yna--2020-12-09--(LEAD) Nervous and excited, Lee Jeong-eun set for title defense at LPGA's oldest major

`` I 'm a bit nervous , but I 'm just trying not to think about it too much , @ @ @ @ @ I just want to feel kind of loosened when I play on the course so @ @ @ @ @ tense and then feel nervous all the time .
So I 'm just going to @ @ @ @ @ on the course . ''

(ATTN: ADDS comments in paras 15-20)
By Yoo Jee-ho
SEOUL, Dec. 9 (Yonhap) -- South Korean LPGA star Lee Jeong-eun hasn't found the winner's circle all year. This week would be a good time to end the drought, as she enters the oldest major championship in women's golf as the defending champion.
The 75th U.S. Women's Open will begin at Champions Golf Club in Houston, Texas, on Thursday (local time), with Lee looking to become just the eighth golfer to win consecutive championships. This is the second-to-last tournament of the truncated, coronavirus-plagued 2020 season. It was originally scheduled for May 30-June 2.
In this Getty Images file photo from June 2, 2019, Lee Jeong-eun of South Korea holds the championship trophy after winning the U.S. Women's Open at the Country Club of Charleston in Charleston, South Carolina. (Yonhap)
Lee won last year's U.S. Women's Open in South Carolina for her maiden LPGA victory. She went on to capture the LPGA Rookie of the Year award, too.
The 24-year-old hasn't won since, though. She played in two LPGA events in February before the tour went into a hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Lee spent most of the year playing on the Korea Ladies Professional Golf Association (KLPGA) Tour, where she recorded five top-10s, including two runner-up finishes, in 14 tournaments.
Lee has played in two LPGA events since rejoining the tour last month. Most recently, Lee tied for 16th at last week's Volunteers of America Classic.
In this Associated Press photo, Lee Jeong-eun of South Korea watches her tee shot on the third hole at Champions Golf Club in Houston during the practice round for the U.S. Women's Open on Dec. 8, 2020. (Yonhap)
The last golfer to defend the U.S. Women's Open title is Karrie Webb from 2001.
At her pretournament press conference, Lee said she was at once nervous and excited about the opportunity to win her second straight U.S. Women's Open.
"I'm a bit nervous, but I'm just trying not to think about it too much," she said. "I just want to feel kind of loosened when I play on the course so I don't feel super tense and then feel nervous all the time. So I'm just going to try the best I can on the course."
Lee is one of nine South Koreans to have captured the U.S. national championship. In that group, Park In-bee, the 2008 and 2013 champion, is the only one with multiple titles.
In this file photo from Oct. 9, 2020, Lee Jeong-eun of South Korea watches her tee shot on the first hole during the second round of the Autech Carrier Championship on the Korea Ladies Professional Golf Association Tour at Sejong Field Golf Club in Sejong, 120 kilometers south of Seoul. (Yonhap)
Of the former champions, Park, Ji Eun-hee, Ryu So-yeon, Chun In-gee and Park Sung-hyun will be in the field this week. Park In-bee and Ryu tied for second at the Volunteers of America Classic.
Park and Kim Sei-young are taking their individual title battles to the wire. Kim holds the slim lead over Park in the Player of the Year points, 106 to 102. Players are awarded points for top-10 finishes, and a major title is worth 60 points, followed by 24 points for a runner-up finish, 18 points for third place, and so forth.
In this Associated Press photo, Ko Jin-young of South Korea watches her tee shot on the 18th hole at Champions Golf Club in Houston during the practice round for the U.S. Women's Open on Dec. 8, 2020. (Yonhap)
Park is the money leader with US$1,187,229, with Kim trailing at $1,133,219. The U.S. Women's Open champion will take home $1 million.
Kim is also closing in on the No. 1 spot in the world rankings, currently occupied by countrywoman Ko Jin-young.
Ko, who has only played in two LPGA events this year, is sitting at 7.69 points. Kim, who broke through with her first major title in October and added another victory in November, has 7.38 points.
In this Associated Press file photo from Nov. 22, 2020, Kim Sei-young of South Korea tees off on the 16th hole during the final round of the Pelican Women's Championship at Pelican Golf Club in Belleair, Florida. (Yonhap)
Kim said reaching the top of the rankings "would feel incredible."
"Since I was young, I dreamt of being No. 1 in the world one day," she said. "And I'm glad that I have a chance to do that."
Kim captured her first career major title in October at the KPMG Women's PGA Championship. She acknowledged coming into a major tournament as a recent major champion brings added pressure with it but added, "Nothing is going to change with my preparation. I'm going to try to stay composed and try to finish strong."
Ko won two majors in 2019 en route to being named the Player of the Year, but winning the U.S. Women's Open would be the ultimate, Ko said.
She recalled watching the 1998 tournament on her father's laps, as the Korean star Pak Se-ri won the championship with a dramatic birdie on the 20th playoff hole. It was a seminal moment in Korean women's golf that inspired a new generation of players, including the 25-year-old Ko.
"I saw that (tournament), and I decided I wanted to play golf," Ko said. "I want to get the U.S. Open trophy."
In this Nov. 15, 2020, file photo provided by the Korea Ladies Professional Golf Association, Choi Hye-jin of South Korea celebrates her victory at the SK Telecom-ADT CAPS Championship at La Vie est Belle Country Club in Chuncheon, 85 kilometers east of Seoul. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)
The field will feature 27 South Korean players, including KLPGA stars like Choi Hye-jin and An Na-rin.
Choi was the surprise runner-up at the 2017 U.S. Women's Open as a teenage amateur and the 21-year-old has since become the face of KLPGA, with three consecutive Player of the Year awards dating back to 2018.
An, 24, won twice on the Korean tour this year and will make her U.S. Women's Open debut.
In this Getty Images photo, Park In-bee of South Korea hits a shot to the 18th green during the third round of the Volunteers of America Classic at the Old American Golf Club in The Colony, Texas, on Dec. 5, 2020. (Yonhap)
jeeho@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-12-09--E-scooters to be allowed at Han River parks

Riders will be required to keep a speed limit of 20 kph and wear a helmet .
They will also @ @ @ @ @ the influence and parking or abandoning their vehicles anywhere in the parks .

SEOUL, Dec. 9 (Yonhap) -- Electric scooters and other personal transporters will be allowed to use bicycle lanes at Han River parks starting this week, the Seoul city government said Wednesday.
Use of the lanes was granted under revised laws on road traffic and bicycle use, which are set to take effect Thursday, the city government said.
Riders will be required to keep a speed limit of 20 kph and wear a helmet. They will also be banned from riding under the influence and parking or abandoning their vehicles anywhere in the parks.
The city government said it has installed 111 additional traffic signs and fixed or installed street lamps in 15 dark spots.
Personal transporters are only allowed on roads and bicycle lanes and their use anywhere else will be subject to a 50,000 won (US$46) fine.
The city government said all areas of Han River parks will be a no-return zone for rented personal transporters to ensure the safety of pedestrians.
This image, provided by Yonhap News TV, shows electric scooters. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)
People ride bicycles at Ttukseom Han River Park in eastern Seoul on Oct. 9, 2020. (Yonhap)
nyway@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-12-09--(LEAD) U.S. remains ready for dialogue with N. Korea: Biegun

`` The deputy secretary reaffirmed our commitment to the U.S.-ROK alliance and expressed appreciation for the ROK 's continued coordination @ @ @ @ @ '' a department spokesperson said in a released statement , referring to South Korea by @ @ @ @ @ Republic of Korea .

(ATTN: UPDATES with more reporting in last 3 paras)
By Byun Duk-kun
WASHINGTON, Dec. 9 (Yonhap) -- U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Stephen Biegun reaffirmed the U.S.' commitment to dialogue with North Korea for complete denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula, the State Department said Wednesday.
Biegun's remarks came in his meetings in Seoul with his South Korean counterparts -- First Vice Foreign Minister Choi Jong-kun and special representative for Korean Peninsula peace and security Lee Do-hoon.
"The deputy secretary reaffirmed our commitment to the U.S.-ROK alliance and expressed appreciation for the ROK's continued coordination on the COVID-19 response," a department spokesperson said in a released statement, referring to South Korea by its official name, the Republic of Korea.
Lee Do-hoon (R), special representative for Korean Peninsula peace and security affairs, bumps fists with U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Stephen Biegun during their meeting at the foreign ministry in Seoul on Dec. 9, 2020. (Pool photo) (Yonhap)
"Deputy Secretary Biegun also reaffirmed U.S. support for inter-Korean cooperation, and continued U.S. readiness to engage in meaningful dialogue with the DPRK in the pursuit of complete denuclearization," the statement added. DPRK stands for North Korea's official name, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea.
Biegun, who is double-hatted as special representative for North Korea, is on a five-day visit to Seoul where he is also scheduled to meet Foreign Minister Kang Kyung-wha.
His visit came amid a long hiatus in denuclearization talks with North Korea.
The U.S.-North Korea talks have stalled since their leaders -- President Donald Trump and Kim Jong-un -- held their second bilateral summit in February 2019 but walked away without any deal.
Earlier, Seoul said the No. 2 U.S. diplomat expressed hopes for close cooperation with South Korea "in the weeks and months ahead."
Biegun also underlined the importance of Seoul-Tokyo cooperation in promoting regional security, according to the State Department.
"The deputy secretary encouraged continued cooperation with Japan to promote regional security and a free and open Indo-Pacific," it said.
bdk@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-12-09--U.S. remains ready for dialogue with N. Korea: Biegun

By Byun Duk-kun
WASHINGTON, Dec. 9 (Yonhap) -- U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Stephen Biegun reaffirmed the U.S.' commitment to dialogue with North Korea for complete denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula, the State Department said Wednesday.
Biegun's remarks came in his meetings in Seoul with his South Korean counterparts -- First Vice Foreign Minister Choi Jong-kun and special representative for Korean Peninsula peace and security Lee Do-hoon.
"The deputy secretary reaffirmed our commitment to the U.S.-ROK alliance and expressed appreciation for the ROK's continued coordination on the COVID-19 response," a department spokesperson said in a released statement, referring to South Korea by its official name, the Republic of Korea.
Lee Do-hoon (R), special representative for Korean Peninsula peace and security affairs, bumps fists with U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Stephen Biegun during their meeting at the foreign ministry in Seoul on Dec. 9, 2020. (Pool photo) (Yonhap)
"Deputy Secretary Biegun also reaffirmed U.S. support for inter-Korean cooperation, and continued U.S. readiness to engage in meaningful dialogue with the DPRK in the pursuit of complete denuclearization," the statement added. DPRK stands for North Korea's official name, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea.
Biegun, who is double-hatted as special representative for North Korea, is on a five-day visit to Seoul where he is also scheduled to meet Foreign Minister Kang Kyung-wha.
His visit came amid a long hiatus in denuclearization talks with North Korea.
The U.S.-North Korea talks have stalled since their leaders -- President Donald Trump and Kim Jong-un -- held their second bilateral summit in February 2019 but walked away without any deal.
bdk@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-12-09--(4th LD) Parliament passes key economic proposals, contentious bills stalled amid opposition protest

Among the passed bills was a revision to the Commercial Act that would require listed companies to name at least @ @ @ @ @ board and limit the voting powers of the biggest shareholders and their families to 3 @ @ @ @ @ appointment .

