Seoul, South Korea
<meta content="uuidlbuT19f5k1XH" name="uuid"/>
South Korea’s conservative president, Yoon Suk Yeol, has reportedly ignored summons from prosecutors investigating him on charges of insurrection as he faces impeachment after imposing martial law.
According to the Yonhap news agency, Yoon was summoned on Wednesday to appear for questioning at 10:00 AM local time on Sunday (December 15), but did not attend. Prosecutors are now expected to issue another summons and are also seeking arrest warrants for senior military officials, including the head of the army’s special warfare command and the chief of the capital defence command.
Yoon’s presidential powers have been suspended while the constitutional court deliberates on whether to remove him from office or reinstate him. If he is dismissed, a national election to select his successor will need to take place within 60 days. The court will start reviewing the case on Monday and has up to 180 days to deliver its decision.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korean-opposition-leader-pushes-for-quick-verdict-on-yoons-impeachment-ease-suffering-of-the-people-784139" target="_blank">South Korean opposition leader pushes for quick verdict on Yoon's impeachment: Ease 'suffering of the people'</a>
Opposition parties have accused Yoon of rebellion, arguing that under South Korean law, martial law can only be declared during war or extreme emergencies.
Yoon has denied all allegations and has vowed to “fight to the end”. He defended his decision, claiming the troop deployment to the national assembly was meant to warn the Democratic Party, which he described as an “anti-state force”.
Although Yoon has presidential immunity from most criminal prosecutions, it does not cover accusations of rebellion or treason. He has been barred from leaving South Korea, though his arrest is unlikely, given the risk of clashes with his presidential security service.
Han Duck-soo, Yoon’s appointee and acting president, has instructed the military to strengthen its security measures against North Korea. On Sunday, Han held a phone call with US President Joe Biden to discuss South Korea’s political situation and regional security concerns, including North Korea’s nuclear threat. Biden praised South Korea’s strong democratic resilience and reiterated the “ironclad commitment” of the US to its ally, according to official statements from both nations.
(With inputs from agencies)

Yoon’s presidential powers have been suspended while the constitutional court deliberates on whether to remove him from office or reinstate him.



Seoul, South Korea South Korea’s conservative president, Yoon Suk Yeol, has reportedly ignored summons from prosecutors investigating him on charges of insurrection as he faces impeachment after imposing martial law. According to the Yonhap news agency, Yoon was summoned on Wednesday to appear for questioning at 10:00 AM local time on Sunday (December 15), but did not attend. Prosecutors are now expected to issue another summons and are also seeking arrest warrants for senior military officials, including the head of the army’s special warfare command and the chief of the capital defence command. Yoon’s presidential powers have been suspended while the constitutional court deliberates on whether to remove him from office or reinstate him. If he is dismissed, a national election to select his successor will need to take place within 60 days. The court will start reviewing the case on Monday and has up to 180 days to deliver its decision. Also read: South Korean opposition leader pushes for quick verdict on Yoon's impeachment: Ease 'suffering of the people' Opposition parties have accused Yoon of rebellion, arguing that under South Korean law, martial law can only be declared during war or extreme emergencies. Yoon has denied all allegations and has vowed to “fight to the end”. He defended his decision, claiming the troop deployment to the national assembly was meant to warn the Democratic Party, which he described as an “anti-state force”. Although Yoon has presidential immunity from most criminal prosecutions, it does not cover accusations of rebellion or treason. He has been barred from leaving South Korea, though his arrest is unlikely, given the risk of clashes with his presidential security service. Han Duck-soo, Yoon’s appointee and acting president, has instructed the military to strengthen its security measures against North Korea. On Sunday, Han held a phone call with US President Joe Biden to discuss South Korea’s political situation and regional security concerns, including North Korea’s nuclear threat. Biden praised South Korea’s strong democratic resilience and reiterated the “ironclad commitment” of the US to its ally, according to official statements from both nations. (With inputs from agencies)

South Korea’s Yoon defies summons as prosecutors probe martial law declaration, vows to ‘fight to the end’

South Korea’s conservative president, Yoon Suk Yeol, has reportedly ignored summons from prosecutors investigating him on charges of insurrection as he faces impeachment after imposing martial law.

