduled to reveal specific measures for the game industry in March, the music business in June and the animation sector in September.
Moon will also deliver an official message of encouragement for South Korean company workers and their families staying in China no later than the end of March, per a Samsung proposal.
The government will redouble efforts to nudge the National Assembly to pass a bill on the resilient application of the 52-hour workweek system in order to ease the burden on management, Yoon said.
Cheong Wa Dae's move apparently reflects its determination to minimize the economic effects of the pandemic in close cooperation with businesses here.
lcd@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-02-19--Heat wave days increasing on Korean Peninsula: report

For instance , the number of heat wave days -- days on which the daily high temperature is above 33 @ @ @ @ @ annual average of 15 in the 2010s from an annual average of 10 between 2000 @ @ @ @ @ said .

SEOUL, Feb. 19 (Yonhap) -- Global climate change has increased the frequency of abnormal weather conditions, such as heat waves, tropical nights and typhoons, and lengthened the duration of cold waves and droughts on the Korean Peninsula over the past decade, a government report said Wednesday.
According to the report published jointly by the Korea Meteorological Administration and 23 other government agencies, South Korea's annual average temperatures and the number of days of heat wave steadily rose in the 2010s.
For instance, the number of heat wave days -- days on which the daily high temperature is above 33 C -- increased to an annual average of 15 in the 2010s from an annual average of 10 between 2000 and 2009, the report said.
In the period from 2010 to 2019, unusual weather phenomena, including heat waves, tropical nights and typhoons, persistently hit the peninsula, with heat waves occurring every year, it noted.
This file photo taken in August 2019 shows a Seoul citizen walking in a public park in southern Seoul. (Yonhap)
In addition, the nation was frequently gripped by long and severe cold waves in the early 2010s, as global warming weakened the jet stream and cold air from the Arctic descended towards the peninsula. The late 2010s also saw long spells of drought.
The report also noted last year's annual average temperature was 13.5 C -- higher than the 30-year average of 12.5 C and the second highest figure since relevant record keeping began in 1973.
The number of heat wave days was 13.3 in 2019, compared with 31.4 in 2018, while the number of tropical nights fell from 17.7 to 10.5. A tropical night is defined by the nighttime low staying above 25 C.
Notably, the Korean Peninsula was hit by a record-tying seven typhoons last year.
Typhoons Lingling and Mitag claimed 28 lives and caused 201.1 billion won (US$170 million) in property damage. Mitag dumped 104.5 millimeters of rain per hour in Uljin in southeastern South Korea, the highest hourly rainfall since meteorological observations began here.
ycm@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-02-19--Army of new idol bands ready to take over K-pop boom

Last year also saw the birth of two high-profile rookie bands , Tomorrow X Together , a five-piece boy band @ @ @ @ @ formed by Big Hit Entertainment , the music label of BTS , as well as @ @ @ @ @ band by entertainment giant JYP Entertainment .

By Park Boram
SEOUL, Feb. 19 (Yonhap) -- K-pop made a big stride taking over the global music scene last year with the historic dominance of boy bands BTS and SuperM on the Billboard 200 album charts.
Last year also saw the birth of two high-profile rookie bands, Tomorrow X Together, a five-piece boy band also known as TXT and formed by Big Hit Entertainment, the music label of BTS, as well as ITZY, a five-member girl band by entertainment giant JYP Entertainment.
This year, several small and medium-sized music labels seek to take advantage of the boom, launching new girl and boy bands.
Seven-piece girl band Cignature is the first of the army of new idol bands making a debut this year.
Cignature dropped its debut single, "Nun Nu Nan Na," on Feb. 4, braving the long lineup of established girl bands making a comeback to the K-pop scene in the same month, including IZ*ONE and Loona.
Cignature is the first girl band formed by J9 Entertainment, a new music label dedicated to female idol bands under C9 Entertainment, the home to singer-songwriter Younha.
The band chose the disco genre for the debut single, which is laced with rollicking and addictive refrains.
Cignature showcases its debut single "Nun Nu Nan Na" on Feb. 4, 2020. (Yonhap)
A day earlier, nine-member hip-hop boy band DKB, pronounced "darkbe," released its debut album "Youth," officially launching its K-pop career.
The band is Brave Entertainment's first boy band in seven years.
The company's chief producer, known as Brave Brothers, took the lead in producing the debut album's lead track, "Sorry Mama," having produced music for such high-profile K-pop stars as BIGBANG and Brown Eyed Girls.
The debut song's acrobatics-peppered choreography is the creation of the band members, and three of the members also worked as producers for the album.
"Sorry Mama" is of the popular EDM trap hip-hop music genre, and the members pinpointed global K-pop stars BTS as their role models during their media showcase on Feb. 3.
DKB showcases its debut album "Youth" on Feb. 3, 2020. (Yonhap)
FNC Entertainment, the music label of Korean idol rock bands F.T. Island and CNBLUE as well as girl band AOA, is also on its way to debut its first boy band in four years.
"FNC is set to launch a new boy band this summer ... (we) plan to carry out a large-scale global project to demonstrate the new boy band's talent and identity," FNC said in a statement Wednesday, without disclosing details about the band.
Starship Entertainment, the home to popular boy band Monsta X, is scheduled to unveil a new nine-piece boy band in the first half of this year, the company's first new boy band in six years.
The band's lineup will include Kang Min-hee and Song Hyeong-jun, former members of boy band X1, which disbanded earlier this year amid a vote-rigging scandal facing a cable TV idol audition program after X1 debuted through the show.
Later in the year, giant music labels including SM Entertainment and Big Hit will join the market for new idol bands, further heating up the K-pop scene.
SM, which boasts arguably the most star-studded lineup of contract artists including Red Velvet and SuperM, is rumored to be on its way to launch a new girl band this year.
Following the successful launch of Red Velvet in 2014, SM has not unveiled any girl bands over the past seven years.
Details about the upcoming girl band remain shrouded in secrecy, but once launched, the band, buttressed by SM's longtime K-pop expertise and dominance, is likely to make a splash on the music scene.
Big Hit and CJ ENM, the operator of K-pop-oriented channel Mnet, are also scheduled to introduce a new idol boy band within this year through their joint venture Belift Lab.
Having produced music for BTS and TXT, Big Hit co-CEO Bang Si-hyuk will take the helm of music production for the envisioned boy band.
Coupled with CJ ENM's K-pop specialty gleaned from its run of several K-pop idol audition shows, the joint venture is likely to rock the K-pop scene once again.
pbr@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-02-19--(LEAD) Appeals court raises prison term for ex-President Lee Myung-bak, bail revoked

