yna--2020-11-12--Hanjin Heavy workers call for job security as creditors seek to sell

The union representing the majority of workers at Hanjin Heavy said in its newsletter that the job security and the @ @ @ @ @ company should be proposed .

By Nam Kwang-sik
SEOUL, Nov. 12 (Yonhap) -- Unionized workers at Hanjin Heavy Industries & Construction Co. said Thursday that their jobs should be retained even after the company is sold off.
On Oct. 26, the Korea Development Bank (KDB), the main creditor of Hanjin Heavy, finalized the preliminary bid to sell a controlling stake in the shipbuilder.
Seven preliminary bidders, including private equity funds and Korea Real Estate Investment & Trust Co., reportedly joined the bid to buy all or part of the 83.45 percent stake in Hanjin Heavy Industries.
The stake up for sale is owned by seven local financial institutions, including KDB, and three Filipino financial institutions that include Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation via debt-for-equity swap.
This file photo shows a shipyard of Hanjin Heavy Industries Co. in Busan, about 453 kilometers southeast of Seoul. (Yonhap)
The union representing the majority of workers at Hanjin Heavy said in its newsletter that the job security and the future plan to revive the company should be proposed.
Civic groups in Busan, where the shipyard of Hanjin Heavy is located, have been worried that the shipyard may turn into an apartment complex after being sold to private equity funds.
According to the union, the bidders will study the books of Hanjin Heavy this month, while creditors plan to pick up the preferred bidder for the stake next month.
The stake sale is expected to take two or three months to be concluded after gaining permission from authorities, including the country's arms procurement agency Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA).
KDB picked local accounting firm Samil PricewaterhouseCoopers and KDB's mergers and acquisitions consulting team as managers for the stake sale.
ksnam@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-11-12--Vice FMs of S. Korea, Japan agree on need for close communication: ministry

In the phone talks , Seoul 's Vice Foreign Minister Choi Jong-kun and his Japanese counterpart , Takeo Akiba , @ @ @ @ @ have continued dialogue and exchanges since their leaders agreed to improve bilateral relations in their @ @ @ @ @ , the ministry said in a release .

SEOUL, Nov. 12 (Yonhap) -- The vice foreign ministers of South Korea and Japan spoke over the phone on Thursday and agreed on the need for close communication and dialogue, the ministry said, amid a protracted row over wartime forced labor.
In the phone talks, Seoul's Vice Foreign Minister Choi Jong-kun and his Japanese counterpart, Takeo Akiba, noted that the two countries have continued dialogue and exchanges since their leaders agreed to improve bilateral relations in their recent phone talks in September, the ministry said in a release.
They shared the understanding that the governments of the two countries should continue to closely communicate on issues related to the COVID-19 pandemic, the upcoming Tokyo Olympics and the Korean Peninsula, the ministry said.
Choi wished for a successful hosting of the Olympics, and the Japanese minister expressed appreciation in turn, the ministry added.
Relations between Seoul and Tokyo remain badly frayed after South Korea's top court in 2018 ordered Japanese companies to compensate Korean victims of forced labor during Japan's 1910-45 colonization of the Korean Peninsula.
Concerns are growing that victims' move to sell off the Japanese firms' seized assets in Korea for compensation could aggravate bilateral tensions.
In Thursday's talks, Choi reiterated the need for Japan's swift retraction of export restrictions and Seoul's position on the issue of wartime forced labor, according to the ministry.
Seoul has said it honors the 2018 top court rulings that ordered Japanese companies to compensate Korean victims. But Tokyo has argued that all reparation issues stemming from its colonial rule were settled under a 1965 treaty that normalized bilateral relations.
This file photo shows Vice Foreign Minister Choi Jong-kun speaking during a parliamentary session in Seoul on Oct. 26, 2020. (Yonhap)
elly@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-11-12--S. Korea to handle US$963 mln Bangladesh infrastructure project

In the consortium , Daewoo Engineering & Construction Co. and Hyundai Engineering & Construction Co. will participate in the construction @ @ @ @ @ Bridge and a 21 kilometer-long road , while Korea Expressway Corp. will offer maintenance and @ @ @ @ @ for 20-30 years after construction , the Ministry of Land , Infrastructure and Transport said @ @ @ @

SEOUL, Nov. 12 (Yonhap) -- A South Korean consortium has won the exclusive rights to proceed with a US$963 million infrastructure project in Bangladesh, the transport ministry said Thursday.
In the consortium, Daewoo Engineering & Construction Co. and Hyundai Engineering & Construction Co. will participate in the construction of a bridge named Meghna Bridge and a 21 kilometer-long road, while Korea Expressway Corp. will offer maintenance and repair services for the facilities for 20-30 years after construction, the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport said in a statement.
The Korea Overseas Infrastructure & Urban Development Corp. (KIND) plans to conduct a feasibility study by the end of 2021 to push forward the project, it said.
"The (Seoul) government will form a task force team within this year to finalize details of the project, such as toll fees. Once the construction begins, it will take about four years before completion," a ministry official said over the phone.
KIND and Bangladesh's Public Private Partnership Authority signed a memorandum of understanding in April last year for cooperation in developing infrastructure in Bangladesh, it said.
Under the initial contract, Korea won the exclusive rights to proceed with three separate infrastructure projects worth $9.2 billion in January this year.
kyongae.choi@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-11-12--The Moomins brought to life in Seoul exhibition celebrating 75th anniversary

`` In this precarious time , it 's important to think like a Moomin and find joy in the small @ @ @ @ @ think the Moomins will us help think that there is always , always a sun @ @ @ @ @ even when it 's storming right now , '' he said , urging people to @ @ @ @ @ .

By Lee Minji
SEOUL, Nov. 12 (Yonhap) -- "But one needs a change sometimes. We take everything too much for granted, including each other."
Perhaps this quote by Moominmamma from the book "Moominpappa at Sea" is one of the most relatable phrases for many of us that are going through an unprecedented pandemic that has triggered social distancing and lockdowns across the globe.
The lovable and philosophical characters created by the late Finnish author and illustrator Tove Jansson (1914-2001) are set to go on an exhibition in Seoul starting Friday.
This image, provided by Media & Art, shows a poster for the Moomins exhibition set to begin on Nov. 13, 2020. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)
The exhibition, curated in line with the 75th anniversary of the beloved characters, feature Jansson's original sketches that have evolved into books, animations and comic strips over the past decades.
Some 250 pieces of work will be on display, including rough sketches that Jansson worked on as well as pieces that were re-imagined through 3D animation and media art.
The highlight of the exhibition is a room themed around "Moominland Midwinter," one of the books in the Moomins series that was published in 1957. The four walls of the exhibition space are illuminated with a black-and-white animation that shows how Moomintroll unexpectedly wakes up from a winter hibernation and makes new friends.
"While it's an exhibition showing original artwork, we curated it to show the chronology (of Janssen's works) while using various production techniques," Jee Sung-wook, the CEO of Media & Art, the event's organizer, said in a media showcase.
This image, provided by Media & Art on Nov. 12, 2020, shows part of an exhibition highlighting Tove Jansson's book "Moominland Midwinter." (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)
"In the novel section, we used the biggest room in the exhibition space to show 'Moominland Midwinter' through media art, hoping that it would stir up a different sentiment."
The exhibition also includes a room that shows photos and quotes by Jansson, who is still cherished as a cultural icon in Finland and beyond.
Jansson's niece -- Sophia -- voiced excitement about the upcoming exhibition in a video message.
"As you know, the Moomins' stories are based on values that we all feel very strongly about. They're both personal and universal," she said, mentioning how many of the stories are about finding new friends and helping them in difficult times.
"I'd like to wish you a good feeling of hope ... I hope that you can enjoy your life and see the positive side of everything," she added.
Pekka Metso, the Finnish ambassador to South Korea, also voiced hope that the exhibition will show the importance of human values and offer comfort at a bleak time.
"The Moomins is one of Finland's most beloved cultural icons," he said, adding how the stories on themes like human diversity, environmental conservation and empathy toward others make them appealing to not only children but people of all ages.
"In this precarious time, it's important to think like a Moomin and find joy in the small things of life ... I think the Moomins will us help think that there is always, always a sun rising and a better future even when it's storming right now," he said, urging people to embrace the Moomins' spirit.
This image, provided by Media & Art on Nov. 12, 2020, shows part of an exhibition highlighting the Moomins created by Finnish author and illustrator Tove Jansson. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)
The exhibition is set to run at Ground Seesaw in the eastern Seoul neighborhood of Seongsu from Nov. 13, 2020, to Nov. 14, 2021.
mlee@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-11-13--S. Korea's money supply grows at fast clip in September

The BOK conducted two rate cuts in less than three months after the country confirmed its first coronavirus case on @ @ @ @ @ policy rate to a record low of 0.5 percent .

SEOUL, Nov. 13 (Yonhap) -- South Korea's money supply continued to grow quickly in September as firms rushed to secure funds amid the coronavirus pandemic, central bank data showed Friday.
The country's M2 stood at 3,115.8 trillion won (US$2.8 trillion) as of end-September, up 0.5 percent from August, according to preliminary data by the Bank of Korea (BOK).
From a year earlier, M2 surged 9.2 percent, the BOK said.
A key economic indicator closely monitored by authorities, M2 is a measure of the money supply that counts cash, demand deposits and other near money that is easily convertible to cash.
The BOK said M2 kept rising at a fast pace in September as companies took out large bank loans amid the prolonged economic impact from the COVID-19 outbreak and low interest rates.
Funds held by households and nonprofit organizations fell by 3.5 trillion won in September from the previous month, with those held by businesses rising by 8.7 trillion won.
South Korea's corporate earnings and household income have taken a big hit from the coronavirus outbreak that has sent consumer spending and exports, the country's twin growth engines, tumbling.
The BOK conducted two rate cuts in less than three months after the country confirmed its first coronavirus case on Jan. 20, sending the policy rate to a record low of 0.5 percent.
kdh@yna.co.kr
(END)


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yna--2020-11-13--Ministry renews calls for N. Korea to act in 'discreet, wise and flexible' manner after Biden's elec

Ministry renews calls for N. Korea to act in 'discreet, wise and flexible' manner after Biden's election

`` What we want to emphasize , among other things , is that the two Koreas should first resume talks @ @ @ @ @ in situations remains high and build trust to make time for South and North Korea @ @ @ @ @ the ministry 's deputy spokesperson , said during a regular press briefing .