South Korea’s conservative president, Yoon Suk Yeol, has reportedly ignored summons from prosecutors investigating him on charges of insurrection as he faces impeachment after imposing martial law. According to the Yonhap news agency, Yoon was summoned on Wednesday to appear for questioning at 10:00 AM local time on Sunday (December 15), but did not attend. Prosecutors are now expected to issue another summons and are also seeking arrest warrants for senior military officials, including the head of the army’s special warfare command and the chief of the capital defence command. Yoon’s presidential powers have been suspended while the constitutional court deliberates on whether to remove him from office or reinstate him. If he is dismissed, a national election to select his successor will need to take place within 60 days. The court will start reviewing the case on Monday and has up to 180 days to deliver its decision. Also read: South Korean opposition leader pushes for quick verdict on Yoon's impeachment: Ease 'suffering of the people' Opposition parties have accused Yoon of rebellion, arguing that under South Korean law, martial law can only be declared during war or extreme emergencies. Yoon has denied all allegations and has vowed to “fight to the end”. He defended his decision, claiming the troop deployment to the national assembly was meant to warn the Democratic Party, which he described as an “anti-state force”. Although Yoon has presidential immunity from most criminal prosecutions, it does not cover accusations of rebellion or treason. He has been barred from leaving South Korea, though his arrest is unlikely, given the risk of clashes with his presidential security service. Han Duck-soo, Yoon’s appointee and acting president, has instructed the military to strengthen its security measures against North Korea. On Sunday, Han held a phone call with US President Joe Biden to discuss South Korea’s political situation and regional security concerns, including North Korea’s nuclear threat. Biden praised South Korea’s strong democratic resilience and reiterated the “ironclad commitment” of the US to its ally, according to official statements from both nations. (With inputs from agencies)

As the season of snowfall arrives in South Korea, people woke up to a gleaming white sky, with heavy snowfall for a second day on Thursday (Nov. 28), reportedly killing five people in the cold snap, reported Reuters.&nbsp;

Four of them died when the structure collapsed under the weight of snow, and one in a traffic accident when a bus skidded on an icy road.&nbsp;

The snowfall was the third-heaviest in Seoul, since records began in 1907, Yonhap News Agency reported, citing data from the city.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/seoul-hit-by-heaviest-november-snowfall-disrupting-flights-and-commuting-779656">Also read:&nbsp;Seoul hit by heaviest November snowfall, disrupting flights and commuting</a>

Over 40 cm of snow had piled up in parts of the country's capital by Thursday morning, leading to the cancellation of more than 140 flights.&nbsp;

However, the weather officials are lifting heavy snow warnings in the city's metropolitan area.&nbsp;

"It's been snowing a lot today," 73-year-old Lee Sook-ja said, while drinking her soup at Namdaemun market, one of the biggest in Seoul. "It’s freezing and chilly, but having a cup of hot fish cake soup really helps warm me up," she added.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;South Korea: Heaviest Snowfall In Seoul Since Records Began In 1907

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/south-korea-heaviest-snowfall-in-seoul-since-records-began-in-1907-779851/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Moreover, 11 were injured on Wednesday evening in a 53-vehicle pile-up on a highway in the central city of Wonju in Gangwon province.&nbsp;

Seoul's main airport, Incheon, was the worst affected. Passengers were facing delays of about two hours on average, while 31 per of flights were delayed and 16 per cent were cancelled Thursday.&nbsp;

142 flights were cancelled, and 76 ferry routes were suspended.&nbsp;

The snowfall impacted a large portion of the country, including the central, eastern, and southwestern regions, where authorities remain on alert as the storm continues.

Meanwhile, neighbouring North Korea has also received more than 10 cm of snow in some areas between Tuesday and Wednesday, state media Korean Central Television reported.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

As the season of snowfall arrives in South Korea, people woke up to a gleaming white sky, with heavy snowfall for a second day on Thursday (Nov. 28), reportedly killing five people in the cold snap, reported Reuters.

