yna--2020-01-14--(News Focus) N.K. unlikely to respond to Moon's offer for inter-Korean projects anytime soon

Lim Eul-chul , a professor at the Institute for Far Eastern Studies at Kyungnam University , also said the North @ @ @ @ @ South 's offer at least in the next few months , considering the schedule of @ @ @ @ @ South Korea and the U.S. , which has usually been conducted in March .

By Choi Soo-hyang
SEOUL, Jan. 14 (Yonhap) -- Despite President Moon Jae-in's repeated calls for inter-Korean exchanges, North Korea is unlikely to respond to the offer anytime soon amid little progress in its denuclearization negotiations with the United States, experts said Tuesday.
Earlier in the day, Moon stressed the need to expand inter-Korean cooperation, saying it could help drum up international support for easing sanctions imposed on the North and make progress in nuclear talks between Washington and Pyongyang.
"If we broaden cooperative ties between the South and the North to the maximum, it would not only facilitate North Korea-U.S. dialogue but also help win international support in connection with some exemptions or exceptions to sanctions on North Korea," Moon said during his New Year's news conference.
Experts, however, say the chances of the North accepting the offer are low until there is a sign from the U.S. that could move the stalled nuclear talks forward.
"North Korea's irresponsive attitude towards the South is part of its strategy to pressure the U.S. to withdraw its hostile policy against the North," Hong Min, a research fellow at the state-run Korea Institute for National Unification, said.
"At a time when a U.S. policy shift is unlikely ahead of the November presidential election, a breakthrough in inter-Korean relations is a long way off," he said.
Lim Eul-chul, a professor at the Institute for Far Eastern Studies at Kyungnam University, also said the North will remain irresponsive to the South's offer at least in the next few months, considering the schedule of the springtime military exercise between South Korea and the U.S., which has usually been conducted in March.
North Korea has long bristled at South Korea and the U.S. conducting joint military exercises and bringing strategic military assets to the South, saying it won't return to the negotiating table until Washington withdraws what it calls its "hostile policy" against the North.
Pyongyang has long denounced the allies' drills as an invasion rehearsal, with its propaganda outlets belittling South Korea as not having any authority to decide on the fate of the combined exercises.
"Moon's remarks appear to reflect the government's will to keep the situation under control for a prompt resumption of the U.S.-North Korea talks, as it can't just sit idle and wait until the end of the U.S. election," Lim said.
Inter-Korean relations have remained stalled since the collapse of the Hanoi summit between U.S. President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, with little room left for South Korea to push forward with various cross-border projects.
In this file photo, taken on Sept. 20, 2018, South Korean President Moon Jae-in (L) and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un chat during a luncheon at a guesthouse of Lake Samji near the North's northern border. Moon ended his three-day visit to North Korea with an excursion to Mount Paekdu, the tallest mountain on the Korean Peninsula, with Kim. The leaders agreed during their summit talks on a wide range of steps to ease cross-border tensions. (Pool photo) (Yonhap)
Last week, U.S. Ambassador to South Korea Harry Harris said inter-Korean relations should move forward in tandem with denuclearization of the North, shortly after Moon reaffirmed his commitment to pushing for the resumption of major inter-Korean projects.
North Korea has criticized the South for dragging its feet in pushing for inter-Korean cooperation projects for fear of violating sanctions.
Reflecting the chilled relations across the border, the North's Kim made no mention of South Korea in laying out his policy direction on major issues at a key ruling party meeting late last year.
On Saturday, former North Korean chief nuclear envoy Kim Kye-gwan issued a statement mocking the South's efforts to mediate between Washington and Pyongyang.
"It is somehow presumptuous for South Korea to meddle in the personal relations between Chairman of the State Affairs Commission Kim Jong-un and President Trump," the former chief negotiator said.
The criticism came just days after Moon invited the North's leader to visit South Korea and called for the two Koreas' concerted efforts to create the conditions for Kim's trip.
Yet professor Lim said the cold reaction expected from the North doesn't mean Pyongyang will completely rule out the possibility of resuming dialogue with Seoul, because the regime will, at a certain point, try to use the South in its negotiations with the U.S.
"At the end of the day, the U.S.-North Korea relations are the most important issue for the North," Lim said. "It will definitely try to use South Korea for that matter at a certain point."
Hong also said North Korea could resume cooperation with the South only when it sees a possibility of resuming dialogue with the U.S.
"In that regard, it is important that Seoul keeps offering these options for North Korea to return to dialogue, even when immediate acceptance of the proposal is not foreseen," he said. "These options could help the North come back to the negotiating table more easily when the situation changes."
Denuclearization negotiations between the U.S. and North Korea remain deadlocked after the second Trump-Kim summit in February collapsed due to wide differences over the scope of Pyongyang's denuclearization measures and Washington's sanctions relief.
The two countries held their last working-level talks in Stockholm in October, but the meeting also broke down, with Pyongyang accusing Washington of failing to come up with a new proposal.
Unveiling his policy direction for the new year, Kim Jong-un warned of a "shocking actual action" and a "new strategic weapon," saying he no longer sees a reason to stick to his earlier commitment to suspend nuclear and intercontinental ballistic missile tests.
People watch a live TV broadcast of President Moon Jae-in's New Year's press conference at Seoul Station in the capital on Jan. 14, 2020. (Yonhap)
scaaet@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-01-14--New prime minister vows to bolster economy, seek cooperative politics

`` The government of the Republic of Korea will ( make efforts ) to become a government that can buttress @ @ @ @ @ said at his inauguration ceremony .

SEOUL, Jan. 14 (Yonhap) -- New Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun pledged Tuesday to prop up the economy and seek cooperation with the National Assembly in managing state affairs.
Earlier in the day, President Moon Jae-in appointed Chung, a former parliamentary speaker, as prime minister, expressing hope that he will play a role in restoring politics beset by partisan wrangling.
"The government of the Republic of Korea will (make efforts) to become a government that can buttress the people," Chung said at his inauguration ceremony.
His term began at midnight after the National Assembly passed the confirmation motion late Monday. Chung, a six-term ruling party lawmaker, was nominated last month.
Chung, 69, has become the second prime minister under the Moon administration, succeeding Lee Nak-yon who was the longest-serving prime minister in South Korea.
New Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun is sworn in at a ceremony held in the central government complex building in Seoul on Jan. 14, 2020. (Yonhap)
As for key tasks for the government, Chung stressed the need to bolster the economy, pursue cooperative governance of state affairs with parliament and build a fair society.
"I will make business-friendly environments to boost economic vitality. The government will lead efforts for innovation to enable companies to grapple with new challenges," he said.
Chung is known for his expertise in economic affairs. He worked at a conglomerate for 17 years before he entered politics in the late 1990s.
He served as trade minister between 2006 and 2007. During his time leading the ministry, South Korea's annual exports hit the landmark of US$300 billion.
Moon's pick appears to reflect his strong commitment to bolstering the economy in the second half of his single five-year term.
Chung vowed to seek "genuine" communication with the people and "cooperative" politics for social integration.
"In a diversified society, the administration cannot resolve everything. ... I will listen to the people's opinions on divisive social issues and seek substantive cooperation with the National Assembly beyond communication," he added.
Chung's career as former National Assembly speaker is regarded as a strong point for seeking cooperation with opposition parties.
He led the National Assembly for two years through the end of May 2018. During his term, parliament passed a motion in December 2015 to impeach President Park Geun-hye over corruption.
During last week's parliamentary confirmation hearing, Chung said he will propose to Moon inviting opposition politicians to Cabinet posts after the April 15 parliamentary elections.
Chung said he will strive to build a fair society, apparently considering the situation where fairness has emerged as a pressing social issue following a political scandal involving former Justice Minister Cho Kuk.
"I will improve unfairness in various social sectors and lay the groundwork for easing inequality and polarization by building stronger social safety net," he added.
sooyeon@yna.co.kr
(END)


Yonhap News Summary

Moon made the remarks in his press conference for the new year earlier in the day , a day after @ @ @ @ @ gain in exports for the first 10 days of the month .
`` Since December @ @ @ @ @ been signs that exports are improving , '' Moon said .
`` Also this month @ @ @ @ @ in the first 10 days . ''

The following is the second summary of major stories moved by Yonhap News Agency on Tuesday.
-----------------
33 forced labor victims and bereaved families sue 6 Japanese companies
SEOUL -- A group of 33 Korean victims of wartime forced labor in Japan and their bereaved families living in the southwestern city of Gwangju and South Jeolla Province launched a joint compensation lawsuit against six Japanese companies Tuesday.
The 33 plaintiffs include two surviving victims of Japanese forced labor, while the other 31 victims were all deceased and represented by their children or grandchildren in the second such lawsuit initiated in the Gwangju-South Jeolla region.
-----------------
Moon confidant of exports recovery this year
SEJONG -- President Moon Jae-in voiced confidence Tuesday that South Korea's exports can rebound this year and the nation's economy will make a leap forward.
Moon made the remarks in his press conference for the new year earlier in the day, a day after South Korea reported a rare gain in exports for the first 10 days of the month. "Since December last year, there have been signs that exports are improving," Moon said. "Also this month, exports rose 5.3 percent in the first 10 days."
-----------------
6.1 bln K-pop tweets globally in 2019
SEOUL -- Twitter Inc. said Tuesday that 6.1 billion tweets were created last year globally about K-pop.
The number is up 15 percent from 5.3 billion tweets a year earlier, according to the U.S. microblogging website.
Some of the top 20 countries that tweeted the most about K-pop in 2019 include Thailand, other Asian countries and some in South America.
-----------------
(LEAD) Seoul stocks up for 4th straight day amid hopes for Sino-U.S. trade deal
SEOUL -- The South Korean stock market closed higher on Tuesday to extend its winning streak to a fourth day amid hopes for improvement in trade relations between the United States and China and an imminent signing of their trade deal. The South Korean won fell against the U.S. dollar.
The benchmark Korea Composite Stock Price Index (KOSPI) gained 9.62 points, or 0.43 percent, to close at 2,238.88. Trade volume was heavy at 823 million shares worth 7.1 trillion won (US$6.1 billion), with gainers outnumbering losers 426 to 390.
-----------------
(LEAD) Moon expects prime minister to help restore 'normal politics'
SEOUL -- President Moon Jae-in expressed hope Tuesday that South Korea's new prime minister, Chung Sye-kyun, will play a role in efforts to normalize the country's politics ridden with polarization and partisan strife.
What's more urgent than any other thing is to "restore politics for dialogue, compromise and communication" in the country, Moon told Chung shortly after giving him a letter of appointment at a Cheong Wa Dae ceremony.
-----------------
Political parties show mixed responses to Moon's press conference in new year
SEOUL -- The ruling Democratic Party (DP) said Tuesday that President Moon Jae-in "extensively and frankly" delivered his thoughts on key pending issues in his New Year's press conference.
But the main opposition Liberty Korea Party (LKP) criticized Moon's optimistic view of North Korea's denuclearization talks and the South Korean economy as a "delusion."
(END)


yna--2020-01-14--(LEAD) Seoul stocks up for 4th straight day amid hopes for Sino-U.S. trade deal

SEOUL , Jan. 14 ( Yonhap ) – The South Korean stock market closed higher on Tuesday to extend its @ @ @ @ @ day amid hopes for improvement in trade relations between the United States and China and @ @ @ @ @ trade deal .
The South Korean won fell against the U.S. dollar .