(ATTN: UPDATES with main opposition's launch of filibuster in paras 12-13; ADDS photo)
SEOUL, Dec. 9 (Yonhap) -- The National Assembly passed a number of bills, including those related to corporate governance, police overhaul and labor reform on Wednesday, but votes were delayed for highly contentious proposals due to fierce protest from the main opposition party.
Plenary session voting began at 3 p.m., one hour later than scheduled, as discussions between the assembly speaker and floor leaders of the rival parties on the voting procedure were drawn out.
Among the passed bills was a revision to the Commercial Act that would require listed companies to name at least one auditor from outside their board and limit the voting powers of the biggest shareholders and their families to 3 percent in the auditor's appointment.
This photo shows a plenary session of the National Assembly in Seoul on Dec. 9, 2020. (Yonhap)
Two other so-called fair economy bills were also approved -- a revision to the Fair Trade Act and a new law on the supervision of financial groups.
The revised fair trade law subjects an increased number of conglomerates to stricter regulation on inter-affiliate business deals and doubles financial penalties on those that violate it.
But the ruling Democratic Party (DP) dropped its initial proposal to abolish the Fair Trade Commission's exclusive right to open an prosecution investigation on a fair trade violation case, amid protests from business circles.
The other passed bill aims to enhance regulatory requirements on conglomerates operating two or more financial arms. Major business groups, such as Samsung, Hyundai and Hanwha, will be subject to the new law.
Parliament also pushed through a major police law revision that gives police more investigative authority, introduces a local autonomous police system and allows the establishment of a national investigation office.
Lawmakers also approved a revision to the special law on the May 18 Gwangju uprising, a nationwide democracy movement that originated in the namesake southern city in 1980.
Under the legislation, those who release false or distorted information on the historic movement face a maximum of five years in prison or a fine of up to 50 million won (US$46,500).
A set of major labor-related proposals, including one allowing laid-off or jobless people to join labor unions, also got the nod, paving the way for South Korea to ratify key International Labor Organization conventions.
But the voting for three highly contentious bills was put on hold as the main opposition People Power Party (PPP) started a filibuster to block their passage. The politically-loaded bills are championed by the ruling DP which holds a majority in the 300-member assembly.
Rep. Kim Gi-hyeon took the floor as the first PPP discussant to delay the voting as a bill on revising the law on a high-profile corruption investigation organ was tabled late into the plenary session.
Rep. Kim Gi-hyeon (bottom) of the opposition People Power Party filibusters at the National Assembly in Seoul on Dec. 9, 2020, to prevent passage of a proposed revision to the law on the agency investigating high-profile corruption, which would undermine opposition parties' veto power in the appointment of the chief of the new body. (Yonhap)
The pending bill is designed to facilitate the launch of a new investigative body tasked with handling high-profile corruption cases.
The installation of the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials (CIO) is a key component of President Moon Jae-in's pledge to reform powerful institutions, such as the state prosecution service.
PPP lawmakers have objected to the creation of the new agency over concerns its powers would be unconstitutional.
Ahead of the session, PPP lawmakers staged a protest in front of parliament's plenary chamber, chanting slogans and holding up placards and sign cards demanding the abolishment of the proposed CIO bill.
Two other major bills set to be challenged through filibuster are a law that would deprive the National Intelligence Service of its authority to conduct anti-communist investigations and an act that would prohibit the launching of anti-Pyongyang leaflets across the inter-Korean border.
Filibusters can only last until midnight, when the regular session of National Assembly officially ends.
In case of a failure to pass those bill within the regular session, the DP has indicated it will use an extraordinary session starting Thursday to complete their passage.
Lawmakers of the main opposition People Power Party stage a protest at the National Assembly on Dec. 9, 2020, calling for the abolishment of a proposed bill related to the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials. (Yonhap)
hague@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-12-09--(LEAD) Revised economic laws to curb top shareholders' dominance, unfair business practices

Currently , the regulation is applied to listed companies 30 percent or more owned by group chiefs and their families @ @ @ @ @ percent or more owned by them .
But under the revised bill , the threshold @ @ @ @ @ percent for both cases .

(ATTN: UPDATES with reaction by business circles in last 6 paras)
SEOUL, Dec. 9 (Yonhap) -- The so-called three fair economy bills passed Wednesday by the National Assembly are designed to keep in check top shareholders' corporate dominance and enhance supervision of conglomerates' business practices, including inter-affiliate transactions.
But business circles and critics voiced concerns that the measures could sap companies' business sentiment and shrink investment amid an economic slowdown caused by the new coronavirus outbreak.
The National Assembly approved the three bills -- a revision to the Commercial Act, a revision to the Fair Trade Act and a bill on supervising business groups that have financial units -- at a plenary session.
The Commercial Act amendment, also called the "3 percent rule," has been highly controversial. Conglomerates strongly opposed its passage, claiming that speculative forces could abuse the rule and that it hurts shareholder rights.
The bill requires listed firms to name at least one auditor from outside their board and limits the voting powers of the top shareholders and their affiliated people to 3 percent when appointing the auditor.
Currently, board members are first appointed at a shareholders' meeting and an auditor is later selected among them. This could put auditors under top shareholders' influence.
Critics and civic groups said the essence of the bill was compromised as the ruling party eased the limitation on the voting power in the act in the face of strong backlash from the corporate sector.
The original bill required the combined voting power of the top shareholder and affiliated people to be limited to 3 percent, but the final version allows them to cast their 3-percent votes separately.
Meanwhile, the Fair Trade Act was revised for the first time in about 40 years since it was enacted.
The act will make more companies subject to a tighter regulation on inter-affiliate business deals.
Currently, the regulation is applied to listed companies 30 percent or more owned by group chiefs and their families, and unlisted firms 20 percent or more owned by them. But under the revised bill, the threshold will be set at 20 percent for both cases.
Hyundai Glovis Co. a logistics unit of Hyundai Motor Group, is currently not subject to the regulation as it is 29.9 percent owned by owner families.
Starting at the end of 2021, an additional 343 companies' inter-affiliate business deals, valued at some 27 trillion won (US$25 billion), are expected to be scrutinized by the Korea Fair Trade Commission (KFTC).
During parliamentary deliberation over the Fair Trade Act bill, the ruling Democratic Party (DP) decided not to abolish the KFTC's exclusive right to file a complaint with the prosecution over price fixing cases.
Meanwhile, the bill on supervising firms with financial arms is designed to bolster monitoring of conglomerates running multiple financial affiliates, including Samsung, Hyundai Motor Group, and Hanwha.
The bill will apply to business groups that hold more than 5 trillion won in assets while operating two or more financial units.
Business circles immediately voiced concerns that the new laws could cripple corporate management and demanded that their implementation be pushed back by one year.
"The National Assembly again adopted regulations that inflict enormous burden on companies at a time they are desperately struggling to ride out an unprecedented crisis due to the new coronavirus," the Federation of Korean Industries, a major business lobby, said in a press release.
The group also called for a modification of the passed laws in a way that enhances local companies' right to defend their management rights against speculative foreign capital.
The Korea Enterprises Federation also expressed regrets over the new laws which, it said, would "paralyze" Korean companies' rights to defend against hostile forces.
Both demanded that the implementation of the new laws be postponed by one year to allow companies time to prepare for the new regulations.
The two groups also expressed dissatisfaction over the assembly's passage of three bills aimed at enhancing labor rights, including a revision to the labor union law that allows laid-off or jobless people to join labor unions.
sooyeon@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-12-09--(3rd LD) New infections near 700 despite enhanced social distancing rules

Central Disease Control Headquarters came up with another guideline to expand the number of people being tested for the virus @ @ @ @ @ , anyone can take a virus test free of charge at screening centers under Level @ @ @ @ @ if a separate notice is issued , regardless of whether they have any symptoms of @ @