(ATTN: REWRITES headline, lead; UPDATES with details throughout; CHANGES photo)
SEOUL, Feb. 19 (Yonhap) -- An appellate court on Wednesday delivered a heavier prison term of 17 years to former President Lee Myung-bak on bribery and embezzlement charges, bringing him back into custody after he was released on bail.
The prison term is higher than the 15 years of imprisonment that a lower court handed down in October 2018 to Lee who ruled the country from 2008-2013.
He was ordered to pay a fine of 13 billion won (US$10.9 million) and forfeit 5.78 billion won.
The conviction brought Lee back into custody after he was released on bail on health concerns in March 2019.
The 78-year-old Lee was charged with bribery and embezzlement in connection with his brother's auto parts company DAS, becoming the fourth ex-South Korean leader to be criminally convicted.
A lower court found that Lee was the de facto owner of DAS and that he used his presidential power to benefit the firm and himself, including accepting bribes from Samsung Electronics Co. in the form of retaining fees for DAS.
"The defendant ignored the duty and responsibility (that were imposed on the president) and made wrongdoings, such as accepting bribes from public servants or a private company," said the Seoul High Court, the appellate court.
In January, the prosecution demanded the appeals court hand down a 23-year prison term for Lee. Prosecutors condemned Lee for not repenting for his wrongdoings and blaming others to avoid responsibility.
The appellate court found that Lee embezzled 25.2 billion won from DAS and accepted bribes totaling 9.4 billion won, including 8.9 billion won from Samsung.
These amounts were higher than the embezzlement of 24.6 billion won and bribes worth 8.5 billion won that a lower court recognized.
Throughout his political career, Lee was dogged by suspicions over whether he is the real owner of DAS.
Lee has flatly denied the allegations, repeating his claim that he is not the owner of DAS.
Former President Lee Myung-bak heads to a Seoul court on Feb. 19, 2020, to attend a hearing, in which the appellate court delivered a heavier prison term of 17 years to him on bribery and embezzlement charges. (Yonhap)
sooyeon@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-02-19--Celltrion 2019 net profit up 17.5 pct. to 298 bln won

The company said in a regulatory filing that it posted 378.1 billion won in operating profit for the year , @ @ @ @ @ the previous year .
Annual sales rose 14.9 percent to 1.12 trillion won .

SEOUL, Feb. 19 (Yonhap) -- Celltrion Inc. on Wednesday reported its 2019 net income of 298 billion won (US$ 250.5 million), up 17.5 percent from a year earlier.
The company said in a regulatory filing that it posted 378.1 billion won in operating profit for the year, compared with 338.7 billion from the previous year. Annual sales rose 14.9 percent to 1.12 trillion won.
※ This article was generated by Yonhap's proprietary algorithm using data from Yonhap Infomax and Korea Exchange(KRX).
(END)


yna--2020-02-19--Celltrion Q4 net profit up 154.6 pct. to 95.1 bln won

The operating profit was 17.8 percent lower than the average estimate , according to the survey by Yonhap Infomax , @ @ @ @ @ Yonhap News Agency .
The estimate of net profit was not available .

SEOUL, Feb. 19 (Yonhap) -- Celltrion Inc. on Wednesday reported its fourth-quarter net income of 95.1 billion won (US$ 79.9 million), up 154.6 percent from a year earlier.
Operating income for the October-December period was 114.2 billion won, up 159.5 percent from a year ago, the company said in a regulatory filing. Revenue rose 57.8 percent to 382.7 billion won.
The operating profit was 17.8 percent lower than the average estimate, according to the survey by Yonhap Infomax, the financial data firm of Yonhap News Agency. The estimate of net profit was not available.
※ This article was generated by Yonhap's proprietary algorithm using data from Yonhap Infomax and Korea Exchange(KRX).
(END)


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(END)


yna--2020-02-20--Military to restrict draftees from vacationing, staying outside bases over coronavirus

