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South Korea's presidential Blue House pushed back on Wednesday against comments by US President Donald Trump that suggested <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/south-korea-signs-deal-to-pay-more-for-us-troops-after-trump-demand-196371">Seoul had agreed to pay $500 million more </a>towards maintaining US troops in the country.

Trump said at a cabinet meeting in Washington on Tuesday Seoul had agreed to pay $500 million more as part of an agreement sharing the cost of keeping roughly 28,500 American troops stationed in South Korea.

"They were paying about $500 million for $5 billion worth of protection," Trump said. "And we have to do better than that. So they`ve agreed to pay $500 million more."

Under the previous agreement - which lapsed amid disagreements in December - South Korea contributed 960 billion won ($857 million) in 2018.

South Korean and American officials initialled an agreement on Sunday under which Seoul would increase its contribution to just under 1.04 trillion won ($927 million), an increase of about $70.3 million.

Kim Eui-kyeom, a spokesman for the presidential Blue House in Seoul, said when asked about Trump`s $500 million figure that it "shouldn`t be taken as a fait accompli".

Washington demanded during the negotiations that South Korea pay 50 per cent more than its 2018 contribution, according to South Korean officials. The new agreement amounts to an increase of about 8 per cent.

The agreement signed on Sunday must still be approved by South Korea`s parliament. Kim said it was valid for only one year, with the possibility of an extension for another year if both sides agreed.

"Both sides will consider whether a raise is needed and it`s also possible that they would agree to maintain the current level," Kim said.

The two sides had struggled to reach a breakthrough, despite at least 10 rounds of talks since March, amid Trump`s repeated calls for a sharp increase in South Korea`s contribution.

Trump said in his cabinet comments on Tuesday the relationship with South Korea was "great" but that the United States lost "a tremendous amount of money" defending its ally.

South Korea's presidential Blue House pushed back on Wednesday against comments by US President Donald Trump that suggested Seoul had agreed to pay $500 million more towards maintaining US troops in the country.

South Korea's presidential Blue House pushed back on Wednesday against comments by US President Donald Trump that suggested Seoul had agreed to pay $500 million more towards maintaining US troops in the country. Trump said at a cabinet meeting in Washington on Tuesday Seoul had agreed to pay $500 million more as part of an agreement sharing the cost of keeping roughly 28,500 American troops stationed in South Korea. "They were paying about $500 million for $5 billion worth of protection," Trump said. "And we have to do better than that. So they`ve agreed to pay $500 million more." Under the previous agreement - which lapsed amid disagreements in December - South Korea contributed 960 billion won ($857 million) in 2018. South Korean and American officials initialled an agreement on Sunday under which Seoul would increase its contribution to just under 1.04 trillion won ($927 million), an increase of about $70.3 million. Kim Eui-kyeom, a spokesman for the presidential Blue House in Seoul, said when asked about Trump`s $500 million figure that it "shouldn`t be taken as a fait accompli". Washington demanded during the negotiations that South Korea pay 50 per cent more than its 2018 contribution, according to South Korean officials. The new agreement amounts to an increase of about 8 per cent. The agreement signed on Sunday must still be approved by South Korea`s parliament. Kim said it was valid for only one year, with the possibility of an extension for another year if both sides agreed. "Both sides will consider whether a raise is needed and it`s also possible that they would agree to maintain the current level," Kim said. The two sides had struggled to reach a breakthrough, despite at least 10 rounds of talks since March, amid Trump`s repeated calls for a sharp increase in South Korea`s contribution. Trump said in his cabinet comments on Tuesday the relationship with South Korea was "great" but that the United States lost "a tremendous amount of money" defending its ally.

South Korea pushes back at Trump claims about more money for troop agreement

At 93, Kim Bok-dong died as she had lived for many years: at the heart of the controversy over Japan's use of forced labour in its wartime brothels.

Kim, who died on Monday at a hospital in the South Korean capital of Seoul, was a fixture at weekly protests outside the Japanese embassy calling for a sincere apology and compensation.

She remained angry at Japan until the end, her supporters said.

"She suddenly opened her eyes yesterday and told a long story ... I couldn't decipher everything but one thing I could hear clearly was that we had to fight until the end," said Yoon Mee-hyang, who leads an advocate group for the women.

"Then she expressed strong anger toward Japan as she continued talking, before she regained her tranquillity," Yoon told Reuters.

Kim was among the two dozen known surviving South Korean "comfort women", a Japanese euphemism for women who were forced into prostitution and sexually abused at Japanese military brothels before and during World War Two.

Activists say they plan to march alongside Kim's casket past Japan's embassy on Friday, a demonstration that could further strain ties between Seoul and Tokyo.

The two Asian neighbours share a bitter history stemming from Japan's 1910-45 colonisation of the Korean peninsula.

South Korean President Moon Jae-in said during his visit to Kim's funeral home on Tuesday it was "heartbreaking" that victims die without a resolution of the issue.

In a separate post on Facebook, Moon said Kim revealed a "hidden history" by becoming one of the first victims to come forward in 1992.

Kim was 14 when she was first sent to a military brothel, and forced to provide sex for Japanese soldiers also in China, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore, according to Yoon.

"SINCERE APOLOGY"

Articulate and charismatic, Kim was a vocal critic of a 2015 deal in which Tokyo apologised to the victims and provided one billion yen ($9.1 million) to a fund in Seoul to help them.

Kim said it was not sincere because some Japanese leaders continued to deny the women were forced to work in brothels.

"We won't accept it even if Japan gives 10 billion yen. It's not about money. They're still saying we went there because we wanted to," Kim told a parliamentary session in September 2016.

Moon's government has said it will not seek to renegotiate the 2015 deal. Last year it vowed to shut down the Japan-sponsored fund and pursue a more "victim-oriented" approach.

Japan says the claims have been settled by past agreements and apologies, and that the continued dispute may threaten relations between the two countries.

Only 23 registered South Korean survivors are still alive, highlighting a sense of urgency behind efforts by the women to receive a formal apology and legal compensation from Japan while their voices can still be heard.

Just hours before Kim passed away, a fellow victim only identifiable by her surname Lee had died, Yoon said.

Kim's defence of victims' rights earned the respect of one South Korean diplomat involved in their case.

"She was clever and unwavering under any circumstances," said the diplomat who did not want to be named.

"All she wanted was genuine atonement, and we fully respected it and felt sorry even when she wasn't happy with our work."

At 93, Kim Bok-dong died as she had lived for many years: at the heart of the controversy over Japan's use of forced labour in its wartime brothels. Kim, who died on Monday at a hospital in the South Korean capital of Seoul, was a fixture at weekly protests outside the Japanese embassy calling for a sincere apology and compensation.

At 93, Kim Bok-dong died as she had lived for many years: at the heart of the controversy over Japan's use of forced labour in its wartime brothels. Kim, who died on Monday at a hospital in the South Korean capital of Seoul, was a fixture at weekly protests outside the Japanese embassy calling for a sincere apology and compensation. She remained angry at Japan until the end, her supporters said. "She suddenly opened her eyes yesterday and told a long story ... I couldn't decipher everything but one thing I could hear clearly was that we had to fight until the end," said Yoon Mee-hyang, who leads an advocate group for the women. "Then she expressed strong anger toward Japan as she continued talking, before she regained her tranquillity," Yoon told Reuters. Kim was among the two dozen known surviving South Korean "comfort women", a Japanese euphemism for women who were forced into prostitution and sexually abused at Japanese military brothels before and during World War Two. Activists say they plan to march alongside Kim's casket past Japan's embassy on Friday, a demonstration that could further strain ties between Seoul and Tokyo. The two Asian neighbours share a bitter history stemming from Japan's 1910-45 colonisation of the Korean peninsula. South Korean President Moon Jae-in said during his visit to Kim's funeral home on Tuesday it was "heartbreaking" that victims die without a resolution of the issue. In a separate post on Facebook, Moon said Kim revealed a "hidden history" by becoming one of the first victims to come forward in 1992. Kim was 14 when she was first sent to a military brothel, and forced to provide sex for Japanese soldiers also in China, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore, according to Yoon. "SINCERE APOLOGY" Articulate and charismatic, Kim was a vocal critic of a 2015 deal in which Tokyo apologised to the victims and provided one billion yen ($9.1 million) to a fund in Seoul to help them. Kim said it was not sincere because some Japanese leaders continued to deny the women were forced to work in brothels. "We won't accept it even if Japan gives 10 billion yen. It's not about money. They're still saying we went there because we wanted to," Kim told a parliamentary session in September 2016. Moon's government has said it will not seek to renegotiate the 2015 deal. Last year it vowed to shut down the Japan-sponsored fund and pursue a more "victim-oriented" approach. Japan says the claims have been settled by past agreements and apologies, and that the continued dispute may threaten relations between the two countries. Only 23 registered South Korean survivors are still alive, highlighting a sense of urgency behind efforts by the women to receive a formal apology and legal compensation from Japan while their voices can still be heard. Just hours before Kim passed away, a fellow victim only identifiable by her surname Lee had died, Yoon said. Kim's defence of victims' rights earned the respect of one South Korean diplomat involved in their case. "She was clever and unwavering under any circumstances," said the diplomat who did not want to be named. "All she wanted was genuine atonement, and we fully respected it and felt sorry even when she wasn't happy with our work."

'Fight until the end': South Korean 'comfort women' campaigner dies at 93

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/south-korean-president-moon-jae-ins-popularity-ends-2018-at-its-lowest-rating-187462">South Korea</a>'s exports reached a record high last year of $605.47 billion, 5.5 per cent more than in 2017, the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy reported on Tuesday.

According to official data, South Korean imports totalled $534.99 billion in 2018, 11.8 per cent more than in 2017, resulting in a trade surplus of $70.48 billion, marking the 10th consecutive year with a surplus.

It is the first time in South Korea's history that exports have exceeded $600 billion, the Yonhap news agency reported. These volumes make the country the world´s sixth-largest exporter.

The ministry also noted that microprocessor exports reached a record high of $126.7 billion last year.

China remains the main market for South Korean exports, which were worth $162.2 billion last year, 14.2 per cent more than in 2017.