(ATTN: ADDS photo and bond yields at bottom)
SEOUL, Jan. 14 (Yonhap) – The South Korean stock market closed higher on Tuesday to extend its winning streak to a fourth day amid hopes for improvement in trade relations between the United States and China and an imminent signing of their trade deal. The South Korean won fell against the U.S. dollar.
The benchmark Korea Composite Stock Price Index (KOSPI) gained 9.62 points, or 0.43 percent, to close at 2,238.88. Trade volume was heavy at 823 million shares worth 7.1 trillion won (US$6.1 billion), with gainers outnumbering losers 426 to 390.
An electronic signboard at KEB Hana Bank in Seoul shows the benchmark Korea Composite Stock Price Index (KOSPI) up 0.43 percent to close at 2,238.88 points on Jan. 14, 2020. (Yonhap)
Foreign investors maintained their net buying position for the eighth straight session to scoop up a net 262.9 billion won. Individuals bought a net 132.4 billion won, while institutions offloaded a net 426.2 billion won.
In an indication of improved relations, Washington said Beijing will no longer be designated as a currency manipulator, ahead of their signing of a preliminary trade agreement to ease tariffs later this week.
"The U.S. Treasury Department's decision to eliminate the designation of China as a currency manipulator brought positive effect to foreign buying," Seo Sang-young, an analyst at Kiwoom Securities, said.
In Seoul, most large-cap shares on the Seoul bourse ended mixed.
Chipmakers took a breather after a week-long rally as investors cashed in part of their recent gains.
Market behemoth Samsung Electronics was unchanged at 60,000 won, after opening higher, to snap its five-day winning streak. No. 2 chipmaker SK hynix was also unchanged to end at 100,500 won.
Bio shares were in negative terrain, with pharmaceutical firm Samsung BioLogics decreasing 1.25 percent to end at 435,000 won. Another bio firm, Celltrion, lost 0.84 percent to 178,000 won.
In contrast, Samsung SDI, the battery unit of South Korea's top conglomerate, jumped 2.51 percent to finish at a 52-week high of 265,500 won on upbeat market forecast for its electric vehicle battery business.
Auto shares also ended bullish. Leading automaker Hyundai Motor moved up 0.87 percent to 116,000 won and its smaller sister company, Kia Motor, was 1.73 percent higher at 41,150 won. Auto parts maker Hyundai Mobis added 0.83 percent to 244,000 won.
The local currency closed at 1,156.1 won against the U.S. dollar, down 0.1 from the previous session's close.
Bond prices, which move inversely to yields, closed higher. The yield on three-year Treasurys dropped 3.2 basis points to stand at 1.386 percent, and the return on the benchmark five-year government bond shed 3.7 basis points to reach 1.513 percent.
khj@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-01-14--S. Korean Bond Yields on Jan. 14, 2020

S. Korean Bond Yields on Jan. 14, 2020

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


yna--2020-01-14--First-ever Asian concertmaster of German orchestra to perform solo recitals in Seoul

`` It 's interesting to play in a different way .
I try to permeate into the whole group , @ @ @ @ @ my style in a recital , '' Lee said .
`` I 'm grateful for @ @ @ @ @ a solo violinist at the same time .

By Kim Boram
SEOUL, Jan. 14 (Yonhap) -- South Korean violinist Lee Ji-yoon, the first Asian concertmaster of Staatskapelle Berlin, said Tuesday that she thinks the prestigious German orchestra has recognized her musical potential.
"I think the orchestra thought I was very fresh," Lee said during a press conference in Seoul. "The Staatskapelle Berlin was seeking a generational change and I auditioned at an opportune time."
Lee became the concertmaster of the German orchestra in 2017 and was granted lifetime tenure a year later. She was the youngest and the first Asian to fill the post in the company's 450-year history.
Founded as a court orchestra in 1570, the Staatskapelle Berlin is the resident orchestra of the Berlin State Opera. Argentina-born maestro Daniel Barenboim has been serving as the orchestra's general music director and conductor since 1992.
"I had no experience as a concertmaster at all," she said. "But one of my colleagues told me, the company acknowledged that I could start with a clean slate."
Violinist Lee Ji-yoon speaks at a press conference in Seoul on Jan. 14, 2020. (Yonhap)
The 27-year old violinist gained international attention after winning prizes in several renowned European classical competitions, including the Queen Elisabeth Competition in 2015. She was awarded the top honor at the Carl Nielsen Violin Competition next year.
When she graduated from Hanns Eisler School of Music in Berlin in 2017, she chose to participate in an audition for the post of concertmaster at the Staatskapelle Berlin, one of the leading orchestras in Europe, instead of becoming a full-time solo violinist.
"After my performance at the audition, conductor Barenboim asked me why I wanted to be an orchestra member," she recalled. "I told him that I had fallen in love with the musical ensemble of an orchestra."
But it was not easy for Lee, in her mid-20s, to lead the first violin section of the orchestra and play the second-most important role in performing on the conservative European classical scene.
"I was so scared of working with the veteran members without experience," Lee said. "But I've tried to get closer to them and kept asking them for help. It's important to build good relationships with members."
While working for Staatskapelle Berlin as a concertmaster for about 35 weeks in a year, she performs solo concerts in the remaining time.
She will have four recitals in Korea this year as part of an artist-in-residence project by the Kumho Asiana Cultural Foundation. For the concerts, she arranged a program with handpicked music and songs.
In the upcoming performance on Thursday, she will perform eight of her favorite songs, including "Romanian Folk Dance" by Bela Bartok and "Violin Sonata" by Achille-Claude Debussy.
She said she enjoys the different experiences of playing the violin with an orchestra and as a soloist.
"It's interesting to play in a different way. I try to permeate into the whole group, but I can show off my style in a recital," Lee said. "I'm grateful for being an orchestra member and a solo violinist at the same time.
brk@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-01-14--Political parties show mixed responses to Moon's press conference in new year

Earlier in the day , Moon said inter-Korean cooperation could help drum up international support for sanctions relief for North @ @ @ @ @ no need to be pessimistic about the future of stalled nuclear talks between the North @ @ @ @ @

SEOUL, Jan. 14 (Yonhap) -- The ruling Democratic Party (DP) said Tuesday that President Moon Jae-in "extensively and frankly" delivered his thoughts on key pending issues in his New Year's press conference.
But the main opposition Liberty Korea Party (LKP) criticized Moon's optimistic view of North Korea's denuclearization talks and the South Korean economy as a "delusion."
Earlier in the day, Moon said inter-Korean cooperation could help drum up international support for sanctions relief for North Korea. He also saw no need to be pessimistic about the future of stalled nuclear talks between the North and the United States.
Moon urged the prosecution's internal reform so as to regain the people's trust following a row over the government's replacement of senior prosecutors looking into scandals involving former and sitting presidential officials.
"Moon moved a step closer to the people by frankly answering questions, based on his deep understanding of overall state affairs," said Rep. Lee Jae-jung, spokesperson of the DP, assessing that Moon held "extensive dialogue" on many pending issues.
She said the party is on the same page with Moon's commitment to making a better world for the people through reform drives.
But the conservative LKP condemned Moon for his reluctance to recognize his policy failures. It claimed that Moon blamed the National Assembly for causing political impasses and the media for amplifying economic problems.
"Moreover, he shifted responsibility for the Cho Kuk scandal to the people," LKP spokesman Lee Chang-soo said, referring to public divisions over the prosecution's investigation into wrongdoings involving the family of ex-Justice Minister Cho.
Moon said he owes a "debt in heart" to Cho and asked the people to stop conflicts over him. Social rifts have deepened over whether Cho was qualified to be justice minister.
The minor opposition Bareunmirae Party criticized Moon for being too generous to himself over policy failures on the economy and security fronts.
The minor liberal Party for Democracy and Peace positively assessed Moon's press conference but voiced regret over his failure to present policy options to issues such as economic polarization.
President Moon Jae-in speaks at a New Year's press conference held at his office Cheong Wa Dae in Seoul on Jan. 14, 2020. (Yonhap)
sooyeon@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-01-14--Seoul stocks up for 4th straight day amid hopes for Sino-U.S. trade deal

SEOUL, Jan. 14 (Yonhap) – The South Korean stock market closed higher on Tuesday to extend its winning streak to a fourth day amid hopes for improvement in trade relations between the United States and China and an imminent signing of their trade deal. The South Korean won fell against the U.S. dollar.
The benchmark Korea Composite Stock Price Index (KOSPI) gained 9.62 points, or 0.43 percent, to close at 2,238.88. Trade volume was heavy at 823 million shares worth 7.1 trillion won (US$6.1 billion), with gainers outnumbering losers 426 to 390.
Foreign investors maintained their net buying position for the eighth straight session to scoop up a net 262.9 billion won. Individuals bought a net 132.4 billion won, while institutions offloaded a net 426.2 billion won.
In an indication of improved relations, Washington said Beijing will no longer be designated as a currency manipulator, ahead of their signing of a preliminary trade agreement to ease tariffs later this week.
"The U.S. Treasury Department's decision to eliminate the designation of China as a currency manipulator brought positive effect to foreign buying," Seo Sang-young, an analyst at Kiwoom Securities, said.
In Seoul, most large-cap shares on the Seoul bourse ended mixed.
Chipmakers took a breather after a week-long rally as investors cashed in part of their recent gains.
Market behemoth Samsung Electronics was unchanged at 60,000 won, after opening higher, to snap its five-day winning streak. No. 2 chipmaker SK hynix was also unchanged to end at 100,500 won.
Bio shares were in negative terrain, with pharmaceutical firm Samsung BioLogics decreasing 1.25 percent to end at 435,000 won. Another bio firm, Celltrion, lost 0.84 percent to 178,000 won.
In contrast, Samsung SDI, the battery unit of South Korea's top conglomerate, jumped 2.51 percent to finish at a 52-week high of 265,500 won on upbeat market forecast for its electric vehicle battery business.
Auto shares also ended bullish. Leading automaker Hyundai Motor moved up 0.87 percent to 116,000 won and its smaller sister company, Kia Motor, was 1.73 percent higher at 41,150 won. Auto parts maker Hyundai Mobis added 0.83 percent to 244,000 won.
The local currency closed at 1,156.1 won against the U.S. dollar, down 0.1 from the previous session's close.
khj@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-01-14--S. Korea to draw up private sector infrastructure projects worth 17 tln won