The Air Force has also taken steps to fend off the virus after a parent of cadet who attended the @ @ @ @ @ Force Academy on Monday was known to have contracted the novel virus .
The cadet @ @ @ @ @

SEOUL, Feb. 20 (Yonhap) -- South Korea will start restricting all enlisted soldiers from vacationing, staying outside their bases and meeting visitors this weekend, the defense ministry said Thursday, after the Navy reported the first suspected coronavirus case among the country's service members.
The restrictions, set to go into effect on Saturday, came at a meeting of top defense and uniformed officials, which was presided over by Defense Minister Jeong Kyeong-doo.
"Based on the recommendations from each armed service, Defense Minister Jeong decided to restrict them from going on vacation, staying out of their installations, staying out overnight and meeting visitors, starting from Feb. 22," the ministry said.
A 22-year-old Navy sailor on the southern island of Jeju tested positive Thursday for the COVID-19 virus in an initial examination, government officials said.
The final test result will be available the following day, according to the officials. If confirmed, it will mark the first confirmed case among service personnel in South Korea.
The sailor visited his hometown, Daegu, 300 kilometers southeast of Seoul, from Feb. 13-18. Upon returning to the base, he showed symptoms, such as coughing, prompting the authorities to immediately quarantine him at the base.
At the meeting, the defense minister called for "extraordinary measures" to contain the spread of the virus.
"I call on you to ensure military readiness while stably commanding your units while recognizing the gravity of the situation," Jeong said.
The Air Force has also taken steps to fend off the virus after a parent of cadet who attended the entrance ceremony of the Air Force Academy on Monday was known to have contracted the novel virus. The cadet has been under quarantine.
Earlier in the day, South Korea reported its first death of a coronavirus patient, with the total number of the country's confirmed cases standing at 104.
Defense Minister Jeong Kyeong-doo holds a meeting with top military officials to discuss ways to contain the spread of the new coronavirus at the ministry in Seoul on Feb. 20, 2020 in this photo provided by the ministry. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)
sshluck@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-02-20--S. Korea considers raising alert level over coronavirus

`` As the situation continues to remain fluid , we have decided to further watch the situation overnight , '' @ @ @ @ @ `` Currently , the possibility is half and half when it comes to whether we @ @ @ @ @ . ''

SEOUL, Feb. 20 (Yonhap) -- Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun on Thursday convened an emergency meeting of senior officials to discuss ways to contain the spread of the new coronavirus, as South Korea reported its first death among the country's 104 confirmed cases.
They discussed whether to raise the virus alert level, currently at "orange," the second highest in the four-tier system, and measures to support the virus-hit southeastern city of Daegu and its adjacent North Gyeongsang Province.
Chung is expected to announce additional containment measures after finalizing them during a session of the country's central disaster management headquarters set to be held on Friday morning. He may also brief President Moon Jae-in on the measures.
The emergency meeting came as the country reported its first death of a COVID-19 patient, with the total number of confirmed cases surpassing 100. Concerns about community transmission were fanned by dozens of new cases reported this week in Daegu, a metropolis of 2.5 million.
With the epidemic spreading locally, albeit with a limited scope, the government is cautiously considering raising the virus alert to "red," the highest level applicable to a situation where a contagious illness is spreading across the country.
At Thursday's meeting, the officials did not reach any decision on the alert level. They plan to have further discussions the following day after watching the situation overnight.
"As the situation continues to remain fluid, we have decided to further watch the situation overnight," a government official said. "Currently, the possibility is half and half when it comes to whether we will raise the alert level."
Also at the meeting, the ministers discussed how to provide support to the virus-hit regions that have complained of shortages of quarantine facilities and medical specialists.
Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun speaks during a policy coordination meeting at the government complex in Seoul on Feb. 20, 2020. (Yonhap)
sshluck@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-02-20--(2nd LD) S. Korea reports 1st death of coronavirus patient

The authorities have been testing all patients and medical staff at the hospital since Wednesday when two patients in the @ @ @ @ @ have been infected .

(ATTN: UPDATES in paras 2-3)
SEOUL, Feb. 20 (Yonhap) -- South Korea on Thursday reported the nation's first death of a coronavirus patient, with the total number of confirmed cases surpassing 100.
The Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (KCDC) said a 63-year-old man, who died on Wednesday morning at a hospital in the southeastern city of Cheongdo, posthumously tested positive for COVID-19.
KCDC officials said late Thursday he is presumed to have died of pneumonia.
He had been hospitalized for more than 20 years at the institution, where a total of 15 confirmed cases have been reported, according to KCDC.
The authorities have been testing all patients and medical staff at the hospital since Wednesday when two patients in the psychiatric ward were confirmed to have been infected.
KCDC is looking into the hospital's possible connection with the country's 31st confirmed case -- a 61-year-old South Korean woman who visited Cheongdo early this month before she was confirmed to be infected.
As of Thursday afternoon, the total number of confirmed cases in South Korea stood at 104.
This photo, taken on Feb. 20, 2020, shows a hospital in the southeastern city of Cheongdo, where South Korea's first death of a coronavirus patient was reported on the day. Health authorities said a 63-year-old man, who died of pneumonia on Feb. 19, posthumously tested positive for the virus. (Yonhap)
kdh@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-02-20--(2nd LD) Daegu on alert as coronavirus cases surge