China remains the main market for South Korean exports.

South Korea's exports reached a record high last year of $605.47 billion, 5.5 per cent more than in 2017, the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy reported on Tuesday. According to official data, South Korean imports totalled $534.99 billion in 2018, 11.8 per cent more than in 2017, resulting in a trade surplus of $70.48 billion, marking the 10th consecutive year with a surplus. It is the first time in South Korea's history that exports have exceeded $600 billion, the Yonhap news agency reported. These volumes make the country the world´s sixth-largest exporter. The ministry also noted that microprocessor exports reached a record high of $126.7 billion last year. China remains the main market for South Korean exports, which were worth $162.2 billion last year, 14.2 per cent more than in 2017.

South Korea's exports reach record high in 2018

The popularity rating of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/north-koreas-kim-wants-more-summits-with-moon-jae-in-next-year-south-korea-president-office-187315">South Korean President </a>closed 2018 at its worst, amid an economic slowdown in the country and an alleged case of spying on civilians by a former official in the presidential office, a report said on Monday.

Support for Moon Jae-in stood at 45.9 per cent, according to the survey conducted by Realmeter, the Yonhap news agency reported.

The decline comes at a time when South Korea is experiencing an economic slump and has been marked by the recent publication of reports that a former researcher collected information on civilians while working for the presidential office.

Moon's approval rating soared to over 70 per cent in the first week of January, when the thaw in relations between the two Koreas began to develop after the conciliatory New Year message from North Korean leader, Kim Jong-un and reached a peak of 77.4 per cent just after the inter-Korean summit on April 27.

The popularity of the president fell to 53.1 per cent in mid-September due to signs of economic slowdown in the country. The forecasts for economic growth for the fourth-largest economy in Asia for this year have been cut to 2.7 per cent, below the 3 per cent predicted by the government at the beginning of the year.

Although Moon's popularity rating shot up again to 65.3 per cent two weeks later, after the third summit between Moon and Kim held in Pyongyang, the rating has been in continuous decline since October.

The index dropped below the 50 per cent barrier at the end of November, in the midst of the slowdown in the economy, reaching its current level, the worst since Moon became president in May 2017.

Support for Moon Jae-in stood at 45.9 per cent, according to the survey conducted by Realmeter, the Yonhap news agency reported.

The popularity rating of South Korean President closed 2018 at its worst, amid an economic slowdown in the country and an alleged case of spying on civilians by a former official in the presidential office, a report said on Monday. Support for Moon Jae-in stood at 45.9 per cent, according to the survey conducted by Realmeter, the Yonhap news agency reported. The decline comes at a time when South Korea is experiencing an economic slump and has been marked by the recent publication of reports that a former researcher collected information on civilians while working for the presidential office. Moon's approval rating soared to over 70 per cent in the first week of January, when the thaw in relations between the two Koreas began to develop after the conciliatory New Year message from North Korean leader, Kim Jong-un and reached a peak of 77.4 per cent just after the inter-Korean summit on April 27. The popularity of the president fell to 53.1 per cent in mid-September due to signs of economic slowdown in the country. The forecasts for economic growth for the fourth-largest economy in Asia for this year have been cut to 2.7 per cent, below the 3 per cent predicted by the government at the beginning of the year. Although Moon's popularity rating shot up again to 65.3 per cent two weeks later, after the third summit between Moon and Kim held in Pyongyang, the rating has been in continuous decline since October. The index dropped below the 50 per cent barrier at the end of November, in the midst of the slowdown in the economy, reaching its current level, the worst since Moon became president in May 2017.

South Korean president Moon Jae-in's popularity ends 2018 at its lowest rating

A South Korean taxi driver burned himself to death on Monday in protest at an Uber-like ride-sharing service being introduced by the country's largest mobile chat app, reports said.

South Korean taxi drivers have angrily protested against the car-pooling service created by KakaoTalk, saying it would threaten their jobs and livelihoods.&nbsp;

US giant Uber has only a minimal presence in the country, offering only taxi- and licensed-hire vehicle hailing after closing its main ride-sharing service in 2015 in the face of an extensive backlash from drivers.

But Kakao is used by more than 80 per cent of South Koreans, and in recent months tens of thousands of taxi drivers have held mass rallies in Seoul to condemn its upcoming car-pooling service, which is due to launch next week. &nbsp;

The 57-year-old driver surnamed Choi, set himself alight in front of the national parliament in Seoul after complaining about the carpooling service, according to the police and Yonhap news agency.

Choi had told another taxi driver he wanted to set himself on fire "because of the Kakao carpool", Yonhap news agency quoted the man as saying.

He poured fuel over himself while sitting in his vehicle and set himself alight, police said. He was taken to hospital but died hours later.

Choi was a leader of the union branch at his firm in Seoul.

A South Korean taxi driver burned himself to death on Monday in protest at an Uber-like ride-sharing service being introduced by the country's largest mobile chat app, reports said.

A South Korean taxi driver burned himself to death on Monday in protest at an Uber-like ride-sharing service being introduced by the country's largest mobile chat app, reports said. South Korean taxi drivers have angrily protested against the car-pooling service created by KakaoTalk, saying it would threaten their jobs and livelihoods. US giant Uber has only a minimal presence in the country, offering only taxi- and licensed-hire vehicle hailing after closing its main ride-sharing service in 2015 in the face of an extensive backlash from drivers. But Kakao is used by more than 80 per cent of South Koreans, and in recent months tens of thousands of taxi drivers have held mass rallies in Seoul to condemn its upcoming car-pooling service, which is due to launch next week. The 57-year-old driver surnamed Choi, set himself alight in front of the national parliament in Seoul after complaining about the carpooling service, according to the police and Yonhap news agency. Choi had told another taxi driver he wanted to set himself on fire "because of the Kakao carpool", Yonhap news agency quoted the man as saying. He poured fuel over himself while sitting in his vehicle and set himself alight, police said. He was taken to hospital but died hours later. Choi was a leader of the union branch at his firm in Seoul.

South Korea cab driver burns himself to death in protest against ride-sharing service

The two Koreas on Friday began a joint feasibility survey to assess the situation for upgrading and possibly reconnecting its railway lines across the border.

A South Korean train with a dozen engineers and officials on board travelled across the border to begin the evaluation of some 1,200 kilometres (745.6 miles) long railway line in North Korea that will go on until December 17, according to a note sent to the media by the small group of journalists travelling on board.

The six-car convoy departed from Dorasan Station, a few kilometers south of the border, and headed to Panmun Station in the north, near Kaesong City.

The project was launched after the UN Security Council a few days ago granted an exemption from sanctions against the North Korean regime for its testing of weapons of mass destruction.

This exemption allows the shipment of fuel and other materials to the North, enabling the study, which is normally prohibited by Security Council resolutions.

The survey is the result of an agreement signed by the two Koreas, two countries that are still technically at war since the 1950s, during the first summit of their current leaders held in April.

Apart from assisting in upgrading the North Korean stretch, the project seeks to boost the reconnection of railways across the border provided the sanctions imposed on Pyongyang -which is in talks with Washington to negotiate dismantling of its arsenal of weapons - is lifted in future.

The current feasibility study is the second to be carried out by the two Koreas after a similar one in 2007, which allowed freight trains to run between the two countries for a year before the cooling of the bilateral relationship forced the tracks to be disconnected again at the border.

The two Koreas on Friday began a joint feasibility survey to assess the situation for upgrading and possibly reconnecting its railway lines across the border. A South Korean train with a dozen engineers and officials on board travelled across the border to begin the evaluation of some 1,200 kilometres (745.

The two Koreas on Friday began a joint feasibility survey to assess the situation for upgrading and possibly reconnecting its railway lines across the border. A South Korean train with a dozen engineers and officials on board travelled across the border to begin the evaluation of some 1,200 kilometres (745.6 miles) long railway line in North Korea that will go on until December 17, according to a note sent to the media by the small group of journalists travelling on board. The six-car convoy departed from Dorasan Station, a few kilometers south of the border, and headed to Panmun Station in the north, near Kaesong City. The project was launched after the UN Security Council a few days ago granted an exemption from sanctions against the North Korean regime for its testing of weapons of mass destruction. This exemption allows the shipment of fuel and other materials to the North, enabling the study, which is normally prohibited by Security Council resolutions. The survey is the result of an agreement signed by the two Koreas, two countries that are still technically at war since the 1950s, during the first summit of their current leaders held in April. Apart from assisting in upgrading the North Korean stretch, the project seeks to boost the reconnection of railways across the border provided the sanctions imposed on Pyongyang -which is in talks with Washington to negotiate dismantling of its arsenal of weapons - is lifted in future. The current feasibility study is the second to be carried out by the two Koreas after a similar one in 2007, which allowed freight trains to run between the two countries for a year before the cooling of the bilateral relationship forced the tracks to be disconnected again at the border.

Two Koreas begin survey for possible railway reconnection across border

North and South Korea have connected a road across their shared border for the first time in 14 years, Seoul's defence ministry said Thursday in the latest reconciliation gesture between the neighbours.

The dirt road, which is wholly within the Demilitarized Zone that divides the peninsula, will be used for joint operations next year to recover remains from the 1950-53 Korean War.

The 12-metre-wide construction of the route in Cheorwon, near the mid-point of the DMZ, is one of several steps agreed at the Pyongyang summit between the South's President Moon Jae-in and the North's leader Kim Jong Un in September.

The neighbours also pledged to remove bunkers and weapons from the border truce village of Panmunjom.

But Seoul and Washington are pursuing increasingly different approaches to the nuclear-armed North.

The dovish Moon has pursued a policy of engagement with his isolated neighbour, while the US insists pressure should be maintained on Pyongyang until it denuclearises.

Pictures handed out by Seoul's defence ministry Thursday showed a South Korean soldier and a North Korean counterpart taking part in the "recent" roadworks holding their hands out toward each other, with their colleagues watching.

"It is historically significant for the North and the South to open a new passage and jointly engage in operations to recover remains of war dead at the place which saw the worst battles during the war," the ministry said.

Despite its name the area around the DMZ is one of the most fortified places on earth, replete with minefields and barbed-wire fences.