SEOUL, Nov. 13 (Yonhap) -- The unification ministry on Friday renewed calls for North Korea to refrain from provocations, urging Pyongyang to act in a "discreet, wise and flexible" manner during the heightened uncertainty following the U.S. presidential election earlier this month.
The calls came amid uncertainty over what policy the incoming Joe Biden administration of the U.S. will take on North Korea and concerns Pyongyang could carry out provocations to draw attention and set the tone for future negotiations.
"What we want to emphasize, among other things, is that the two Koreas should first resume talks at a time when fluidity in situations remains high and build trust to make time for South and North Korea," Cho Hey-sil, the ministry's deputy spokesperson, said during a regular press briefing.
"In this sense, we renewed the calls for the North to act in a discreet, wise and flexible manner in coping with this era of tradition," she added.
South Korea has repeatedly urged Pyongyang to stay away from raising tensions by carrying out provocations, including missile testing.
Earlier this week, Unification Minister Lee In-young called for North Korea to act in a "discreet, wise and flexible" manner and to refrain from provocations during the U.S. leadership transition, so as to keep chances of progress in nuclear negotiations alive.
North Korea has stayed mum on the results of the U.S. presidential election.
Observers say the North appears to be analyzing the ramifications of the U.S. election or might be waiting until President Donald Trump officially accedes defeat to issue its stance
Cho said the ministry is closely monitoring what message North Korea will send with regard to the U.S. election.
kokobj@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-11-13--Ruling party lawmakers said to demand replacement of gender minister

The late Seoul Mayor Park Won-soon took his own life in July after a former secretary filed a sexual abuse @ @ @ @ @ former Busan Mayor Oh Ke-don resigned in April amid sexual harassment allegations and is now @ @ @ @ @ The expression `` gender sensitivity '' has been frequently cited by local court judges to @ @ @ @ @ or possible gender equality issues when reviewing criminal sexual assault cases .

SEOUL, Nov. 13 (Yonhap) -- Voices are growing among lawmakers of the ruling Democratic Party (DP) calling for the replacement of Minister of Gender Equality and Family Lee Jung-ok, who recently drew fire for insensitive remarks on next year's Seoul and Busan mayoral by-elections, party officials said Friday.
A group of progressive DP lawmakers reportedly asked Cheong Wa Dae, the presidential office, earlier this week to replace Lee in the next Cabinet reshuffle, citing fierce criticism of Lee's remarks by women's and civic groups.
Lee triggered a controversy during a parliamentary session on Nov. 5, when she described the upcoming by-elections in Seoul and Busan, where mayoral seats became vacant this year after two DP-affiliated mayors were accused of sexual misconduct, as an "opportunity for people to collectively learn about gender sensitivity."
She made the controversial comparison when asked by an opposition lawmaker to comment on the huge expenses, estimated at 83.8 billion won (US$75 million), to cover the by-elections. Her response was interpreted as meaning that the expenses can serve as a public education fee regarding the gender-related issues.
This file photo taken on Nov. 10, 2020, shows Minister of Gender Equality and Family Lee Jung-ok. (Yonhap)
The late Seoul Mayor Park Won-soon took his own life in July after a former secretary filed a sexual abuse complaint against him, while former Busan Mayor Oh Keo-don resigned in April amid sexual harassment allegations and is now under investigation. The expression "gender sensitivity" has been frequently cited by local court judges to take into account contextual background or possible gender equality issues when reviewing criminal sexual assault cases.
"Some DP lawmakers met Wednesday and shared the view that Minister Lee should be replaced as soon as possible. They also agreed that Lee should be included in the next Cabinet reshuffle as women's and civic groups have fiercely protested her remarks," a DP lawmaker said.
Another DP lawmaker said Lee's spontaneous resignation is also an option, expressing concern about her remarks' possible negative impact on the by-elections slated for April 7 next year.
The lawmakers also said the DP leadership appears to share the same concern.
ycm@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-11-13--Heavy traffic expected in Seoul this weekend due to rallies

The city lifted its assembly ban of over 10 people last month when new daily cases fell to double-digits .
@ @ @ @ @ back to over 100 , with 191 new cases reported Friday , the highest in @ @ @ @ @ the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency .

SEOUL, Nov. 13 (Yonhap) -- Seoul is expected to experience especially heavy traffic this weekend as major roads throughout the city will be shut down due to a large number of rallies, police said Friday.
The Korean Confederation of Trade Unions (KCTU) and its affiliate groups plan to organize gatherings across 30 locations in Seoul, including the wards of Yeongdeungpo, Mapo and Seocho, on Saturday afternoon, the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency said.
KCTU will also stage a separate demonstration at Yeouido Park in central Seoul.
Regular weekly anti-government rallies by conservative groups are also scheduled to be held in Seoul's central ward of Jongno and Seocho Ward in Seoul's southern area on Saturday afternoon.
This file photo shows police checking vehicles heading to Gwanghwamun Square in central Seoul on Oct. 3, 2020, in an effort to prevent sudden illegal rallies amid the virus outbreak. (Yonhap)
This file photo shows a signboard set up at Gwanghwamun Square in central Seoul on Oct. 17, 2020, explaining a ban on large-scale rallies over concerns about COVID-19. (Yonhap)
The city lifted its assembly ban of over 10 people last month when new daily cases fell to double-digits. But daily transmissions recently spiked back to over 100, with 191 new cases reported Friday, the highest in 70 days, according to the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency.
The police said they may have to reroute public buses and vehicles passing through the rally sites, considering the circumstances Saturday. It also asked people to use public transport and car drivers to detour those areas.
nyway@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-11-13--Blue chips rush into Netflix-led S. Korean streaming service market

`` The South Korean media industry has been seeking ways to deal with Netflix ' expanding influence , '' Noh @ @ @ @ @ Institute said in a report published by the Korea Creative Content Agency .
`` As @ @ @ @ @ domestic players have become business partners or competitors to deal with the fast-changing media environment @ @

By Kim Boram
SEOUL, Nov. 13 (Yonhap) -- The landscape of the South Korean streaming service market is facing seismic change as new players have been jumping into the booming sector in diversified forms.
As the protracted novel coronavirus pandemic has accelerated the trend toward mobile-based binge-watching of content, e-commerce firms, like Coupang and online portal operators, including Naver, have revealed plans to break into the highly competitive market.
The corporate image of Netflix (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)
Netflix, which launched its service in South Korea in 2016, got a head start in the country's online video service market, with its paid subscribers topping 3.6 million as of October.
Wavve, led by terrestrial broadcasters like KBS, and tving, run by entertainment giant CJ ENM, have also made their presence felt thanks to their original shows and drama series that are popular in Asia.
On top of that, in July, Coupang, a leading delivery service provider in South Korea, acquired Singapore's streaming service operator, Hooq, a joint venture established in 2015 by Singapore Telecommunications, Sony Pictures and Warner Bros, as a way to diversify its business portfolio.
The Seoul-based logistics company is set to launch a video content streaming business, while it has applied for trademarks for "Coupang Wow Play" and "Coupang Streaming," possible names for the company's streaming service.
Han Seong-sook (L), CEO of Naver, and Choi Eun-seok, head of Management Strategy Office of CJ Corp., pose after signing a strategic partnership deal on Oct. 26, 2020, in this photo provided by Naver. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)
Naver, South Korea's No. 1 online portal operator, has been also expanding into the entertainment sector by joining hands with entertainment and logistics titan CJ Group.
In a share-swap deal, Naver acquired stakes in CJ's affiliates, including CJ ENM, which is behind Oscar-winning "Parasite," and the drama production house, Studio Dragon, that created the popular drama "Guardian: The Lonely and Great God."
At the same time, Kakao, the operator of the biggest chatting application Kakao Talk, has come up with plans to invest 300 billion won (US$268.8 million) by 2023 to produce original content for its live-streaming channel Kakao TV.
The company's business strategy has focused on the entertainment sector in recent years as it has taken over local talent management agencies, music labels and drama productions.
"The South Korean media industry has been seeking ways to deal with Netflix' expanding influence," Noh Chang-hee from Media & Future Institute said in a report published by the Korea Creative Content Agency. "As a result, foreign and domestic players have become business partners or competitors to deal with the fast-changing media environment."
brk@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-11-13--S. Koreans urged to wear masks or face new fine

Moreover , masks are not required in certain situations , such as when eating or drinking , inside pools or @ @ @ @ @ an ID check .
Walks in the park , cycling and mountain climbing are also @ @ @ @ @ people remain at least 2 meters apart .

By Lee Haye-ah
SEOUL, Nov. 13 (Yonhap) -- South Koreans taking the bus or subway to work Friday morning were greeted by public officials warning them of a 100,000 won (US$90) fine should they fail to wear a mask in public.
In a country that has received widespread praise for its response to the coronavirus pandemic, most people were already wearing a mask and did not need to be told to do so.
But for the few who chose not to wear a mask, or did not put it on properly, the officials were there to remind them of a new law that would make them pay starting Friday.
"Please wear a mask," chanted the workers who were sent from the Seoul city government and Seoul Metro to meet the commuters at Gwanghwamun Station, one of the busiest subway stops in downtown Seoul.
Seoul city officials carry signs urging citizens to wear a face mask in downtown Seoul on Nov. 13, 2020. (Yonhap)
A Seoul city official hands out a flier explaining the enforcement of a new law that will fine people who are not wearing a face mask, in downtown Seoul on Nov. 13, 2020. (Yonhap)
Wearing sashes and carrying signs, the workers handed out fliers and masks to the passengers. Other officials in blue vests stood by the ticket gates to watch for any potential offenders.
One woman complained that wearing a mask has given her heart problems and other difficulties.
"They should govern the country properly, and let the people remove their masks, not issue fines," she said of the officials.
The government has said it will impose a fine of up to 100,000 won only if a person ignores a public official's request to wear a mask.
Exceptions will also be made for children under the age of 14 and those who are not able to wear a mask on their own or due to medical conditions.
Moreover, masks are not required in certain situations, such as when eating or drinking, inside pools or public baths or when undergoing an ID check. Walks in the park, cycling and mountain climbing are also allowed without masks on if people remain at least 2 meters apart.
Around the same time at a bus stop in downtown Seoul, about a dozen city officials lined both sides of the road and gave out fliers and masks to passengers getting off buses.
Bus riders mostly kept their masks on, but a few pedestrians could be seen walking without a mask.
An official approached a man riding a bike without wearing a mask, and he quickly took one out of his pocket.
Another man was wearing a mask under his nose, and when approached by officials, he explained that he had only taken it down to eat.
"I think that if there are more cases of people not wearing a mask, the fine should be raised and enforcement strengthened so as to make everyone more alert," said a 36-year-old Seoul citizen surnamed Kim.
Seoul city and Seoul Metro officials hand out fliers explaining the enforcement of a new law that will fine people who are not wearing a face mask, at Gwanghwamun Station in downtown Seoul on Nov. 13, 2020. (Yonhap)
Seoul city and bus officials hold up signs on a new 100,000 won fine for people not wearing a face mask in public, at a bus stop in Gwanghwamun, downtown Seoul, on Nov. 13, 2020. (Yonhap)
hague@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-11-13--(2nd LD) New virus cases spike to over 2-month high, tougher restrictions under review

`` If the organizers do n't strictly keep the antivirus rules and several new cases are later traced to the @ @ @ @ @ take legal action to hold them accountable for it , '' Yoon Tae-ho , a @ @ @ @ @ said in a briefing .