Preliminary results showed that around 90 of some 1,000 people who were reportedly at the church on Feb. 9 and @ @ @ @ @ virus .
Meanwhile , 515 said they did not have symptoms , while the rest @ @ @ @

(ATTN: UPDATES throughout)
SEOUL/DAEGU, Feb. 20 (Yonhap) -- The South Korean city of Daegu is on alert as concerns over the new coronavirus are peaking in line with a surge in patients, with many of them suspected of contracting the potentially fatal virus at a church associated with a minor religious sect.
On Thursday, South Korea reported 53 new cases of the COVID-19, bringing the total number of infections here to 104. The first case in the country was reported on Jan. 20.
The pace of new infections had slowed in the past couple of weeks, but this week the number shot up, with most of the new cases in the southeastern city of Daegu and the surrounding North Gyeongsang Province.
Of the 104 cases, 70 cases were reported in the southeast, with 42 of the patients known to have attended a church service with the 31st patient, a 61-year-old woman who is presumed to have infected about 40 people so far.
Officials disinfect a church in Daegu on Feb. 20, 2020, where a patient spread the novel coronavirus COVID-19 to scores of others during Sunday services. (Yonhap)
The latest development has stoked fears of the virus spreading rapidly in Daegu, the country's fourth-largest city and home to 2.4 million people. The combined population of the city and the adjacent North Gyeongsang Province is roughly 5 million.
Some of the city's busiest streets were unusually quiet except for some drugstores where people rushed to buy masks and hand sanitizers.
"The streets are so quiet. It's the first time I've seen Daegu this quiet," said a 50-year-old resident surnamed Kim.
Some were anxious about rumors that the government may consider a lockdown to stem the outbreak.
"Nobody thought locking down Wuhan, whose population is more than 10 million, would be possible," a 36-year-old office worker surnamed Lee said, mentioning the central Chinese city known as the epicenter of the virus.
"I don't think Daegu and North Gyeongsang Province are a safety zone," Lee said.
The government flatly denied the rumor Wednesday, adding it has not even considered such a plan.
A motorcycle drives along an empty road in Daegu on Feb. 20, 2020. (Yonhap)
To ward off the virus, the city's education office ordered 341 kindergartens and 459 elementary, middle and high schools to delay the start of the new semester by a week to March 9 -- the first such containment measure by provincial authorities.
The city has also decided to temporarily shut down all nine city-run libraries.
The Daegu High Court, among other public institutions, temporarily blocked some entrances to its compound and installed thermal cameras.
Major events have been called off or rescheduled, with a concert featuring BTS and other K-pop stars that was set for March 8 at Daegu Stadium postponed following the outbreak.
The city has also launched a probe into people who attended Sunday services at the Daegu unit of the Shincheonji Church of Jesus, The Temple of the Tabernacle of the Testimony.
Preliminary results showed that around 90 of some 1,000 people who were reportedly at the church on Feb. 9 and 16 reported symptoms of the virus. Meanwhile, 515 said they did not have symptoms, while the rest were unaccounted for.
The church's tight seating arrangement has raised concerns that it may have helped the virus travel quickly among the congregation.
Daegu Mayor Kwon Young-jin speaks at a press briefing at Daegu City Hall on Feb. 20, 2020. (Yonhap)
The provincial city, meanwhile, has asked for help in securing more hospital beds and medical personnel, with four of the five emergency units at university hospitals temporarily shut down following visits by people who were later confirmed as infected.
During his meeting with Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun on Wednesday, Daegu mayor Kwon Young-jin stressed the need for new strategies to tackle the contagious virus, voicing concerns over the outbreak spreading across the country.
He also asked for government support, such as opening up public facilities to quarantine people who are suspected of being infected by COVID-19, and urged the public to wear masks and refrain from unnecessary activities.
On Thursday, the government announced that it will be providing 2.5 billion won (US$2.1 million) in special funds to strengthen safety measures in Daegu and North Gyeongsang Province.
mlee@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-02-20--(7th LD) S. Korea reports 1st death from virus; cases soar to 104

Most new cases occurred in the southeastern city of Daegu and neighboring North Gyeongsang Province where a total of 70 @ @ @ @ @ two days .
The city 's mayor urged its 2.5 million people to refrain from @ @ @ @ @ spread of the virus .