US Secretary of Mike Pompeo stressed this week that Washington wants to "make sure that peace on the peninsula and the denuclearisation of North Korea aren't lagging behind the increase in the amount of inter-relationship between the two Koreas".

North and South Korea have connected a road across their shared border for the first time in 14 years, Seoul's defence ministry said Thursday in the latest reconciliation gesture between the neighbours.

North and South Korea have connected a road across their shared border for the first time in 14 years, Seoul's defence ministry said Thursday in the latest reconciliation gesture between the neighbours. The dirt road, which is wholly within the Demilitarized Zone that divides the peninsula, will be used for joint operations next year to recover remains from the 1950-53 Korean War. The 12-metre-wide construction of the route in Cheorwon, near the mid-point of the DMZ, is one of several steps agreed at the Pyongyang summit between the South's President Moon Jae-in and the North's leader Kim Jong Un in September. The neighbours also pledged to remove bunkers and weapons from the border truce village of Panmunjom. But Seoul and Washington are pursuing increasingly different approaches to the nuclear-armed North. The dovish Moon has pursued a policy of engagement with his isolated neighbour, while the US insists pressure should be maintained on Pyongyang until it denuclearises. Pictures handed out by Seoul's defence ministry Thursday showed a South Korean soldier and a North Korean counterpart taking part in the "recent" roadworks holding their hands out toward each other, with their colleagues watching. "It is historically significant for the North and the South to open a new passage and jointly engage in operations to recover remains of war dead at the place which saw the worst battles during the war," the ministry said. Despite its name the area around the DMZ is one of the most fortified places on earth, replete with minefields and barbed-wire fences. US Secretary of Mike Pompeo stressed this week that Washington wants to "make sure that peace on the peninsula and the denuclearisation of North Korea aren't lagging behind the increase in the amount of inter-relationship between the two Koreas".

Two Koreas connect DMZ road across border: Seoul

&nbsp;North Korea has removed 636 land mines from Panmunjom truce village located on the border, the South Korean Defense Minister said on Monday. 
 
The task was part of the military deal both countries signed at their September summit in which Seoul and Pyongyang decided to remove land mines around the South Korean border town of Cheorwon, 90 kilometers (56 miles) northeast of Seoul, and next to the Joint Security Zone. 
 
"There were no land mines found in our region, and the North informed us that it has removed more than 600 land mines," Defense Minister Jeong Kyeong-Doo said at a National Assembly session, Yonhap news agency reported. 
 
Kyeong-Doo also said that the two neighbors Sunday concluded the withdrawal of troops and equipment from 11 border guard posts. 
 
South Korea was operating 60 positions in the Demilitarized Zone along with outposts, while the North has more than 160, the minister said. 
 
The South Korean army has begun mobilizing bulldozers to take down 10 of its 11 posts, while planning to maintain one along the east coast set up shortly after the Korean War ceasefire in 1953. 
 
The North is also expected to retain one. 
 
"The irreversible demolition of guard posts is the most tangible and symbolic measure to fundamentally prevent accidental clashes between South and North Korea and build confidence," said South Korean General Kim Yong-woo during the inspection of the destruction of a post, Yonhap reported.

North Korea has removed 636 land mines from Panmunjom truce village located on the border, the South Korean Defense Minister said on Monday. The task was part of the military deal both countries signed at their September summit in which Seoul and Pyongyang decided to remove land mines around the South Korean border town of Cheorwon, 90 kilometers (56 miles) northeast of Seoul, and next to the Joint Security Zone.

North Korea has removed 636 land mines from Panmunjom truce village located on the border, the South Korean Defense Minister said on Monday. The task was part of the military deal both countries signed at their September summit in which Seoul and Pyongyang decided to remove land mines around the South Korean border town of Cheorwon, 90 kilometers (56 miles) northeast of Seoul, and next to the Joint Security Zone. "There were no land mines found in our region, and the North informed us that it has removed more than 600 land mines," Defense Minister Jeong Kyeong-Doo said at a National Assembly session, Yonhap news agency reported. Kyeong-Doo also said that the two neighbors Sunday concluded the withdrawal of troops and equipment from 11 border guard posts. South Korea was operating 60 positions in the Demilitarized Zone along with outposts, while the North has more than 160, the minister said. The South Korean army has begun mobilizing bulldozers to take down 10 of its 11 posts, while planning to maintain one along the east coast set up shortly after the Korean War ceasefire in 1953. The North is also expected to retain one. "The irreversible demolition of guard posts is the most tangible and symbolic measure to fundamentally prevent accidental clashes between South and North Korea and build confidence," said South Korean General Kim Yong-woo during the inspection of the destruction of a post, Yonhap reported.

North Korea removes 636 land mines from border, Seoul says

A South Korean World Cup footballer was banned for life from the national team for submitting false documents for his military service exemption, the Korea Football Association said on Thursday.

Defender Jang Hyun-soo plays for FC Tokyo and has 58 caps, including an appearance in the 2016 Olympics.

"This is to reinforce that anyone who stirs up controversy cannot join the national team," the KFA said, adding that the tough penalty was aimed at "preventing similar cases in the future".

Jang will be permanently banned from playing for the country and fined 30 million won ($26,000) for "tarnishing the dignity" of the team, according to the association.

Nearly every able-bodied South Korean managed 18 to 28 is required to complete 21 months of military service by law, but Olympic medal winners and Asian Games gold medallists are granted a special exemption.

Instead, they are required to complete basic military training of up to 60 days, as well as 544 hours of sports-related community service.

Jang won an exemption by winning gold with the Taeguk Warriors at the 2014 Asian Games and submitted a document that he had completed nearly 200 hours of community service in December last year.

But it was later discovered that there was heavy snow on the day that Jang claimed to have held outdoor football lessons.

Jang apologised for his misconduct at the weekend and said he would carry out his community service duties after the current season.

South Korea has recently hinted at a possible reform of the military service exemption programme, which critics say unfairly rewards athletes and artists for one-time achievements.

Tottenham Hotspur star footballer Son Heung-min was among dozens of South Koreans who avoided being called up for military service by bringing home gold at this year's Asian Games in Indonesia.

A South Korean World Cup footballer was banned for life from the national team for submitting false documents for his military service exemption, the Korea Football Association said on Thursday.

A South Korean World Cup footballer was banned for life from the national team for submitting false documents for his military service exemption, the Korea Football Association said on Thursday. Defender Jang Hyun-soo plays for FC Tokyo and has 58 caps, including an appearance in the 2016 Olympics. "This is to reinforce that anyone who stirs up controversy cannot join the national team," the KFA said, adding that the tough penalty was aimed at "preventing similar cases in the future". Jang will be permanently banned from playing for the country and fined 30 million won ($26,000) for "tarnishing the dignity" of the team, according to the association. Nearly every able-bodied South Korean managed 18 to 28 is required to complete 21 months of military service by law, but Olympic medal winners and Asian Games gold medallists are granted a special exemption. Instead, they are required to complete basic military training of up to 60 days, as well as 544 hours of sports-related community service. Jang won an exemption by winning gold with the Taeguk Warriors at the 2014 Asian Games and submitted a document that he had completed nearly 200 hours of community service in December last year. But it was later discovered that there was heavy snow on the day that Jang claimed to have held outdoor football lessons. Jang apologised for his misconduct at the weekend and said he would carry out his community service duties after the current season. South Korea has recently hinted at a possible reform of the military service exemption programme, which critics say unfairly rewards athletes and artists for one-time achievements. Tottenham Hotspur star footballer Son Heung-min was among dozens of South Koreans who avoided being called up for military service by bringing home gold at this year's Asian Games in Indonesia.

South Korean World Cup footballer banned over military service fakes

North Korea's new top three military officers are known for their unquestioning support of leader Kim Jong Un and are flexible enough to accept the massive changes that may come from any deal with U.S. President Donald Trump, people who follow the secretive country say.

They replaced older, more conservative officers who have been recently sacked, according to a senior U.S. official and North Korea leadership analysts in Seoul.

As Washington pursues a negotiated end to Pyongyang's nuclear programme, U.S. officials believe there was some dissent in the military about Kim's negotiations with South Korea and the United States, a complete reversal of the North's pursuit of nuclear weapons and historic hostility. It was not clear if the sacked officers were responsible.

Citing an unidentified intelligence official, South Korea's Yonhap news agency said No Kwang Chol, first vice minister in the defence ministry, had replaced Pak Yong Sik as the defence chief, while Ri Yong Gil had returned as the army's chief of general staff in place of Ri Myong Su.

The appointments could not be immediately confirmed.

North Korean media had earlier reported that Army General Kim Su Gil had succeeded Kim Jong Gak as director of the army's powerful General Political Bureau, one of the most senior positions in the country.

The changes are a shock because they take place so close to each other and come just ahead of the scheduled June 12 summit between Trump and Kim in Singapore.

Some analysts said Kim was replacing older officers who were wedded to the country's nuclear doctrine with loyalists who would follow any changes he may make following the summit.

"There would be a denuclearisation roadmap coming out of the summit with Trump, and it would be burdensome for Kim to have hawks who could be agitated by any desertion of the nuclear programme," said Cheong Seong-Chang, a senior fellow at South Korea's Sejong Institute.

Trump wants North Korea to "denuclearise" in return for relief from economic sanctions. Pyongyang sees its nuclear weapons as vital to its survival but Kim has said he plans to focus on economic development.

The moves are also in line with Kim's years-long efforts to consolidate power by purging senior officers and promoting trusted younger advisers to the politburo and other core positions.

The new officers could also provide some insurance against any attempt to seize power while Kim is away at the summit, experts say.

"All these guys are Kim Jong Un people," said Michael Madden, a North Korea leadership expert at Johns Hopkins University's 38 North website. "Kim Jong Un is going to put people in place he can trust, who are loyal to him."

In addition to being hardcore loyalists, Madden said the three officers were experienced in dealing with foreigners, which was seen as a plus point. But it was not immediately clear whether any of them would accompany Kim to Singapore.

Kim Su Gil, 68, is a four-star Army general who is one of Kim Jong Un's most trusted aides, accompanying him on various military inspections and public events.