(ATTN: UPDATES with new tally in 7th para)
SEOUL, Dec. 9 (Yonhap) -- South Korea's new virus cases neared 700 on Wednesday on soaring community infections in the greater Seoul area despite toughened social distancing measures.
The country reported 686 new virus cases, including 662 domestically transmitted ones, raising the total caseload to 39,432, according to the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA).
Of the 686 new virus cases, 524 were reported in the greater Seoul area, covering Gyeonggi Province and Incheon, just west of Seoul.
Container mobile sickbeds are set up at Seoul Medical Center in southeastern Seoul on Dec. 9, 2020, to brace for a possible shortage of hospital beds. (Yonhap)
The figure showed a sharp rise from 594 the previous day and 580 on Monday, hitting the second-highest mark since January when the first case was reported.
The number of confirmed cases hit a record high of 909 on Feb. 29.
Four additional coronavirus deaths were reported, raising the death toll to 556.
The country is expected to report more than 600 additional cases on Thursday as health authorities confirmed 481 new cases Wednesday as of 6:00 p.m., with 374 cases from the greater Seoul area. The country announces its official tally of the previous day at 9:30 a.m.
The social distancing Level 2.5, the second-highest level under the five-tier scheme, went into effect Tuesday in the greater Seoul area, covering Gyeonggi Province and Incheon, west of Seoul.
In other areas, the third-highest level of 2 was applied.
Under the boosted guidelines to be effective till Dec. 28, a slew of measures have been taken to prevent people from gathering and traveling across the country.
Health officials said skyrocketing community infections were the main cause of the surge in new virus cases in the greater Seoul area.
The ratio of untraceable cases to the total confirmed cases reported from Nov. 26 to Wednesday stood at 19 percent, down from 20.7 percent the previous day.
They have also warned of the wider pandemic, forecasting that the daily infections may approach 1,000 next week unless the current spread of the new virus is brought under control. The officials have been worried about a possible shortage of hospital beds to treat COVID-19 patients.
Central Disease Control Headquarters came up with another guideline to expand the number of people being tested for the virus. Under the new guideline, anyone can take a virus test free of charge at screening centers under Level 2 or higher, or if a separate notice is issued, regardless of whether they have any symptoms of coronavirus.
A researcher shows rapid antigen detection test kits for the new coronavirus in SD Biosensor Inc., a global diagnostic company in Suwon, south of Seoul, on Dec. 9, 2020. Health authorities plan to first provide the test kits to facilities that include nursing homes and social welfare facilities, which are vulnerable to the virus. (Yonhap)
Health authorities said they will take new measures as part of preemptive efforts to put the surge in virus cases under control.
The authorities have decided to carry out aggressive and preemptive tests of young and middle-aged people for the virus as they could be a main cause of the current wave of the infections due to their brisk activities.
Health authorities will increase the number of residential treatment centers and clinics specialized in treating COVID-19 patients to brace for a possible shortage of hospital beds.
Guidelines for the use of winter sports facilities such as ski resorts and ice rinks were featured in the new measures.
Indoor winter sports facilities like ice rinks are required to limit the number of users to one person per 4 square meters under Level 1 and close after 9 p.m. under Level 2. Starting at Level 2.5, the facilities must shut down.
Under Level 1, people can visit outdoor sports facilities like ski resorts complying with basic guidelines, including wearing masks and identification. The facilities must limit the number of persons to be admitted to one third of their capacity under Level 2 and close after 9 p.m. under Level 2.5, as well as closed down for 24 hours under Level 3.
A public advertisement starring well-known female golfer Pak Se-ri will be released from Wednesday to ask people to abide by the social distancing measures.
Of the 686 new virus cases announced early in the day, 264 confirmed cases were reported in Seoul and 214 from the surrounding Gyeonggi Province. Incheon, west of Seoul, added 46 more cases. The greater Seoul area is home to about half of the country's 51.6 million population.
The number of imported cases reached 24, down from 28 the previous day. They include 11 from the United States and six from Europe.
The number of COVID-19 patients with serious symptoms across the country amounted to 149, up from 134 on Tuesday.
The total number of people released from quarantine after making full recoveries came to 30,177, up 527 from Tuesday.
ksnam@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-12-09--(3rd LD) Parliament passes key economic proposals, contentious bills stalled amid opposition protest

(ATTN: UPDATES with more info in paras 1, 3-6, 9-13)
SEOUL, Dec. 9 (Yonhap) -- The National Assembly passed a number of bills, including those related to corporate governance, police overhaul and labor reform on Wednesday, but votes were delayed for highly contentious proposals due to fierce protest from the main opposition party.
Plenary session voting began at 3 p.m., one hour later than scheduled, as discussions between the assembly speaker and floor leaders of the rival parties on the voting procedure were drawn out.
Among the passed bills was a revision to the Commercial Act that would require listed companies to name at least one auditor from outside their board and limit the voting powers of the biggest shareholders and their families to 3 percent in the auditor's appointment.
This photo shows a plenary session of the National Assembly in Seoul on Dec. 9, 2020. (Yonhap)
Two other so-called fair economy bills were also approved -- a revision to the Fair Trade Act and a new law on the supervision of financial groups.
The revised fair trade law subjects an increased number of conglomerates to stricter regulation on inter-affiliate business deals and doubles financial penalties on those that violate it.
But the ruling Democratic Party (DP) dropped its initial proposal to abolish the Fair Trade Commission's exclusive right to open an prosecution investigation on a fair trade violation case, amid protests from business circles.
The other passed bill aims to enhance regulatory requirements on conglomerates operating two or more financial arms. Major business groups, such as Samsung, Hyundai and Hanwha, will be subject to the new law.
Parliament also pushed through a major police law revision that gives police more investigative authority, introduces a local autonomous police system and allows the establishment of a national investigation office.
Lawmakers also approved a revision to the special law on the May 18 Gwangju uprising, a nationwide democracy movement that originated in the namesake southern city in 1980.
Under the legislation, those who release false or distorted information on the historic movement face a maximum of five years in prison or a fine of up to 50 million won (US$46,500).
A set of major labor-related proposals, including one allowing laid-off or jobless people to join labor unions, also got the nod, paving the way for South Korea to ratify key International Labor Organization conventions.
But the voting for three highly contentious bills was put on hold as the main opposition People Power Party (PPP) requested a filibuster to block their passage. The politically-loaded bills are championed by the ruling DP which holds a majority in the 300-member assembly.
Lawmakers of the main opposition People Power Party stage a protest at the National Assembly on Dec. 9, 2020, calling for the abolishment of a proposed bill related to the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials. (Yonhap)
Among the pending bills is a proposal designed to facilitate the launch of a new investigative body tasked with handling high-profile corruption cases.
The installation of the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials (CIO) is a key component of President Moon Jae-in's pledge to reform powerful institutions, such as the state prosecution service.
PPP lawmakers have objected to the creation of the new agency over concerns its powers would be unconstitutional.
Ahead of the session, PPP lawmakers staged a protest in front of parliament's plenary chamber, chanting slogans and holding up placards and sign cards demanding the abolishment of the proposed CIO bill.
Two other major bills set to be challenged through filibuster are a law that would deprive the National Intelligence Service of its authority to conduct anti-communist investigations and an act that would prohibit the launching of anti-Pyongyang leaflets across the inter-Korean border.
Filibusters can only last until midnight, when the regular session of National Assembly officially ends.
In case of a failure to pass those bill within the regular session, the DP has indicated it will use an extraordinary session starting Thursday to complete their passage.
National Assembly Speaker Park Byeong-seug bangs the gavel during a plenary session at parliament in Seoul on Dec. 9, 2020. (Yonhap)
hague@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-12-09--(4th LD) S. Korea confirms two more cases of highly pathogenic bird flu from farms

`` With the virus spreading across the nation through wild birds ' habitats , farms are vulnerable to infection if @ @ @ @ @ in carrying out disinfection operations , '' a ministry official said .

(ATTN: RECASTS headline, lead; UPDATES with new case in paras 1-5)
By Kang Yoon-seung
SEOUL, Dec. 9 (Yonhap) -- South Korea confirmed two more cases of highly pathogenic bird flu from poultry farms Wednesday, raising concerns over possible penetration of the disease deeper into the local livestock industry.
The Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs said avian influenza (AI) of H5N8 strain was found in a duck farm in Naju, 355 kilometers south of Seoul. The farm was raising 32,000 ducks.
It marked the country's sixth case of highly pathogenic AI at poultry farms this year and the second case from South Jeolla Province.
Later in the day, a new AI outbreak of the same strain was identified at a quail farm in Yeoju, 105 kilometers south of Seoul. The farm was raising 110,000 quails.
It marked the second case of highly pathogenic bird flu in Yeoju, Gyeonggi Province, following an egg farm in the region that reported its case on Sunday.
Officials prepare to cull ducks at a farm in Naju, 355 kilometers south of Seoul, on Dec. 8, 2020, in line with efforts to prevent the spread of avian influenza. (Yonhap)
Highly pathogenic avian influenza is contagious and can cause severe illness and even death in poultry.
South Korea reported its first farm-related case in Jeongeup, about 290 kilometers south of Seoul, in late November.
"With the virus spreading across the nation through wild birds' habitats, farms are vulnerable to infection if they have any blind spots in carrying out disinfection operations," a ministry official said.
Earlier in the day, authorities said they have destroyed around 2.7 million poultry -- 361,000 ducks, 1.5 million chickens and 885,000 quails -- since Nov. 28 to prevent the spread of the bird flu.
Authorities cull poultry within a 3-km radius of infected farms.
Birds at farms with suspected cases are also destroyed.
The country reported its first highly pathogenic case in 32 months in late October in Cheonan, 92 kilometers south of Seoul, from wild birds. Since then, a whopping 22 cases have been found from wild bird habitats across the country.
Health authorities are investigating more than 10 suspected cases of highly pathogenic bird flu among wild birds.
Officials prepare to cull ducks at a farm in Naju, 355 kilometers south of Seoul, on Dec. 8, 2020, in line with efforts to prevent the spread of avian influenza. (Yonhap)
colin@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-12-09--Revised economic laws to curb top shareholders' dominance, unfair business practices

SEOUL, Dec. 9 (Yonhap) -- The so-called three fair economy bills passed Wednesday by the National Assembly are designed to keep in check top shareholders' corporate dominance and enhance supervision of conglomerates' business practices, including inter-affiliate transactions.
But business circles and critics voiced concerns that the measures could sap companies' business sentiment and shrink investment amid an economic slowdown caused by the new coronavirus outbreak.
The National Assembly approved the three bills -- a revision to the Commercial Act, a revision to the Fair Trade Act and a bill on supervising business groups that have financial units -- at a plenary session.
The Commercial Act amendment, also called the "3 percent rule," has been highly controversial. Conglomerates strongly opposed its passage, claiming that speculative forces could abuse the rule and that it hurts shareholder rights.
The bill requires listed firms to name at least one auditor from outside their board and limits the voting powers of the top shareholders and their affiliated people to 3 percent when appointing the auditor.
Currently, board members are first appointed at a shareholders' meeting and an auditor is later selected among them. This could put auditors under top shareholders' influence.
Critics and civic groups said the essence of the bill was compromised as the ruling party eased the limitation on the voting power in the act in the face of strong backlash from the corporate sector.
The original bill required the combined voting power of the top shareholder and affiliated people to be limited to 3 percent, but the final version allows them to cast their 3-percent votes separately.
Meanwhile, the Fair Trade Act was revised for the first time in about 40 years since it was enacted.
The act will make more companies subject to a tighter regulation on inter-affiliate business deals.
Currently, the regulation is applied to listed companies 30 percent or more owned by group chiefs and their families, and unlisted firms 20 percent or more owned by them. But under the revised bill, the threshold will be set at 20 percent for both cases.
Hyundai Glovis Co. a logistics unit of Hyundai Motor Group, is currently not subject to the regulation as it is 29.9 percent owned by owner families.
Starting at the end of 2021, an additional 343 companies' inter-affiliate business deals, valued at some 27 trillion won (US$25 billion), are expected to be scrutinized by the Korea Fair Trade Commission (KFTC).
During parliamentary deliberation over the Fair Trade Act bill, the ruling Democratic Party (DP) decided not to abolish the KFTC's exclusive right to file a complaint with the prosecution over price fixing cases.
Meanwhile, the bill on supervising firms with financial arms is designed to bolster monitoring of conglomerates running multiple financial affiliates, including Samsung, Hyundai Motor Group, and Hanwha.
The bill will apply to business groups that hold more than 5 trillion won in assets while operating two or more financial units.
sooyeon@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-12-09--(2nd LD) Moon vows gov't effort for additional coronavirus vaccines

South Korea will be able to begin inoculation in February or March next year , when an initial batch of @ @ @ @ @ said during an emergency meeting held at Cheong Wa Dae 's national crisis response center @ @ @ @ @ the virus fight and control system in and around Seoul .