The economy is expected to grow 2.4 percent this year , following last year 's estimated 2 percent expansion , @ @ @ @ @ anticipated recovery in the memory chip sector and a series of policy measures , according @ @ @ @

SEJONG, Jan. 14 (Yonhap) -- South Korea will draw up private sector infrastructure projects worth 17 trillion won (US$14.7 billion) this year in a bid to spur an economic recovery through investments, the finance ministry said Tuesday.
Vice Finance Minister Koo Yun-cheol made the remarks at a meeting with relevant officials on infrastructure projects earlier in the day.
Among the new infrastructure projects under review are 13.5 trillion won worth of major roads and railways and 3.5 trillion won worth of environment-related businesses, Koo said.
Separately, the government will begin 35 private sector infrastructure projects worth 16 trillion won from this year, Koo said.
Vice Finance Minister Koo Yun-cheol (R) speaks at a meeting with relevant officials on private sector infrastructure projects on Jan. 14, 2020. (Yonhap)
Last year, the government started 13 private sector investment projects worth 12.6 trillion won, Koo said.
Finance Minister Hong Nam-ki has said the government will implement its economic policy this year to invigorate investment and create more jobs.
The economy is expected to grow 2.4 percent this year, following last year's estimated 2 percent expansion, on the back of an anticipated recovery in the memory chip sector and a series of policy measures, according to the ministry.
As part of the government's drive to spur investments, about 100 trillion won worth of investments will be made through large-scale corporate projects, public sector projects and private investment in public projects this year, the ministry said.
kdh@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-01-15--Seoul stocks open lower on tech losses

Seoul stocks open lower on tech losses

SEOUL , Jan. 15 ( Yonhap ) -- South Korean stocks opened lower Wednesday , led by losses in technology @ @ @ @ @ , on news that an interim Sino-American trade deal does not remove tariffs on Chinese @ @

SEOUL, Jan. 15 (Yonhap) -- South Korean stocks opened lower Wednesday, led by losses in technology stocks and other market heavyweights, on news that an interim Sino-American trade deal does not remove tariffs on Chinese goods.
The benchmark Korea Composite Stock Price Index (KOSPI) shed 12.27 points, or 0.55 percent, to 2,226.61 in the first 15 minutes of trading.
Most large caps slid into negative territory, with market kingpin Samsung Electronics falling 1.33 percent.
No. 2 chipmaker SK hynix lost 1.89 percent. Top automaker Hyundai Motor fell 1.29 percent, and Samsung BioLogics, a biopharmaceutical affiliate of Samsung Group, was down 0.11 percent.
In contrast, top portal operator Naver gained 0.52 percent.
The local currency was trading at 1,160.7 won against the U.S. dollar, down 4.6 won from the previous session's close.
khj@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-01-15--Samsung ranks No. 3 in global wireless headset shipments in 2019: data

`` Apple is the undisputed leader in the TWS Bluetooth headphone segment , '' said Ville-Petteri Ukonaho , associate director @ @ @ @ @ And while it will remain the leader in the category , there is ample opportunity @ @ @ @ @ their own portions of the segment . ''

SEOUL, Jan. 15 (Yonhap) -- Samsung Electronics Co., South Korea's top electronics firm, ranked third in global wireless headset shipments last year, industry data showed Wednesday, though it trailed far behind its rival Apple Inc.
Samsung shipped 7.4 million totally wireless (TWS) headsets for a 6.9 percent market share in 2019, according to data from market tracker Strategy Analytics.
TWS refers to Bluetooth stereo headsets that do not have a wire connecting the two earpieces.
Apple was the dominant force in the TWS market with a 54.4 percent market share after shipping 58.7 million AirPods, its signature TWS headset product, in 2019.
China's Xioami Corp. was the runner-up with an 8.5 percent market share from shipping 9.1 million TWS headsets.
This photo provided by Samsung Electronics Co. on March 7, 2019, shows the company's wireless earphone Galaxy Buds. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)
"Apple is the undisputed leader in the TWS Bluetooth headphone segment," said Ville-Petteri Ukonaho, associate director at Strategy Analytics. "And while it will remain the leader in the category, there is ample opportunity for others to carve out their own portions of the segment."
TWS headsets are one of the fastest-growing electronics products in recent years. Strategy Analytics said it expected the TWS headset market to grow to 1.2 billion units in 2024 from 170 million units in 2019.
kdon@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-01-15--N. Korea holds nationwide party meetings to discuss Kim's New Year's message

Provincial committee meetings were held on Monday and Tuesday across the nation to discuss the results of the plenary session @ @ @ @ @ Committee in late December , according to the Rodong Sinmun , the official newspaper of @ @ @ @

SEOUL, Jan. 15 (Yonhap) -- North Korea held nationwide regional meetings of the Workers' Party (WPK) to discuss leader Kim Jong-un's New Year's message urging stepped-up "self-reliance" and a "frontal breakthrough" against challenges facing the communist nation, state media reported Wednesday.
Provincial committee meetings were held on Monday and Tuesday across the nation to discuss the results of the plenary session of the WPK's Central Committee in late December, according to the Rodong Sinmun, the official newspaper of the ruling party.
"Deficiencies hindering the improvement of militant functions of party organizations have been seriously analyzed and discussed," the paper said, referring to a lack of "right strategies" for economic development and practices that undermine the spirit of socialism in various areas.
Participants were also urged to work hard to maximize production in plants and farming fields, a major task leader Kim laid out in last month's plenary party meeting, the paper said.
High-ranking party officials were also on hand during the regional meetings. North Korea's No. 2 leader, Choe Ryong-hae, presided over a meeting of the North Hwanghae provincial committee, according to the paper.
It is rare for North Korea to report on such nationwide regional party meetings. Observers say that the report on this week's gatherings appears to demonstrate Pyongyang's strong determination to implement policy directions laid out by leader Kim.
During the four-day plenary session held in late December, Kim called for making a "frontal breakthrough" to tackle challenges confronting the country and intensified efforts to build a self-reliant economy, apparently bracing for a protracted fight against sanctions and pressure led by the U.S. amid a lack of progress in denuclearization negotiations.
kokobj@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-01-15--Esper: U.S. committed to Singapore deal with N. Korea

Esper made the remark during talks with Japanese Defense Minister Taro Kono at the Pentagon , saying the leaders ' @ @ @ @ @ summit in Singapore in June 2018 `` includes the complete elimination of ( North Korea @ @ @ @ @ destruction , their means of production , and their means of delivery , '' the @ @ @ @ @ .

WASHINGTON, Jan. 14 (Yonhap) -- The United States is committed to the full implementation of a nuclear deal between President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, U.S. Defense Secretary Mark Esper said Tuesday.
Esper made the remark during talks with Japanese Defense Minister Taro Kono at the Pentagon, saying the leaders' joint statement from their first summit in Singapore in June 2018 "includes the complete elimination of (North Korea's) weapons of mass destruction, their means of production, and their means of delivery," the Pentagon said in a readout.
"This goal is the same one laid out by the U.N. Security Council in multiple U.N. Security Council resolutions," it continued. "Secretary Esper thanked Japan for its strong leadership in United Nations Security Council Resolutions sanctions enforcement to disrupt North Korea's illicit ship-to-ship transfers and for hosting multinational forces that support this effort."
The Pentagon's description of the joint statement goes beyond what was actually written and it's unclear why such details were added.
The text reads that "the DPRK commits to work toward complete denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula." DPRK stands for North Korea's official name, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea.
Esper's remark comes as the implementation of the agreement has stalled amid North Korean demands for sanctions relief and security guarantees in exchange for its denuclearization.
This Reuters photo shows U.S. Secretary of Defense Mark Esper (L) speaking as Japanese Defense Minister Taro Kono looks on during a joint news conference at the Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia, on Jan. 14, 2020. (Yonhap)
hague@yna.co.kr
(END)


KOSPI 2,229.80 DN 9.08 points (open)


KOSDAQ 678.83 UP 0.12 points (open)


Wednesday's weather forecast

SEOUL , Jan. 15 ( Yonhap ) -- The following is the weather forecast for South Korea 's 12 major @ @ @ @ @ .


yna--2020-01-15--Dollar opens at 1,160.0 won UP from 1,156.1 won


yna--2020-01-15--Samsung ranks 2nd in 2019 U.S. patent grants

By country , the U.S. took up the largest share , at 49 percent , followed by Japan with 16 @ @ @ @ @ 7 percent and China with 5 percent .

SEOUL, Jan. 15 (Yonhap) -- Samsung Electronics Co. took the No. 2 spot in U.S. patent grants last year, industry data showed Wednesday.
The world's top smartphone and memory chip maker, received 6,417 U.S. patent grants in 2019, up 11 percent from the previous year, according to the data from IFI Claims Patent Services, a provider of a top global patent data platform.
Samsung has been the runner-up in IFI's U.S. patents grants rankings since 2006.
IBM Corp. topped the list with 9,262 grants last year, up 2 percent from a year earlier, maintaining the U.S. company's position as the patent leader for the 27th consecutive year.
Canon Inc. was No. 3 with 3,548 grants, followed by Microsoft Corp. with 3,081 and Intel Corp. with 3,020.
This file photo taken Aug. 29, 2019, shows Samsung Electronics Co.'s outdoor signage at the company's office building in Seoul. (Yonhap)
LG Electronics Inc., South Korea's No. 2 electronics firm, received 2,805 grants to come in at No. 6, down one spot from a year earlier.
Other South Korean firms were Hyundai Motor Co., which ranked 20th with 1,505 grants. Hyundai's sister company, Kia Motors Co., moved up 58 spots to rank No. 41 with 921 grants.
Last year, U.S. patent grants reached a record high of 333,530, up 15 percent from a year earlier.
By country, the U.S. took up the largest share, at 49 percent, followed by Japan with 16 percent, South Korea with 7 percent and China with 5 percent.
The data also showed Samsung Electronics holding the top spot in terms of active patent families with 76,638, followed by IBM with 37,304 and Canon with 35,724.
Active patent families refers to the whole set of patents covering the same invention in one or more countries, measuring the size of a patent owner's global portfolio.
kdon@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-01-15--(LEAD) Jobless rate steady at 3.4 pct in Dec., 516,000 jobs created