He was among those involved in the purge and execution of Kim Jong Un's powerful uncle, Jang Song Thaek, in December 2013. Then he was tapped to lead the party's Pyongyang chamber in early 2014, a job which Madden said was meant for "housecleaning" the administration of Jang's confidants.

Kim's appointment to the General Political Bureau is part of Kim Jong Un's drive to expand the party's control over the military, said Ken Gause, director of the International Affairs Group at CNA, a non-profit research and analysis organisation based in Arlington, Virginia.

All of the newly promoted officials are younger than their predecessors, even though they are all in their 60s.

The three were also named in May 2016 as alternate members of the ruling Workers' Party politburo - the opaque, all-powerful governing body where top state affairs are decided.

Ri Yong Gil served as chief of staff from 2013 to 2016 until he reportedly fell from grace for a brief period, the analysts said.

In the early 2000s, Ri was commander of an Army unit that defends the perimeter around Pyongyang, a sensitive position that Gause said is traditionally "personally selected" by the leader of the country.

In March 2013, he was seen attending a late night meeting convened by Kim to order missile units on "standby" to strike U.S. and South Korean military installations after a U.S. strategic bomber flew over South Korea.

In February 2016, he was briefly demoted to deputy chief and three stars from four for an unspecified reason. South Korean intelligence officials said he had been executed for corruption and abuse of power, only to see him appear at a major party assembly as a politburo candidate three months later.

No Kwang Chol, the 62-year-old relatively less known new defence chief, previously headed the Second Economic Committee, which oversees defence production including the nuclear and missile programmes.

"This is where you would send someone you could trust," said Hong Min, head of North Korea research at the state-run Korea Institute for National Unification in Seoul.

"No is a person who has come to the fore in the Kim Jong Un era, as a up-and-coming and trusted aide. It is not strange at all if he becomes defence minister."

North Korea replaced older, more conservative officers who have been recently sacked, according to a senior US official and North Korea leadership analysts in Seoul

North Korea's new top three military officers are known for their unquestioning support of leader Kim Jong Un and are flexible enough to accept the massive changes that may come from any deal with U.S. President Donald Trump, people who follow the secretive country say. They replaced older, more conservative officers who have been recently sacked, according to a senior U.S. official and North Korea leadership analysts in Seoul. As Washington pursues a negotiated end to Pyongyang's nuclear programme, U.S. officials believe there was some dissent in the military about Kim's negotiations with South Korea and the United States, a complete reversal of the North's pursuit of nuclear weapons and historic hostility. It was not clear if the sacked officers were responsible. Citing an unidentified intelligence official, South Korea's Yonhap news agency said No Kwang Chol, first vice minister in the defence ministry, had replaced Pak Yong Sik as the defence chief, while Ri Yong Gil had returned as the army's chief of general staff in place of Ri Myong Su. The appointments could not be immediately confirmed. North Korean media had earlier reported that Army General Kim Su Gil had succeeded Kim Jong Gak as director of the army's powerful General Political Bureau, one of the most senior positions in the country. The changes are a shock because they take place so close to each other and come just ahead of the scheduled June 12 summit between Trump and Kim in Singapore. Some analysts said Kim was replacing older officers who were wedded to the country's nuclear doctrine with loyalists who would follow any changes he may make following the summit. "There would be a denuclearisation roadmap coming out of the summit with Trump, and it would be burdensome for Kim to have hawks who could be agitated by any desertion of the nuclear programme," said Cheong Seong-Chang, a senior fellow at South Korea's Sejong Institute. Trump wants North Korea to "denuclearise" in return for relief from economic sanctions. Pyongyang sees its nuclear weapons as vital to its survival but Kim has said he plans to focus on economic development. The moves are also in line with Kim's years-long efforts to consolidate power by purging senior officers and promoting trusted younger advisers to the politburo and other core positions. The new officers could also provide some insurance against any attempt to seize power while Kim is away at the summit, experts say. "All these guys are Kim Jong Un people," said Michael Madden, a North Korea leadership expert at Johns Hopkins University's 38 North website. "Kim Jong Un is going to put people in place he can trust, who are loyal to him." In addition to being hardcore loyalists, Madden said the three officers were experienced in dealing with foreigners, which was seen as a plus point. But it was not immediately clear whether any of them would accompany Kim to Singapore. Kim Su Gil, 68, is a four-star Army general who is one of Kim Jong Un's most trusted aides, accompanying him on various military inspections and public events. He was among those involved in the purge and execution of Kim Jong Un's powerful uncle, Jang Song Thaek, in December 2013. Then he was tapped to lead the party's Pyongyang chamber in early 2014, a job which Madden said was meant for "housecleaning" the administration of Jang's confidants. Kim's appointment to the General Political Bureau is part of Kim Jong Un's drive to expand the party's control over the military, said Ken Gause, director of the International Affairs Group at CNA, a non-profit research and analysis organisation based in Arlington, Virginia. All of the newly promoted officials are younger than their predecessors, even though they are all in their 60s. The three were also named in May 2016 as alternate members of the ruling Workers' Party politburo - the opaque, all-powerful governing body where top state affairs are decided. Ri Yong Gil served as chief of staff from 2013 to 2016 until he reportedly fell from grace for a brief period, the analysts said. In the early 2000s, Ri was commander of an Army unit that defends the perimeter around Pyongyang, a sensitive position that Gause said is traditionally "personally selected" by the leader of the country. In March 2013, he was seen attending a late night meeting convened by Kim to order missile units on "standby" to strike U.S. and South Korean military installations after a U.S. strategic bomber flew over South Korea. In February 2016, he was briefly demoted to deputy chief and three stars from four for an unspecified reason. South Korean intelligence officials said he had been executed for corruption and abuse of power, only to see him appear at a major party assembly as a politburo candidate three months later. No Kwang Chol, the 62-year-old relatively less known new defence chief, previously headed the Second Economic Committee, which oversees defence production including the nuclear and missile programmes. "This is where you would send someone you could trust," said Hong Min, head of North Korea research at the state-run Korea Institute for National Unification in Seoul. "No is a person who has come to the fore in the Kim Jong Un era, as a up-and-coming and trusted aide. It is not strange at all if he becomes defence minister."

North Korea's three new military leaders are loyal to Kim, not policies

Every event of Korean leaders' summit on April 27, 2018, was covered extensively by the media where they highlighted their pledge to end six decades of hostility. Airing their rhetoric about commitment to peace and "complete" denuclearisation of the Korean peninsula and eventually achieve unification, looks too good, but too quick, to be true.

In a scripted ceremony, Kim Jong-un did become the first North Korean leader to walk across the demarcation line to South Korea since the Korean War of 1953. The war was halted by an armistice signed in 1953, but did not formally end through any permanent peace agreement. The declaration by both to work together for a "nuclear-free Korea", disarmament, as well as officially ending the war at Panmunjom in 2018 is a historical event, which may outwardly amuse population both sides, but it needs careful decoding.

How and why the event happened as per expected script?

South Korea was under maximum pressure due to war clouds over its territory because of hard line taken by North Korea and the US. Kim's adventurism with no noticeable control by China and Russia, a war of words and incremental sanctions by US and UN were making things worse in the Korean Peninsula. Mountain collapsing at the nuclear site and fear of radiation continue to add to the risk to nearby areas. Under immense pressure, South Korea was able to set the stage for Kim-Trump meet, which is possible only if this summit went off well on scripted lines. Under domestic pressure due to hard hitting sanctions, and nuclear test related dangers, Kim was also mentally prepared to follow the peace narrative.

Will this inter-Korean peace initiative work?

The United States, China and Russia welcomed the agreement as their first response. The criticism indicates that the document promises mutual disarmament "in a phased manner" to build trust, lacks any roadmap/timelines for implementation. It does not meet US expectation of "complete, verifiable and irreversible" dismantling of North Korea's nuclear weapons. Any real promise regarding dismantling of missiles and nuclear weapons was missing, and Kim's image of being nuclear powered dictator has remained intact. Irrespective of skeptics, this summit has set the tone for the Trump-Kim Summit, although some more diplomatic efforts will have to follow.

Beyond the optics

There were some difficulties, which made some ideas of the summit impractical. Here are some of them:

<ul>
	<li>While everyone will like to see the peace and prosperity of Koreans but neither China nor US will be keen for a unified Korea. This will also invite internal opposition in South Korea. China will not like a democratic unified Korea, balancing between US and China, whereas US will not like its foothold in Korea going away so easily.</li>
	<li>When North Korea threatened the US and Japan, the issue expanded beyond bilateral limits of North and South Korea, hence cannot be settled by them bilaterally. Any permanent solution has to be acceptable to US, China, Japan and Russia.</li>
	<li>When Armistice was signed in 1953, US and China representatives were present. The same is a must for lasting peace.</li>
	<li>Expecting Kim to give away the only leverage he has in terms of posing nuclear and missile threat to US, something which has forced President Trump to meet him, sounds unrealistic.</li>
</ul>

This event is a good beginning which has a face saving option for all parties unless a hard line is adopted by someone. The US and Japan are unlikely to be moved by optics and will be keen in eradication of threat to them, hence may not remove or soften sanctions, which Kim may be eyeing for by such niceties with South

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

In a scripted ceremony, Kim Jong-un did become the first North Korean leader to walk across the DMZ to South Korea.