(ATTN: UPDATES with more details, comments in paras 8-9, 14, 17; CHANGES photo)
SEOUL, Nov. 13 (Yonhap) -- South Korea's new coronavirus cases spiked to almost 200 Friday, the highest in 70 days, as sporadic cluster infections from informal gatherings continued to pop up across the nation, forcing health authorities to consider raising the social distancing scheme.
The country added 191 more COVID-19 cases, including 162 local infections, raising the total caseload to 28,133, according to the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA).
The daily caseload was the highest since Sept. 4, marking a triple-digit growth for a sixth consecutive day.
Health authorities said many infections occurred at small gatherings of family and friends across the nation, expressing worries over sporadic infections on various occasions.
Seoul bus organization officials hold signs calling for people to wear masks when using public transportation in front of a bus station in downtown Seoul on Nov. 13, 2020. (Yonhap)
"If the current trend continues, we have to seriously consider raising the social distancing scheme, while some provincial governments have already raised it to Level 1.5," Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun said in a meeting with senior health officials.
Chung expressed worries over large gatherings by labor and civic groups in Seoul and other regions over the weekend that could lead to an another spike in new virus cases.
"Although the organizers promised to abide by quarantine measures, (such gatherings) could lead to a major outbreak of COVID-19," Chung said. "I call for the groups put more priority in people's lives and safety, and reconsider their gatherings."
Health authorities said participants of the rallies will be required to wear masks, banned from shouting and having meals before and after the events, calling for organizers to make a list of the participants and follow quarantine rules.
"If the organizers don't strictly keep the antivirus rules and several new cases are later traced to the events, the government will take legal action to hold them accountable for it," Yoon Tae-ho, a senior health ministry official, said in a briefing.
South Korea has kept the Level 1 social distancing scheme under a new five-tier system nationwide, although some cities and provincial governments upped their virus infection preventive measures.
Asan and Cheonan, both located in central South Chungcheong Province, adopted tougher measures last week. Wonju in Gangwon Province and Suncheon, located 415 kilometers south of Seoul, also raised their social distancing schemes to Level 1.5 this week.
Under Level 1, people are required to follow basic guidelines, such as wearing masks, and gatherings of over 500 people are not recommended.
People are still allowed to carry on with most of their daily routines under Level 1.5, but gatherings of 100 or more people will be regulated, though it is not a complete ban.
The government is expected to maintain Level 1 social distancing for the Seoul metropolitan area, as the daily average number of new patients remained at 75 this week, the KDCA said.
The latest uptick comes as new rules mandating face masks in public places took effect on Friday after a 30-day grace period, to better combat the coronavirus.
Seoul city officials hold signs calling for people to wear masks on the subway at Gwanghwamun Station in central Seoul on Nov. 13, 2020. (Yonhap)
People will face a fine of up to 100,000 won (about US$90) if they do not wear masks on public transportation and at demonstrations, as well as medical, religious and care facilities.
Operators of those facilities and rally organizers will be fined up to 3 million won if they fail to ensure that users or participants stick to the requirement.
Among the locally transmitted cases, the capital city of Seoul accounted for 74 cases, and Gyeonggi Province that surrounds Seoul reported 36. Incheon, located west of Seoul, had three new patients. The greater Seoul area houses around half of the nation's population.
The number of new cases in the Seoul metropolitan area hit a three-week high since Oct. 23.
A total of 14 cases were traced to a military facility in Seoul and an insurance firm in western Seoul had 46 infections.
Cases tied to medical facilities and senior nursing homes in Gunpo, south of Seoul, came to 143, and an elementary school in Pocheon, north of Seoul, reached 22.
Other provinces also reported additional cases.
Gangwon Province gained 23 cases, while South Jeolla Province and South Chungcheong Province had nine and seven cases, respectively. Gwangju, located 330 kilometers south of Seoul, had five more.
The country added 29 imported cases.
Eleven cases were from the United States, while Russia and Europe accounted for five and four, respectively.
The number of seriously or critically ill COVID-19 patients came to 50, down 53 from Thursday.
South Korea reported one additional death, raising the total at 488.
The number of people released from quarantine after making full recoveries stood at 133.
South Korea has carried out 2,761,411 COVID-19 tests, including 11,639 from the previous day.
ejkim@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-11-13--Seoul stocks switch to losses late Fri. morning amid COVID-19 woes

Investor sentiment worsened as the South Korean prime minister said the government would have to `` seriously consider '' toughening @ @ @ @ @ The country 's new daily cases spiked to almost 200 Friday , the highest in @ @ @

SEOUL, Nov. 13 (Yonhap) -- South Korean stocks turned to losses late Friday morning, as concerns over the spreading coronavirus pandemic weighed heavily on investor sentiment.
The benchmark Korea Composite Stock Price Index (KOSPI) fell 3.74 points, or 0.15 percent, to 2,471.88 as of 11:20 a.m.
Stocks traded choppy, with investors paying keen attention to the COVID-19 circumstances.
Investor sentiment worsened as the South Korean prime minister said the government would have to "seriously consider" toughening its social distancing scheme. The country's new daily cases spiked to almost 200 Friday, the highest in 70 days.
Stocks were also affected by Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell's statement that "the next few months could be challenging" for the world's largest economy due to the virus flare-up.
Overnight, the Dow Jones Industrial Average dipped 1.08 percent to 29,080.17 points, with the tech-laden Nasdaq Composite losing 0.65 percent and the S&P 500 retreating 1 percent.
Most large caps traded mixed in Seoul.
Market bellwether Samsung Electronics gained 1.48 percent, and No. 2 chipmaker SK hynix added 0.45 percent.
Hyundai Motor, the country's largest carmaker, advanced 2.01 percent.
Leading chemical firm LG Chem rose 1.73 percent, while rechargeable battery maker Samsung SDI dipped 3.59 percent.
Pharmaceutical giant Samsung Biologics slipped 0.4 percent, and Celltrion retreated 2.05 percent.
Internet portal giant Naver edged up 0.18 percent, and its rival Kakao climbed 0.84 percent.
The local currency was trading at 1,116.1 won against the U.S. dollar, down 1.3 won from the previous session's close.
jwc@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-11-13--S. Korea eyes US$2 tln in trade by 2030

S. Korea eyes US$2 tln in trade by 2030

The plan comes as South Korea 's trade value has been hovering around $ 1 trillion since breaking that mark @ @ @ @ @ number of smaller exporting companies failing to pass the 100,000 level after surpassing 90,000 in @ @

SEOUL, Nov. 13 (Yonhap) -- South Korea will seek to raise the value of its trade to US$2 trillion by 2030 by pushing for the digitalization of its trade infrastructure, the industry ministry said Friday.
South Korea, Asia's fourth-largest economy, will also push to hike the number of small and medium-sized exporting companies to 200,000 by that year.
The ministry unveiled the ambitious plan during an expanded trade strategy coordination meeting chaired by Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun.
"A structural innovation is needed to make a new leap to the milestone," Industry Minister Sung Yun-mo said at the meeting.
A South Korean corporate official talks with a foreign buyers during an online export consultation session at COEX in southern Seoul on May 20, 2020. (Yonhap)
"South Korea should create new exporters and markets in line with trade digitalization and the spread of an untact economy due to the coronavirus pandemic."
In order to achieve the long-term trade volume target, the ministry said, it will push to establish a global online platform for electronic contract signings and settlements, among other things.
The plan comes as South Korea's trade value has been hovering around $1 trillion since breaking that mark in 2011, with the number of smaller exporting companies failing to pass the 100,000 level after surpassing 90,000 in 2016.
In particular, South Korea's trade is unlikely to reach the US$1 trillion mark in 2020 due to the fallout from the coronavirus pandemic and a Sino-U.S. trade row.
South Korea's exports and imports stood at about $174 billion in the November-December period last year. It would mark the first time in four years for South Korea's trade volume to hover below the $1 trillion mark.
(END)


yna--2020-11-13--(LEAD) 11 more military personnel test positive for COVID-19

In Yangju , just north of Seoul , two Army officers tested positive for the virus .
One of them @ @ @ @ @ funeral of a family member and the other was found to be infected in a @ @ @ @ @ the base .
All the other members at the base have tested negative for the @ @

(ATTN: ADDS quote, more info in paras 3, 8; CHANGES photo)
SEOUL, Nov 13 (Yonhap) -- Three Army officers, an Air Force civilian worker and seven airmen have tested positive for the new coronavirus, the defense ministry said Friday.
The airmen and the civilian employee in Seosan, 150 kilometers south of Seoul, were confirmed to have been infected with COVID-19 after a guest lecturer who visited their base earlier this week tested positive for the virus, according to the ministry.
"The education took place in compliance with anti-virus rules, such as wearing masks and keeping distance," a ministry official said, adding that contact tracing is under way to figure out the exact route of the infections.
In Yangju, just north of Seoul, two Army officers tested positive for the virus. One of them showed symptoms after attending the funeral of a family member and the other was found to be infected in a follow-up virus test conducted at the base. All the other members at the base have tested negative for the virus.
Another Army officer in Anyang, just south of the capital, tested positive after coming into contact with a civilian COVID-19 patient while off-duty.
The military has restricted movement to and from all three of the bases, the ministry said.
The latest cases brought the total number of COVID-19 cases related to the military population to 189.
Nationwide, South Korea added 191 more virus cases, the highest in more than two months, raising the total caseload to 28,133.
This file photo, taken on May 11, 2020, shows a soldier at Seoul train station in the capital. (Yonhap)
scaaet@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-11-13--Ruling party chief asks Biden admin to keep 2018 deal between Kim Jong-un, Trump

`` It is the first ever agreement in history forged between the leaders of North Korea and the U.S. , @ @ @ @ @ It has legitimacy and authority , and to its content the South and North Koreas @ @ @ @ @ agreed , '' he added .