For all of 2019 , the country 's jobless rate was also unchanged at 3.8 percent .
Some 301,000 jobs @ @ @ @ @ marking the first time in two years that the number of job additions exceeded 300,000 @ @ @ @

(ATTN: UPDATES throughout with finance minister's remarks, details; RECASTS lead para)
By Kim Deok-hyun
SEJONG, Jan. 15 (Yonhap) -- South Korea's jobless rate remained flat at 3.4 percent in December, but Asia's fourth-largest economy reported a stronger-than-expected job growth last month with job additions coming to 516,000, data showed Wednesday.
It was the strongest monthly job additions in five years and four months, according to the data compiled by Statistics Korea.
The unemployment rate for young adults -- those aged between 15 and 29 -- fell to 7.3 percent last month from 8.3 percent tallied a year earlier.
For all of 2019, the country's jobless rate was also unchanged at 3.8 percent. Some 301,000 jobs were added last year, marking the first time in two years that the number of job additions exceeded 300,000, officials said.
Finance Minister Hong Nam-ki said the nation's job market showed a "trend of significant recovery" last year.
"The government will focus on helping the recovery trend continue this year," Hong said, shortly after the statistics agency released the data.
The statistics agency said the number of unemployed people stood at 942,000 in December, compared with 944,000 a year earlier.
By industry, the health and social welfare sectors added 178,000 jobs, and the culture, sports and leisure-related service segment saw an increase of 88,000 jobs last month.
In contrast, the wholesale and retail sector suffered a decline in job offerings by losing 94,000 jobs in December. The construction sector also continued to shed jobs by losing 28,000 jobs.
The jobs data came amid hopes that South Korea's economy could regain its recovery momentum this year.
South Korea's exports fell 10.3 percent on-year in 2019 to $542.4 billion, according to government data.
For December last year, the monthly exports slipped 5.2 percent on-year to $45.7 billion to extend their slump to a whopping 13th consecutive month.
But this year's outbound shipments are forecast to rise 3 percent.
The nation's economy is expected to grow 2.4 percent this year, following last year's estimated 2 percent expansion, on the back of an anticipated recovery in the memory chip sector and a series of policy measures.
kdh@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-01-15--S. Korea, U.S. hold defense cost-sharing talks

The two teams , led by Jeong Eun-bo on the South Korean side and James DeHart on the U.S. side @ @ @ @ @ the sixth round of negotiations on renewing the countries ' Special Measures Agreement .

WASHINGTON, Jan. 14 (Yonhap) -- South Korea and the United States opened a new round of talks Tuesday on sharing the cost of the upkeep of 28,500 American troops stationed on the Korean Peninsula.
The two teams, led by Jeong Eun-bo on the South Korean side and James DeHart on the U.S. side, met in Washington for the sixth round of negotiations on renewing the countries' Special Measures Agreement.
Details of their discussions were not immediately available as both sides kept the negotiations tightly under wraps.
Arriving in Washington on Monday, Jeong told reporters that the two sides are narrowing their differences but still remain apart on how to reach a "comprehensive" deal.
Washington has demanded a significant increase in Seoul's financial contributions this year, along with additional cost categories, including payments for rotational troop deployments to the peninsula.
South Korea has maintained that the negotiations should proceed within the framework of the previous SMA, which expired at the end of December.
The two sides are slated to continue talks Wednesday.
This photo, provided by South Korea's foreign ministry, shows Jeong Eun-bo (R), Seoul's chief negotiator for the Special Measures Agreement, shaking hands with his U.S. counterpart, James DeHart, at the sixth round of negotiations in Washington on Jan. 14, 2020. (Yonhap)
hague@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-01-15--Jobless rate steady at 3.4 pct in Dec., 516,000 jobs created

The nation 's economy is expected to grow 2.4 percent this year , following last year 's estimated 2 percent @ @ @ @ @ of an anticipated recovery in the memory chip sector and a series of policy measures @

SEJONG, Jan. 15 (Yonhap) -- South Korea's jobless rate remained flat at 3.4 percent in December, with job additions coming to 516,000, data showed Wednesday.
The number of employed people reached 27.15 million in December last year, according to the data compiled by Statistics Korea.
The unemployment rate for young adults -- those aged between 15 and 29 -- fell to 7.3 percent last month from 8.3 percent tallied a year earlier.
The jobs data came amid worries that South Korea's economy is losing its growth momentum in the face of falling exports and weak domestic demand.
South Korea's exports fell 10.3 percent on-year in 2019 to $542.4 billion, according to government data.
For December last year, the monthly exports slipped 5.2 percent on-year to $45.7 billion to extend their slump to a whopping 13th consecutive month.
But this year's outbound shipments are forecast to rise 3 percent.
The nation's economy is expected to grow 2.4 percent this year, following last year's estimated 2 percent expansion, on the back of an anticipated recovery in the memory chip sector and a series of policy measures.
kdh@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-01-15--(URGENT) Korea's jobless rate unchanged at 3.8 pct in 2019, 301,000 jobs added


yna--2020-01-15--(URGENT) Korea's jobless rate steady at 3.4 pct in December, 516,000 jobs created


yna--2020-01-15--(EDITORIAL from Korea JoongAng Daily on Jan. 15)

In the meantime , the private sector is increasingly reluctant to invest and our growth potential continues to decline as @ @ @ @ @ 's reckless `` income-led growth '' policy .
If the government keeps moving in that @ @ @ @ @ help dry up the state coffers .
In a recent interview with the JoongAng Ilbo @ @ @ @ @ Barro urged the government to stop its populist approach and push pro-market , pro-business , @ @ @ @ @ warned that South Korea is now headed to `` income-led poverty , '' not to @ @ @ @ @ After Moon underscored the need to come up with much stronger measures to calm the @ @ @ @ @ even the Justice Party demanded the government come up with measures of substance instead of @ @ @ @ @ ''

Detached from reality
In a nationally televised New Year's press conference on Tuesday, President Moon Jae-in consistently made remarks praising his supporters — and ignoring the public at large. He did not demonstrate any cool-headed diagnosis or reflection on reality as in his New Year's speech on Jan. 7. His attitude toward our economy and North Korea was the same as before, signaling no change in his policies.
First of all, his perception about the economy was overly pat. He said it is clear that positive economic indicators are increasing while negative ones are decreasing. Such a bright prospect is consistent at home and abroad, he added. In his New Year's speech, he said that our employment and income disparities were being improved. We wonder where he's getting this sunny picture. Any improvements in hiring or income redistribution were made possible only because of government spending to create part-time jobs for senior citizens and generous cash handouts to people with low incomes.
In the meantime, the private sector is increasingly reluctant to invest and our growth potential continues to decline as a result of the government's reckless "income-led growth" policy. If the government keeps moving in that direction, it will only help dry up the state coffers. In a recent interview with the JoongAng Ilbo, Harvard University Prof. Robert Barro urged the government to stop its populist approach and push pro-market, pro-business, and pro-investment policies. Barro warned that South Korea is now headed to "income-led poverty," not to "income-led growth." After Moon underscored the need to come up with much stronger measures to calm the heated real estate market, even the Justice Party demanded the government come up with measures of substance instead of a "quick fix."
Moon also said he was indebted to former Justice Minister Cho Kuk for "all the pains he has suffered." That is a very inappropriate remark. In regard to suspicions over Cho's involvement in stopping the Blue House's probe of former Vice Busan Mayor Yoo Jae-soo for corruption, a court judge clearly stated that the quality of his crimes is bad. That's not all. The prosecution accused his wife of "raking in profits by taking advantage of undisclosed information" and "fabricating documents for her daughter to get admitted into better colleges."
Moon avoided a reporter's question about whether he had been involved in helping his old friend win the Ulsan mayoral election last year. Moon simply said it's not appropriate to mention a criminal case under investigation. He said that the prosecution will lose public trust if it "selectively" digs into politically charged cases. Moon must remember that he himself urged Prosecutor General Yoon Seok-youl to investigate the powers that be.
We hope Moon listens to his opponents before it is too late.
(END)


yna--2020-01-15--(EDITORIAL from Korea Times on Jan. 15)

(EDITORIAL from Korea Times on Jan. 15)

`` I think we are not at the stage for now to be pessimistic about South-North dialogue and North Korea-U.S. @ @ @ @ @ not a time to be optimistic . ''
He described U.S. President Donald Trump 's @ @ @ @ @ to Chairman Kim Jong-un last week to congratulate him on his Jan. 8 birthday , @ @ @ @ @ and a `` good idea . ''

Out of touch with reality
New strategy needed to meet mounting challenges
Having optimism is oftentimes better than having pessimism. Yet blind optimism could be a recipe for failure. The same is true of the stalled nuclear talks between the United States and North Korea. Having a balanced view is crucial to breaking the deadlock and keeping the ball rolling.
Now the question is whether President Moon Jae-in and his government are making an objective and correct assessment of the deteriorating situation. In his New Year's press conference at Cheong Wa Dae, Tuesday, Moon seemed to put forward wishful thinking without having a sense of reality.
He said it was premature to be gloomy about the peace process on the Korean Peninsula. He certainly meant that it is not the time to give up on hope for a breakthrough in the impasse and an eventual success in denuclearizing the North.
"I think we are not at the stage for now to be pessimistic about South-North dialogue and North Korea-U.S. dialogue, although it is not a time to be optimistic." He described U.S. President Donald Trump's letter, which was sent to Chairman Kim Jong-un last week to congratulate him on his Jan. 8 birthday, as "very positive" and a "good idea."
Moon stressed relations between Kim and Trump which he apparently believes can lead to a resumption of dialogue. This, however, is a far cry from the North Korean view that personal ties between the two leaders are insufficient to put the stalemated talks back on track.
Former North Korean chief nuclear envoy Kim Kye-gwan said Saturday that it would be "absentminded" to anticipate the North's return to dialogue because of the leaders' friendly relations. Kim, now a foreign ministry adviser, made it clear that his country would not resume negotiations unless the U.S. fully accepts its demands for sanctions relief and security guarantees.
The North has suspended talks with the U.S. although it has yet to close all the dialogue channels. It has already threatened to take a "new path." Kim Jong-un even mentioned a "new strategic weapon," hinting at retracting his self-imposed moratorium on nuclear and ICBM testing.
Adviser Kim also scoffed at President Moon's efforts to act as a mediator between Washington and Pyongyang. He derided Cheong Wa Dae for announcing the delivery of the congratulatory birthday message to Kim on behalf of Trump.
Moon, however, has kept waving an olive branch to the North. During the press conference, he floated the idea of promoting inter-Korean cooperation and exchanges, including joint projects in border areas and individual tours to the North by South Koreans. He also expressed hope for the formation of a single team for the 2020 Tokyo Summer Olympics and a joint bid to host the 2032 Olympics.
Moon should be careful not to be out of touch with reality. We don't want to tell him to change his policy of active engagement with North Korea. Instead, we call on him to set a new strategy to better cope with mounting challenges arising from the North's hardened stance.
(END)


yna--2020-01-15--(EDITORIAL from Korea Herald on Jan. 15)

The parties must refrain from demands that may instigate internal strife .
They must bury the hatchet over the impeachment @ @ @ @ @ candidate nomination .
If need be , they should shelve the debate on long-term ideological @ @ @ @ @ The unity of the conservative bloc is a prerequisite to achieving the cause of preventing @ @ @ @ @ left .
If the conservative parties fight with each other out of selfish motives , @ @ @ @ @ the entire right-wing camp .