Every event of Korean leaders' summit on April 27, 2018, was covered extensively by the media where they highlighted their pledge to end six decades of hostility. Airing their rhetoric about commitment to peace and "complete" denuclearisation of the Korean peninsula and eventually achieve unification, looks too good, but too quick, to be true. In a scripted ceremony, Kim Jong-un did become the first North Korean leader to walk across the demarcation line to South Korea since the Korean War of 1953. The war was halted by an armistice signed in 1953, but did not formally end through any permanent peace agreement. The declaration by both to work together for a "nuclear-free Korea", disarmament, as well as officially ending the war at Panmunjom in 2018 is a historical event, which may outwardly amuse population both sides, but it needs careful decoding. How and why the event happened as per expected script? South Korea was under maximum pressure due to war clouds over its territory because of hard line taken by North Korea and the US. Kim's adventurism with no noticeable control by China and Russia, a war of words and incremental sanctions by US and UN were making things worse in the Korean Peninsula. Mountain collapsing at the nuclear site and fear of radiation continue to add to the risk to nearby areas. Under immense pressure, South Korea was able to set the stage for Kim-Trump meet, which is possible only if this summit went off well on scripted lines. Under domestic pressure due to hard hitting sanctions, and nuclear test related dangers, Kim was also mentally prepared to follow the peace narrative. Will this inter-Korean peace initiative work? The United States, China and Russia welcomed the agreement as their first response. The criticism indicates that the document promises mutual disarmament "in a phased manner" to build trust, lacks any roadmap/timelines for implementation. It does not meet US expectation of "complete, verifiable and irreversible" dismantling of North Korea's nuclear weapons. Any real promise regarding dismantling of missiles and nuclear weapons was missing, and Kim's image of being nuclear powered dictator has remained intact. Irrespective of skeptics, this summit has set the tone for the Trump-Kim Summit, although some more diplomatic efforts will have to follow. Beyond the optics There were some difficulties, which made some ideas of the summit impractical. Here are some of them: While everyone will like to see the peace and prosperity of Koreans but neither China nor US will be keen for a unified Korea. This will also invite internal opposition in South Korea. China will not like a democratic unified Korea, balancing between US and China, whereas US will not like its foothold in Korea going away so easily. When North Korea threatened the US and Japan, the issue expanded beyond bilateral limits of North and South Korea, hence cannot be settled by them bilaterally. Any permanent solution has to be acceptable to US, China, Japan and Russia. When Armistice was signed in 1953, US and China representatives were present. The same is a must for lasting peace. Expecting Kim to give away the only leverage he has in terms of posing nuclear and missile threat to US, something which has forced President Trump to meet him, sounds unrealistic. This event is a good beginning which has a face saving option for all parties unless a hard line is adopted by someone. The US and Japan are unlikely to be moved by optics and will be keen in eradication of threat to them, hence may not remove or soften sanctions, which Kim may be eyeing for by such niceties with South (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Opinion: Decoding the Kim and Moon summit for a nuclear free Korea

Japan's foreign minister was in South Korea for a rare visit Wednesday, armed with a list of issues Tokyo wants to push onto the agenda of a looming summit between North and South Korea.

The first such visit in more than two years comes at a time of frenetic diplomatic activity in Northeast Asia, ahead of the North's planned summits with South Korean President Moon Jae-in and US President Donald Trump.&nbsp

North Korea's young leader Kim Jong Un met Chinese President Xi Jinping in his first overseas trip last month.

Japan has largely remained on the sidelines, with suggestions last month of the third summit between Kim and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe quickly petering out.

Instead, Tokyo has found itself forced to rely on the US and South Korea to tackle its concerns regarding the North, which last year test-fired several missiles that flew over Japan, sparking security concerns.

Tokyo's top government spokesman Yoshihide Suga said "it is extremely important that Japan, the US, and South Korea share information and coordinate closely" ahead of the two summits.

Foreign minister Taro Kono will meet with his South Korean counterpart Kang Kyung-wha on Wednesday morning.&nbsp

As well as Pyongyang's "nuclear and missile issues", Kono has said he will try to ensure that "the abduction issue will be talked about in the North-South summit".

He was referring to Japanese citizens abducted by the North's agents in the 1970s and 80s in a bid to train spies in Japanese language and customs before overseas missions.

The North regularly excoriates Japan over its brutal 1910-45 colonial rule of the Korean peninsula.

But ties between the South and Japan have also remained sour for years due to the controversy over historical issues left unresolved -- including Korean women forced into sexual slavery for Japanese troops during World War II.

Seoul has urged Tokyo to take legal and moral responsibility, while Japan says that the issue was resolved when the two nations reached a controversial deal in 2015 to offer compensations to the victims.&nbsp

Suga said Japan's foreign minister would seek to boost a "forward-looking" bilateral relationship despite the row.

Kim is set to meet Moon on April 27 for a third-ever summit between the two neighbours, and is expected to talk with Trump in May or early June.

Japan -- a key Asian ally of the US and host of 50,000 American troops -- had long supported Trump's hardline position to press Pyongyang to abandon its widely-condemned nuclear and missile weapons programmes.

But Trump's sudden decision to open dialogue with Kim reportedly stoked concerns over whether Japan was being ignored in the regional push to engage the unpredictable North.

The first such visit in more than two years comes at a time of frenetic diplomatic activity in Northeast Asia, ahead of the North's planned summits with South Korean President Moon Jae-in and US President Donald Trump

Japan's foreign minister was in South Korea for a rare visit Wednesday, armed with a list of issues Tokyo wants to push onto the agenda of a looming summit between North and South Korea. The first such visit in more than two years comes at a time of frenetic diplomatic activity in Northeast Asia, ahead of the North's planned summits with South Korean President Moon Jae-in and US President Donald Trump. North Korea's young leader Kim Jong Un met Chinese President Xi Jinping in his first overseas trip last month. Japan has largely remained on the sidelines, with suggestions last month of the third summit between Kim and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe quickly petering out. Instead, Tokyo has found itself forced to rely on the US and South Korea to tackle its concerns regarding the North, which last year test-fired several missiles that flew over Japan, sparking security concerns. Tokyo's top government spokesman Yoshihide Suga said "it is extremely important that Japan, the US, and South Korea share information and coordinate closely" ahead of the two summits. Foreign minister Taro Kono will meet with his South Korean counterpart Kang Kyung-wha on Wednesday morning. As well as Pyongyang's "nuclear and missile issues", Kono has said he will try to ensure that "the abduction issue will be talked about in the North-South summit". He was referring to Japanese citizens abducted by the North's agents in the 1970s and 80s in a bid to train spies in Japanese language and customs before overseas missions. The North regularly excoriates Japan over its brutal 1910-45 colonial rule of the Korean peninsula. But ties between the South and Japan have also remained sour for years due to the controversy over historical issues left unresolved -- including Korean women forced into sexual slavery for Japanese troops during World War II. Seoul has urged Tokyo to take legal and moral responsibility, while Japan says that the issue was resolved when the two nations reached a controversial deal in 2015 to offer compensations to the victims. Suga said Japan's foreign minister would seek to boost a "forward-looking" bilateral relationship despite the row. Kim is set to meet Moon on April 27 for a third-ever summit between the two neighbours, and is expected to talk with Trump in May or early June. Japan -- a key Asian ally of the US and host of 50,000 American troops -- had long supported Trump's hardline position to press Pyongyang to abandon its widely-condemned nuclear and missile weapons programmes. But Trump's sudden decision to open dialogue with Kim reportedly stoked concerns over whether Japan was being ignored in the regional push to engage the unpredictable North.

Japan Finance Minister to voice North Korea concerns in rare Seoul visit

North and South Korea will hold their first summit in more than a decade on April 27, South Korean officials said on Thursday, after North Korean leader Kim Jong Un pledged his commitment to denuclearisation as tensions ease between the old foes.

South Korean government officials announced the date of the summit after holding high-level talks with their North Korean counterparts on Thursday.

The two Koreas had agreed earlier this month to hold such a summit at the border truce village of Panmunjom when South Korean President Moon Jae-in sent a delegation to Pyongyang to meet North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.

Thursday's talks were the first between the two Koreas since the delegation returned from the North.

A South Korean unification ministry official told reporters the two Koreas would hold a working-level meeting on April 4 to discuss details for the summit, such as staffing support, security and news releases.

North and South Korea have experienced a significant easing in tensions since the Winter Olympics in the South in February. They are technically still at war after the 1950-53 conflict ended with a ceasefire, not a truce.

Kim is also scheduled to meet US&nbspPresident Donald Trump some time in May to discuss denuclearisation, although a time and place have not been set for that summit.

Kim met Chinese President Xi Jinping in a surprise visit to Beijing this week, his first trip outside the isolated North since he came to power in 2011.

Even more surprising was Kim's pledge to denuclearise the Korean summit. That commitment was reported by Chinese state media, although North Korea's official media made no mention of it, or Kim's anticipated meeting with Trump.

Trump and Kim had exchanged threats and insults in recent months. The US&nbspleader made the equally surprising announcement earlier this month that he was prepared to meet Kim to discuss the crisis over Pyongyang's development of nuclear weapons capable of hitting the Unite States.

The North Korean leader's engagement with the international community has sparked speculation that he may try to meet other leaders. Japan's Asahi newspaper said on Thursday Japan had sounded out the North Korean government about a bilateral summit.

Chinese President Xi Jinping promised Beijing would uphold its friendship with North Korea after his meeting with Kim.

Trump wrote on Twitter he had received a message from Xi on Tuesday night that his meeting with Kim "went very well" and that Kim looked forward to meeting the US&nbsppresident.

This will be their first summit in over a decade. The two countries are still technically at war

North and South Korea will hold their first summit in more than a decade on April 27, South Korean officials said on Thursday, after North Korean leader Kim Jong Un pledged his commitment to denuclearisation as tensions ease between the old foes. South Korean government officials announced the date of the summit after holding high-level talks with their North Korean counterparts on Thursday. The two Koreas had agreed earlier this month to hold such a summit at the border truce village of Panmunjom when South Korean President Moon Jae-in sent a delegation to Pyongyang to meet North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. Thursday's talks were the first between the two Koreas since the delegation returned from the North. A South Korean unification ministry official told reporters the two Koreas would hold a working-level meeting on April 4 to discuss details for the summit, such as staffing support, security and news releases. North and South Korea have experienced a significant easing in tensions since the Winter Olympics in the South in February. They are technically still at war after the 1950-53 conflict ended with a ceasefire, not a truce. Kim is also scheduled to meet US&nbspPresident Donald Trump some time in May to discuss denuclearisation, although a time and place have not been set for that summit. Kim met Chinese President Xi Jinping in a surprise visit to Beijing this week, his first trip outside the isolated North since he came to power in 2011. Even more surprising was Kim's pledge to denuclearise the Korean summit. That commitment was reported by Chinese state media, although North Korea's official media made no mention of it, or Kim's anticipated meeting with Trump. Trump and Kim had exchanged threats and insults in recent months. The US&nbspleader made the equally surprising announcement earlier this month that he was prepared to meet Kim to discuss the crisis over Pyongyang's development of nuclear weapons capable of hitting the Unite States. The North Korean leader's engagement with the international community has sparked speculation that he may try to meet other leaders. Japan's Asahi newspaper said on Thursday Japan had sounded out the North Korean government about a bilateral summit. Chinese President Xi Jinping promised Beijing would uphold its friendship with North Korea after his meeting with Kim. Trump wrote on Twitter he had received a message from Xi on Tuesday night that his meeting with Kim "went very well" and that Kim looked forward to meeting the US&nbsppresident.