SEOUL, Nov. 13 (Yonhap) -- The ruling party chairman expressed hope Friday that a 2018 deal signed between North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and President Donald Trump will be retained under the incoming U.S. administration under President-elect Joe Biden.
"I wish that South Korea and the U.S. will work together to reactivate the Korean Peninsula peace process," Rep. Lee Nak-yon, the chairman of Democratic Party, said during a top party council meeting.
"The starting point for that will be the reaffirmation of the 2018 Singapore agreement between the U.S. and North Korea," Lee said, referring to the joint statement signed by Kim and Trump during their first summit meeting that year.
"I wish that it could be maintained under the Biden administration," the party leader said.
In the statement, the two nations agreed to the establishment of "new relations," joint efforts to build a peace regime on the peninsula as well as effort on the North Korean side for the "complete denuclearization" of the peninsula.
No clear progress has been made, however, in the implementation of the Kim-Trump deal as working-level talks between the countries remain stalled.
"It is the first ever agreement in history forged between the leaders of North Korea and the U.S.," Lee stressed. "It has legitimacy and authority, and to its content the South and North Koreas and the U.S. have all agreed," he added.
Lee's remarks followed the first phone call held between President Moon Jae-in and Biden on Thursday. The two reaffirmed their commitment to their countries' alliance and peace on the peninsula.
Rep. Lee Nak-yon, the chairman of the ruling Democratic Party (Yonhap)
pbr@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-11-13--The Korea Interbank Offered Rates (KORIBOR)

SEOUL , Nov. 13 ( 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--2020-11-13--Moon congratulates U.S. congressional leaders, asks for alliance support

Moon also asked for their sustained interest and support in order for the alliance to serve as the linchpin of @ @ @ @ @ Korean Peninsula and the surrounding region .

SEOUL, Nov. 13 (Yonhap) -- President Moon Jae-in has formally congratulated U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and other key American congressional figures for their recent election wins, requesting their continued support for the Seoul-Washington alliance, Cheong Wa Dae said Friday.
In congratulatory telegrams, Moon expressed thanks to the U.S. congressional leadership and Korea-related organizations for their interest and support toward the alliance, according to Moon's office.
Moon also asked for their sustained interest and support in order for the alliance to serve as the linchpin of peace and prosperity for the Korean Peninsula and the surrounding region.
Besides Pelosi, the 11 other recipients of the messages include Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer, House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy, Senate Foreign Relations Committee Chairman James Risch, Senate Armed Services Committee Chairman James Inhofe and Congressional Korea Caucus Co-Chair Joe Wilson.
This file photo shows President Moon Jae-in (C) shaking hands with Nancy Pelosi, then U.S. House Democratic leader, ahead of a meeting with House leaders at the Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C. on June 29, 2017. (Yonhap)
odissy@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-11-13--11 more military personnel test positive for COVID-19

SEOUL, Nov 13 (Yonhap) -- Three Army officers, an Air Force civilian worker and seven airmen have tested positive for the new coronavirus, the defense ministry said Friday.
The airmen and the civilian employee in Seosan, 150 kilometers south of Seoul, were confirmed to have been infected with COVID-19 after a guest lecturer who visited their base earlier this week tested positive for the virus, according to the ministry.
The military is tracing contacts and carrying out virus tests on other service members.
In Yangju, just north of Seoul, two Army officers tested positive for the virus. One of them showed symptoms after attending the funeral of a family member and the other was found to be infected in a follow-up virus test conducted at the base. All the other members at the base have tested negative for the virus.
Another Army officer in Anyang, just south of the capital, tested positive after coming into contact with a civilian COVID-19 patient while off-duty.
The military has restricted movement to and from all three of the bases, the ministry said.
The latest cases brought the total number of COVID-19 cases related to the military population to 189.
In this file photo, taken on May 8, 2020, soldiers board a train at a station in Paju, north of Seoul, as they are allowed to go on vacation after more than two months of restrictions amid fears about the spread of the new coronavirus. (Yonhap)
scaaet@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-11-13--(LEAD) Hanwha Life Insurance Q3 net jumps 104 pct

Hanwha Life Insurance said its third-quarter earnings got a boost from a drop in its loss ratio , or the @ @ @ @ @ premiums , on the back of increased sales of guaranteed products despite the coronavirus pandemic @

(ATTN: RECAST headline, lead; ADDS throughout)
SEOUL, Nov. 13 (Yonhap) -- Major South Korean insurer Hanwha Life Insurance Co. said Friday that its third-quarter net profit more than doubled from a year earlier thanks to a lower loss ratio and reduced reserves.
Consolidated net income came to 148.9 billion won (US$133.6 million) in the July-September period, up 104.1 percent from a year earlier, the company said in a regulatory filing.
Operating income shot up 134.6 percent on-year to 206.9 billion won, while sales fell 17.1 percent to 5.65 trillion won.
Hanwha Life Insurance said its third-quarter earnings got a boost from a drop in its loss ratio, or the ratio of insurance claims to premiums, on the back of increased sales of guaranteed products despite the coronavirus pandemic.
Another factor was a decline in reserves for variable life insurance subscribers following a rally in the country's stock index, it added.
The insurer said its premium income stood at 3.44 trillion won in the third quarter, up 12.8 percent from the same period a year ago.
Bolstered by a gain on the valuation of bond investments, its risk-based capital (RBC) ratio, a key measure of financial stability, amounted to 265.4 percent as of end-September, up 39.7 points from a year earlier.
The corporate logo of Hanwha Life Insurance Co. (Yonhap)
(END)


yna--2020-11-13--(LEAD) Economic uncertainty persists amid global flare-up in coronavirus cases: finance ministry

`` But downside risks also linger , as the number of daily virus infections recently topped 100 here .
Amid @ @ @ @ @ and the United States , potential lockdowns by some nations are feared to affect Korea @ @ @ @ @ added .

(ATTN: UPDATES with more details in paras 9-10)
By Kim Soo-yeon
SEJONG, Nov. 13 (Yonhap) -- The South Korean economy is on a recovery path, but it faces lingering uncertainty amid a global resurgence in new coronavirus cases, the finance ministry said Friday.
The Ministry of Economy and Finance said South Korea's exports are on a mild recovery track and the country's production, consumption and investment are improving.
"While the service sector and the job market have seen recovery momentum being capped, the Korean economy faces continuing uncertainty amid the fast spread of COVID-19," the ministry said in a monthly economic report, called the "Green Book."
This file photo, taken June 4, 2020, shows stacks of import-export cargo containers at South Korea's largest seaport in Busan, 450 kilometers southeast of Seoul. (Yonhap)
South Korea's production, consumption and investment returned to growth in September following months of slumps amid the coronavirus outbreak.
The country's industrial output gained 2.3 percent on-month in September, after a 0.8 percent on-month decline in August, according to data from the statistics office.
Retail sales rose 1.7 percent on-month in September, and facility investment gained 7.4 percent, the largest monthly increase in six months.
Asia's fourth-largest economy grew 1.9 percent on-quarter in the third quarter, marking the first quarterly growth after two quarters of contraction, as exports rebounded amid eased global lockdowns.
The country's exports rose 20.1 percent on-year in the first 10 days of November as shipments of chips and autos increased.
"Exports are on a track for improvement. After being severely dented by a flare-up in COVID-19 in August, domestic demand is also recovering," Kim Young-hoon, director of the ministry's economic analysis division, said at a press briefing.
"But downside risks also linger, as the number of daily virus infections recently topped 100 here. Amid spikes in COVID-19 in Europe and the United States, potential lockdowns by some nations are feared to affect Korea's exports," he added.
The service sector, hit hard by the pandemic, remains sluggish as people refrain from making in-person contact. The job market is also frozen, led by declines in employment in the service and manufacturing sectors.
The number of employed people reached 27.09 million last month, 421,000 fewer than a year earlier and marking the sharpest on-year decline since April, according to data from the statistics agency.
Vice Finance Minister Kim Yong-beom voiced concerns Thursday that recovery momentum in the labor market may have lost steam due to the fallout of the protracted virus outbreak.
"Externally, concerns about global economic recovery mounted as improvements in real economy indicators weakened due to a global flare-up in COVID-19 and an expansion in border lockdowns. But expectations for the development of vaccines also increased," the report said.
This photo, taken on April 17, 2020, shows monthly economic reports issued by the finance ministry, called the "Green Book." (Yonhap)
sooyeon@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-11-13--Tale of two KBO batters: little engine keeps chugging along, big slugger's slump continues

`` After the second game , he came up to me and said , ' I 'll try to do @ @ @ @ @ said .
`` I was so thankful to hear that coming from a player .
@ @ @ @ @ great .
He 's had some outfield assists and swung the bat really well .
@ @ @ @ @ in his eyes . ''