Divided, the right fall
Conservative parties poised to begin discussing integration to rebuild system of checks and balances
Ha Tae-keung, co-chairman of the recently launched New Conservative Party, said Monday his party would discuss integrating with the main right-wing opposition Liberty Korea Party.
Ha said Liberty Korea Party Chairman Hwang Kyo-ahn and its supreme council effectively accepted "three principles" demanded by the New Conservative Party.
Hours earlier, Hwang said the new party's demands were reflected in the six principles set by the solidarity of right-wing civic groups and political parties including the Liberty Korea Party for the integration of conservatives and centrists.
The New Conservative Party had demanded Hwang officially declare that the Liberty Korea Party will accept its three principles. They call for it to "cross the river of controversies over the impeachment of former President Park Geun-hye, seek an innovative conservatism and demolish an old house and build a new one."
The principle of "crossing the river of impeachment controversies" is taken to mean that the Liberty Korea Party must not raise issues with Park's impeachment. New Conservative Party lawmakers voted to impeach Park and then left the Liberty Korea Party.
Hwang's remarks, though not in the form of an official declaration, are construed to indicate that the main right-wing party accepted the new party's demands indirectly through the agreement reached by solidarity. The two parties are set to speed up discussions on their integration.
Conservative opposition parties have been in disarray after the inauguration of President Moon Jae-in's administration. They failed to put the brakes on the leftist ruling camp which pushed Moon's policies almost one-sidedly.
The ruling party formed a collusive "four plus one group" with minor parties and pushed through three fast-tracked bills over Liberty Korea Party's violent opposition amid concerns the laws could be abused to extend its rule. The parties rammed through a bill to change election rules to the advantage of minor parties. In return, the minor parties voted for a bill to establish an investigation agency targeting high-ranking public officials including prosecutors and judges. On Monday, they passed a bill that will weaken the power of the prosecution and strengthen that of the police.
The new justice minister replaced the prosecutor general's key aides who were in charge of investigating corruption and election-meddling allegations involving Moon's cronies. The new investigation agency, if launched in July, will likely take over all of the investigations into figures close to Moon from the prosecution and ground the probes. The president and the ruling party are feared to be more dogmatic.
In this situation, efforts to reconstruct the crumbling conservative camp are encouraging. The buildup of conservative opposition is necessary to check the president and the ruling party properly. Check and balance is a key cornerstone of democracy.
However, discussions on integration are expected to have a rough sailing, particularly over Park's impeachment. Some Liberty Korea Party lawmakers, who opposed the impeachment, say that they cannot go together with those who voted to impeach her, including New Conservative Party lawmakers. Negotiations over candidate nomination will be a hot potato.
Nevertheless, efforts to integrate conservatives and centrists must continue for the sake of a sound democracy. Division and conflicts will likely divide voters. If the conservative parties fight over past issues, their integration may go down the drain.
Nothing looks more urgent than integration to meet the expectations of voters who want conservatives to check the ruling camp from being dogmatic.
The parties must refrain from demands that may instigate internal strife. They must bury the hatchet over the impeachment issue and overcome differences over candidate nomination. If need be, they should shelve the debate on long-term ideological visions until after integration. The unity of the conservative bloc is a prerequisite to achieving the cause of preventing the nation from slanting further left. If the conservative parties fight with each other out of selfish motives, people will look away from the entire right-wing camp.
The general election is just three months away. Integration is the first gate for the conservative right to pass in order to stand. Divided, it will fall.
(END)


yna--2020-01-15--Top headlines in major S. Korean newspapers

Korean-language dailies -- Moon : 'Prosecutor general should lead prosecution reform ' ( Kyunghyang Shinmun ) -- Moon gives prosecutor @ @ @ @ @ Kookmin Daily ) -- Moon slams prosecutor general for disobeying personnel reshuffle ( Donga llbo @ @ @ @ @ year press conference in bid to end national conflicts ( Seoul Shinmun ) -- Moon @ @ @ @ @ prosecution reform ( Segye Times ) -- Moon slams prosecutor general for illegality , says @ @ @ @ @ minister ( Chosun Ilbo ) -- Moon criticizes prosecutor general as unlawful , says he @ @ @ @ @ ( JoongAng Ilbo ) -- Moon presses prosecutor general to push for prosecution reform ( @ @ @ @ @ that prosecution 's 'selective investigation will lose public trust ' ( Hankook Ilbo ) -- @ @ @ @ @ with a series of strong real estate policies ' ( Maeil Business Newspaper ) -- @ @ @ @ @ house prices should be reverted ' ( Korea Economic Daily )

SEOUL, Jan. 15 (Yonhap) -- The following are the top headlines in major South Korean newspapers on Jan. 15.
Korean-language dailies
-- Moon: 'Prosecutor general should lead prosecution reform' (Kyunghyang Shinmun)
-- Moon gives prosecutor general 'yellow card' (Kookmin Daily)
-- Moon slams prosecutor general for disobeying personnel reshuffle (Donga llbo)
-- Moon holds new year press conference in bid to end national conflicts (Seoul Shinmun)
-- Moon: Prosecutor general should lead prosecution reform (Segye Times)
-- Moon slams prosecutor general for illegality, says he is indebted to ex-justice minister (Chosun Ilbo)
-- Moon criticizes prosecutor general as unlawful, says he is indebted to ex-justice minister (JoongAng Ilbo)
-- Moon presses prosecutor general to push for prosecution reform (Hankyoreh)
-- Moon warns that prosecution's 'selective investigation will lose public trust' (Hankook Ilbo)
-- Moon vows to 'come up with a series of strong real estate policies' (Maeil Business Newspaper)
-- Moon says 'sharp hikes in house prices should be reverted' (Korea Economic Daily)
English-language dailies
-- Moon vows eternal war over real estate (Korea JoongAng Daily)
-- Moon says denuclearization talks still open, too early for pessimism (Korea Herald)
-- Moon still positive about NK-US talks (Korea Times)
(END)


yna--2020-01-15--(LEAD) Top diplomats of S. Korea, U.S. reaffirm close coordination on N. Korea

`` Secretary Pompeo and Foreign Minister Kang reaffirmed continued close U.S.-ROK coordination on North Korea , '' it said , @ @ @ @ @ the acronym of its formal name , the Republic of Korea .
`` The Secretary @ @ @ @ @ the enduring strength of the U.S.-ROK Alliance and reiterated their commitment to cooperation across the @ @ @ @ @ ROK New Southern Policy . ''

(ATTN: UPDATES throughout with South Korean foreign ministry's readout, details; ADDS graphic image)
By Lee Haye-ah
WASHINGTON, Jan. 14 (Yonhap) -- The top diplomats of South Korea and the United States on Tuesday reaffirmed the countries' continued close coordination on North Korea, both sides said, as nuclear talks with Pyongyang show little sign of progress.
During their talks in Silicon Valley, California, South Korean Foreign Minister Kang Kyung-wha and U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo discussed recent developments on the Korean Peninsula, Seoul's foreign ministry said in a press release.
This graphic image shows South Korean Foreign Minister Kang Kyung-wha (L) and U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo. (Yonhap)
The pair "exchanged views on managing the situation to maintain the momentum for and resume the denuclearization dialogue process through close South Korea-U.S. coordination," it said.
The two sides also held in-depth discussions on further strengthening the bilateral alliance while recognizing that the countries have expanded their cooperation in a mutually beneficial manner, it said.
On tensions in the Middle East, the ministry said Kang and Pompeo shared their concerns and agreed to work together with the international community to restore peace and stability in the region.
It made no mention of the possibility of South Korea deploying troops to the Strait of Hormuz off Iran to support U.S.-led security operations there.
The U.S. State Department issued a readout stating that the two top diplomats discussed regional and global issues, including the importance of trilateral cooperation with Japan.
"Secretary Pompeo and Foreign Minister Kang reaffirmed continued close U.S.-ROK coordination on North Korea," it said, referring to South Korea by the acronym of its formal name, the Republic of Korea. "The Secretary and Foreign Minister Kang praised the enduring strength of the U.S.-ROK Alliance and reiterated their commitment to cooperation across the U.S. Indo-Pacific Strategy and the ROK New Southern Policy."
Kang and Pompeo later held trilateral talks with their Japanese counterpart, Toshimitsu Motegi, during which they discussed three-way cooperation on the North Korean nuclear issue, as well as their assessments of the situation in the Middle East, according to the South's foreign ministry.
"The three ministers reaffirmed the importance of South Korea-U.S.-Japan coordination for achieving the joint goal of the complete resolution of the North Korean nuclear issue and regional peace and stability," it said.
According to the State Department, the three sides agreed on the importance of the U.S. alliances with South Korea and Japan to security and prosperity in the region and the world.
"They also stressed that trilateral cooperation is essential to ensure the future of peace in the region," the department said in a separate readout.
hague@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-01-15--Korea's export prices slightly rise in Dec.

The export price index , in terms of Korean won , came to 97.54 in the month , up 0.8 @ @ @ @ @ November , according to preliminary data from the Bank of Korea ( BOK ) .