(ATTN: ADDS more details in paras 1-3, 15)
SEOUL, Feb. 20 (Yonhap) -- South Korea reported its first death from the new coronavirus on Thursday, with 53 new cases confirmed in a single day to bring the total here to 104.
The 63-year-old deceased, who had been bedridden for more than 20 years at a hospital in southeastern city of Cheongdo, died from pneumonia on Wednesday, according to the Korea Center for Disease Control and Prevention (KCDC).
His infection was discovered as the health authorities investigated all patients and medical staff at the hospital where 15 people were also confirmed to be infected.
The health authorities are working to determine the exact cause of the patient's death.
Most new cases occurred in the southeastern city of Daegu and neighboring North Gyeongsang Province where a total of 70 cases were confirmed in just two days. The city's mayor urged its 2.5 million people to refrain from going outside to stem the spread of the virus.
This week's surge in the number of infected people came as the health authorities warned that the virus has begun spreading locally.
Vice Health and Welfare Minister Kim Kang-lip told reporters that, "At this stage, (the government) judged that COVID-19 is spreading locally with a limited scope."
The health authorities have been adjusting its quarantine and prevention work to cope with local transmission, Kim said.
Still, the authorities kept the virus alert level at "orange," the third highest, Kim said.
Quarantine officials disinfect the Daegu branch of the Shincheonji Church of Jesus, the center of the cluster virus outbreak, on Feb. 20, 2020. (Yonhap)
Of the 53 new cases reported, 50 are in Daegu, 300 kilometers southeast of Seoul, and neighboring North Gyeongsang Province. The remaining three were reported in Seoul, the KCDC said in a statement.
Daegu and North Gyeongsang Province are home to some 5 million people.
Of the 50 new cases in Daegu, at least 30 patients are believed to be linked to a 61-year-old South Korean woman who was confirmed to be infected Tuesday, the KCDC said.
The country's 31st virus patient attended church services in Daegu and went about for days before testing positive for the virus.
An epidemiological survey is also under way to determine whether or not the 31st patient is linked to two confirmed cases at the hospital in Cheongdo, south of Daegu, the KCDC said, adding the patient visited Cheongdo earlier this month.
The KCDC said at least 42 virus patients are presumed to be linked to the woman.
KCDC Director Jung Eun-kyeong called for people who visited the Daegu church and the hospital in Cheongdo to stay indoors or report to health authorities if they show symptoms.
The number of coronavirus patients who are receiving oxygen therapy increased to four from one Thursday, Jung told reporters.
Most new cases have no clear ties to travel to China, where the virus originated, or Southeast Asian countries, the KCDC said.
A patient suspected of carrying the new coronavirus arrives at Kyungpook National University Hospital in Daegu, some 300 kilometers southeast of Seoul, on Feb. 19, 2020.
Jung said the 31st virus patient may have contracted the virus via other patient, indicating that there may be more infections.
Authorities probed two worship services at the Daegu church, which were held on Feb 9 and 16, and attended by the 31st patient.
"Currently, we are investigating the possibility that the 31st patient contracted the virus via a secondary infection," Jung said.
The country's probable coronavirus "super spreader" was hospitalized at a Daegu hospital from Feb. 7 to Monday.
The Shincheonji Church of Jesus in Daegu, where the 31st patient attended worship services, said in a statement that it had been shut down after about 10 members tested positive for the virus.
Local media reports said about 1,000 members attended worship with the 31st patient. The KCDC said 1,001 members of the church are asked to self-isolate to contain the spread of the virus.
Daegu Mayor Kwon Young-jin shows a stern face as he holds a press conference at the city hall in the southeastern city of Daegu on Feb. 20, 2020, about the spread of the new coronavirus in the city. (Yonhap)
In a televised news conference, Daegu Mayor Kwon Young-jin urged the city's 2.5 million people to stay indoors after 35 new cases were reported in two days in the city and its neighboring areas.
The number of people being checked for the virus and under quarantine came to 1,860 on Thursday, up from 1,633 earlier in the day, the KCDC said. South Korea has screened 13,098 people for COVID-19 since Jan. 3, with 11,238 testing negative and 16 patients having been discharged from quarantine after making full recoveries.
South Korea also started to check those who show suspicious symptoms for the novel coronavirus as it grapples with new infections without links to existing cases or overseas travel.
The measure broadens screening for more people and make it easier to detect and isolate COVID-19 cases, the KCDC said.
Under the latest revision, front-line doctors will be allowed to actively conduct coronavirus tests if they think a person may have contracted the sickness.
South Korea has a capacity to conduct 5,000 coronavirus tests a day, but the figure will be increased to 10,000 by the end of the month.
In addition, the country plans to check those who are suffering from pneumonia due to unknown causes.
kdh@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-02-20--(2nd LD) Moon, Xi agree to closely cooperate against coronavirus

Xi told Moon that he was very impressed by Moon 's statement that China 's suffering is also South Korea @ @ @ @ @ that the two neighbors are cooperating to ride out the current adversity together `` in @ @ @ @