By Yoo Jee-ho
SEOUL, Nov. 13 (Yonhap) -- One is a smallish, scrappy corner outfielder with something to prove. The other is a hulking first baseman with three championship rings. With their teams locked in a South Korean baseball postseason battle, their contrasting performances serve as an apt representation of where each team is going, after three games into a best-of-five series.
The former is KT Wiz outfielder Cho Yong-ho, who has shown some wizardry with his bat and his defense so far in his first extended postseason. The latter is Doosan Bears first baseman Oh Jae-il, a bear of a man whose hitting slump is so bad that his usually carefree manager is worried.
Cho Yong-ho of the KT Wiz hits an infield single against the Doosan Bears in the bottom of the fourth inning of Game 2 of the second round in the Korea Baseball Organization postseason at Gocheok Sky Dome in Seoul on Nov. 10, 2020. (Yonhap)
The Bears are leading the Wiz 2-1 in their best-of-five second round of the Korea Baseball Organization (KBO) postseason. But the Wiz, after losing the first two, took the third game 5-2 thanks to a five-run outburst in the eighth inning. With a favorable pitching matchup for Friday's Game 4, the Wiz feel like they can make this a series and force a deciding Game 5. Cho was 6-for-12 against Doosan's Game 4 starter Yoo Hee-kwan during the regular season.
And the Bears, trying to close out the Wiz quickly, gripped their bats a little too tight in Game 3, and none more so than Oh.
Listed at 170 centimeters, Cho is the shortest player on either team in this series. But he has come up huge for the Wiz, recording two outfield assists in the first two games and then going 5-for-10 with two doubles in the past two games.
Cho Yong-ho of the KT Wiz (R) waits for a video review after legging out an infield single against the Doosan Bears in the bottom of the fourth inning of Game 2 of the second round in the Korea Baseball Organization postseason at Gocheok Sky Dome in Seoul on Nov. 10, 2020. (Yonhap)
For Game 1, KT manager Lee Kang-chul tweaked his lineup so dramatically that Cho, who spent the bulk of the regular season as the leadoff man, was moved down to the seventh spot. Cho went 0-for-4 with two strikeouts.
Lee got out of his own way and returned Cho to the top of the order. And Cho responded by picking up two hits in Game 2 and three more in Game 3. He led off both games with a hit.
"After the second game, he came up to me and said, 'I'll try to do better,'" Lee said. "I was so thankful to hear that coming from a player. And he's been doing great. He's had some outfield assists and swung the bat really well. He has that intense look in his eyes."
Cho was signed by the SK Wyverns as an undrafted free agent in 2014, and didn't make his debut until 2017. That same year, he made his first postseason appearance, popping out back to catcher as a pinch hitter in a Wild Card loss.
Following a trade to the Wiz in late 2018, Cho has evolved into a solid outfielder with decent on-base and bat-to-ball skills, as attested by his .392 on-base percentage and .296 batting average this year at age 31.
Doosan Bears' first baseman Oh Jae-il (L) holds on to the ball after Cho Yong-ho of the KT Wiz (R) beat out an infield single in the bottom of the fourth inning of Game 2 of the second round in the Korea Baseball Organization postseason at Gocheok Sky Dome in Seoul on Nov. 10, 2020. (Yonhap)
Oh, the biggest position player for his team at 187 centimeters and 95 kilograms, has had a more charmed career than Cho. He had his breakout campaign in 2015 and set career highs in home runs and RBIs in 2016, the two years when the Bears won back-to-back Korean Series titles.
In 2019, Oh established a new career high with 102 RBIs, and earned the Korean Series MVP award after batting 6-for-18 with a home run, two doubles and six RBIs in a four-game sweep of the Kiwoom Heroes.
Oh had a fine regular season in 2020 at age 34, batting .312/.390/.482. And he hit .367 in October, his best batting average in any month this season, but he hasn't been able to carry that into the postseason.
In three games against the Wiz, Oh is 1-for-12 with five strikeouts, all five of them coming during a 0-for-8 stretch in Games 2 and 3.
Doosan manager Kim Tae-hyoung had stuck to the same lineup for all three games, with Oh batting third. With the Wiz pushing back hard, he may be forced to make a change.
Asked about Oh after Game 3, Kim, who often deflects questions about slumping players with a joke or two, turned serious.
"When I watch him at the plate, I can tell he doesn't have his timing down at all," Kim said. "Whether he makes contact or not, it's almost beside the point right now. I am a bit worried about him."
If the Wiz manage to even up the series Friday, Kim will have even more to worry about.
jeeho@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-11-13--(LEAD) PM hints at tougher distancing guidelines amid spike in virus cases

`` The warning light for disease control has lit up .
If the current growth trend continues , ( we @ @ @ @ @ consider raising the ( social ) distancing level , '' Chung said during a meeting @ @ @ @ @ Safety Countermeasure Headquarters at the government complex in Seoul .

(ATTN: UPDATES with more comments in last 5 paras)
SEOUL, Nov. 13 (Yonhap) -- Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun said Friday the government "may have to seriously consider" toughening social distancing measures, citing alarming increases in new daily COVID-19 cases.
"The warning light for disease control has lit up. If the current growth trend continues, (we) may have to seriously consider raising the (social) distancing level," Chung said during a meeting of the Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasure Headquarters at the government complex in Seoul.
Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun presides over a meeting of the Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasure Headquarters at the government complex in Seoul on Nov. 13, 2020. (Yonhap)
His remarks came as South Korea's coronavirus cases rose by triple digits for the sixth consecutive day, mainly attributable to cluster infections from private gatherings and facilities across the nation. On Friday, 191 new cases were reported.
The country, which now operates a five-tier virus curbs system, has kept social distancing at Level 1 nationwide, although some cities and governments upped their virus infection preventive measures.
Under Level 1, people are required to follow basic guidelines, such as wearing masks, and gatherings of over 500 people are not recommended.
He stressed the need to engage in preemptive and targeted disease control measures especially around public facilities, such as senior care centers.
"We must remember that the situation is precarious and that we cannot remain off guard," Chung said.
Amid recent news of advancements in coronavirus vaccine developments, the prime minister explained that the government was "taking necessary measures to secure enough volume of vaccines at the appropriate timing."
Chung also expressed concerns over mass labor and civic rallies scheduled for Seoul and Busan on Saturday, asking organizers to reconsider holding the mass outdoor events.
"While organizers promised to follow health safety measures (during the rallies), it could end up becoming the fuse for a mass COVID-19 outbreak," he said.
odissy@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-11-13--Seoul city offers new ecological programs at Han River parks

`` We hope visitors can relieve their bodies and mind ( through ecological programs ) at Han River and also @ @ @ @ @ , '' said Kim In-sook , a city official overseeing river park projects .

SEOUL, Nov. 13 (Yonhap) -- New monthly ecological programs for Seoul residents are now available at the capital's Han River parks, Seoul city government said Friday.
The city government is accepting visitors for 45 programs that begin in November, including those that offer hands-on experience of nature across 10 river parks in the city, including Ttukseom Han River Park, Amsa Ecological Park and Godeok Riverside Ecological Park.
At Yeouido Saetgang Ecological Park, stress-relief sessions, such as recitals and meditation, are being provided to give comfort to people exhausted from the new coronavirus pandemic.
The programs cap the number of participants and are only held outdoors to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
"We hope visitors can relieve their bodies and mind (through ecological programs) at Han River and also learn the value of nature," said Kim In-sook, a city official overseeing river park projects.
Reservations can be made at the city government's website (https://yeyak.seoul.go.kr), where more details on the programs are available.
This file photo, taken on Oct. 27, 2020, shows Han River park in autumn. (Yonhap)
This photo, provided by the Seoul city government, shows children participating in an ecological program at Han River park. (Yonhap)
nyway@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-11-13--Son Heung-min named Premier League's top player for Oct.

The Premier League announced Friday that Son was named the EA Sports Player of the Month for October , having @ @ @ @ @ of experts , club captains and the public .
The South Korean star scored in @ @ @ @ @ currently tied for the league lead with eight goals .

By Yoo Jee-ho
SEOUL, Nov. 13 (Yonhap) -- Tottenham Hotspur's Son Heung-min has been named the Premier League's top player for October.
The Premier League announced Friday that Son was named the EA Sports Player of the Month for October, having been chosen by a panel of experts, club captains and the public. The South Korean star scored in all three matches and is currently tied for the league lead with eight goals.
This is Son's third monthly award in his career.
In this Reuters file photo from Oct. 26, 2020, Son Heung-min of Tottenham Hotspur celebrates after scoring a goal during the Premier League match against Burnley at Turf Moor in Burnley, England. (Yonhap)
"It's a big honor," Son was quoted as saying on the league website. "I want to say thanks to my teammates, as I couldn't have won this without them."
Son's best performance came in Spurs' 6-1 win at Manchester United on Oct. 4, as he netted two goals and set up another.
The 28-year-old followed that with a goal and an assist against West Ham United before heading in a late winner at Burnley.
Son is the first Spurs player to win the award since Lucas Moura in August 2018.
jeeho@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-11-13--American starter provides bookends for Bears' postseason series win

`` I think as far as my pitch count , it was low tonight , '' he said .
`` @ @ @ @ @ to recover in the same amount of time and still be ready .
I am @ @ @ @ @ scenario ( the coaches ) have for us . ''

By Yoo Jee-ho
SEOUL, Nov. 13 (Yonhap) -- Chris Flexen threw the first pitch for the Doosan Bears in the penultimate round in the Korea Baseball Organization (KBO) postseason on Monday. And then he threw the last one Friday, helping the Bears win the best-of-five series over the KT Wiz with a 2-0 victory in Game 4, and sending them to their sixth straight Korean Series.
Chris Flexen of the Doosan Bears celebrates after closing out the KT Wiz 2-0 in Game 4 of the second round in the Korea Baseball Organization postseason at Gocheok Sky Dome in Seoul on Nov. 13, 2020. (Yonhap)
Flexen was voted the MVP of the series after making two dominant appearances. In his Game 1 start on Monday, he tossed 7 1/3 innings of two-run ball and struck out 11. He got a no-decision in a 3-2 win but was still named the Player of the Game.
Then pitching on three days' rest, Flexen took the mound in the seventh inning in Friday's Game 4, with the Bears nursing a 2-0 lead. He fired three shutout innings for his first KBO save, while striking out two and giving up one hit.
"I feel great. It showed a lot of reflection of hard work," Flexen said of winning the series MVP. "I had a job to do, and my job was to win ballgames and contribute in that manner."
Chris Flexen (L) and Park Sei-hyok of the Doosan Bears embrace each other after beating the KT Wiz 2-0 in Game 4 of the second round in the Korea Baseball Organization postseason at Gocheok Sky Dome in Seoul on Nov. 13, 2020. (Yonhap)
He made 30 pitches, following 108 pitches from Monday. His stuff looked just fine. Flexen touched 153 kilometers per hour (95 miles per hour) with his fastball, and he pumped 27 of those four-seamers, while throwing only one curveball and two cutters.
The Korean Series against the top seed NC Dinos begins Tuesday, and Flexen may or may not start that opener, which would come on three days' rest again.
"I think as far as my pitch count, it was low tonight," he said. "I'd definitely be able to recover in the same amount of time and still be ready. I am going to prepare for whatever scenario (the coaches) have for us."
The Bears are trying to win their second straight title and their fourth in the past six years. Eliminating the Wiz was nice, but Flexen hasn't lost sight of the final objective.
"As a team, the ultimate goal was to advance to the Korean Series and we're planning on trying to win it all," he said.
Chris Flexen of the Doosan Bears pitches against the KT Wiz in the top of the eighth inning of Game 4 of the second round in the Korea Baseball Organization postseason at Gocheok Sky Dome in Seoul on Nov. 13, 2020. (Yonhap)
jeeho@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-11-13--(LEAD) Bears claim battle of bullpens to win KBO postseason war over Wiz

So came on with a man at second and two outs in the fourth .
So threw 100 pitches in @ @ @ @ @ that game .
Manager Lee said before the game he would only consider using So @ @ @ @ @ new inning without a runner on base , but with the Wiz on the brink @ @ @ @ @ to take his chances with the 19-year-old right-hander .