(ATTN: UPDATES with KDCA chief's comments, details in last 3 paras)
By Lee Chi-dong
SEOUL, Dec. 9 (Yonhap) -- President Moon Jae-in called Wednesday for the government's efforts to secure a surplus of COVID-19 vaccines despite fiscal burden.
He pointed out that the government has already acquired early access to vaccines for 44 million people, saying, "The end of a long tunnel (in the anti-virus fight) is seen at last."
South Korea will be able to begin inoculation in February or March next year, when an initial batch of vaccines arrives here, he said during an emergency meeting held at Cheong Wa Dae's national crisis response center via video links to review the virus fight and control system in and around Seoul.
But it's still too early to be complacent, he added, and called for continued efforts for extra vaccines even if financial burden is added.
He instructed relevant authorities to place a top priority on the safety and lives of the people. The country has a population of 52 million.
The president also stressed that the safety of vaccines should be "verified enough."
He noted that vaccines have been developed "very urgently," which may lead to an "unexpected situation," and ordered thorough preparations for the start of inoculation as early as possible, including the close monitoring of their effectiveness and side effects via foreign case studies.
President Moon Jae-in in a file photo (Yonhap)
On the development of coronavirus treatment, he expected "tangible" results by domestic firms later this year or in early 2021.
"If it goes as planned, we expect to use treatment first prior to vaccine," Moon said.
In the session, Jeong Eun-kyeong, chief of the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA), reported a plan to operate provisional testing centers in more than 150 areas, including Seoul Station, in the capital region for the coming three weeks in a bid to curb the rapid virus spread, according to Cheong Wa Dae spokesman Kang Min-seok.
Defense Minister Suh Wook said he would deploy officers of the Army's special forces to assist healthcare workers in tracing virus contacts, Kang added.
Other attendees at the videoconference included acting Seoul Mayor Seo Jeong-hyup Gyeonggi Province Gov. Lee Jae-myung and Incheon Mayor Park Nam-chun.
lcd@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-12-09--(2nd LD) Parliament passes several bills, contentious ones pending amid opposition protest

Among the passed bills was legislation that would require listed companies to name at least one auditor from outside their @ @ @ @ @ powers of the biggest shareholders and their families to 3 percent in the auditor 's @ @

(ATTN: REWRITES headline, lead; RESTRUCTURES; UPDATES with details throughout; ADDS new photos)
SEOUL, Dec. 9 (Yonhap) -- The National Assembly on Wednesday passed several major bills, with the passage of politically sensitive ones delayed amid fierce protest from the main opposition party.
Plenary session voting began at 3 p.m., one hour later than scheduled, as discussions between the assembly speaker and floor leaders of the rival parties on the voting procedure were more drawn out than scheduled.
Among the passed bills was legislation that would require listed companies to name at least one auditor from outside their board and limit the voting powers of the biggest shareholders and their families to 3 percent in the auditor's appointment.
This photo shows a plenary session of the National Assembly in Seoul on Dec. 9, 2020. (Yonhap)
Parliament also pushed through a major police law revision that gives police more investigative authority, introduces a local autonomous police system and allows the establishment of a national investigation office.
Lawmakers also approved a revision to the special law on the May 18 Gwangju uprising, a nationwide democracy movement that originated in the namesake southern city in 1980.
Under the legislation, those who release false or distorted information on the historic movement face a maximum of five years in prison or a fine of up to 70 million won (US$64,500).
The main opposition People Power Party (PPP) requested a filibuster to block the passage of three contentious bills. The ruling Democratic Party (DP) currently holds a majority in the 300-member assembly.
Lawmakers of the main opposition People Power Party stage a protest at the National Assembly on Dec. 9, 2020, calling for the abolishment of a proposed bill related to the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials. (Yonhap)
Among the bills the PPP is planning to filibuster is an act designed to facilitate the launch of a new investigative body tasked with handling high-profile corruption cases.
The installation of the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials (CIO) is a key component of President Moon Jae-in's pledge to reform powerful institutions, such as the state prosecution service.
PPP lawmakers have objected to the creation of the new agency over concerns its powers would be unconstitutional.
Ahead of the session, PPP lawmakers staged a protest in front of parliament's plenary chamber, chanting slogans and holding up placards and sign cards demanding the abolishment of the proposed CIO bill.
Two other major bills set to be challenged through filibuster are a law that would deprive the National Intelligence Service of its authority to conduct anti-communist investigations and an act that would prohibit the launching of anti-Pyongyang leaflets across the inter-Korean border.
Filibusters can only last until midnight, when the regular session of National Assembly officially ends.
In case of a failure to pass those bill within the regular session, the DP has indicated it will use an extraordinary session starting Thursday to complete their passage.
National Assembly Speaker Park Byeong-seug bangs the gavel during a plenary session at parliament in Seoul on Dec. 9, 2020. (Yonhap)
hague@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-12-09--(2nd LD) Global Korea Convention opens to spotlight Seoul's achievements in int'l cooperation

`` The Republic of Korea , once a recipient of aid , has now become a provider of aid .
@ @ @ @ @ achieved both economic development and full democracy in a short period .
Now , it @ @ @ @ @ 's dynamic energy with others for world peace , common prosperity and sustainable development of @ @ @ @ @ declaration .

(ATTN: UPDATES with more details in paras 16-17)
SEOUL, Dec. 9 (Yonhap) -- An international forum kicked off in Seoul on Wednesday to share South Korea's achievements in global cooperation and explore its future roles and challenges in the post-COVID-19 era.
Global Korea Convention 2020 opened in a ceremony at the K-Hotel Seoul for a three-day run, with the in-person and online attendance of about 30 dignitaries, including Angel Gurría, secretary-general of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development; Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun; and National Assembly Speaker Park Byeong-seug.
The opening ceremony of Global Korea Convention 2020 is under way at the K-Hotel in southern Seoul on Dec. 9, 2020. (Yonhap)
The National Research Council for Economics, Humanities and Social Sciences (NRC) and the Korea Land & Housing Corp. are hosting the convention, with sponsorship from about 150 government and public institutions.
Several dozen government departments and public institutions are to introduce various experiences on public diplomacy and international cooperation since the independence of Korea in 1945, as well as their efforts to pursue public diplomacy focused on peace, human rights, democracy and values enabling sustainable development of humankind.
In particular, the convention is to put the spotlight on South Korea's diverse and rich experience as the world's only country that has transformed from an aid recipient to a donor country.
During the opening ceremony, Chung gave a congratulatory video address, and former Norwegian Prime Minister Gro Harlem Brundtland made a keynote speech under the title of "international cooperation for world peace and sustainable development."
Chung said the government has been actively responding to requests for cooperation from countries around the world, including developing countries, particularly amid the global spread of the pandemic.
Gurría said that South Korea has shown a will to support developing countries and to participate in efforts to terminate COVID-19.
NRC Korea Chairperson Seong Kyoung-ryung said Global Korea Convention 2020 is the nation's first attempt to explore its future strategies on international cooperation.
A "Vision Declaration" was also announced at the opening ceremony, declaring a vision of South Korea's future as a world leader that contributes to international peace, prosperity and sustainable development.
"The Republic of Korea, once a recipient of aid, has now become a provider of aid. Korea overcame its challenges and achieved both economic development and full democracy in a short period. Now, it is time to share Korea's dynamic energy with others for world peace, common prosperity and sustainable development of humankind," said the declaration.
"Embracing 'inclusive multilateralism' as our core value, Korea is taking its first step forward to form a new wave of cooperation that pursues world peace, common prosperity and sustainable development," it said.
This photo provided by the hosts of Global Korea Convention 2020 shows the event's poster. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)
Hosts and organizers said Seoul's efforts to overcome the coronavirus pandemic, dubbed "K-Quarantine," and the Korean New Deal initiative aimed at stimulating economic growth and job creation through digital and green projects will be intensively discussed at the convention.
To that end, the convention will proceed under 19 subjects, including K-Quarantine, climate change, eco smart city and inclusive multilateralism, they noted.
The Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) and 35 other government institutions will introduce about 100 exemplary cases of international cooperation in online and offline presentations.
KOICA President Sohn Hyuk-sang said his agency spent about 120 billion won (US$111 million) this year on helping developing countries overcome the coronavirus pandemic.
For instance, the agency has sent 159 walk-through coronavirus test booths to 26 countries and 260 negative pressure carriers used to transport virus patients to nine countries, Sohn said.
In consideration of the spread of the coronavirus, all convention programs will be broadcast live at the convention's website (globalkoreaconvention.kr).
In a special event, Minister of Oceans and Fisheries Moon Seong-hyeok held a videoconference interview with Korean researchers stationed at the nation's second Antarctic base called Jang Bogo Station and gave them a message of encouragement.
Prior to the opening ceremony, South Korean alternative pop band Leenalchi gave a performance featuring a new genre of traditional Korean music that mixes traditional and modern trends with pansori, a Korean genre of musical storytelling, and group dance movements.
ycm@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-12-09--(LEAD) Moon vows gov't effort for additional coronavirus vaccines