(ATTN: UPDATES with details in last 2 paras; ADDS photo)
By Lee Chi-dong
SEOUL, Feb. 20 (Yonhap) -- South Korean President Moon Jae-in agreed in his telephone conversation with Chinese President Xi Jinping on Thursday to strengthen cooperation between the neighboring countries in a desperate fight against the novel coronavirus pandemic, according to Cheong Wa Dae.
They also agreed to share relevant clinical experiences of their countries, in addition to close partnership between their quarantine authorities, Cheong Wa Dae spokesperson Kang Min-seok said in a press briefing.
Xi proposed the sharing of such clinical data, which he said China has accumulated via its monthlong battle against COVID-19.
South Korean President Moon Jae-in talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping over phone at his Seoul office on Feb. 20, 2020 in this photo provided by Cheong Wa Dae. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)
Moon replied that South Korea expects a joint response with China to the deadly virus, including the exchange of the information to be of help to his government's quarantine measures, Kang said.
During the 32-minute conversation, Moon expressed his condolences over the deaths of Chinese patients.
Moon said he expects China to overcome the outbreak with the unified power of its people. He then requested continued interest and support for South Korean residents and companies in China.
Xi thanked Moon for South Korea's support in connection with the outbreak, saying a friend in need is a friend indeed.
Xi told Moon that he was very impressed by Moon's statement that China's suffering is also South Korea's suffering. Xi added that the two neighbors are cooperating to ride out the current adversity together "in one mind."
Despite the unexpected virus, Xi reaffirmed his plan to push for a visit to South Korea in the first half of this year as agreed. The two leaders agreed to let diplomatic authorities consult on specific schedules.
South Korean President Moon Jae-in (L) and Chinese President Xi Jinping in a combined file photo provided by Cheong Wa Dae. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE)
On regional security, Moon and Xi stressed that what's most urgent is that North Korea and the United States resume dialogue and that the two sides should "patch up their differences" over denuclearization.
Xi threw his weight behind Moon's recent message on peace on the Korean Peninsula. Moon emphasized that inter-Korean cooperation would facilitate Washington-Pyongyang negotiations.
It marked their fourth phone conversation as leaders of the Northeast Asian powers. They last met each other on Dec. 23, 2019, during Moon's visit to Beijing.
Earlier in the day, South Korea reported its first death linked with the coronavirus. The total number of people here infected with the disease has soared to 104 as 53 new cases were added on Thursday.
lcd@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-02-20--(LEAD) Moon, Xi agree to closely cooperate against coronavirus

(ATTN: UPDATES with remarks on Korea peace, details from 5th para; ADDS photo, byline)
By Lee Chi-dong
SEOUL, Feb. 20 (Yonhap) -- South Korean President Moon Jae-in agreed in his telephone conversation with Chinese President Xi Jinping on Thursday to strengthen cooperation between the neighboring countries in a desperate fight against the novel coronavirus pandemic, according to Cheong Wa Dae.
They also agreed to share relevant clinical experiences of their countries, in addition to close partnership between their quarantine authorities, Cheong Wa Dae spokesperson Kang Min-seok said in a press briefing.
Xi proposed the sharing of such clinical data, which he said China has accumulated via its monthlong battle against COVID-19.
South Korean President Moon Jae-in (L) and Chinese President Xi Jinping in a combined file photo provided by Cheong Wa Dae. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE)
Moon replied that South Korea expects a joint response with China to the deadly virus, including the exchange of the information to be of help to his government's quarantine measures, Kang said.
During the 32-minute conversation, Moon expressed his condolences over the deaths of Chinese patients.
Moon said he expects China to overcome the outbreak with the unified power of its people. He then requested continued interest and support for South Korean residents and companies in China.
Xi thanked Moon for South Korea's support in connection with the outbreak, saying a friend in need is a friend indeed.
Xi told Moon that he was very impressed by Moon's statement that China's suffering is also South Korea's suffering. Xi added that the two neighbors are cooperating to ride out the current adversity together "in one mind."
Despite the unexpected virus, Xi reaffirmed his plan to push for a visit to South Korea in the first half of this year as agreed. The two leaders agreed to let diplomatic authorities consult on specific schedules.
On regional security, Moon and Xi stressed that what's most urgent is that North Korea and the United States resume dialogue and that the two sides should "patch up their differences" over denuclearization.
Xi threw his weight behind Moon's recent message on peace on the Korean Peninsula. Moon emphasized that inter-Korean cooperation would facilitate Washington-Pyongyang negotiations.
lcd@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-02-20--Moon, Xi agree to closely cooperate against coronavirus

Moon replied that South Korea expects a joint response with China to the deadly virus , including the exchange of @ @ @ @ @ help to his government 's quarantine measures , Kang said .

SEOUL, Feb. 20 (Yonhap) -- South Korean President Moon Jae-in agreed in his telephone conversation with Chinese President Xi Jinping on Thursday to strengthen cooperation between the neighboring countries in a desperate fight against the novel coronavirus pandemic, according to Cheong Wa Dae.
They also agreed to share relevant clinical experiences of their countries, in addition to close partnership between their quarantine authorities, Cheong Wa Dae spokesperson Kang Min-seok said in a press briefing.
Xi proposed the sharing of such clinical data, which he said China has accumulated via its monthlong battle against COVID-19.
Moon replied that South Korea expects a joint response with China to the deadly virus, including the exchange of the information to be of help to his government's quarantine measures, Kang said.
Xi expressed his gratitude for South Korea's support in connection with the outbreak, saying a friend in need is a friend indeed, Kang added.
lcd@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-02-20--(LEAD) 800 SK hynix workers in self-quarantine over new coronavirus

The company said one of its new recruits showed symptoms of pneumonia and was transported to a nearby hospital for @ @ @ @ @ The company also shut down its in-house clinic that the new recruit had visited .