(ATTN: ADDS 3rd photo, comments throughout)
By Yoo Jee-ho
SEOUL, Nov. 13 (Yonhap) -- It was perhaps the worst possible situation for a 21-year-old reliever in his first postseason to enter.
The KT Wiz meant business against the Doosan Bears from the top of the first inning in Game 4 of the second round in the Korea Baseball Organization (KBO) postseason. The first two batters had reached with singles, and the Bears were lucky that a runner got thrown out at home on an ensuing double.
Kim Min-gyu of the Doosan Bears pitches against the KT Wiz in Game 4 of the second round in the Korea Baseball Organization postseason at Gocheok Sky Dome in Seoul on Nov. 13, 2020. (Yonhap)
Doosan starter Yoo Hee-kwan fell behind 2-0 in the count against cleanup Yoo Han-joon. In came right-hander Kim Min-gyu, who only made his postseason debut three days earlier in Game 2 of this series.
A picture of cool, calm and collected, Kim retired Yoo on a pop fly on his very first pitch. Kim then struck out Kang Baek-ho to end the Wiz threat.
Over the next four innings, Kim held the Wiz to just one single, while striking out four and issuing one walk.
It was exactly the type of relief outing the Bears needed. The Wiz had proven capable of putting up a crooked number when they broke out for five runs with two outs in the eighth inning in Thursday's Game 3. If Kim hadn't escaped the first inning jam without damage, the game could have gone out of control early for the Bears.
Chris Flexen of the Doosan Bears celebrates after closing out the KT Wiz 2-0 in Game 4 of the second round in the Korea Baseball Organization postseason at Gocheok Sky Dome in Seoul on Nov. 13, 2020. (Yonhap)
Mixing in sliders and forkballs with his four-seam fastballs, Kim silenced KT bats and kept the Bears in the game.
Doosan's Choi Joo-hwan blasted a two-run homer in the bottom fourth for a 2-0 lead, and Kim Min-gyu continued to stifle the Wiz lineup. He pitched around a leadoff single with a line out and a double play ball in the fifth, which turned out to be his final frame.
In all, Kim threw 49 pitches over 4 2/3 shutout innings, striking out four while giving up just one hit and one walk.
Doosan manager Kim Tae-hyoung said he didn't necessarily expect Kim Min-gyu to come out of the first inning unscathed.
"As long as he minimized damage, we had other relievers ready to go after him," the skipper said. "But he pitched so well today."
Kim Min-gyu said making his first postseason appearance earlier in this series helped him prepare for Friday's outing.
"Back then, I was so nervous I barely felt my legs moving," Kim said. "Today, I was able to maintain really good focus. I prepared myself mentally to go in the first inning, too."
Chris Flexen (R) and Park Sei-hyok of the Doosan Bears embrace each other after beating the KT Wiz 2-0 in Game 4 of the second round in the Korea Baseball Organization postseason at Gocheok Sky Dome in Seoul on Nov. 13, 2020. (Yonhap)
Lee Seung-jin handled one inning after Kim, and then in a daring move, the Bears brought their Game 1 starter, Chris Flexen, out of the bullpen.
Flexen had thrown 108 pitches over 7 1/3 innings and struck out 11 in Monday's 3-2 victory. Then on three days' rest, Flexen took care of the final three innings and allowed just one hit to pick up a save and earn the series MVP honor. In two appearances, he pitched 10 1/3 innings of two-run ball, with 13 strikeouts against five hits.
"My mindset (going into the game) was to finish it," Flexen said. "I had a job to do, and my job was to win ballgames and contribute in that manner."
On the other hand, the Wiz's bullpen strategy blew up in manager Lee Kang-chul's face for the second time this series. That decisive home run by Choi came against the Wiz's own Game 1 starter, So Hyeong-jun.
Chris Flexen of the Doosan Bears pitches against the KT Wiz in the top of the seventh inning of Game 4 of the second round in the Korea Baseball Organization postseason at Gocheok Sky Dome in Seoul on Nov. 13, 2020. (Yonhap)
So came on with a man at second and two outs in the fourth. So threw 100 pitches in 6 2/3 shutout innings in that game. Manager Lee said before the game he would only consider using So at the start of a new inning without a runner on base, but with the Wiz on the brink of elimination, Lee had to take his chances with the 19-year-old right-hander.
So threw two straight balls, well outside the zone. After a strike made it 3-1, Choi turned on a fastball over the heart of the plate and drove it over the right field wall for a two-run shot.
Kim Min-gyu of the Doosan Bears returns to the dugout after completing the top of the third inning against the KT Wiz in Game 4 of the second round in the Korea Baseball Organization postseason at Gocheok Sky Dome in Seoul on Nov. 13, 2020. (Yonhap)
So mostly settled down afterward, but the Wiz's offense was completely shut down against the Bears' bullpen.
Lee, the manager, came to So's defense afterward.
"He just made that one mistake," Lee said. "Choi Joo-hwan didn't miss it. I think Hyeong-jun otherwise pitched a great game."
Kim Min-gyu of the Doosan Bears pitches against the KT Wiz in the top of the first inning of Game 4 of the second round in the Korea Baseball Organization postseason at Gocheok Sky Dome in Seoul on Nov. 13, 2020. (Yonhap)
jeeho@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-11-13--(2nd LD) S. Korean lawmakers meet Suga in effort to mend diplomatic ties

`` We told ( Suga ) that the union will work hard to promote exchanges between the two countries on @ @ @ @ @ Olympic Games and to create conditions for the leaders of the two countries to resolve @ @ @ @ @ Rep. Kim Jin-pyo of the ruling Democratic Party , who leads the union , told @ @ @ @ @ .

(ATTN: ADDS details in paras 5-6)
SEOUL/TOKYO, Nov. 13 (Yonhap) -- A group of South Korean lawmakers met Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga on Friday amid growing expectations for improvement in ties between the two nations frayed over historical and trade issues.
Seven members of the Korea-Japan Parliamentarians' Union, who arrived in Tokyo for a three-day visit on Thursday, paid a courtesy call on the new Japanese leader at his residence. It marked the first time for Suga to meet South Korean lawmakers since he took office as prime minister in September.
"We told (Suga) that the union will work hard to promote exchanges between the two countries on the occasion of the Tokyo Olympic Games and to create conditions for the leaders of the two countries to resolve difficult pending issues," Rep. Kim Jin-pyo of the ruling Democratic Party, who leads the union, told reporters, after the meeting.
Suga expressed appreciation for the legislators' efforts and hopes over their role in diplomatic relations between the two neighbors, according to Kim.
Suga reiterated his position that it is up to South Korea to make the first reconciliatory move, Japan's Kyodo News reported, citing a source that attended the meeting,
Japan's NHK also reported that in response to Kim's invitation to visit South Korea, the Japanese prime minister asked Seoul to "straighten up the conditions."
South Korean lawmakers belonging to the Korea-Japan Parliamentarians' Union walk to meet Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga at his residence in Tokyo on Nov. 13, 2020. (Yonhap)
Fukushiro Nukaga of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, who leads the Japan-Korea Parliamentarians' Union, also said Suga expects the lawmakers to contribute to solving the issues stemming from Japan's colonial rule of the Korean Peninsula from 1910-45.
South Korea and Japan have clashed over Tokyo's export curbs last year that are seen as political retaliation for Korean Supreme Court rulings in 2018 that ordered Japanese firms to compensate South Koreans victims of wartime forced labor.
On Thursday, the lawmakers held a face-to-face meeting with their Japanese counterparts to discuss ways to boost cooperation and exchanges between the two sides.
The lawmakers from the two countries agreed to form a special committee dedicated to bilateral cooperation efforts for the Tokyo Olympic Games, which have been delayed to next year due to the pandemic. It was proposed by the South Korean side.
The Japanese lawmakers also accepted a suggestion to hold a joint seminar to promote mutual exchanges next year.
colin@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-11-13--(LEAD) Bears knock off Wiz to reach 6th consecutive Korean Series

`` Now that we 're back in the Korean Series , the goal is obviously to win the championship again @ @ @ @ @ `` I do n't want my players to feel any extra pressure .
If the @ @ @ @ @ they 're capable and do their best , we should have good results in the @ @ @