(ATTN: UPDATES with details from 3rd para)
SEOUL, Dec. 9 (Yonhap) -- President Moon Jae-in called Wednesday for the government's efforts to secure a surplus of COVID-19 vaccines despite fiscal burden.
He pointed out that the government has already acquired early access to vaccines for 44 million people, saying, "The end of a long tunnel (in the anti-virus fight) is seen at last."
South Korea will be able to begin inoculation in February or March next year, when an initial batch of vaccines arrives here, he said during an emergency meeting held at Cheong Wa Dae's national crisis response center via video links to review the virus fight and control system in and around Seoul.
But it's still too early to be complacent, he added, and called for continued efforts for extra vaccines even if financial burden is added.
He instructed relevant authorities to place a top priority on the safety and lives of the people. The country has a population of 52 million.
The president also stressed that the safety of vaccines should be "verified enough."
He noted that vaccines have been developed "very urgently," which may lead to an "unexpected situation," and ordered thorough preparations for the start of inoculation as early as possible, including the close monitoring of their effectiveness and side effects via foreign case studies.
On the development of coronavirus treatment, he expected "tangible" results by domestic firms later this year or in early 2021.
"If it goes as planned, we expect to use treatment first prior to vaccine," Moon said.
President Moon Jae-in in a file photo (Yonhap)
lcd@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-12-09--Moon vows gov't effort for additional coronavirus vaccines

South Korea will be able to begin inoculation in February or March next year , when an early shipment of @ @ @ @ @ said during an emergency meeting , held at Cheong Wa Dae , on the rapid @ @ @ @ @ Seoul .

SEOUL, Dec. 9 (Yonhap) -- President Moon Jae-in called Wednesday for the government's efforts to secure a surplus of COVID-19 vaccines despite fiscal burden.
He pointed out that the government has already acquired early access to vaccines for 44 million people, saying, "The end of a long tunnel (in the anti-virus fight) is seen at last."
South Korea will be able to begin inoculation in February or March next year, when an early shipment of vaccines arrives here, he said during an emergency meeting, held at Cheong Wa Dae, on the rapid virus spread in and around Seoul.
But it's still too early to be complacent, he added, and called for continued efforts for extra vaccines even if financial burden is added.
The president also stressed that the safety of vaccines should be "verified enough."
President Moon Jae-in in a file photo (Yonhap)
lcd@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-12-09--S. Korea pledges US$6 mln contribution to U.N. emergency fund in 2021

CERF is a humanitarian fund established by the U.N. General Assembly with an aim to provide timely and reliable humanitarian @ @ @ @ @ disasters and emergencies so as to reduce loss of life .
It has provided relief @ @ @ @ @ North Korea , among others .

SEOUL, Dec. 9 (Yonhap) -- South Korea has pledged to donate $6 million to a U.N. emergency fund next year to support global efforts to help people affected by disasters and other emergencies, the foreign ministry said Wednesday.
Ham Sang-wook, deputy foreign minister for multilateral and global affairs, announced the plan during a virtual senior-level meeting of the Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF) on Tuesday, the ministry said in a release.
CERF is a humanitarian fund established by the U.N. General Assembly with an aim to provide timely and reliable humanitarian assistance to people affected by disasters and emergencies so as to reduce loss of life. It has provided relief to Syria, Afghanistan and North Korea, among others.
Since the fund was created, South Korea has donated about $57 million.
elly@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-12-09--(3rd LD) S. Korea confirms 6th highly pathogenic bird flu case from farms

Local authorities identified the latest case from Naju , 355 kilometers south of Seoul , according to the Ministry of @ @ @ @ @ Affairs .
The country has been reporting highly pathogenic cases from different regions , ranging @ @ @ @ @ Jeolla Province .

(ATTN: UPDATES last 2 paras)
By Kang Yoon-seung
SEOUL, Dec. 9 (Yonhap) -- South Korea said Wednesday it has confirmed the sixth case of highly pathogenic bird flu from a duck farm, raising concerns over the disease penetrating deeper into the local livestock industry.
Local authorities identified the latest case from Naju, 355 kilometers south of Seoul, according to the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs. The country has been reporting highly pathogenic cases from different regions, ranging from Gyeonggi Province to South Jeolla Province.
The farm was raising 32,000 ducks. It marked the second confirmed case from South Jeolla Province as well.
Highly pathogenic avian influenza is contagious and can cause severe illness and even death in poultry.
South Korea reported its first farm-related case in Jeongeup, about 290 kilometers south of Seoul, in late November.
The country is currently looking into another suspected case from a quail farm in Yeoju, 105 kilometers south of Seoul. It is located near another infected farm, which confirmed a case earlier this week.
Officials prepare to cull ducks at a farm in Naju, 355 kilometers south of Seoul, on Dec. 8, 2020, in line with efforts to prevent the spread of avian influenza. (Yonhap)
"With the virus spreading across the nation through wild birds' habitats, farms are vulnerable to infection if they have any blind spots in carrying out disinfection operations," a ministry official said.
Earlier in the day, authorities said they have destroyed around 2.7 million poultry -- 361,000 ducks, 1.5 million chickens and 885,000 quails -- since Nov. 28 to prevent the spread of the bird flu.
Authorities cull poultry within a 3-km radius of infected farms.
Birds at farms with suspected cases are also destroyed.
The country reported its first highly pathogenic case in 32 months in late October in Cheonan, 92 kilometers south of Seoul, from wild birds. Since then, a whopping 22 cases have been found from wild bird habitats across the country.
Health authorities are investigating more than 10 suspected cases of highly pathogenic bird flu among wild birds.
Officials prepare to cull ducks at a farm in Naju, 355 kilometers south of Seoul, on Dec. 8, 2020, in line with efforts to prevent the spread of avian influenza. (Yonhap)
colin@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-12-09--(LEAD) E-scooters to be allowed at Han River parks

(ATTN: ADDS photo, details in last 3 paras)
SEOUL, Dec. 9 (Yonhap) -- Electric scooters and other personal transporters will be allowed to use bicycle lanes at Han River parks starting this week, the Seoul city government said Wednesday.
Use of the lanes was granted under revised laws on road traffic and bicycle use, which are set to take effect Thursday, the city government said.
Riders will be required to keep a speed limit of 20 kph and wear a helmet. They will also be banned from riding under the influence and parking or abandoning their vehicles anywhere in the parks.
Civic activists call for a revision bill to ensure a safe riding environment for e-scooters and pedestrians in Seoul on Nov. 9, 2020. (Yonhap)
The city government said it has installed 111 additional traffic signs and fixed or installed street lamps in 15 dark spots.
Personal transporters are only allowed on roads and bicycle lanes and their use anywhere else will be subject to a 50,000-won (US$46) fine.
The city government said all areas of Han River parks will be a no-return zone for rented personal transporters to ensure the safety of pedestrians.
The revision bill on road traffic also requires e-scooter riders to get a driver's license for motorized bicycles.
The move came as a lack of safety regulations on the increasingly popular vehicles poses a threat to pedestrians as well as e-scooters themselves.
Under the revision, people younger than 16 are banned from riding e-scooters, because they are not legally allowed to get the relevant type of license.
This image, provided by Yonhap News TV, shows electric scooters. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)
People ride bicycles at Ttukseom Han River Park in eastern Seoul on Oct. 9, 2020. (Yonhap)
nyway@yna.co.kr
(END)


Yonhap News Summary

Biegun made the remarks during his talks with Vice Foreign Minister Choi Jong-kun , as he kicked off his official @ @ @ @ @ be his last trip to Seoul in his current capacity as the State Department 's @ @ @ @ @ its top nuclear negotiator .

The following is the second summary of major stories moved by Yonhap News Agency on Wednesday.
-------------------------------
(2nd LD) New infections near 700 despite enhanced social distancing rules
SEOUL -- South Korea's new virus cases neared 700 on Wednesday on soaring community infections in the greater Seoul area despite toughened social distancing measures.
The country reported 686 new virus cases, including 662 domestically transmitted ones, raising the total caseload to 39,432, according to the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA).
-------------------------------
(2nd LD) S. Korea confirms 6th highly pathogenic bird flu case from farms
SEOUL -- South Korea said Wednesday it has confirmed the sixth case of highly pathogenic bird flu from a duck farm, raising concerns over the disease penetrating deeper into the local livestock industry.
Local authorities identified the latest case from Naju, 355 kilometers south of Seoul, according to the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs. The country has been reporting highly pathogenic cases from different regions, ranging from Gyeonggi Province to South Jeolla Province.
-------------------------------
(LEAD) Ruling party seeks to pass controversial bills at plenary session
SEOUL -- The ruling Democratic Party (DP) was poised to push for the passage of a set of controversial bills through the National Assembly's plenary session Wednesday despite fierce protests from the conservative main opposition bloc.
The main opposition People Power Party (PPP) requested a filibuster to block the passage of five bills during the plenary session scheduled for 2 p.m., a parliamentary source told Yonhap News Agency. The DP currently holds a majority in the 300-member assembly.
-------------------------------
(2nd LD) Biegun says he looks forward to 'close cooperation' with S. Korea ahead of Biden inauguration
SEOUL -- U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Stephen Biegun said Wednesday that he looks forward to "close cooperation" with South Korea "in the weeks and months ahead," as Seoul seeks to reignite nuclear diplomacy with North Korea when the incoming Joe Biden administration takes office next month.
Biegun made the remarks during his talks with Vice Foreign Minister Choi Jong-kun, as he kicked off his official schedule here on what could be his last trip to Seoul in his current capacity as the State Department's No. 2 man and its top nuclear negotiator.
-------------------------------
S. Korean cinemas expected to log sharply lower attendance in 2020 due to pandemic
SEOUL -- No longer basking in the glow of a flourishing film industry, South Korea is expected to log the lowest number of moviegoers in over a decade this year due to the impact of the new coronavirus pandemic.
As of Wednesday, the total number of moviegoers for this year was tallied at 58.4 million, a mere 25.8 percent of that of 2019, according to data from the Korean Film Council (KOFIC).
-------------------------------
(LEAD) Seoul stocks close at record high on vaccine hopes, U.S. stimulus talks
SEOUL -- South Korean stocks closed at an all-time high Wednesday, driven by progress of COVID-19 vaccines amid optimism over U.S. stimulus talks. The Korean won rose against the U.S. dollar.
The benchmark Korea Composite Stock Price Index (KOSPI) rose 54.54 points, or 2.02 percent, to close at 2,755.47.
-------------------------------
KBO GMs propose starting 2021 season in April
SEOUL -- General managers of the 10 South Korean baseball clubs have proposed starting the new season in April.
Those 10 officials met for their Korea Baseball Organization (KBO) executive committee meeting Tuesday to discuss the schedule for the new season and other issues.
--------------------------------
Ruling party unveils phased plan for relocating National Assembly to Sejong
SEOUL -- The ruling Democratic Party (DP) on Wednesday unveiled a plan to relocate the National Assembly from Seoul to the administrative city of Sejong, as part of balanced regional development initiatives, and envisioned that Seoul be developed as the country's financial center.
At a briefing, the DP task force on the parliament relocation plan said that it would pursue the relocation of the entire legislative branch to the self-governing city, some 160 kilometers south of Seoul, in a phased manner.
--------------------------------
Samsung ranks fourth in Q3 wearables market: report
SEOUL -- Samsung Electronics Co. was the fourth-largest vendor of wearable devices in the third quarter of the year, a market report showed Wednesday, amid soaring global demand for wearables.
Samsung shipped 11.2 million units of wearable devices in the July-September period, up 32.2 percent from a year earlier, for a market share of 9 percent, according to the latest report from market tracker International Data Corp. (IDC).
--------------------------------
Singer Chungha to postpone album release after testing positive for coronavirus
SEOUL -- Singer Chungha, who has tested positive for the novel coronavirus, will postpone the release of her single and first studio album, slated for this week and early next year, respectively, her agency said Wednesday.
"We decided to put off the scheduled launch of her album," MNH Entertainment said in an announcement posted on a fansite.
(END)