By Byun Duk-kun
SEOUL, Jan. 15 (Yonhap) -- South Korea's export prices slightly increased from a month earlier in December, ending a three-month drop, central bank data showed Wednesday.
The export price index, in terms of Korean won, came to 97.54 in the month, up 0.8 percent from revised 96.74 in November, according to preliminary data from the Bank of Korea (BOK).
The increase follows three consecutive months of on-month decline since September.
However, it comes largely on the weakening of the won against the U.S. dollar that pushed up prices in terms of the local currency.
The file photo, taken April 1, 2019, shows stacks of import-export cargo at a major South Korean seaport in Busan, some 450 kilometers south of Seoul. (Yonhap)
In December, the local currency traded at an average 1,175.84 won per dollar, compared with 1,167.45 in the month before, according to the BOK.
The export price index, in terms of foreign currencies, gained only 0.1 percent from the month earlier in December.
Also from a year earlier, the index, even in terms of Korean won, plunged 3.1 percent.
A dip in global prices, especially for semiconductors, has widely been blamed for a steady decline in South Korea's exports, which have dropped for 13 consecutive months since December 2018.
In December, the export price index for manufactured goods again dropped 3.0 percent from a year before while that of agricultural products plunged 5.8 percent on-year.
The import price index, on the other hand, surged 1.6 percent from a month before or 3.4 percent from a year earlier.
bdk@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-01-15--(LEAD) Two ships with S. Korean crew members held in Indonesia for violating territorial waters

`` At that time , crew members were on standby inside the ship -- not under arrest -- and we @ @ @ @ @ been provided to them , '' the official said .
`` We tried to visit @ @ @ @ @ not happen due to high waves caused by worsening weather . ''

(ATTN: ADDS more info in para 8)
SEOUL/JAKARTA, Jan. 15 (Yonhap) -- Two ships with South Korean crew members have been held in Indonesia, one for more than three months, for violating territorial waters, the foreign ministry said Wednesday.
On Oct. 9, Indonesia's Navy seized a Panama-flagged liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) carrier, which was en route to Singapore. Aboard were a South Korean captain and eight South Korean and eight Indonesian sailors.
Last Thursday, Indonesian authorities also impounded a South Korean cargo ship at the same location on the same charges. The ship was known to carry four South Koreans and 19 Indonesians.
The sailors of the LPG carrier, DL Lily, are currently inside the ship docked near a naval base in waters between Bintan Island and Batam Island.
One of the South Korean sailors claimed that they reported the seizure to Seoul's oceans and foreign ministries and asked for help. But the ministries just told them to talk to the ship-owning company.
He also complained that food had not been well supplied to them, and that he had not had a chance to talk directly to any South Korean government official.
A foreign ministry official in Seoul said that Indonesia informed the South Korean government of the seizure on Dec. 5, while noting that the ship owner told the ministry that it will take care of the issue on its own.
The official also said that the ministry does not appear to have received a call for help from the sailors, noting it is "checking the facts."
"At that time, crew members were on standby inside the ship -- not under arrest -- and we also found that food had been provided to them," the official said. "We tried to visit them, but that did not happen due to high waves caused by worsening weather."
The official added that Indonesia's Navy explained the sailors will soon be released.
The South Korean government is also taking steps to secure the release of the Korean-flagged cargo ship.
(END)


yna--2020-01-15--S. Korea beats Uzbekistan to win group at Olympic football qualifying tournament

The teams traded a goal apiece in the first half .
South Korea got on the board in the fifth @ @ @ @ @ 's shot from outside the box went in off Oh 's right shoulder .
The @ @ @ @ @ came after Jeong jumped on a botched clearing attempt by Khusniddin Alikulov -- stood after @ @ @ @ @

RANGSIT, Thailand, Jan. 15 (Yonhap) -- South Korea defeated Uzbekistan 2-1 to take the top seed in their group at the Olympic men's football qualifying tournament on Wednesday.
Forward Oh Se-hun celebrated his 21st birthday with a two-goal performance, helping South Korea to their third straight victory in Group C at the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) U-23 Championship at Thammasat Stadium in Rangsit, Thailand.
The AFC tournament doubles as the Asian qualifying event for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, with the top three teams here punching their tickets to Japan this summer.
Oh Se-hun of South Korea (C) fires a shot against Uzbekistan during the teams' Group C match at the Asian Football Confederation U-23 Championship at Thammasat Stadium in Rangsit, Thailand, on Jan. 15, 2020. (Yonhap)
Coached by Kim Hak-bum, South Korea had already clinched a knockout berth by winning their first two Group C matches over China and Iran. South Korea only needed a draw to claim the first seed and set up a quarterfinals match against the Group D runner-up on Sunday at 5:15 p.m. local time, or 7:15 p.m. in Seoul.
As the Group C winner, South Korea will get to stay in Rangsit for the quarterfinals. From Group D, the United Arab Emirates, Jordan and Vietnam all have a chance to advance to the knockouts, depending on the results of their final group matches on Thursday.
The teams traded a goal apiece in the first half. South Korea got on the board in the fifth minute, as Jeong Seung-won's shot from outside the box went in off Oh's right shoulder. The bizarre scoring play -- which came after Jeong jumped on a botched clearing attempt by Khusniddin Alikulov -- stood after a brief video review.
Uzbekistan tied things up in the 21st minute on Bobir Abdixolikov's floating header. Azizjon Ganiev sent a sharp cross from the right side and Abdixolikov beat defender Jeong Tae-wook to the ball and sent it over the head of goalkeeper Song Bum-keun.
South Korean players celebrate their first goal against Uzbekistan during their 2-1 victory in the teams' Group C match at the Asian Football Confederation U-23 Championship at Thammasat Stadium in Rangsit, Thailand, on Jan. 15, 2020. (Yonhap)
Jasurbek Yakhshiboev nearly put Uzbekistan ahead five minutes into the second half, as his left-footed shot from the center of the box rolled just right of the net.
Oh scored his second goal of the match -- this time, with his own foot -- in the 71st minute to break the deadlock.
Oh took a one-touch pass from Lee Dong-gyeong with his back turned to the net, and the forward deftly pivoted around Islomjon Kobilov and struck the ball into the bottom left corner.
Oh started the first group match against China last Thursday and struggled to handle passes in and around the box. He was relegated to the bench for the next match against Iran on Sunday, and watched his replacement, Cho Gue-sung, score a beauty in a 2-1 victory.
But Oh returned to action on Wednesday and staked a claim to the starting job by grabbing a brace.
Um Won-sang of South Korea (L) tries to dribble past Sanjar Kodirkulov of Uzbekistan during the teams' Group C match at the Asian Football Confederation U-23 Championship at Thammasat Stadium in Rangsit, Thailand, on Jan. 15, 2020. (Yonhap)
jeeho@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-01-15--Ex-Samsung C&T CEO questioned as part of probe into 2015 merger

Prosecutors suspect that Kim and others in Samsung management intentionally lowered the value of Samsung C & T prior to @ @ @ @ @ to help benefit Lee Jae-yong , group heir and Samsung Electronics vice chairman , in @ @ @ @ @ ailing father Lee Kun-hee .

SEOUL, Jan. 15 (Yonhap) -- Prosecutors questioned a former CEO of Samsung C&T Corp. on Wednesday as part of a probe into suspicions surrounding the company's controversial merger with another Samsung unit, Cheil Industries Inc., in 2015.
The Seoul Central District Prosecutors Office summoned Kim Shin, who served from 2010-2018 as CEO of the construction and trading arm of Samsung Group.
He was called in last Tuesday but returned home without questioning due to an issue related to the designation of his legal representative.
Prosecutors suspect that Kim and others in Samsung management intentionally lowered the value of Samsung C&T prior to its merger with Cheil Industries to help benefit Lee Jae-yong, group heir and Samsung Electronics vice chairman, in his managerial succession from his ailing father Lee Kun-hee.
Lee Jae-yong was the largest shareholder in Cheil Industries with a stake of 23.2 percent, which means a fall in the valuation of Samsung C&T would pave the ground for a merger ratio advantageous to the Samsung heir.
Last Friday, the prosecution also summoned Kim Jong-joong, a former Samsung executive, over his suspected role in the merger. Kim headed the group's strategy unit that served as its control tower during the merger.
sshluck@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-01-15--IKEA recalls India-made travel mugs over chemical concerns

IKEA 's Korea unit said that all customers who have bought the cups can get full refunds regardless of whether @ @ @ @

SEOUL, Jan. 15 (Yonhap) -- Global furniture giant IKEA said Wednesday that it is recalling India-made Troligtvis travel mugs due to health concerns related to chemicals in the products.
The decision came amid worries that the mugs that have been sold since last year may migrate levels of dibutyl phthalate exceeding the recommended limits.
IKEA's Korea unit said that all customers who have bought the cups can get full refunds regardless of whether they have receipts.
"We took the global recall measure so as to secure the safety of customers, first and foremost," IKEA Korea said.
sshluck@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-01-15--(LEAD) Mahindra may seek support from KDB for SsangYong Motor: sources

The state-run KDB rolled over 10 billion won of SsangYong 's 30 billion won worth of debt that matured at @ @ @ @ @ Ninety billion won in debt extended by the state lender to the carmaker is set @ @ @ @ @ according to the KDB .

(ATTN: ADDS info in Para 4-6)
SEOUL, Jan. 15 (Yonhap) -- An executive from Indian carmaker Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. will come to South Korea this week to discuss and seek financial support from the main creditor bank of its local unit, SsangYong Motor Co., industry sources said Wednesday.
SsangYong Motor confirmed Mahindra & Mahindra Managing Director Pawan Goenka will visit Seoul on Thursday but didn't provide any details about his schedule here.
His visit comes ahead of the sport utility vehicle-focused carmaker's planned board meeting on Jan. 30. Goenka serves as chairman of SsangYong Motor's board.
"This visit is not for him to participate in the board meeting," a SsangYong Motor spokesman said.
"During his stay, Goenka may arrange a meeting with KDB officials in charge of loans and seek financial help for the cash-strapped unit," a person familiar with the matter told Yonhap News Agency.
The state-run KDB rolled over 10 billion won of SsangYong's 30 billion won worth of debt that matured at the end of 2019. Ninety billion won in debt extended by the state lender to the carmaker is set to mature at end-2020, according to the KDB.
This file photo, provided by SsangYong Motor, shows Mahindra & Mahindra Managing Director Pawan Goenka. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)
"We have not yet received any request from Mahindra for a meeting with KDB officials," a KDB spokesman said.
The Mahindra executive reportedly will make sure that, as the largest shareholder in SsangYong, the Indian carmaker will make an investment in the local unit and called on the KDB to extend a fresh loan to the carmaker. Mahindra & Mahindra owns a 72.85 percent stake in SsangYong Motor.
Mahindra said it may consider injecting 230 billion won into SsangYong Motor to put it back on track during a meeting with the carmaker's labor union in India late last year.
But the Indian parent firm made it clear that the injection will be possible if the KDB extends an additional loan to its Korean unit.
For the whole of 2019, SsangYong Motor's sales fell 6.5 percent to 132,799 vehicles from 141,995 units in the year-ago period due to lower demand for its models.
The SUV-focused carmaker's lineup includes the flagship G4 Rexton, Tivoli, Korando C and Korando Turismo.
In March 2011, acquired the carmaker in bankruptcy proceedings as part of its "globalization strategy."
kyongae.choi@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-01-15--Two ships with S. Korean crew members held in Indonesia for violating territorial waters