(ATTN: ADDS photos, details, comments throughout)
By Yoo Jee-ho
SEOUL, Nov. 13 (Yonhap) -- The Doosan Bears are headed to their sixth straight South Korean baseball championship series.
The Bears defeated the KT Wiz 2-0 on Friday to take the penultimate round in the Korea Baseball Organization (KBO) postseason in four games.
Choi Joo-hwan of the Doosan Bears rounds the bases after hitting a two-run home run against the KT Wiz in the bottom of the fourth inning of Game 4 of the second round in the Korea Baseball Organization postseason at Gocheok Sky Dome in Seoul on Nov. 13, 2020. (Yonhap)
In his first postseason start this year, Choi Joo-hwan delivered a two-run home run in the bottom fourth at Gocheok Sky Dome in Seoul, while reliever Kim Min-gyu took over from shaky starter Yoo Hee-kwan in the first inning and fired 4 2/3 shutout frames. Right-hander Chris Flexen, who'd started Game 1 for the Bears on Monday, came out of the bullpen for three scoreless innings for his first KBO save.
Flexen was voted the series MVP, earning 46 out of 60 votes cast by the media. In two games, he threw 10 1/3 innings of two-run ball, while striking out 13 and giving up five hits.
The Bears have tied a KBO record with their sixth straight Korean Series appearance, tying the 2007-2012 SK Wyverns and the 2010-2015 Samsung Lions. Doosan skipper Kim Tae-hyoung became the first manager to reach six consecutive Korean Series, as both the Wyverns and the Lions went through managerial changes during their dynastic runs.
Members of the Doosan Bears celebrate after clinching a spot in their sixth straight Korean Series after beating the KT Wiz 2-0 in Game 4 of the second round in the Korea Baseball Organization postseason at Gocheok Sky Dome in Seoul on Nov. 13, 2020. (Yonhap)
Beginning Tuesday, the Bears will face the NC Dinos in the best-of-seven Korean Series. The Dinos earned a bye to that final stage after capturing the regular season title.
The Bears are the defending champions and have won three of the past five Korean Series.
The entire series will be played at Gocheok Sky Dome, which is serving as the neutral venue to guard against cold November conditions.
The start of the regular season was delayed by more than a month, to early May, because of the coronavirus pandemic. Teams played their usual, 144-game schedule, which in turn pushed the start of the postseason to November for the first time in league history.
"Now that we're back in the Korean Series, the goal is obviously to win the championship again," Kim said. "I don't want my players to feel any extra pressure. If the guys just play the way they're capable and do their best, we should have good results in the end."
Members of the Doosan Bears celebrate after clinching a spot in their sixth straight Korean Series after beating the KT Wiz 2-0 in Game 4 of the second round in the Korea Baseball Organization postseason at Gocheok Sky Dome in Seoul on Nov. 13, 2020. (Yonhap)
In Friday's game, both clubs failed to capitalize on great scoring opportunities in the first inning.
For the Wiz, Cho Yong-ho and Hwang Jae-gyun greeted starter Yoo Hee-kwan with back-to-back singles. Then Mel Rojas Jr. battled the left-hander for 10 pitches before driving a double off the right-center wall.
Though the ball was hit deep into the gap, well out of center fielder Jung Soo-bin's reach, Cho got a terrible jump from second base.
Kim Min-gyu of the Doosan Bears pitches against the KT Wiz in the top of the first inning of Game 4 of the second round in the Korea Baseball Organization postseason at Gocheok Sky Dome in Seoul on Nov. 13, 2020. (Yonhap)
With Hwang right on his tail, Cho belatedly tried to score, but was beaten at the plate by a perfect relay from second baseman Choi Joo-hwan.
There were still runners at second and third with just one out. But after Yoo fell behind in the count 2-0 on cleanup hitter Yoo Han-joon, the Bears pulled him for reliever Kim Min-gyu.
Yoo swung on the first pitch and popped out to second. Kang Baek-ho then struck out swinging to let the Bears off the hook.
The Bears threatened to score in the bottom first against starter Bae Je-seong, as Park Kun-woo drew a leadoff walk and Jung Soo-bin reached on a throwing error by Bae following his sacrifice bunt attempt.
With men at the corners and nobody out, Bae wiggled out of the jam unscathed with a strikeout and a double play ball.
The game settled into a quiet rhythm, with the teams trading zeroes through the top fourth.
Choi Joo-hwan of the Doosan Bears rounds the bases after hitting a two-run home run against the KT Wiz in the bottom of the fourth inning of Game 4 of the second round in the Korea Baseball Organization postseason at Gocheok Sky Dome in Seoul on Nov. 13, 2020. (Yonhap)
By the bottom third, KT starter Bae was also gone from the game. And then with two outs and a runner at second in the bottom fourth, the Wiz summoned So Hyeong-jun, their Game 1 starter on Monday, from the bullpen to face Choi Joo-hwan.
So threw 100 pitches in 6 2/3 shutout innings Monday. And KT manager Lee Kang-chul reneged on his earlier word that he would only use So at the start of a new inning without a runner on base.
So threw two straight balls, well outside the zone. After a strike made it 3-1, Choi turned on a fastball over the heart of the plate and drove it over the right field wall for a two-run shot.
Now handed the 2-0 lead, Kim Min-gyu gave the Bears another scoreless inning in the top fifth, before handing the reins to the rest of the bullpen.
Chris Flexen of the Doosan Bears pitches against the KT Wiz in the top of the seventh inning of Game 4 of the second round in the Korea Baseball Organization postseason at Gocheok Sky Dome in Seoul on Nov. 13, 2020. (Yonhap)
The Bears also brought their Game 1 starter from the pen, as American right-hander Chris Flexen took the ball to start the seventh. And Flexen, who had thrown 108 pitches on Monday, looked no worse for the wear, and pitched three shutout innings to close out the clinching win.
After the promising first inning, the Wiz only managed two more hits the rest of the way. Cho, the leadoff hitter, got caught stealing second base in the sixth, and the Wiz grounded into two double plays.
KT manager Lee Kang-chul put the postseason exit entirely on his shoulders and said the Wiz, playing in their first postseason in franchise history, have made it this far thanks to a total team effort.
"We've gone through our ups and downs, and I think our players should be able to learn from this experience," Lee said. "Doosan is such a great team. I think we put up a valiant fight."
jeeho@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-11-13--Bears claim battle of bullpens to win KBO postseason war over Wiz

By Yoo Jee-ho
SEOUL, Nov. 13 (Yonhap) -- It was perhaps the worst possible situation for a 21-year-old reliever in his first postseason to enter.
The KT Wiz meant business against the Doosan Bears from the top of the first inning in Game 4 of the second round in the Korea Baseball Organization (KBO) postseason. The first two batters had reached with singles, and the Bears were lucky that a runner got thrown out at home on an ensuing double.
Kim Min-gyu of the Doosan Bears pitches against the KT Wiz in Game 4 of the second round in the Korea Baseball Organization postseason at Gocheok Sky Dome in Seoul on Nov. 13, 2020. (Yonhap)
Doosan starter Yoo Hee-kwan fell behind 2-0 in the count against cleanup Yoo Han-joon. In came right-hander Kim Min-gyu, who only made his postseason debut three days earlier in Game 2 of this series.
A picture of cool, calm and collected, Kim retired Yoo on a pop fly on his very first pitch. Kim then struck out Kang Baek-ho to end the Wiz threat.
Over the next four innings, Kim held the Wiz to just one single, while striking out four and issuing one walk.
It was exactly the type of relief outing the Bears needed. The Wiz had proven capable of putting up a crooked number when they broke out for five runs with two outs in the eighth inning in Thursday's Game 3. If Kim hadn't escaped the first inning jam without damage, the game could have gone out of control early for the Bears.
Chris Flexen of the Doosan Bears celebrates after closing out the KT Wiz 2-0 in Game 4 of the second round in the Korea Baseball Organization postseason at Gocheok Sky Dome in Seoul on Nov. 13, 2020. (Yonhap)
Mixing in sliders and forkballs with his four-seam fastballs, Kim silenced KT bats and kept the Bears in the game.
Doosan's Choi Joo-hwan blasted a two-run homer in the bottom fourth for a 2-0 lead, and Kim Min-gyu continued to stifle the Wiz lineup. He pitched around a leadoff single with a line out and a double play ball in the fifth, which turned out to be his final frame.
In all, Kim threw 49 pitches over 4 2/3 shutout innings, striking out four while giving up just one hit and one walk.
Lee Seung-jin handled one inning, and then in a daring move, the Bears brought their Game 1 starter, Chris Flexen, out of the bullpen.
Flexen had thrown 108 pitches over 7 2/3 innings and struck out 11 in Monday's 3-2 victory. Then on three days' rest, Flexen took care of the final three innings and allowed just one hit to pick up a save.
On the other hand, the Wiz's bullpen strategy blew up in manager Lee Kang-chul's face for the second time this series. That decisive home run by Choi came against the Wiz's own Game 1 starter, So Hyeong-jun.
Chris Flexen of the Doosan Bears pitches against the KT Wiz in the top of the seventh inning of Game 4 of the second round in the Korea Baseball Organization postseason at Gocheok Sky Dome in Seoul on Nov. 13, 2020. (Yonhap)
So came on with a man at second and two outs in the fourth. So threw 100 pitches in 6 2/3 shutout innings in that game. Manager Lee said before the game he would only consider using So at the start of a new inning without a runner on base, but with the Wiz on the brink of elimination, Lee had to take his chances with the 19-year-old right-hander.
So threw two straight balls, well outside the zone. After a strike made it 3-1, Choi turned on a fastball over the heart of the plate and drove it over the right field wall for a two-run shot.
So mostly settled down afterward, but the Wiz's offense was completely shut down against the Bears' bullpen.
Kim Min-gyu of the Doosan Bears returns to the dugout after completing the top of the third inning against the KT Wiz in Game 4 of the second round in the Korea Baseball Organization postseason at Gocheok Sky Dome in Seoul on Nov. 13, 2020. (Yonhap)
Kim Min-gyu of the Doosan Bears pitches against the KT Wiz in the top of the first inning of Game 4 of the second round in the Korea Baseball Organization postseason at Gocheok Sky Dome in Seoul on Nov. 13, 2020. (Yonhap)
jeeho@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-11-13--Bears knock off Wiz to reach 6th consecutive Korean Series

In his first postseason start this year , Choi Joo-hwan delivered a two-run home run in the bottom fourth at @ @ @ @ @ , while reliever Kim Min-gyu took over from shaky starter Yoo Hee-kwan in the first @ @ @ @ @ shutout frames .
Right-hander Chris Flexen , who 'd started Game 1 for the Bears @ @ @ @ @ of the bullpen for three scoreless innings .

By Yoo Jee-ho
SEOUL, Nov. 13 (Yonhap) -- The Doosan Bears are headed to their sixth straight South Korean baseball championship series.
The Bears defeated the KT Wiz 2-0 on Friday to take the penultimate round in the Korea Baseball Organization (KBO) postseason in four games.
Choi Joo-hwan of the Doosan Bears rounds the bases after hitting a two-run home run against the KT Wiz in the bottom of the fourth inning of Game 4 of the second round in the Korea Baseball Organization postseason at Gocheok Sky Dome in Seoul on Nov. 13, 2020. (Yonhap)
In his first postseason start this year, Choi Joo-hwan delivered a two-run home run in the bottom fourth at Gocheok Sky Dome in Seoul, while reliever Kim Min-gyu took over from shaky starter Yoo Hee-kwan in the first inning and fired 4 2/3 shutout frames. Right-hander Chris Flexen, who'd started Game 1 for the Bears on Monday, came out of the bullpen for three scoreless innings.
Beginning Tuesday, the Bears will face the NC Dinos in the best-of-seven Korean Series. The Dinos earned a bye to that final stage after capturing the regular season title.
The Bears are the defending champions and have won three of the past five Korean Series.
Both clubs failed to capitalize on great scoring opportunities in the first inning.
For the Wiz, Cho Yong-ho and Hwang Jae-gyun greeted starter Yoo Hee-kwan with back-to-back singles. Then Mel Rojas Jr. battled the left-hander for 10 pitches before driving a double off the right-center wall.
Though the ball was hit deep into the gap, well out of center fielder Jung Soo-bin's reach, Cho got a terrible jump from second base.
Kim MIn-gyu of the Doosan Bears pitches against the KT Wiz in the top of the first inning of Game 4 of the second round in the Korea Baseball Organization postseason at Gocheok Sky Dome in Seoul on Nov. 13, 2020. (Yonhap)
With Hwang right on his tail, Cho belatedly tried to score, but was beaten at the plate by a perfect relay from second baseman Choi Joo-hwan.
There were still runners at second and third with just one out. But after Yoo fell behind in the count 2-0 on cleanup hitter Yoo Han-joon, the Bears pulled him for reliever Kim Min-gyu.
Yoo swung on the first pitch and popped out to second. Kang Baek-ho then struck out swinging to let the Bears off the hook.
The Bears threatened to score in the bottom first against starter Bae Je-seong, as Park Kun-woo drew a leadoff walk and Jung Soo-bin reached on a throwing error by Bae following his sacrifice bunt attempt.
With men at the corners and nobody out, Bae wiggled out of the jam unscathed with a strikeout and a double play ball.
The game settled into a quiet rhythm, with the teams trading zeroes through the top fourth.
Choi Joo-hwan of the Doosan Bears rounds the bases after hitting a two-run home run against the KT Wiz in the bottom of the fourth inning of Game 4 of the second round in the Korea Baseball Organization postseason at Gocheok Sky Dome in Seoul on Nov. 13, 2020. (Yonhap)
By the bottom third, KT starter Bae was also gone from the game. And then with two outs and a runner at second in the bottom fourth, the Wiz summoned So Hyeong-jun, their Game 1 starter on Monday, from the bullpen to face Choi Joo-hwan.
So threw 100 pitches in 6 2/3 shutout innings Monday. And KT manager Lee Kang-chul reneged on his earlier word that he would only use So at the start of a new inning without a runner on base.
So threw two straight balls, well outside the zone. After a strike made it 3-1, Choi turned on a fastball over the heart of the plate and drove it over the right field wall for a two-run shot.
Now handed the 2-0 lead, Kim Min-gyu gave the Bears another scoreless inning in the top fifth, before handing the reins to the rest of the bullpen.
Chris Flexen of the Doosan Bears pitches against the KT Wiz in the top of the seventh inning of Game 4 of the second round in the Korea Baseball Organization postseason at Gocheok Sky Dome in Seoul on Nov. 13, 2020. (Yonhap)
The Bears also brought their Game 1 starter from the pen, as American right-hander Chris Flexen took the ball to start the seventh. And Flexen, who had thrown 108 pitches on Monday, looked no worse for the wear, and pitched three shutout innings to close out the clinching win.
After the promising first inning, the Wiz only managed two more hits the rest of the way. Cho, the leadoff hitter, got caught stealing second base in the sixth, and the Wiz grounded into two double plays.
jeeho@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-11-13--(LEAD) S. Korean lawmakers meet Suga in effort to mend diplomatic ties