yna--2020-12-09--(2nd LD) Biegun says he looks forward to 'close cooperation' with S. Korea ahead of Biden inaugurati

(2nd LD) Biegun says he looks forward to 'close cooperation' with S. Korea ahead of Biden inauguration

`` Our work together over two and a half years is a story of the leadership of President Moon , @ @ @ @ @ Jong-un , leaders willing to step outside the expected norms through leader-level engagement and predictable @ @ @ @ @ try to advance a bold new vision through the leader-level engagement , and one that @ @ @ @ @ working on and one we are not done with , '' he said .

(ATTN: RECASTS headline, lead; UPDATES throughout; TRIMS)
By Song Sang-ho
SEOUL, Dec. 9 (Yonhap) -- U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Stephen Biegun said Wednesday that he looks forward to "close cooperation" with South Korea "in the weeks and months ahead," as Seoul seeks to reignite nuclear diplomacy with North Korea when the incoming Joe Biden administration takes office next month.
Biegun made the remarks during his talks with Vice Foreign Minister Choi Jong-kun, as he kicked off his official schedule here on what could be his last trip to Seoul in his current capacity as the State Department's No. 2 man and its top nuclear negotiator.
Just hours ahead of their meeting, Kim Yo-jong, the sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, struck a jarring note with her stinging rebuke of Foreign Minister Kang Kyung-wha's recent remarks on the North's COVID-19 situation.
"We've done a lot of great work together and there's a lot of great work ahead for the United States and the Republic of Korea (ROK)," Biegun said at the start of the talks with Choi.
"I look forward to continuing close cooperation with you and your team in the weeks and months ahead," he added.
U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Stephen Biegun speaks during a meeting with Vice Foreign Minister Choi Jong-kun at the foreign ministry in Seoul on Dec. 9, 2020. (Pool photo) (Yonhap)
Biegun refrained from any open remarks on North Korea issues, saying he would offer detailed remarks on "where we are today" during his lecture at a local think tank slated for Thursday.
"Let me just say that in those remarks, I am looking forward to talking about the great cooperation between the U.S. and Republic of Korea not only on the alliance issues, but relations with North Korea and also combating and recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic," he said.
Choi underscored the two countries' yearslong efforts to chart an "irreversible" path toward peace on the divided peninsula.
"During the time of your service, this past two plus years, the Trump and Moon administrations have achieved so much. Both the U.S. and ROK have started on what I consider as an irreversible path toward peace making on the Korean peninsula," he said.
"I'm sure North Korea knows this as well as we do. Shooting for the stars has made our alliance even stronger. We're a rock-solid linchpin of peace and security in Northeast Asia," he added.
Choi also asked Biegun to play a role as a "bridge" to ensure that achievements in bilateral cooperation over recent years can continue under the next U.S. government.
As for the achievements, Choi pointed to progress in the Korea peace process, common ground between Seoul's New Southern Policy and Washington's Indo-Pacific Strategy and anti-virus efforts.
Biegun said that "regardless of a change of government," trust between Seoul and Washington will remain solid, and called for best efforts to stably manage the Korean Peninsula situation and pending alliance issues, the foreign ministry said.
During his talks with Seoul's top nuclear envoy, Lee Do-hoon, later in the day, Biegun praised the leaders of the two Koreas and the U.S. for their willingness to "step outside expected norms."
"Our work together over two and a half years is a story of the leadership of President Moon, President Trump and Chairman Kim Jong-un, leaders willing to step outside the expected norms through leader-level engagement and predictable behaviors of the past, try to advance a bold new vision through the leader-level engagement, and one that we are still very much working on and one we are not done with," he said.
"But it's also a story of two allies, the United States and Republic of Korea, who for 70 years, have worked side by side to advance peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula and hope to generously extend that prosperity and stability to the north," he added.
Lee looked back on the peninsula situation, casting it as having been "rollercoaster rides of ups and downs," while praising the allies' pursuit of dialogue with the North and their "seamless" coordination.
Biegun and Lee plan to have dinner together.
Before Biegun's visit to the foreign ministry, Kim, the North Korean leader's sister, lambasted Foreign Minister Kang's recent comment that Pyongyang's claim of no COVID-19 cases is hard to believe. Kim warned Kang "might have to pay dearly for it."
During his stay in Seoul, the deputy secretary also plans to meet other senior Seoul officials.
On Thursday, Biegun is set to have a breakfast meeting with Unification Minister Lee In-young. He is also expected to meet with senior presidential officials and Kent Harstedt, the Swedish special envoy for the Korean Peninsula, during his trip here.
On Friday, Foreign Minister Kang plans to host a dinner for Biegun at her official residence.
Biegun will depart for the United States on Saturday morning.
First Vice Foreign Minister Choi Jong-kun (R) and U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Stephen Biegun pose for a photo before their talks at the foreign ministry in Seoul on Dec. 9, 2020. (Pool photo) (Yonhap)
sshluck@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-12-09--Singer Chungha to postpone album release after testing positive for coronavirus

SEOUL , Dec. 9 ( Yonhap ) -- Singer Chungha , who has tested positive for the novel coronavirus , @ @ @ @ @ her single and first studio album , slated for this week and early next year @ @ @ @ @ said Wednesday .

SEOUL, Dec. 9 (Yonhap) -- Singer Chungha, who has tested positive for the novel coronavirus, will postpone the release of her single and first studio album, slated for this week and early next year, respectively, her agency said Wednesday.
"We decided to put off the scheduled launch of her album," MNH Entertainment said in an announcement posted on a fansite.
Chungha, one of the most bankable female solo artists in K-pop, was originally set to release the single "X" on Thursday before dropping her first full-length album "Querencia" next month.
Since testing positive for COVID-19 on Monday, she has canceled her promotional activities and gone into self-isolation, according to MNH Entertainment.
Meanwhile, many K-pop artists who have come into contact with Chungha, including Sana of TWICE, have tested negative for the new coronavirus.
This file photo taken Oct. 15, 2020, shows K-pop singer Chungha. (Yonhap)
brk@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-12-09--N.K. allows pilgrimage to Mt. Paekdu despite heightened alert against virus

Last week , state media said that Pyongyang had been placed on the highest level of alert against the coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ public facilities , such as restaurants and public bathhouses , and restricting the movement of @ @ @ @ @

SEOUL, Dec. 9 (Yonhap) -- North Korea appears be allowing pilgrimages to Mount Paekdu despite tough antivirus measures, state media showed Wednesday, in an apparent bid to strengthen internal unity amid its prolonged fight against COVID-19.
Mount Paekdu, located along the border with China, is claimed to be the birthplace of leader Kim Jong-un's late father and former leader Kim Jong-il. The mountain is also regarded as a sacred place where his late grandfather and state founder Kim Il-sung staged an anti-Japanese fight during the 1910-45 colonial rule.
The state-run Radio Pyongyang reported Wednesday that several dozen workers, soldiers and officials, including those from the People's Committee of the northwestern province of Jagang, visited the mountain within a little over a month since the trips began on Nov. 1.
The outlet stressed that the pilgrimage was planned with a "focus on strictly keeping the emergency antivirus measures."
The pilgrimage draws attention as the North has maintained tough antivirus measures.
Last week, state media said that Pyongyang had been placed on the highest level of alert against the coronavirus, suspending the operation of public facilities, such as restaurants and public bathhouses, and restricting the movement of people in the capital.
The pilgrimage appears to reflect the North's efforts to tighten social discipline and rally internal unity amid multiple challenges, including its ongoing antivirus campaign, devastation caused by typhoons and economic woes from global sanctions.
North Korea has claimed to be coronavirus-free, but it has maintained its tight border closure since earlier this year.
This photo, released by the Korean Central News Agency, shows deputies of North Korea's Supreme People's Assembly climbing Mount Paekdu bordering China on an expedition to revolutionary battle sites on Feb. 26, 2020. (For Use Only in the Republic of Korea. No Redistribution) (Yonhap)
Members of a propaganda unit of North Korea's ruling Workers' Party march in a long line on a study tour of Mount. Paekdu in this photo released by the state-run Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) on Dec. 11, 2019. (For Use Only in the Republic of Korea. No Redistribution) (Yonhap)
julesyi@yna.co.kr
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yna--2020-12-10--Foreigners remain net buyers of S. Korean stocks in November