North, South Korea to hold summit on April 27

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un visited China from Sunday to Wednesday on an unofficial visit, China's state news agency Xinhua reported on Wednesday.

The visit, confirmed by China and North Korea, was Mr Kim's first foreign trip since taking office in 2011. And is believed by analysts to serve as preparation for upcoming summits with South Korea and the United States.

Beijing has traditionally been the closest ally of secretive and isolated North Korea, but ties have been frayed by North Korea`s pursuit of nuclear weapons and China`s backing of tough U.N. sanctions in response.

Xinhua published a photograph of Kim and Xi shaking hands in front of the flags of the two nations.

Speculation about a possible visit by Kim to Beijing was rife earlier this week after a train similar to the one used by Kim`s father was seen in the Chinese capital, along with heavy security and a large motorcade.

South Korea's Yonhap news agency reported that Kim visited China from Sunday to Wednesday with his wife, Ri Sol Ju. It cited North Korea without elaborating.

Xi had accepted an invitation from Kim to visit North Korea, Yonhap said.

Improving ties between North Korea and China would be a positive sign before planned summits involving the two Koreas and the United States, a senior South Korean official said on Tuesday.

Kim Jong Un's father, Kim Jong Il, met then-president Jiang Zemin in China in 2000 before a summit between the two Koreas in June that year. That visit was seen at the time as a reaffirmation of close ties with Beijing.

(With inputs from Agencies)

The visit, confirmed by China and North Korea, was Kim's first foreign trip since taking office in 2011

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un visited China from Sunday to Wednesday on an unofficial visit, China's state news agency Xinhua reported on Wednesday. The visit, confirmed by China and North Korea, was Mr Kim's first foreign trip since taking office in 2011. And is believed by analysts to serve as preparation for upcoming summits with South Korea and the United States. Beijing has traditionally been the closest ally of secretive and isolated North Korea, but ties have been frayed by North Korea`s pursuit of nuclear weapons and China`s backing of tough U.N. sanctions in response. Xinhua published a photograph of Kim and Xi shaking hands in front of the flags of the two nations. Speculation about a possible visit by Kim to Beijing was rife earlier this week after a train similar to the one used by Kim`s father was seen in the Chinese capital, along with heavy security and a large motorcade. South Korea's Yonhap news agency reported that Kim visited China from Sunday to Wednesday with his wife, Ri Sol Ju. It cited North Korea without elaborating. Xi had accepted an invitation from Kim to visit North Korea, Yonhap said. Improving ties between North Korea and China would be a positive sign before planned summits involving the two Koreas and the United States, a senior South Korean official said on Tuesday. Kim Jong Un's father, Kim Jong Il, met then-president Jiang Zemin in China in 2000 before a summit between the two Koreas in June that year. That visit was seen at the time as a reaffirmation of close ties with Beijing. (With inputs from Agencies)

China and North Korea confirm Kim Jong Un visited Beijing

North Korea has broken its silence on the diplomatic thaw with Washington and Seoul, saying it is driving the &quot;peace offensive&quot; and rejecting suggestions that sanctions forced it to the negotiating table.

The commentary from the state-run KCNA news agency came with a rapid rapprochement on the Korean peninsula underway, after a period of heightened tensions stoked by the missile and nuclear tests.

But as diplomats scurry to arrange two proposed summits - North-South talks followed by a face-to-face meet between Donald Trump and Kim Jong Un - the North&#39;s silence had raised concerns over its intentions.

The KCNA commentary late Tuesday did not directly mention the summits but noted the &quot;dramatic atmosphere for reconciliation&quot; with the South and &quot;a sign of change&quot; with the US.&nbsp;

It said Pyongyang&#39;s overtures came from a position of strength, not from weakness, even as it confronts intense international pressure as well as biting economic sanctions over its nuclear weapons programme.

&quot;The dialogue peace offensive of the DPRK is an expression of self-confidence as it has acquired everything it desires,&quot; it said, using the North&#39;s official name.&nbsp;

It also slammed hawks in Washington, Seoul and Tokyo for questioning the sincerity and motivation behind the North&#39;s willingness to step back from the brink.

&quot;Such rubbish as &#39;result of sanctions and pressure&#39;... spread by hostile forces is just as meaningless as a dog barking at the moon,&quot; it said, urging &quot;prudence&quot; for all parties involved.

&quot;It is really an expression of small-mindedness for the riff-raffs to spoil the atmosphere and say this or that even before the parties concerned are given a chance to study the inner thoughts of the other side and are seated at a negotiating table,&quot; it said in typically colourful language.&nbsp;

Since floating the idea for a summit with the US, &quot;the North has been carefully watching how the situation is developing, including the US-South Korea joint military drills, before making it public to the people&quot;, Professor Kim Yong-hyun at Dongguk University told.

The South and the US announced Tuesday a plan to resume annual joint military exercises on April 1, with its main drill shortened by a month - in an apparent conciliatory gesture over an event that infuriates the North.

Professor Yang Moo-jin of the University of North Korean Studies said the North also needs time to prepare its people for a drastic policy turnaround toward the United States.

&quot;The North won&#39;t confirm the two summits until dates and venues are fixed and it needs to educate its people through party cells slowly for a policy U-turn&quot;, Yang said.

The North&#39;s state media has not reported any public activities by Kim since March 6, when it said he held talks with South Korean envoys.

Kim learned of South Korean President Moon Jae-in&#39;s intention for an inter-Korean summit from the envoys, exchanged views and made a &quot;satisfactory agreement,&quot; the North&#39;s KCNA said at that time.

Trump&#39;s announcement earlier this month that he was willing to meet with the North&#39;s young leader - after an invitation conveyed by envoys from the South - has triggered a flurry of diplomatic activity.

The North&#39;s foreign minister Ri Yong Ho met his counterpart from Sweden, which represents Washington&#39;s interests in North Korea, in Stockholm over the weekend, with reports saying they discussed the release of three Americans detained in the North.&nbsp;

Choe Kang Il, a senior Pyongyang diplomat handling ties with the US, is currently in Finland for discussions with the retired former US ambassador to Seoul, Kathleen Stephens.&nbsp;

Moon on Wednesday said a three-way summit including the two Koreas and the US could be possible, depending on the outcomes of the inter-Korean and US-North Korean summits.

&quot;We must completely resolve the issues of denuclearising the Korean Peninsula and establishing peace&quot;, he said.

North Korea says it is driving the 'peace offensive' and rejecting suggestions that sanctions forced it to the negotiating table

North Korea has broken its silence on the diplomatic thaw with Washington and Seoul, saying it is driving the "peace offensive" and rejecting suggestions that sanctions forced it to the negotiating table. The commentary from the state-run KCNA news agency came with a rapid rapprochement on the Korean peninsula underway, after a period of heightened tensions stoked by the missile and nuclear tests. But as diplomats scurry to arrange two proposed summits - North-South talks followed by a face-to-face meet between Donald Trump and Kim Jong Un - the North's silence had raised concerns over its intentions. The KCNA commentary late Tuesday did not directly mention the summits but noted the "dramatic atmosphere for reconciliation" with the South and "a sign of change" with the US. It said Pyongyang's overtures came from a position of strength, not from weakness, even as it confronts intense international pressure as well as biting economic sanctions over its nuclear weapons programme. "The dialogue peace offensive of the DPRK is an expression of self-confidence as it has acquired everything it desires," it said, using the North's official name. It also slammed hawks in Washington, Seoul and Tokyo for questioning the sincerity and motivation behind the North's willingness to step back from the brink. "Such rubbish as 'result of sanctions and pressure'... spread by hostile forces is just as meaningless as a dog barking at the moon," it said, urging "prudence" for all parties involved. "It is really an expression of small-mindedness for the riff-raffs to spoil the atmosphere and say this or that even before the parties concerned are given a chance to study the inner thoughts of the other side and are seated at a negotiating table," it said in typically colourful language. Since floating the idea for a summit with the US, "the North has been carefully watching how the situation is developing, including the US-South Korea joint military drills, before making it public to the people", Professor Kim Yong-hyun at Dongguk University told. The South and the US announced Tuesday a plan to resume annual joint military exercises on April 1, with its main drill shortened by a month - in an apparent conciliatory gesture over an event that infuriates the North. Professor Yang Moo-jin of the University of North Korean Studies said the North also needs time to prepare its people for a drastic policy turnaround toward the United States. "The North won't confirm the two summits until dates and venues are fixed and it needs to educate its people through party cells slowly for a policy U-turn", Yang said. The North's state media has not reported any public activities by Kim since March 6, when it said he held talks with South Korean envoys. Kim learned of South Korean President Moon Jae-in's intention for an inter-Korean summit from the envoys, exchanged views and made a "satisfactory agreement," the North's KCNA said at that time. Trump's announcement earlier this month that he was willing to meet with the North's young leader - after an invitation conveyed by envoys from the South - has triggered a flurry of diplomatic activity. The North's foreign minister Ri Yong Ho met his counterpart from Sweden, which represents Washington's interests in North Korea, in Stockholm over the weekend, with reports saying they discussed the release of three Americans detained in the North. Choe Kang Il, a senior Pyongyang diplomat handling ties with the US, is currently in Finland for discussions with the retired former US ambassador to Seoul, Kathleen Stephens. Moon on Wednesday said a three-way summit including the two Koreas and the US could be possible, depending on the outcomes of the inter-Korean and US-North Korean summits. "We must completely resolve the issues of denuclearising the Korean Peninsula and establishing peace", he said.