`` We told ( Suga ) that the union will work hard to promote exchanges between the two countries on @ @ @ @ @ Olympic Games and to create conditions for the leaders of the two countries to resolve @ @ @ @ @ Rep. Kim Jin-pyo of the ruling Democratic Party , who leads the union , told @ @ @ @ @ meeting at Suga 's residence .

(ATTN: ADDS details in paras 3-5)
SEOUL/TOKYO, Nov. 13 (Yonhap) -- A group of South Korean lawmakers met Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga on Friday amid growing expectations for improvement in ties between the two nations frayed over historical and trade issues.
Seven members of the Korea-Japan Parliamentarians' Union, who arrived in Tokyo for a three-day visit on Thursday, paid a courtesy call on the new Japanese leader. It marked the first time for Suga to meet South Korean lawmakers since he took office as prime minister in September.
"We told (Suga) that the union will work hard to promote exchanges between the two countries on the occasion of the Tokyo Olympic Games and to create conditions for the leaders of the two countries to resolve difficult pending issues," Rep. Kim Jin-pyo of the ruling Democratic Party, who leads the union, told reporters after the around 30-minute meeting at Suga's residence.
Suga expressed appreciation for the legislators' efforts and hopes over their role in diplomatic relations between the two neighbors, according to Kim.
Fukushiro Nukaga of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, who leads the Japan-Korea Parliamentarians' Union, also said Suga expects the lawmakers to contribute to solving the issues stemming from Japan's colonial rule of the Korean Peninsula from 1910-45.
South Korean lawmakers belonging to the Korea-Japan Parliamentarians' Union walk to meet Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga at his residence in Tokyo on Nov. 13, 2020. (Yonhap)
South Korea and Japan have clashed over Tokyo's export curbs last year that are seen as political retaliation for Korean Supreme Court rulings in 2018 that ordered Japanese firms to compensate South Koreans victims of wartime forced labor.
On Thursday, the lawmakers held a face-to-face meeting with their Japanese counterparts to discuss ways to boost cooperation and exchanges between the two sides.
The lawmakers from the two countries agreed to form a special committee dedicated to bilateral cooperation efforts for the Tokyo Olympic Games, which have been delayed to next year due to the pandemic. It was proposed by the South Korean side.
The Japanese lawmakers also accepted a suggestion to hold a joint seminar to promote mutual exchanges next year.
colin@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-11-13--(LEAD) Korean Air's parent company mulls acquisition of Asiana from creditors

`` Hanjin KAL is capable of raising more than 1 trillion won ( US $ 896 million ) through the @ @ @ @ @ and other means , which means it does not need to issue new shares to @ @ @ @ @ Korean Air that needs a capital injection , not Hanjin KAL , '' Korea Corporate @ @ @ @ @ , the activist equity fund representing the alliance , said in the statement .

(ATTN: ADDS new info in paras 5-7)
By Choi Kyong-ae
SEOUL, Nov. 13 (Yonhap) -- Hanjin KAL Corp., the parent company of Korean Air Lines Co., said Friday it will consider acquiring Asiana Airlines Inc. if the carrier's creditors make an official proposal.
Hanjin made the remarks in response to reports that the state-run Korea Development Bank (KDB) proposed to invest in shares to be issued by Hanjin KAL and the holding company of Hanjin Group will use the money to buy the debt-laden carrier.
"The KDB is likely to make an announcement involving the sale of Asiana next week and Korean Air also looks set to release its statement on the matter," a Hanjin official told Yonhap News Agency over the phone.
The KDB said Thursday a deal with Hanjin is among various options under consideration, but nothing has been determined at this moment.
Later on Friday, Korean Air said in a regulatory filing it is considering the acquisition but that nothing has been determined yet.
Sources said Hanjin KAL is expected to submit a letter of intent to the KDB early next week after its board meets on Monday to discuss the issue.
If the deal materializes, it is expected to create the world's 10th-largest airline company in terms of revenue passenger kilometers.
This photo taken May 13, 2020, shows Korean Air Lines' planes at Incheon International Airport in Incheon, just west of Seoul, amid the continuing coronavirus outbreak. (Yonhap)
Earlier in the day, an alliance led by Cho Hyun-ah, an estranged sister of Korean Air Chairman Won-tae, released a statement taking issue with the KDB's plan to sell Asiana through Hanjin KAL to Korean Air.
"Hanjin KAL is capable of raising more than 1 trillion won (US$896 million) through the sale of its non-core assets and other means, which means it does not need to issue new shares to raise capital. It is Korean Air that needs a capital injection, not Hanjin KAL," Korea Corporate Governance Improvement (KCGI), the activist equity fund representing the alliance, said in the statement.
The alliance called on Asiana's creditors and Hanjin KAL management to have "close consultations" to protect the value of Hanjin KAL shareholders.
"Acquiring Asiana which is suffering the worst financial difficulties amid the virus crisis could result in heavy losses for shareholders and creditors in terms of industrial synergies," according to the KCGI statement.
The 44-year-old chairman had sparred with Hyun-ah, 45, as she formed the alliance with the KCGI and local builder Bando Engineering & Construction Co. in January and argued that inviting a professional manager would help improve the group's management, financial status and shareholder value.
But the three-party alliance failed to dethrone Won-tae, chairman of Hanjin Group and Korean Air, in a family feud.
The alliance is widely expected to make another attempt at Hanjin KAL's shareholders meeting in March next year.
The alliance has recently increased their combined stake in Hanjin KAL to 46.71 percent, higher than 41.3 percent held by the 44-year-old chairman, his mother, younger sister, related parties, Delta Air Lines, Inc. and the country's leading messaging app, Kakao Corp.
This illustrated image shows Hanjin Group Chairman Cho Won-tae (R) and his elder sister Hyun-ah with Hanjin Group's logo in the background. (Yonhap)
The KDB is reportedly in talks with Hanjin to sell a controlling 30.77 percent stake in Asiana Airlines, the country's second-biggest carrier, to Korean Air through the latter's parent firm.
The majority Asiana stake is held by Kumho Industrial Co., an affiliate of airline-to-petrochemical conglomerate Kumho Asiana Group, but the KDB as main creditor is in charge of the sale of Asiana.
In September, Asiana's creditors -- the KDB and the Export-Import Bank of Korea -- decided to end a drawn-out deal to sell Asiana as they failed to iron out differences over acquisition terms with HDC Hyundai Development Co. amid an extended coronavirus pandemic.
The HDC-led consortium initially signed the deal to acquire Asiana from Kumho Industrial, as well as new Asiana shares to be issued and the carrier's six affiliates, for 2.5 trillion won.
But HDC later demanded a renegotiation with Kumho and the creditors over the terms and another round of due diligence on Asiana to reflect the COVID-19 pandemic's impact on the airline industry. The demand was rejected by the creditors.
On Friday, Hanjin KAL plunged 8.3 percent to 77,800 won and Korean Air fell 2.6 percent to 23,950 won on the news, far underperforming the broader KOSPI's 0.7 percent gain.
But Asiana Airlines jumped 7.8 percent to 4,290 won and its listed budget carrier unit Air Busan Co. rose 6.8 percent to 3,845 won.
kyongae.choi@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-11-13--S. Korean lawmakers meet Suga in effort to mend diplomatic ties

Seven members of the Korea-Japan Parliamentarians ' Union , who arrived in Tokyo for a three-day visit on Thursday , @ @ @ @ @ the new Japanese leader .
It marked the first time for Suga to meet South @ @ @ @ @ office as prime minister in September .

SEOUL/TOKYO, Nov. 13 (Yonhap) -- A group of South Korean lawmakers met Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga on Friday amid growing expectations for improvement in ties between the two nations frayed over historical and trade issues.
Seven members of the Korea-Japan Parliamentarians' Union, who arrived in Tokyo for a three-day visit on Thursday, paid a courtesy call on the new Japanese leader. It marked the first time for Suga to meet South Korean lawmakers since he took office as prime minister in September.
South Korean lawmakers belonging to the Korea-Japan Parliamentarians' Union walk to meet Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga at his residence in Tokyo on Nov. 13, 2020. (Yonhap)
South Korea and Japan have clashed over Tokyo's export curbs last year that are seen as political retaliation for Korean Supreme Court rulings in 2018 that ordered Japanese firms to compensate South Koreans victims of wartime forced labor. Japan ruled the Korean Peninsula between 1910 and 1945.
On Thursday, the lawmakers held a face-to-face meeting with their Japanese counterparts to discuss ways to boost cooperation and exchanges between the two sides.
The lawmakers from the two countries agreed to form a special committee dedicated to bilateral cooperation efforts for the Tokyo Olympic Games, which have been delayed to next year due to the pandemic. It was proposed by the South Korean side.
The Japanese lawmakers also accepted a suggestion to hold a joint seminar to promote mutual exchanges next year.
colin@yna.co.kr
(END)