SEOUL , Dec. 10 ( Yonhap ) -- Foreign investors extended a net purchase of South Korean equities for the @ @ @ @ @ , supported by hopes of a global economic recovery from the coronavirus pandemic , the @ @ @ @ @

SEOUL, Dec. 10 (Yonhap) -- Foreign investors extended a net purchase of South Korean equities for the second consecutive month in November, supported by hopes of a global economic recovery from the coronavirus pandemic, the central bank said Thursday.
Foreigners bought a net US$5.52 billion worth of local stocks last month, compared with a net purchase of $1.38 billion in October, according to the Bank of Korea (BOK).
Offshore investors became net sellers of Korean bonds worth $450 million last month, the BOK said.
Meanwhile, volatility in South Korea's currency rose in November from the previous month, the central bank said.
The daily fluctuation of the dollar-won exchange rate came to an average of 4.1 won last month, up from 3.4 won a month earlier.
The Korean won appreciated 4.6 percent against the U.S. dollar in November, compared with September.
Situations for the country's foreign currency borrowing remained sound as the spread charged on local banks' short-term, as well as mid- and long-term, overseas borrowing declined, the BOK said.
The spread on credit default swaps for South Korea's five-year dollar-denominated currency stabilization bonds came in at 23 basis points in November, slightly down from 25 basis points a month earlier.
kdh@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-12-10--Winter virus wave likely to derail consumption recovery: BOK

Although the rollout of coronavirus vaccines in Britain raised hopes that the world may turn a corner in its yearlong @ @ @ @ @ the BOK said , `` More verifications on their safety are needed . ''

SEOUL, Dec. 10 (Yonhap) -- The Bank of Korea (BOK) warned Thursday that a winter wave of coronavirus outbreaks is likely to hurt the fragile recovery of private consumption.
The BOK also took a cautious tone on progress in the global coronavirus vaccine campaign, saying it will take more time to speed up the distribution of vaccines worldwide.
South Korea, which has largely brought outbreaks under control, has been facing a resurgence of virus cases in recent weeks, with the nation reporting more than 600 daily new cases on average.
"There is a possibility that a resurgence of coronavirus infections could weaken a recovery of consumption," the BOK said in a monetary policy report.
South Korea has inked deals with global drugmakers to secure COVID-19 vaccines for 44 million people.
Although the rollout of coronavirus vaccines in Britain raised hopes that the world may turn a corner in its yearlong battle against the pandemic, the BOK said, "More verifications on their safety are needed."
People form a line to receive COVID-19 tests at a public health center in Seoul on Dec. 9, 2020, when the number of new cases hit 686, the highest since February. (Yonhap)
Last month, the BOK held its policy rate unchanged at a record low of 0.5 percent, while slightly revising up this year's economic outlook, amid growing concerns over the nation's third wave of coronavirus infections.
Driven by signs of a modest recovery in exports, the BOK revised up this year's economic growth outlook to a 1.1 percent contraction, compared with a previous forecast of a 1.3 percent retreat.
The BOK expected the economy to grow 3 percent next year, faster than a previous forecast of a 2.8 percent expansion for 2021.
The BOK predicted that consumer prices may grow 0.5 percent this year, slightly up from its previous forecast of a 0.4 percent gain.
kdh@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-12-10--Over 40 pct of newlyweds had no kids last year: data

Of 998,000 first-time and newly married couples -- who had been legally married in the five years up to Nov. @ @ @ @ @ percent had no kids , according to the data compiled by Statistics Korea .

SEOUL, Dec. 10 (Yonhap) -- More than 4 out of every 10 newlywed couples in South Korea had no children last year, data showed Thursday, amid the country's chronic low birthrate and the trend of late marriages.
Of 998,000 first-time and newly married couples -- who had been legally married in the five years up to Nov. 1, 2019, 42.5 percent had no kids, according to the data compiled by Statistics Korea.
This marked a rise from 40.2 percent in 2018, when such newlyweds reached 1.05 million.
South Korea is struggling with a decline in child births as many young people delay marriage or give up getting married or having babies amid a prolonged economic slowdown.
The country's total fertility rate -- the average number of children a woman bears in her lifetime -- hit a fresh record low of 0.92 in 2019, marking the second straight year for the rate to drop below 1.
The number of newborns by the newlyweds averaged 0.71 in 2019, down from 0.74 a year earlier, the data showed, reflecting the country's low birthrate.
Among newlywed couples who both work, 47.6 percent were childless in 2019, while the corresponding rate was 36.6 percent for couples with a single breadwinner.
Whether to possess houses also affected child births, the data showed. Newlyweds who have their own homes had an average of 0.79 newborn, higher than 0.65 for newly married couples without a home.
Meanwhile, of the newly married people, double-income couples reached 490,000 as of end-October 2019, accounting for 49.1 percent of the total.
The newlyweds also earned a yearly average income of 57.1 million won (US$52,500) in 2019, up 3.7 percent from a year earlier.
Of them, 24.3 percent earned between 30 million won and 50 million won, followed by 22.5 percent having income between 50 million won and 70 million won.
They also took loans worth 112 million won on average from financial institutions last year, up 12.1 percent from a year earlier, amid rising housing prices.
The total number of newlyweds that comprise first-time and remarried couples reached 1.26 million last year, down 4.7 percent from a year earlier, the data showed.
sooyeon@yna.co.kr
(END)


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yna--2020-12-10--(LEAD) Samsung unveils new 110-inch Micro LED TV

Samsung first launched its Micro LED display in 2018 under the brand named The Wall for commercial use , but @ @ @ @ @ deliver the product for home cinema use as well .

(ATTN: ADDS 2nd photo, more info in paras 3-4, 7-9, 12-16)
SEOUL, Dec. 10 (Yonhap) -- Samsung Electronics Co. on Thursday unveiled a new Micro LED TV as the South Korean tech giant targets high-end consumers seeking a better home entertainment experience.
Samsung's 110-inch Micro LED TV will be priced at 170 million won (US$156,400) here. Preorders for the latest luxury TV will begin later this month, with the official launch slated for the first quarter of 2021.
Samsung said it aims to sell the new Micro LED TV in markets like the United States, the Middle East and some European countries but will expand its global availability.
"Samsung aims to create and lead this Micro LED TV market," said Chu Jong-suk, an executive vice president of Samsung's visual display business at an online event. "We believe we could achieve a meaningful number of sales for the product."
A Micro LED TV uses micrometer-sized LED chips as singular pixels that can also self-illuminate, providing better resolution and higher clarity. But unlike organic light-emitting diode displays, it uses inorganic material that minimizes luminance decay concerns.
Samsung first launched its Micro LED display in 2018 under the brand named The Wall for commercial use, but it has been trying to deliver the product for home cinema use as well.
Unlike its B2B Micro LED product, Samsung said installation and calibration are streamlined since the new 110-inch Micro LED TV is prefabricated.
This photo provided by Samsung Electronics Co. on Dec. 10, 2020, shows the company's new 110-inch Micro LED TV. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)
The world's largest TV maker added it has applied advanced surface mount technology for LED chips, along with a new production process derived from its semiconductor business to commercialize the new Micro LED TV and that it has secured solutions to make smaller Micro LED TVs.
Samsung said it is reviewing options of releasing Micro LED TVs with screen sizes ranging from 70 inches to 100 inches in the future.
Samsung said its 110-inch Micro LED TV used more than 8 million RGB LED chips in a 3.3-square-meter area, securing 4K resolution quality. The product is also equipped with a micro AI processor, which uses artificial intelligence algorithms to deliver better upscaling qualities.
Its latest Micro LED TV features a 4Vue function, in which users can split the 110-inch display into four different 50-inch screens and enjoy multiple content at the same time.
Samsung's new Micro LED TV also has a monolith design that removes bezels from the display for an immersive content experience.
This photo provided by Samsung Electronics Co. on Dec. 10, 2020, shows company executives explaining Samsung's new 110-inch Micro LED TV at an online event in South Korea. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)
Samsung said it will pursue various marketing to promote the new Micro LED TV to high-end consumers.
"We are not going to sell the product like normal LCD TVs," Chu said.
Asked about its expensive price, Samsung said it will go down "dramatically" if more brands participate in the Micro LED TV market.
According to industry tracker Display Supply Chain Consultants (DSCC), worldwide revenue from Micro LED TVs is expected to grow sharply in the upcoming years, rising from around US$25 million this year to around US$228 million by 2026.
kdon@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-12-10--Seoul stocks trim losses late Thursday morning amid volatility

The fall was led by shares of tech giants , tracking a 1.94 percent overnight plunge on the Nasdaq composite @ @ @ @ @ Commission 's antitrust lawsuit against Facebook curtailed investor appetite for tech heavyweights .