North Korea denies sanctions prompted diplomatic thaw

According to Britain's Financial Times, volunteers in the UK will be infected with coronavirus in order to test a possible vaccine to combat the virus.

Watch:&nbsp;

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The Boris Johnson government has reportedly been discussing the possibility of "human challenge studies" to develop the vaccine. The "challenge" if it is approved will be the first of its kind in the world as the world grapples with the virus.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-offers-to-give-free-coronavirus-vaccine-for-un-staff-across-globe-329566">Also Read:&nbsp;Russia offers to give free coronavirus vaccine for UN staff across globe</a>

The UK government had recently announced fresh guidelines to combat the virus which has begun spreading rapidly once again as the country reopened with harsh social distancing measures being put in place across the country with pubs, bars and other venues ordered to close by 10pm.&nbsp;

The race for the vaccine has been going around the world with Johnson &amp; Johnson announcing on Wednesday that it was entered the final Phase-3 stage of vaccine trials.

Johnson &amp; Johnson will seek to enrol up to 60,000 volunteers across over 200 sites in the United States and around the world to conduct the trials. J&amp;J would become the tenth vaccine maker globally to conduct the Phase 3 trial against coronavirus, and the fourth in the US.

"As COVID-19 continues to impact the daily lives of people around the world, our goal remains the same -- leveraging the global reach and scientific innovation of our company to help bring an end to this pandemic," &nbsp;Alex Gorsky, chairman and CEO of the company said.

Meanwhile, French pharmaceutical firm Sanofi and UK's GSK have promised up to 72 million doses of the coronavirus vaccine candidate to the Canadian government as countries race to get their hands on potential vaccine early to combat the virus.

Canada had earlier announced an agreement with Gilead Sciences and McKesson Canada for up to 150,000 vials of remdesivir.

Amid the race for the vaccine, the World Health Organization(WHO) said that over 60 wealthy nations have joined its programme to facilitate poor countries' to access the vaccine but the US and China haven't joined the list.

A Seoul defence ministry spokesman Tuesday confirmed the main exercise, expected to resume on April 1, would be truncated

According to Britain's Financial Times, volunteers in the UK will be infected with coronavirus in order to test a possible vaccine to combat the virus. Watch: The Boris Johnson government has reportedly been discussing the possibility of "human challenge studies" to develop the vaccine. The "challenge" if it is approved will be the first of its kind in the world as the world grapples with the virus. Also Read: Russia offers to give free coronavirus vaccine for UN staff across globe The UK government had recently announced fresh guidelines to combat the virus which has begun spreading rapidly once again as the country reopened with harsh social distancing measures being put in place across the country with pubs, bars and other venues ordered to close by 10pm. The race for the vaccine has been going around the world with Johnson & Johnson announcing on Wednesday that it was entered the final Phase-3 stage of vaccine trials. Johnson & Johnson will seek to enrol up to 60,000 volunteers across over 200 sites in the United States and around the world to conduct the trials. J&J would become the tenth vaccine maker globally to conduct the Phase 3 trial against coronavirus, and the fourth in the US. "As COVID-19 continues to impact the daily lives of people around the world, our goal remains the same -- leveraging the global reach and scientific innovation of our company to help bring an end to this pandemic," Alex Gorsky, chairman and CEO of the company said. Meanwhile, French pharmaceutical firm Sanofi and UK's GSK have promised up to 72 million doses of the coronavirus vaccine candidate to the Canadian government as countries race to get their hands on potential vaccine early to combat the virus. Canada had earlier announced an agreement with Gilead Sciences and McKesson Canada for up to 150,000 vials of remdesivir. Amid the race for the vaccine, the World Health Organization(WHO) said that over 60 wealthy nations have joined its programme to facilitate poor countries' to access the vaccine but the US and China haven't joined the list.

US, South Korea military drills to resume

Days after the United States office reported that North Korea cancelled a planned meeting with US Vice President Mike Pence at the last minute, fresh reports emerged that now Pyongyang is willing to hold dialogue.

According to Seoul&#39;s presidential Blue House, North Korea is willing to hold talks with the United States, its delegation to the Winter Olympics closing ceremony said on Sunday.&nbsp;

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South Korea&rsquo;s presidential office says &#39;North Korea open to talks with United States&#39;: South Korean media reports <a href="https://t.co/FbIpLFR84X">pic.twitter.com/FbIpLFR84X</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/967727411637886977?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 25, 2018</a></blockquote>
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In a meeting with the South&#39;s President Moon Jae-in, the North&#39;s delegation &quot;agreed that inter-Korea talks and North-US relations should improve together&quot;.

Pyongyang has frequently said it is willing to talk without preconditions, but Washington says it must first take concrete steps towards denuclearisation.

Earlier, North Korea cancelled a scheduled meeting with US VP Mike Pence

Days after the United States office reported that North Korea cancelled a planned meeting with US Vice President Mike Pence at the last minute, fresh reports emerged that now Pyongyang is willing to hold dialogue. According to Seoul's presidential Blue House, North Korea is willing to hold talks with the United States, its delegation to the Winter Olympics closing ceremony said on Sunday. South Korea’s presidential office says 'North Korea open to talks with United States': South Korean media reports pic.twitter.com/FbIpLFR84X — ANI (@ANI) February 25, 2018 × In a meeting with the South's President Moon Jae-in, the North's delegation "agreed that inter-Korea talks and North-US relations should improve together". Pyongyang has frequently said it is willing to talk without preconditions, but Washington says it must first take concrete steps towards denuclearisation.

North Korea willing to hold talks with US, says Seoul

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/kim-yo-jong-meet-the-ivanka-trump-of-north-korea-684#photo-37445">Ivanka Trump</a> has arrived in&nbsp;Seoul,&nbsp;South Korea to attend the closing ceremony of one of&nbsp;the biggest sporting events, Pyeongchang Winter Olympics and also to support the team the USA. The event, whose theme revolves around promoting peace, started with the arrival of a&nbsp;northern guest, Kim Yo Jong, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/topic/kim-yo-jong">younger sister</a> of North Korea&#39;s supreme leader Kim Jong Un. The team USA currently stands at rank fourth with 21 medals in total.

A top North Korean general will also be present at the event. The concluding ceremony is scheduled to take place on February 25.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/kim-yo-jong-meet-the-ivanka-trump-of-north-korea-684#photo-37445">In pics: Kim Yo Jong: Meet the &#39;Ivanka Trump&#39; of North Korea</a>

&quot;We&#39;re very very excited to attend the 2018 Winter Olympic Games, to cheer for Team USA and to reaffirm our strong and enduring commitment with people of the Republic of Korea&quot;, she said after arriving at Incheon airport on a commercial flight.

The White House said Trump had asked his <a href="http://www.wionews.com/topic/ivanka">eldest daughter </a>-- who is also one of his top advisers -- to travel to Pyeongchang to lead up a &quot;high-level delegation&quot;.

The North will send an eight-member delegation Sunday headed by Kim Yong Chol, a top general who oversees inter-Korean relations for the ruling Workers&#39; Party, Seoul&#39;s unification ministry said.

The Games have seen a flurry of cross-border diplomacy, with North Korean leader <a href="http://www.wionews.com/topic/kim-yo-jong">Kim Jong Un&#39;s sister</a> and US Vice President Mike Pence both attending the opening ceremony in Pyeongchang earlier this month.

But officials in both Seoul and Washington say there will not be a meeting between <a href="http://www.wionews.com/topic/ivanka">Ivanka Trump</a> and Kim Yong Chol.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Ivanka Trump has arrived in Seoul, South Korea to attend the closing ceremony of one of the biggest sporting events, Pyeongchang Winter Olympics and also to support the team the USA

Ivanka Trump has arrived in Seoul, South Korea to attend the closing ceremony of one of the biggest sporting events, Pyeongchang Winter Olympics and also to support the team the USA. The event, whose theme revolves around promoting peace, started with the arrival of a northern guest, Kim Yo Jong, younger sister of North Korea's supreme leader Kim Jong Un. The team USA currently stands at rank fourth with 21 medals in total. A top North Korean general will also be present at the event. The concluding ceremony is scheduled to take place on February 25. In pics: Kim Yo Jong: Meet the 'Ivanka Trump' of North Korea "We're very very excited to attend the 2018 Winter Olympic Games, to cheer for Team USA and to reaffirm our strong and enduring commitment with people of the Republic of Korea", she said after arriving at Incheon airport on a commercial flight. The White House said Trump had asked his eldest daughter -- who is also one of his top advisers -- to travel to Pyeongchang to lead up a "high-level delegation". The North will send an eight-member delegation Sunday headed by Kim Yong Chol, a top general who oversees inter-Korean relations for the ruling Workers' Party, Seoul's unification ministry said. The Games have seen a flurry of cross-border diplomacy, with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un's sister and US Vice President Mike Pence both attending the opening ceremony in Pyeongchang earlier this month. But officials in both Seoul and Washington say there will not be a meeting between Ivanka Trump and Kim Yong Chol.

Watch: Ivanka Trump arrives in South Korea to attend closing ceremony of Winter Olympics

Seoul welcomed confirmation by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) that 22 North Korean athletes would compete in next month`s Winter Olympics, saying on Sunday it would aid peace and the easing of tensions on the Korean peninsula.

In the first of a series of preparatory visits, North Korean music and arts officials arrived in South Korea on Sunday to inspect sites for performances during the Olympics.

&quot;North Korea`s participation in the Olympics will be a catalyst for building peace and easing tensions on the Korean peninsula,&quot; said South Korea`s presidential Blue House in a statement released on Sunday.

The visit to the South marks the first by North Koreans since South Korean President Moon Jae-in took office in May last year and sought to re-engage with the North.

&quot;President Moon has previously stressed that the Pyeongchang Olympics should be an important turning point in solving North Korea`s missile issues,&quot; the Blue House statement said.&nbsp;

The seven-member North Korean delegation, led by musician Hyon Song-wol, will check venues for performances by a 140-strong art troupe at the Olympics.

The officials are scheduled to spend two days inspecting art centres in Seoul and Gangneung city, which will also host several of the Olympic events.

South Korean broadcaster YTN reported the delegation had arrived in Seoul early Sunday under a heavy police presence, then boarded a train to Gangwon province, where the Olympics will be held from February 9-25.