SEOUL/JAKARTA, Jan. 15 (Yonhap) -- Two ships with South Korean crew members have been held in Indonesia, one for more than three months, for violating territorial waters, the foreign ministry said Wednesday.
On Oct. 9, Indonesia's Navy seized a Panama-flagged liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) carrier, which was en route to Singapore. Aboard were a South Korean captain and eight South Korean and eight Indonesian sailors.
Last Thursday, Indonesian authorities also impounded a South Korean cargo ship at the same location on the same charges. The ship was known to carry four South Koreans and 19 Indonesians.
The sailors of the LPG carrier, DL Lily, are currently inside the ship docked near a naval base in waters between Bintan Island and Batam Island.
One of the South Korean sailors claimed that they reported the seizure to Seoul's oceans and foreign ministries and asked for help. But the ministries just told them to talk to the ship-owning company.
He also complained that food had not been well supplied to them, and that he had not had a chance to talk directly to any South Korean government official.
A foreign ministry official in Seoul said that Indonesia informed the South Korean government of the seizure on Dec. 5, while noting that the ship owner told the ministry that it will take care of the issue on its own.
"At that time, crew members were on standby inside the ship -- not under arrest -- and we also found that food had been provided to them," the official said. "We tried to visit them, but that did not happen due to high waves caused by worsening weather."
The official added that Indonesia's Navy explained the sailors will soon be released.
The South Korean government is also taking steps to secure the release of the Korean-flagged cargo ship.
(END)


yna--2020-01-15--Mahindra may seek support from KDB for SsangYong Motor: sources

The Mahindra executive reportedly will make sure that , as the largest shareholder in SsangYong , the Indian carmaker will @ @ @ @ @ local unit and called on the KDB to extend a fresh loan to the carmaker @ @ @ @ @ a 72.85 percent stake in SsangYong Motor .

SEOUL, Jan. 15 (Yonhap) -- An executive from Indian carmaker Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. will come to South Korea this week to discuss and seek financial support from the main creditor bank of its local unit, SsangYong Motor Co., industry sources said Wednesday.
SsangYong Motor confirmed Mahindra & Mahindra Managing Director Pawan Goenka will visit Seoul on Thursday but didn't provide any details about his schedule here.
His visit comes ahead of the sport utility vehicle-focused carmaker's planned board meeting on Jan. 30. Goenka serves as chairman of SsangYong Motor's board.
This file photo, provided by SsangYong Motor, shows Mahindra & Mahindra Managing Director Pawan Goenka. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)
"We have not yet received any request from Mahindra for a meeting with KDB officials," a KDB spokesman said.
The Mahindra executive reportedly will make sure that, as the largest shareholder in SsangYong, the Indian carmaker will make an investment in the local unit and called on the KDB to extend a fresh loan to the carmaker. Mahindra & Mahindra owns a 72.85 percent stake in SsangYong Motor.
Mahindra said it may consider injecting 230 billion won into SsangYong Motor to put it back on track during a meeting with the carmaker's labor union in India late last year.
But the Indian parent firm made it clear that the injection will be possible if the KDB extends an additional loan to its Korean unit.
For the whole of 2019, SsangYong Motor's sales fell 6.5 percent to 132,799 vehicles from 141,995 units in the year-ago period due to lower demand for its models.
SsangYong's lineup is composed of the flagship G4 Rexton, Tivoli, Korando, and Rexton Sports.
In March 2011, Mahindra acquired a 70-percent stake in the carmaker in bankruptcy proceedings for 523 billion won (US$450 million) as part of its "globalization strategy."
Mahindra currently owns a 74.65 percent stake in SsangYong Motor after two rounds of rights issues worth 130 billion won since 2013.
kyongae.choi@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-01-15--SKT eyes cooperation with Microsoft on Xbox game development

To initiate the move , SKT said it participated in Microsoft 's first Xbox Discovery Day event in Seoul .
@ @ @ @ @ organized by Microsoft for game developers and officials in the gaming industry .

SEOUL, Jan. 15 (Yonhap) -- SK Telecom Co., South Korea's top mobile carrier, said Wednesday it aims to expand cooperation with Microsoft Corp. on console games.
SKT said it plans to support the development of games for Xbox, a home video game console manufactured by Microsoft, by boosting investment and marketing activities.
To initiate the move, SKT said it participated in Microsoft's first Xbox Discovery Day event in Seoul. The event is a seminar organized by Microsoft for game developers and officials in the gaming industry.
Last September, the South Korean telecommunications giant joined hands with Microsoft for a 5G-based cloud gaming service in South Korea.
SKT is an exclusive local operating partner of Project xCloud, Microsoft's game streaming solution that allows gamers to play Xbox games on mobile devices while connected to the internet.
This photo provided by SK Telecom Co. on Jan. 15, 2020, shows a SK Telecom official explaining the company's business plans for the gaming industry at Microsoft's Xbox Discovery Day event in Seoul. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)
kdon@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-01-15--(LEAD) S. Korea, U.S. carried out more combined exercises than before in 2019: Seoul defense chief

`` Just as United States Forces Korea Commander Gen. Robert Abrams mentioned previously , the number and the strength of @ @ @ @ @ never been decreased .
In terms of battalion-level drills , more than 100 rounds of @ @ @ @ @ year , which is a larger number ( than before ) , '' Jeong said @

(ATTN: ADDS more remarks in last 3 paras)
By Oh Seok-min
SEOUL, Jan. 15 (Yonhap) -- Combined military exercises between South Korea and the United States conducted last year did not shrink either in number or strength, compared with previous years, even though some were modified to back diplomatic efforts with North Korea, Seoul's defense minister said Wednesday.
Jeong Kyeong-doo made the remarks in a congratulatory message at the two-day conference that began in Seoul on the day. The forum, under the subject of peace on the Korean Peninsula, is co-organized by the Korea Research Institute for National Strategy and the U.S.' Brookings Institution.
"Just as United States Forces Korea Commander Gen. Robert Abrams mentioned previously, the number and the strength of the Korea-U.S. combined exercises have never been decreased. In terms of battalion-level drills, more than 100 rounds of exercises were staged throughout last year, which is a larger number (than before)," Jeong said.
In order to militarily support their governments' efforts for diplomacy with North Korea, however, the allies have carried out such drills in an adjusted fashion based upon their advanced weapons system and fresh operational concepts, the defense minister noted.
Citing an air exercise as an example, Jeong said the two sides "are capable of conducting joint missions in a perfect manner" even their service members are not at the same place at the same time thanks to advanced technologies.
South Korean Defense Minister Jeong Kyeong-doo (R, standing) poses for a photo with U.S. Secretary of Defense Mark Esper as they hold the 51st Security Consultative Meeting at the defense ministry in Seoul on Nov. 15, 2019. (Yonhap)
Since the U.S. and North Korea began nuclear negotiations in 2018, Seoul and Washington have either canceled or scaled back some of their joint drills. In the latest such move, the two countries decided in November last year to put off their annual wintertime air exercises.
The North has long denounced the allies' joint drills as a rehearsal for invasion and has been pressuring South Korea and the U.S. to stop their joint military exercises.
Some critics and conservatives then have voiced concern over the possible weakening of interoperability and a combined posture between the allies, while North Korea continues to pose threats.
"Closely monitoring military movements in North Korea, the authorities of South Korea and the U.S. have worked closely on diverse options that can deter and respond to the North's provocations," the minister said, expressing confidence in the allies' defense capabilities and a readiness posture.
Last year, North Korea fired 25 projectiles, including short-range ballistic missiles and a submarine-launched ballistic missile (SLBM), during 13 rounds of weapons tests.
The communist country also carried out artillery firing drills on the western border island of Changrin in November in violation of the 2018 inter-Korean military pact and conducted rocket engine tests twice at the Dongchang-ri site the following month, which were believed to be part of its development of intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs)
In a New Year's Day announcement, North Korean leader Kim Jong-un warned that the country will show off a "new strategic weapon" in the near future. He did not elaborate, but experts believe it could be an ICMB capable of carrying multiple warheads or an advanced type of SLBM.
"Our military will maintain a staunch defense posture based upon the staunch Korea-U.S. alliance, and create conditions for the practical implementation of the inter-Korean military agreement through which we ease inter-Korean military tensions and build trust," Jeong said.
Speaking about negotiations on renewing a cost-sharing deal for the upkeep of U.S. troops in South Korea, the minister said the two sides have "closely cooperated to find a win-win solution, and the deal will surely be concluded at a mutually acceptable level."
graceoh@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-01-15--Inje Icefish Festival to open Saturday

Inje Icefish Festival to open Saturday

Visitors can enjoy various other activities , ranging from tasting bingeo and other local foods to ice sledding , skating @ @ @ @ @ can also watch drones operated by pilots , and a Snow Village reminiscent of downtown @ @ @ @ @ be set up .

INJE, South Korea, Jan. 15 (Yonhap) -- Inje, a mountainous county in the northeastern province of Gangwon, is putting the finishing touches on the 2020 Inje Icefish Festival, set to kick off Saturday for a 10-day run.
The annual ice fishing festival dating back to 1998 will take place in Inje, about 165 kilometers northeast of Seoul, from Jan. 18-27 under the slogan of "20 Years Together, 2020 to be Together."
With the opening of the annual festival just three days away, preparations for its facilities, including a snow and ice playground and a food hall, are more than 90 percent complete, according to festival host Inje Cultural Foundation.
In particular, work on the Icefish Lake, the festival's main venue, has been proceeding smoothly, the foundation said, noting the Korea Meteorological Administration's cold weather forecast for the Inje area up to this weekend has boosted expectations for a successful festival.
This file photo provided by Inje County shows the 2019 Inje Icefish Festival in Inje, Gangwon Province. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)
The county plans to gradually expand the ice fishing area downstream after the ice thickness at Icefish Lake reaches the safety level of 20 centimeters.
The centerpiece of the festival is catching smelt out of 20-centimeter-wide ice holes. Called "bingeo" in Korean, smelt live in water colder than 10C and are most active between December and February.
Visitors can enjoy various other activities, ranging from tasting bingeo and other local foods to ice sledding, skating and Argo riding. They can also watch drones operated by pilots, and a Snow Village reminiscent of downtown Inje in the 1960s will be set up.
Ice fishing is free, but visitors will need to pay a fee for fishing tool rental and bait, organizers said, adding that additional fees are required for ice fishing in tents, ice sledding, skating and other attractions.
They have modernized indoor playgrounds and other facilities for children and significantly expanded rest areas for young and elderly visitors.
The festival was first held in 1998 and this year marks its 20th event.
"In celebration of the opening of the 20th festival, its 20-year history is the main theme in various events. Thanks to the latest cold spell that began early this week, festival preparations are proceeding smoothly," said a foundation official.
This photo provided by Inje County shows a promotional poster for the 2020 Inje Icefish Festival. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)
ycm@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-01-15--(LEAD) Cheong Wa Dae spokesperson quits to run in April election

The three officials are the latest Cheong Wa Dae aides to Moon to join the election race .
Around 60 @ @ @ @ @ Moon either under his administration or the Roh Moo-hyun government are reportedly setting their sights @ @ @ @ @ year 's elections , although some have voiced concern about the rush to the elections @ @ @ @ @ current presidential aides .