SEOUL, Dec. 10 (Yonhap) -- South Korea's benchmark stock index trimmed most of its earlier losses from the overnight Wall Street tech plunge and vaccine concerns amid uncertainties over the quadruple expiration of key stock derivatives.
The Korea Composite Stock Price Index fell 4.57 points, or 0.17 percent, to 2,750.9 as of 11:20 a.m.
The fall was led by shares of tech giants, tracking a 1.94 percent overnight plunge on the Nasdaq composite. The U.S. Federal Trade Commission's antitrust lawsuit against Facebook curtailed investor appetite for tech heavyweights.
The index erased part of the losses, however, led by advances by auto and construction heavyweights.
Analysts said uncertainties increased on the expiration day of four key derivatives, including KOSPI and KOSDAQ-tracking options and futures.
Most large caps traded lower in Seoul.
Market behemoth Samsung Electronics dropped 0.68 percent, and No. 2 chipmaker SK hynix shed 2.49 percent.
Chemical firm LG Chem lost 1.56 percent, while rechargeable battery maker Samsung SDI edged up 0.18 percent.
Pharmaceutical giant Samsung Biologics retreated 0.73 percent, but Celltrion advanced 1.7 percent.
Internet giant Naver shed 0.17 percent, while its rival Kakao added 0.27 percent.
Top automaker Hyundai Motor gained 0.52 percent, with its smaller affiliate Kia Motors going up 0.78 percent.
The local currency was trading at 1,086.85 won against the U.S. dollar, down 2.05 won from the previous session's close.
jwc@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-12-10--Experts call for expanding hallyu infrastructure at home

SEOUL , Dec. 10 ( Yonhap ) -- Despite the rising status of hallyu , or the wave of Korean @ @ @ @ @ world , relevant support infrastructure at home has failed to catch up , hallyu experts @ @ @ @ @ the immediate construction of a K-pop concert arena and hallyu big data center , among @ @ @

SEOUL, Dec. 10 (Yonhap) -- Despite the rising status of hallyu, or the wave of Korean pop culture, across the world, relevant support infrastructure at home has failed to catch up, hallyu experts said Thursday, calling for the immediate construction of a K-pop concert arena and hallyu big data center, among other measures.
The Korea Culture and Tourism Institute (KCTI), a think tank affiliated with the culture ministry, said the construction of a hallyu big data center will elevate the cultural hallyu industry to higher ground by helping policymakers and industry executives utilize its vast data.
KCTI also said facility infrastructure for hallyu tourism, such as K-pop concert arenas and pop culture museums, are greatly insufficient.
"All hallyu-related data should be accumulated by a big data center," said Chae Ji-young, a researcher of the KCTI, at Global Korea Convention 2020, an international forum that kicked off in Seoul on Wednesday for a three-day run to share South Korea's achievements in global cooperation and explore its future roles and challenges.
"Hallyu began more than 20 years ago, but the accumulation of related data has been partially attempted or stopped prematurely in most cases," Chae said.
She pointed out that pop culture content should not be neglected any longer, expressing a wish for the construction of a national pop culture museum or archive.
She also regretted that the nation has yet to construct a K-pop concert arena, though K-pop superstar BTS has been performing around the world.
This file photo, provided by CJ LiveCity, shows a rendering of a K-pop concert arena to be built near Seoul by 2023. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)
A project to build a 42,000-seat concert arena in Goyang, just north of Seoul, has just recently been announced, with its completion slated for 2023.
An executive from South Korean entertainment giant CJ E&M also said at the convention that a lack of information very often hinders entry into new markets and that systematically organized data on hallyu would be of great help.
During the convention, other experts, including those from the Korea Tourism Organization, exchanged views on ways to promote the combination of hallyu and the nation's historical culture.
ycm@yna.co.kr
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yna--2020-12-10--Military to dispatch hundreds of officers to support antivirus work

Starting Friday , a total of 362 officers from the Army 's special warfare command will be sent to public @ @ @ @ @ metropolitan region to help their antivirus work , including contact tracing and data management , @ @ @ @ @

SEOUL, Dec. 10 (Yonhap) -- The defense ministry said Thursday it will dispatch over 300 military officials to help with the government's handling of the resurgence of the new coronavirus.
Starting Friday, a total of 362 officers from the Army's special warfare command will be sent to public health centers in the Seoul metropolitan region to help their antivirus work, including contact tracing and data management, according to the ministry.
The move comes as South Korea is struggling to stem the spread of COVID-19, with daily infections approaching near 700.
On Thursday, South Korea added 682 new virus cases, the third-highest figure since the country reported its first new coronavirus case in January. It raised the total caseload to 40,098.
President Moon Jae-in earlier ordered the government to mobilize "every available" workforce to enhance capabilities for tracing the virus.
The military, meanwhile, reported nine additional virus cases at an Army base in the border county of Cheorwon where cluster infections broke out.
Another soldier in the western city of Incheon also tested positive while in quarantine after coming into contact with a colleague who was later confirmed to have contracted the virus.
The total number of virus cases among the military population rose to 442.
People wait in line to get tested at a coronavirus test center in downtown Seoul on Dec. 6, 2020. (Yonhap)
scaaet@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-12-10--N. Korea likely to propose beefed-up 'self-reliance' drive at party congress: think tank

The think tank pointed out that the North is expected to boost its frontal breakthrough campaign as the incoming Biden @ @ @ @ @ focus on domestic challenges than on nuclear talks with Pyongyang at the start of its @ @ @ @ @ the coronavirus pandemic waning .

SEOUL, Dec. 10 (Yonhap) -- North Korea is likely to propose a beefed-up drive for "self-reliance" at the upcoming party congress to bolster its faltering economy under the strain of global sanctions and the fallout from the global pandemic, a Seoul-based think tank said Thursday.
The Institute for Far Eastern Studies at Kyungnam University also said that the January-February period will be a "golden time" to make progress in the stalled nuclear talks and inter-Korean ties.
The North is expected to hold a rare party congress next month to unveil a new economic development scheme. Observers say that it could disclose new policy direction toward the U.S. and South Korea ahead of the inauguration of the Joe Biden administration in the United States.
"It is highly likely that they will propose an upgraded 'frontal breakthrough 2.0' that further strengthens its self-reliance to show that sanctions have no effect," the institute said in a report.
Last year, North Korean leader Kim Jong-un called for a "frontal breakthrough" in building a self-reliant economy amid little hope for lifting of global sanctions after his no-deal summit with U.S. President Donald Trump in February of the same year.
The think tank pointed out that the North is expected to boost its frontal breakthrough campaign as the incoming Biden administration is more likely to focus on domestic challenges than on nuclear talks with Pyongyang at the start of its term amid dim prospects of the coronavirus pandemic waning.
It also said Seoul could "miss the right opportunity" to make progress in the peace process if they wait until the Tokyo Summer Olympics, which kick off in July, urging its proactive push for coordination on North Korea policy with Washington.
The Tokyo Olympics were seen as an opportunity to resume talks with the North as was the case with the 2018 PyeongChang Winter Olympics, which led to the historic first-ever summit between Kim and U.S. President Donald Trump.
"The January-February period, and the first half of the year at the latest, will be the 'golden time' that will determine the future of U.S.-North Korea relations and inter-Korean relations," the think tank said.
"It is important for President Moon Jae-in and President-elect Joe Biden to meet to coordinate policies on North Korea and finalize measures for cooperation at the earliest date possible," it added.
This photo, released by the North's Korean Central News Agency on Jan. 22, 2020, shows one of the new propaganda posters highlighting the important tasks set forth at the fifth plenary meeting of the 7th Central Committee of North Korea's ruling Workers' Party early this year. This poster reads, "Self-reliance. Self-prosperity. Let's break through all hardships that hinder our progress." (For Use Only in the Republic of Korea. No Redistribution) (Yonhap)
julesyi@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-12-10--The Korea Interbank Offered Rates (KORIBOR)

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

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


yna--2020-12-10--S. Korea to send chartered flights to Singapore with strawberry shipments

`` Due to the prolonged COVID-19 pandemic , local farms and businesses are facing troubles in exporting strawberries .
The @ @ @ @ @ for them to send strawberries to Singapore , '' the ministry said in a statement @

By Kang Yoon-seung
SEOUL, Dec. 10 (Yonhap) -- South Korea's agricultural ministry said Thursday it will send chartered flights to Singapore to support exports of strawberries, as local farmers have been facing troubles in shipping their produce amid the new coronavirus pandemic.
Under the plan, South Korea plans to send Korean Air Lines Co.'s planes weekly through April to promote the exports of strawberries, according to the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs.
The move came as the COVID-19 pandemic has virtually suspended global air travel, hindering outbound shipments of fresh produce.
A farmer picks strawberries at a farm in Nonsan, 213 kilometers south of Seoul, on Dec. 9, 2020. (Yonhap)
The first batch of strawberries will be sent Friday, with a goal of sending 1,072 tons of the product over the next five months.
Singapore is the second-largest export destination of strawberries for South Korea. In 2019, the country shipped 1,421 tons of berries worth US$13.7 million, according to the Korea Agro-Fisheries & Food Trade Corp.
"Due to the prolonged COVID-19 pandemic, local farms and businesses are facing troubles in exporting strawberries. The agreement will pave the way for them to send strawberries to Singapore," the ministry said in a statement.
South Korea said it will also consider exporting strawberries via ships. Currently, nearly all of the volume is sent via air.
The ministry said it will continue to work with Korean Air to expand such flights to other countries as well.
The agricultural sector has been among a handful of winners for South Korea's exports amid the economic jitters from the virus pandemic.
Outbound shipments of the area rose nearly 7 percent on-year over the January-November period, setting a fresh high despite the pandemic.
colin@yna.co.kr
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yna--2020-12-10--S. Korea to spend over 400 bln won in XR industry in 2021

While South Korean companies have so far focused on VR and AR content , the government hopes to develop the @ @ @ @ @ of industries as part of its digital New Deal program that aims to spend 58.2 @ @ @ @ @ industries to create some 900,000 jobs by 2025 .

SEOUL, Dec. 10 (Yonhap) -- South Korea said Thursday it will spend more than 400 billion won (US$371 million) next year in the extended reality (XR) industry, such as augmented reality (AR) glasses and virtual reality (VR) content, setting its sights on leading the budding tech sector.
The Ministry of Science and ICT said the government has set aside a total of 403 billion won for next year to boost XR development, which includes spending 44.6 billion won to integrate XR technology in key sectors, such as manufacturing, health care, construction, education, retail and defense.
While South Korean companies have so far focused on VR and AR content, the government hopes to develop the technology to accelerate digital transformation of industries as part of its digital New Deal program that aims to spend 58.2 trillion won in key tech industries to create some 900,000 jobs by 2025.
This file photo provided by LG Uplus Corp. on June 4, 2019, shows augmented reality content being filmed. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)
XR technology is expected to add $476.4 billion to the global economy in 2025, according to global accounting and consulting firm PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC).
The ministry said it ultimately aims for the homegrown XR industry to create an economic effect of 30 trillion won by 2025.
The government said it will support projects such as training health care professionals via VR and introducing XR and artificial intelligence-based test laboratories for elementary, middle and high schools nationwide.
The technology will also be tested in military training, such as drills in a VR-based submarine environment.
The government added it will create a 40 billion-won investment fund for the XR industry with support from the private sector.
The ICT ministry also plans to spend over 22 billion won next year to develop AR glasses for industrial and casual settings, aiming for complete products by 2025.
Local carrier LG Uplus currently sells AR glasses in South Korea that were developed by Chinese company Nreal.
yunhwanchae@yna.co.kr
(END)