Pyongyang said on Sunday it also plans to send another team of sports officials to inspect Olympic venues and accommodations from January 25-27, South Korea`s unification ministry said.

In a diplomatic breakthrough after a year of escalating tension over the North`s nuclear and missile programme, the IOC announced on Saturday that North Korea will send 22 athletes to the Winter Games and compete in three sports and five disciplines.

Until the IOC confirmation, a figure skating pair were the only North Koreans to have secured a spot at the Games through the conventional qualifying competition, although they lost their place after failing to register.

Sunday`s North Korean delegation had been scheduled to visit on Saturday but cancelled just before the visit with no explanation. Officials from both Korea`s used a cross-border hotline to quickly reschedule the visit.

Also on Sunday, South Korean officials said Pyongyang had accepted proposals for South Koreans to travel to North Korea for joint athletic training at the Masikryong Ski Resort and a cultural event at Mount Kumgang, a once-popular tourist area.

North Korean music and arts officials arrived to inspect sites for performances during the Olympics.

Seoul welcomed confirmation by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) that 22 North Korean athletes would compete in next month`s Winter Olympics, saying on Sunday it would aid peace and the easing of tensions on the Korean peninsula. In the first of a series of preparatory visits, North Korean music and arts officials arrived in South Korea on Sunday to inspect sites for performances during the Olympics. "North Korea`s participation in the Olympics will be a catalyst for building peace and easing tensions on the Korean peninsula," said South Korea`s presidential Blue House in a statement released on Sunday. The visit to the South marks the first by North Koreans since South Korean President Moon Jae-in took office in May last year and sought to re-engage with the North. "President Moon has previously stressed that the Pyeongchang Olympics should be an important turning point in solving North Korea`s missile issues," the Blue House statement said. The seven-member North Korean delegation, led by musician Hyon Song-wol, will check venues for performances by a 140-strong art troupe at the Olympics. The officials are scheduled to spend two days inspecting art centres in Seoul and Gangneung city, which will also host several of the Olympic events. South Korean broadcaster YTN reported the delegation had arrived in Seoul early Sunday under a heavy police presence, then boarded a train to Gangwon province, where the Olympics will be held from February 9-25. Pyongyang said on Sunday it also plans to send another team of sports officials to inspect Olympic venues and accommodations from January 25-27, South Korea`s unification ministry said. In a diplomatic breakthrough after a year of escalating tension over the North`s nuclear and missile programme, the IOC announced on Saturday that North Korea will send 22 athletes to the Winter Games and compete in three sports and five disciplines. Until the IOC confirmation, a figure skating pair were the only North Koreans to have secured a spot at the Games through the conventional qualifying competition, although they lost their place after failing to register. Sunday`s North Korean delegation had been scheduled to visit on Saturday but cancelled just before the visit with no explanation. Officials from both Korea`s used a cross-border hotline to quickly reschedule the visit. Also on Sunday, South Korean officials said Pyongyang had accepted proposals for South Koreans to travel to North Korea for joint athletic training at the Masikryong Ski Resort and a cultural event at Mount Kumgang, a once-popular tourist area.

Seoul says North Korea's Olympic participation will aid peace and ease tensions

Five people have been killed and four have been injured in an alleged arson attack in a motel in South Korean capital Seoul on Saturday, media reports said.

The fire broke out at 3 am on Saturday in a two-story building in Jongo district. The ones injured were immediately rushed to the hospital.&nbsp;

A 53-year-old man who said he started the blaze was arrested.

Witnesses said a delivery man carried out the attack in a fit of anger after being denied a room at the two-story motel for allegedly being drunk.

The man, identified only by his surname Yu, bought 10 litres of petrol at a nearby service station, poured it on the ground floor and set it ablaze, they said.

Neighbours used fire extinguishers in an attempt to tame the blaze but were unable to bring it under control.&nbsp;

Witnesses said a delivery man carried out the attack in a fit of anger after being denied a room at the two-story motel for allegedly being drunk

Five people have been killed and four have been injured in an alleged arson attack in a motel in South Korean capital Seoul on Saturday, media reports said. The fire broke out at 3 am on Saturday in a two-story building in Jongo district. The ones injured were immediately rushed to the hospital. A 53-year-old man who said he started the blaze was arrested. Witnesses said a delivery man carried out the attack in a fit of anger after being denied a room at the two-story motel for allegedly being drunk. The man, identified only by his surname Yu, bought 10 litres of petrol at a nearby service station, poured it on the ground floor and set it ablaze, they said. Neighbours used fire extinguishers in an attempt to tame the blaze but were unable to bring it under control.

5 killed 4 injured in arson attack in Seoul

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has invited the South`s President Moon Jae-in for a summit in Pyongyang, Seoul said Saturday.

The invitation, delivered by Kim&#39;s visiting sister Kim Yo Jong, said Kim was willing to meet the South`s leader &quot;at the earliest date possible&quot;, said a spokesman for the presidential Blue House.

An inter-Korean summit would be the third of its kind, after Kim`s father and predecessor Kim Jong Il met the South`s Kim Dae-jung and Roh Moo-hyun in 2000 and 2007 respectively, both of them in Pyongyang.

After months of silence on whether it would even take part in the Pyeongchang Winter Olympics in the South, which had their opening ceremony Friday, nuclear-armed North Korea has gone on a charm offensive, dispatching athletes, performers and Kim`s sister plus other diplomatic delegates to the South. 
 
Moon met Kim Yo Jong and the North`s ceremonial head of state Kim Yong Nam for talks and lunch at the Blue House on Saturday.&nbsp;

&quot;Special envoy Kim Yo Jong delivered a personal letter&quot; from her brother stating his &quot;wish to improve inter-Korean relations&quot;, said Moon`s spokesman Kim Eui-kyeom.

She verbally conveyed Kim`s invitation to Moon &quot;to visit the North at his most convenient time&quot;, he added.

Moon has long argued for engagement with the North to bring it to the negotiating table over its nuclear ambitions, but did not immediately accept the offer.

Moon called for efforts to &quot;create the right conditions to realise&quot; such a visit, his spokesman said, urging Pyongyang to more actively seek dialogue with the US.

&quot;It is absolutely necessary for the North and the United States to engage in talks at an early date,&quot; he cited Moon as saying.

Washington has long insisted the North must show a willingness to denuclearise before any negotiations -- which Pyongyang says it will never do.

The invitation, delivered by Kim's visiting sister Kim Yo Jong, said Kim was willing to meet the South`s leader 'at the earliest date possible', said a spokesman for the presidential Blue House

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has invited the South`s President Moon Jae-in for a summit in Pyongyang, Seoul said Saturday. The invitation, delivered by Kim's visiting sister Kim Yo Jong, said Kim was willing to meet the South`s leader "at the earliest date possible", said a spokesman for the presidential Blue House. An inter-Korean summit would be the third of its kind, after Kim`s father and predecessor Kim Jong Il met the South`s Kim Dae-jung and Roh Moo-hyun in 2000 and 2007 respectively, both of them in Pyongyang. After months of silence on whether it would even take part in the Pyeongchang Winter Olympics in the South, which had their opening ceremony Friday, nuclear-armed North Korea has gone on a charm offensive, dispatching athletes, performers and Kim`s sister plus other diplomatic delegates to the South. Moon met Kim Yo Jong and the North`s ceremonial head of state Kim Yong Nam for talks and lunch at the Blue House on Saturday. "Special envoy Kim Yo Jong delivered a personal letter" from her brother stating his "wish to improve inter-Korean relations", said Moon`s spokesman Kim Eui-kyeom. She verbally conveyed Kim`s invitation to Moon "to visit the North at his most convenient time", he added. Moon has long argued for engagement with the North to bring it to the negotiating table over its nuclear ambitions, but did not immediately accept the offer. Moon called for efforts to "create the right conditions to realise" such a visit, his spokesman said, urging Pyongyang to more actively seek dialogue with the US. "It is absolutely necessary for the North and the United States to engage in talks at an early date," he cited Moon as saying. Washington has long insisted the North must show a willingness to denuclearise before any negotiations -- which Pyongyang says it will never do.

Kim Jong Un's sister invites South Korean president to Pyongyang

The sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un will visit the South this week for the Pyeongchang Winter Olympics, Seoul said Wednesday.

Kim Yo-Jong, who is a senior member of the ruling Workers&#39; Party, will be part of a high-level delegation due Friday and led by the North&#39;s ceremonial head of state, the unification ministry said.

Kim Yo-Jong was promoted in October to be an alternate member of the party&#39;s powerful politburo, the decision-making body presided over by her brother.&nbsp;

In her late 20s, she has frequently been seen accompanying her brother on his &quot;field guidance trips&quot; and other events and is known to have been involved in the party&#39;s propaganda operations.&nbsp;

The North has always kept its leadership within the family -- Kim Jong-Un is the third generation of the dynasty to lead the country, after his father Kim Jong-Il and grandfather Kim Il-Sung, the North&#39;s founder.

Kim Jong-Il fathered both Kim Jong-Un and Kim Yo-Jong with his third partner, former dancer Ko Yong-Hui.

Kim Yo-Jong was promoted in October to be an alternate member of the party's powerful politburo

The sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un will visit the South this week for the Pyeongchang Winter Olympics, Seoul said Wednesday. Kim Yo-Jong, who is a senior member of the ruling Workers' Party, will be part of a high-level delegation due Friday and led by the North's ceremonial head of state, the unification ministry said. Kim Yo-Jong was promoted in October to be an alternate member of the party's powerful politburo, the decision-making body presided over by her brother. In her late 20s, she has frequently been seen accompanying her brother on his "field guidance trips" and other events and is known to have been involved in the party's propaganda operations. The North has always kept its leadership within the family -- Kim Jong-Un is the third generation of the dynasty to lead the country, after his father Kim Jong-Il and grandfather Kim Il-Sung, the North's founder. Kim Jong-Il fathered both Kim Jong-Un and Kim Yo-Jong with his third partner, former dancer Ko Yong-Hui.

Kim Jong-Un's sister to visit South Korea this week: Seoul

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