(ATTN: UPDATES throughout)
SEOUL, Feb. 20 (Yonhap) -- SK hynix Inc., the world's No. 2 memory chipmaker, said Thursday that about 800 workers at its South Korean headquarters have entered self-quarantine after a new recruit was found to have had contact with a new coronavirus patient.
The employee later tested negative, but the company kept the quarantine measure for the workers at its Icheon campus, about 70 kilometers south of Seoul, noting the move is not affecting its factory operations.
SK hynix said it closed the company's education center on Wednesday and sent 280 new recruits home.
The company said one of its new recruits showed symptoms of pneumonia and was transported to a nearby hospital for the novel coronavirus tests. The company also shut down its in-house clinic that the new recruit had visited.
SK hynix, however, said such measures are not affecting its factory operations. The company employs some 15,000 workers at its Icheon campus.
On Wednesday, South Korea reported its first death of a novel coronavirus patient with the number of the country's total confirmed cases reaching 104.
This undated photo shows the corporate logo of SK hynix Inc. (Yonhap)
kdon@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-02-20--(URGENT) President Moon Jae-in holds phone talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping on coronavirus: C

(URGENT) President Moon Jae-in holds phone talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping on coronavirus: Cheong Wa Dae

(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--2020-02-20--(LEAD) Navy sailor tests positive for coronavirus in initial examination

According to officials , the sailor in his 20s visited his hometown , Daegu , 300 kilometers southeast of Seoul @ @ @ @ @ Upon returning to the base , he showed symptoms , such as coughing , prompting @ @ @ @ @ him at the base , the officials said .
He is now at a Jeju @ @

(ATTN: CORRECTS accounts as case not confirmed yet; RECASTS headline, lead; ADDS more details throughout, photo)
SEOUL/JEJU, Feb. 20 (Yonhap) -- A South Korean Navy sailor on the southern island of Jeju tested positive Thursday for the new coronavirus in an initial examination, government officials said, sparking concerns the virus might have spread into military barracks.
The final test result will be available the following day, according to the officials. If confirmed, it will mark the first confirmed case among service personnel in South Korea.
According to officials, the sailor in his 20s visited his hometown, Daegu, 300 kilometers southeast of Seoul, from Feb. 13-18. Upon returning to the base, he showed symptoms, such as coughing, prompting the authorities to immediately quarantine him at the base, the officials said. He is now at a Jeju hospital.
"We are tracing his movements and have been checking the status of other service members at the barracks," an official noted.
More than 70 cases confirmed over the past couple of days were from the southeastern city of Daegu and its surrounding North Gyeongsang Province, according to health authorities. As of Thursday, South Korea has 104 cases, including one death.
As part of efforts to prevent the spread of the potentially deadly virus into the barracks, the defense ministry has taken measures such as banning soldiers' travel to China, refraining from staging outdoor drills, and limiting their off-installation travel and visitors.
Quarantine workers carry out a disinfection operation against the new coronavirus at a market in the southeastern city of Daegu on Feb. 20, 2020. (Yonhap)
graceoh@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-02-20--(LEAD) S. Korea reports 1st death of coronavirus patient

The health authorities have been testing all patients and medical staff at the hospital since Wednesday when two patients in @ @ @ @ @ to have been infected .

(ATT: RECASTS headline, lead; UPDATES throughout; CHANGES photo)
SEOUL, Feb. 20 (Yonhap) -- South Korea on Thursday reported the nation's first death of a coronavirus patient, with the total number of confirmed cases surpassing 100, health authorities said.
The 63-year-old man died of pneumonia on Wednesday morning at a hospital in the southeastern city of Cheongdo, where 13 new confirmed cases have been reported.
He tested positive for COVID-19 after his death. The authorities are currently trying to determine the exact cause of his death.
The health authorities have been testing all patients and medical staff at the hospital since Wednesday when two patients in the psychiatric ward were confirmed to have been infected.
The authorities are looking into the hospital's possible connection with the country's 31st confirmed case -- a 61-year-old South Korean woman who visited Cheongdo early this month before she was confirmed to be infected.
As of Thursday afternoon, the total number of confirmed cases in South Korea stood at 104.
This photo, taken on Feb. 20, 2020, shows a hospital in the southeastern city of Cheongdo, where more than 10 confirmed cases of the new coronavirus have been reported. (Yonhap)
kdh@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-02-20--NSC discusses coronavirus response

NSC discusses coronavirus response

In its weekly standing committee meeting , top national security officials checked the `` seriousness of the situations at home @ @ @ @ @ community 's moves and reviewed ways the government will respond going forward , '' according @ @ @ @ @

SEOUL, Feb. 20 (Yonhap) -- South Korea's National Security Council convened Thursday and discussed the coronavirus outbreak, as the country reported the first death of an infected person.
In its weekly standing committee meeting, top national security officials checked the "seriousness of the situations at home and abroad and the international community's moves and reviewed ways the government will respond going forward," according to Cheong Wa Dae.
South Korea announced 53 new confirmed COVID-19 cases on Thursday, with the total number of patients at 104.
The NSC officials also touched on how to further strengthen the Seoul-Washington alliance through defense chiefs' talks to be held in the United States next Monday, it added.
They shared views on pending issues related to South Korea-Japan relations as well, Cheong Wa Dae added without elaborating.
Chung Eui-yong, director of national security at the presidential office, presided over the session.
lcd@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-02-20--(6th LD) S. Korea reports 1st death from virus; cases soar to 104

The 63-year-old deceased , who had been bedridden for more than 20 years at a hospital in southeastern city of @ @ @ @ @ on Wednesday .
Confirmation of his infection was discovered as the health authorities investigated all @ @ @ @ @ some were also confirmed to be infected .