(ATTN: UPDATES with resignations, remarks in lead paras; CHANGES headline, photo)
By Lee Chi-dong
SEOUL, Jan. 15 (Yonhap) -- Cheong Wa Dae spokesperson Ko Min-jung resigned Wednesday, saying she plans to run in the April 15 general elections.
Ko had served in the post since April last year after working as deputy spokesperson for President Moon Jae-in for two years.
"I have been the mouth of the president for three years. Now, I would like to become a mouth of the people, working toward my political goal," she said during her farewell meeting with reporters at the Cheong Wa Dae press room.
The ruling Democratic Party reportedly requested Ko to join the race but it has yet to confirm what constituency she will run in.
Cheong Wa Dae said it's still looking for her successor.
"Her replacement will likely be announced soon, probably before the Lunar New Year holidays," an informed source said, requesting anonymity. Lunar New Year starts late next week.
Cheong Wa Dae spokesperson Ko Min-jung (R) and Yoo Song-hwa, director of the Chunchugwan press center, meet with reporters at the presidential compound on Jan. 15, 2020. (Yonhap)
Yoo Song-hwa, director of the Chunchugwan press center of Cheong Wa Dae, also quit to throw her hat in the electoral ring.
Yoo said she is proud of having served at Cheong Wa Dae.
"I plan to take a new path on the basis of pride," she told reporters. "I am afraid (of the new challenge) but I can't go on a new way without dreaming a dream."
Kwon Hyang-yup, secretary for balanced personnel affairs, also left Cheong Wa Dae for the election.
Under South Korea's election law, civil servants are required to quit their public jobs no later than 90 days ahead of the polling date -- Jan. 16 for this year's poll.
The three officials are the latest Cheong Wa Dae aides to Moon to join the election race. Around 60 people who have worked with Moon either under his administration or the Roh Moo-hyun government are reportedly setting their sights on parliamentary seats through this year's elections, although some have voiced concern about the rush to the elections by Moon's former and current presidential aides.
Other officials to run include Moon's first and second spokespeople at Cheong Wa Dae -- Park Soo-hyun and Kim Eui-kyeom.
Yoon Young-chan, who served as Moon's senior press secretary for more than a year from May 2017, is also preparing for an election campaign.
Youn Kun-young, who worked as director for the state affairs planning and monitoring office, left Cheong Wa Dae last week in pursuit of a National Assembly seat.
lcd@yna.co.kr
(END)


Yonhap News Summary

He pointed out that 2020 marks the 70th anniversary of the outbreak of the Korean War in his statement for @ @ @ @ @ event held in Washington , D.C. , on Tuesday ( local time ) , according @ @ @ @ @ It was read by Ambassador to Washington Lee Soo-hyuck on behalf of the president .

The following is the second summary of major stories moved by Yonhap News Agency on Wednesday.
-----------------
Moon says no letup in 'peaceful Korea' bid based on alliance with U.S.
SEOUL -- President Moon Jae-in reaffirmed his unswerving push for lasting peace on the Korean Peninsula, delivering a message to ethnic Koreans living in the United States.
He pointed out that 2020 marks the 70th anniversary of the outbreak of the Korean War in his statement for an annual Korean American Day event held in Washington, D.C., on Tuesday (local time), according to Cheong Wa Dae. It was read by Ambassador to Washington Lee Soo-hyuck on behalf of the president.
-----------------
S. Korea, U.S. carried out more combined exercises than before in 2019: Seoul defense chief
SEOUL -- Combined military exercises between South Korea and the United States conducted last year did not shrink either in number or strength, compared with previous years, even though some were modified to back diplomatic efforts with North Korea, Seoul's defense minister said Wednesday.
Jeong Kyeong-doo made the remarks in a congratulatory message at the two-day conference that began in Seoul on the day. The forum, under the subject of peace on the Korean Peninsula, is co-organized by the Korea Research Institute for National Strategy and the U.S.' Brookings Institution.
-----------------
Nuclear envoy heads to U.S. to discuss ways to bolster inter-Korean exchanges within sanctions regime
SEOUL -- South Korea's chief nuclear envoy said Wednesday that he will discuss with U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Stephen Biegun ways to bolster inter-Korean exchanges within the framework of sanctions.
Lee Do-hoon, special representative for Korean Peninsula peace and security affairs, made the remark as he headed to Washington a day after President Moon Jae-in called for expanding cross-border exchanges to bring Pyongyang back to the negotiating table.
-----------------
Navy's sea salvage unit conducts annual winter training
SEOUL -- Braving freezing temperatures, the Navy's Sea Salvage and Rescue Unit (SSU) launched its annual wintertime training as part of efforts to maintain full operational readiness, officials said Wednesday.
Around 70 members of the special unit kicked off the three-day training in and around waters off South Korea's southern port of Jinhae on Tuesday that focuses on honing skills for conducting operations underwater.
-----------------
Human Rights Watch urges Seoul to speak up on N.K.'s human rights situation
SEOUL -- An international rights group has urged the South Korean government to speak up on North Korea's human rights situation, saying the absence of international pressure is empowering totalitarianism in the communist nation.
In its World Report 2020 released Tuesday, the U.S.-based Human Rights Watch said, "North Korea remains one of the most repressive countries in the world," with leader Kim Jong-un "using threats of execution, arbitrary punishment of crimes, and detention and forced labor to maintain fearful obedience."
-----------------
BTS' music label Big Hit expanding business portfolio after successful year
SEOUL -- Big Hit Entertainment, the music label of K-pop super band BTS, is scrambling to expand its business portfolio of K-pop artists following a sensationally successful year in 2019.
A media report said earlier this week that Big Hit is on its way to acquire and merge with Pledis Entertainment, home to an army of popular K-pop bands including NU'EST and Seventeen.
-----------------
Long working hours, falling wages threaten S. Korea's gig economy workers
SEOUL -- Platform workers, the lifeblood of the country's emerging gig platforms that offer delivery, ride-hailing and housekeeping services, are often exposed to dire working conditions such as low pay and long working hours, a study showed Wednesday.
In contrast to the notion the lifestyle would give workers the freedom to choose their work schedules, a study by the National Human Rights Commission showed that gig economy workers often worked as much as full-time employees but faced job uncertainties and low wages.
(END)


yna--2020-01-15--(LEAD) Navy's sea salvage unit conducts annual winter training

Around 70 members of the special unit kicked off the three-day training in and around waters off South Korea 's @ @ @ @ @ Tuesday that focuses on honing skills for conducting operations underwater .

(ATTN: CHANGES photo)
SEOUL, Jan. 15 (Yonhap) -- Braving freezing temperatures, the Navy's Sea Salvage and Rescue Unit (SSU) launched its annual wintertime training as part of efforts to maintain full operational readiness, officials said Wednesday.
Around 70 members of the special unit kicked off the three-day training in and around waters off South Korea's southern port of Jinhae on Tuesday that focuses on honing skills for conducting operations underwater.
The programs include training to become proficient in using a self-contained breathing apparatus, commonly referred to as scuba; rubber boat pedaling; underwater swimming; and a rescue mission from a maritime helicopter.
"This training is meant to help arm our service personnel with strong mental and physical excellence in order to fulfill missions under any circumstances," the Navy said in a release.
Established in 1950 as one of the Navy's special forces, the unit carries out ship salvaging and search and rescue missions, among others.
Members of the Navy's Sea Salvage and Rescue Unit (SSU) jump into waters off the southeastern naval port of Jinhae during cold weather training on Jan. 15, 2020. (Yonhap)
graceoh@yna.co.kr
(END)


yna--2020-01-15--(LEAD) Irresponsible parent-naming website operator found not guilty

They also highlighted how the shared information was not confirmed by the named and did not go through the strict @ @ @ @ @ other cases where the information of sex criminals or tax evaders is released .

(ATTN: ADDS details in last three paras)
SUWON, South Korea, Jan. 15 (Yonhap) -- The operator of a website that names uncooperative parents refusing to pay child support was found not guilty of defaming the parents on Wednesday, in what was seen as a move prioritizing the site's public value over privacy breaches.
The Suwon District Court made the ruling in favor of Koo, a 57-year-old who runs the name-and-shame website "Bad Fathers," in a jury trial.
Koo was indicted for naming and publicly sharing personal information, such as the age, residence and workplace, of men and women whom their former partners or spouses accused of refusing to pay child support.
This composite image shows a screenshot of the "Bad Fathers" website, the logo of the Ministry of Gender Equality and Family and a woman looking after a child. The photo of the woman and the child is a file photo not directly linked to the legal case. (Yonhap)
The prosecution and Koo's attorneys clashed in a heated marathon trial that lasted over 15 hours over whether the site's role is beneficial to the public.
Prosecutors said the information posted on the website may hurt the reputation of the named and that such information is not in the realm of a public agenda.
They also highlighted how the shared information was not confirmed by the named and did not go through the strict procedures that are mandated in other cases where the information of sex criminals or tax evaders is released.
Koo's attorneys hit back, saying child support is "not simply a financial issue but an important issue that is related to the children's survival."
They argued that punishing Koo would be unjust as he is running the site for public benefit. A ruling favoring the privacy of those named could potentially trigger other people to sue Koo, they added.
Koo, who also attended the trial, said there are 1 million children who suffer from child support related issues and that he hopes "for a world in which children do not have to be in pain."
In a unanimous decision, the seven-member jury found Koo not guilty.
The final verdict highlighted how Koo has not received benefits in any form for operating the website.
It also noted how the site's operation contributes to public benefit by drawing attention to the hardships that parents who could not receive child support go through, an issue that is on the rise here.
The prosecution had earlier concluded that Koo's action was a summary offense, ordering him to pay 3 million won (US$2,586) in fine.
The court, however, opened the trial based on the judgment that Koo's case is different from most defamation cases. Koo later requested the case to be presented in a jury trial, in which members of the public take part, rather than a bench trial.
"Bad Fathers" describes its purpose as being to "pressure fathers who do not pay child support" based on the principle that "a child's right to survival should be prioritized over a father's right to privacy."
The site, which currently lists 101 fathers and 15 mothers, says it posts personal information after verifying details via relevant documents and that profiles are delisted once the parents have agreed to pay.
Bad Fathers has helped 114 families secure child support, according to the website.
mlee@yna.co.kr
(END)