(ATTN: CHANGES lead, paras 2-3 with updated info; UPDATES figures throughout the story)
SEOUL, Feb. 20 (Yonhap) -- South Korea reported its first death from the new coronavirus on Thursday, with 53 new cases of the coronavirus confirmed in a single day to bring the total here to 104.
The 63-year-old deceased, who had been bedridden for more than 20 years at a hospital in southeastern city of Cheongdo, died from pneumonia on Wednesday. Confirmation of his infection was discovered as the health authorities investigated all patients at the hospital where some were also confirmed to be infected.
The health authorities are working to determine the exact cause of the patient's death.
Most new cases occurred in the southeastern city of Daegu. The city's mayor urged its 2.5 million people to refrain from going outside to stem the spread of the virus.
This week's surge in the number of infected people, increasing the nation's total infections by more than 70, came as the health authorities warned that the virus has begun spreading locally.
Vice Health and Welfare Minister Kim Kang-lip told reporters that, "At this stage, (the government) judged that COVID-19 is spreading locally with a limited scope."
The health authorities have been adjusting its quarantine and prevention work to cope with local transmission, Kim said.
Still, the authorities kept the virus alert level at "orange," the third highest, Kim said.
Quarantine officials disinfect the Daegu branch of the Shincheonji Church of Jesus, the center of the cluster virus outbreak, on Feb. 20, 2020. (Yonhap)
Of the 53 new cases reported, 50 are in Daegu, 300 kilometers southeast of Seoul, and neighboring North Gyeongsang Province. The remaining three were reported in Seoul, the Korea Center for Disease Control and Prevention (KCDC) said in a statement.
Daegu and North Gyeongsang Province are home to some 5 million people.
Of the 50 new cases in Daegu, at least 30 patients are believed to be linked to a 61-year-old South Korean woman who was confirmed to be infected Tuesday, the KCDC said.
The country's 31st virus patient attended church services in Daegu and went about for days before testing positive for the virus.
An epidemiological survey is also under way to determine whether or not the 31st patient is linked to two confirmed cases at the hospital in Cheongdo, south of Daegu, the KCDC said, adding the patient visited Cheongdo earlier this month.
KCDC Director Jung Eun-kyeong called for people who visited the Daegu church and the hospital in Cheongdo to stay indoors or report to health authorities if they show symptoms.
The number of coronavirus patients who are receiving oxygen therapy increased to four from one Thursday, Jung told reporters.
Most new cases have no clear ties to travel to China, where the virus originated, or Southeast Asian countries, the KCDC said.
A patient suspected of carrying the new coronavirus arrives at Kyungpook National University Hospital in Daegu, some 300 kilometers southeast of Seoul, on Feb. 19, 2020.
Jung said the 31st virus patient may have contracted the virus via other patient, indicating that there may be more infections.
Authorities probed two worship services at the Daegu church, which were held on Feb 9 and 16, and attended by the 31st patient.
"Currently, we are investigating the possibility that the 31st patient contracted the virus via a secondary infection," Jung said.
The country's probable coronavirus "super spreader" was hospitalized at a Daegu hospital from Feb. 7 to Monday.
The Shincheonji Church of Jesus in Daegu, where the 31st patient attended worship services, said in a statement that it had been shut down after about 10 members tested positive for the virus.
Local media reports said about 1,000 members attended worship with the 31st patient. The KCDC said 1,001 members of the church are asked to self-isolate to contain the spread of the virus.
Daegu Mayor Kwon Young-jin shows a stern face as he holds a press conference at the city hall in the southeastern city of Daegu on Feb. 20, 2020, about the spread of the new coronavirus in the city. (Yonhap)
In a televised news conference, Daegu Mayor Kwon Young-jin urged the city's 2.5 million people to stay indoors after 35 new cases were reported in two days in the city and its neighboring areas.
The number of people being checked for the virus and under quarantine came to 1,860 on Thursday, up from 1,633 earlier in the day, the KCDC said. South Korea has screened 13,098 people for COVID-19 since Jan. 3, with 11,238 testing negative and 16 patients having been discharged from quarantine after making full recoveries.
South Korea also started to check those who show suspicious symptoms for the novel coronavirus as it grapples with new infections without links to existing cases or overseas travel.
The measure broadens screening for more people and make it easier to detect and isolate COVID-19 cases, the KCDC said.
Under the latest revision, front-line doctors will be allowed to actively conduct coronavirus tests if they think a person may have contracted the sickness.
South Korea has a capacity to conduct 5,000 coronavirus tests a day, but the figure will be increased to 10,000 by the end of the month.
In addition, the country plans to check those who are suffering from pneumonia due to unknown causes.
kdh@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-02-20--Navy sailor tests positive for coronavirus in initial examination

(ATTN: CORRECTS accounts as case not confirmed yet)
SEOUL, Feb. 20 (Yonhap) -- A South Korean Navy sailor on the southern island of Jeju tested positive Thursday for the new coronavirus in an initial examination, government officials said, sparking concerns the virus might have spread into military barracks.
The final test result will be available the following day, according to the officials. If confirmed, it will mark the first confirmed case among service personnel in South Korea.
According to officials, the sailor in his 20s visited his hometown, Daegu, 300 kilometers southeast of Seoul, from Feb. 13-18. Upon returning to the base, he showed symptoms, such as coughing, prompting the authorities to immediately quarantine him at the base, the officials said. He is now at a Jeju hospital.
graceoh@yna.co.kr
(END)