As the season of snowfall arrives in South Korea, people woke up to a gleaming white sky, with heavy snowfall for a second day on Thursday (Nov. 28), reportedly killing five people in the cold snap, reported Reuters. Four of them died when the structure collapsed under the weight of snow, and one in a traffic accident when a bus skidded on an icy road. The snowfall was the third-heaviest in Seoul, since records began in 1907, Yonhap News Agency reported, citing data from the city. Also read: Seoul hit by heaviest November snowfall, disrupting flights and commuting Over 40 cm of snow had piled up in parts of the country's capital by Thursday morning, leading to the cancellation of more than 140 flights. However, the weather officials are lifting heavy snow warnings in the city's metropolitan area. "It's been snowing a lot today," 73-year-old Lee Sook-ja said, while drinking her soup at Namdaemun market, one of the biggest in Seoul. "It’s freezing and chilly, but having a cup of hot fish cake soup really helps warm me up," she added. Watch | South Korea: Heaviest Snowfall In Seoul Since Records Began In 1907 × Moreover, 11 were injured on Wednesday evening in a 53-vehicle pile-up on a highway in the central city of Wonju in Gangwon province. Seoul's main airport, Incheon, was the worst affected. Passengers were facing delays of about two hours on average, while 31 per of flights were delayed and 16 per cent were cancelled Thursday. 142 flights were cancelled, and 76 ferry routes were suspended. The snowfall impacted a large portion of the country, including the central, eastern, and southwestern regions, where authorities remain on alert as the storm continues. Meanwhile, neighbouring North Korea has also received more than 10 cm of snow in some areas between Tuesday and Wednesday, state media Korean Central Television reported. (With inputs from agencies)

Five killed as South Korea battles heavy snow; third-heaviest snowfall recorded in Seoul

The most severe November snowstorm to hit South Korea's capital in more than a half century blanketed Seoul on Wednesday, grounding hundreds of flights and disrupting commuter traffic. Watch in for more details!

Seoul Experiences Heaviest Snowstorm In 52 Years

Three workers died at a Hyundai car plant on Tuesday, the South Korean automaker told AFP, with local reports suggesting it was an accident during a vehicle performance test.

Along with its affiliate Kia, Hyundai is the world's third-largest automaker, recording more than 4.2 million units in global sales in 2023.

"Three research workers have died at an Ulsan assembly line," a Hyundai representative told AFP.

"We are trying to determine the cause of the incident," the representative said, without giving any further details.

Hyundai's Ulsan plant is 370 kilometres (229 miles) southeast of Seoul, and the assembly line there has been described by the company as the "world's largest single automobile plant" with an export shipping dock.

According to South Korea's Yonhap news agency, the incident occurred during a vehicle performance test inside a chamber.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/autonews/hyundai-names-first-foreign-co-ceo-amid-trump-policy-concerns-777083">Also read:&nbsp;Hyundai names first foreign co-CEO amid Trump policy concerns</a>

Unventilated exhaust gases inside the chamber might have been responsible for the fatal accident, Yonhap said.

"The three -- two Hyundai researchers and the other affiliated with a subcontractor -- were found collapsed at a test chamber of the plant where they were conducting a car performance test," Yonhap reported.

"They were taken to nearby hospitals but were pronounced dead," it said.&nbsp;

"The victims were presumed to have been suffocated due to toxic gas in the enclosed space, and a police investigation is underway to find the exact cause of the accident."

In a statement to AFP, Hyundai said it was "deeply saddened by the incident that occurred" at the plant, and pledged full cooperation with investigators.

"We will cooperate fully with all relevant authorities to determine the cause of this incident as more information becomes available," the automaker said.&nbsp;

It added that it "will work tirelessly to implement measures to prevent any future incidents", said the statement which did not include details of the incident.&nbsp;

Hyundai and Kia together account for around 80 per cent of all new vehicle sales in the South Korean domestic market, according to 2023 data.

One worker died at the same Hyundai Motor factory in Ulsan in 2023 after his head was caught in a heat treatment machine during an inspection, local media reported at the time.

The 2023 incident prompted Hyundai to issue an apology, saying they would "do our best to come up with follow-up measures" to prevent such incidents.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

Three workers died at a Hyundai car plant on Tuesday, the South Korean automaker told AFP, with local reports suggesting it was an accident during a vehicle performance test.

Three workers died at a Hyundai car plant on Tuesday, the South Korean automaker told AFP, with local reports suggesting it was an accident during a vehicle performance test. Along with its affiliate Kia, Hyundai is the world's third-largest automaker, recording more than 4.2 million units in global sales in 2023. "Three research workers have died at an Ulsan assembly line," a Hyundai representative told AFP. "We are trying to determine the cause of the incident," the representative said, without giving any further details. Hyundai's Ulsan plant is 370 kilometres (229 miles) southeast of Seoul, and the assembly line there has been described by the company as the "world's largest single automobile plant" with an export shipping dock. According to South Korea's Yonhap news agency, the incident occurred during a vehicle performance test inside a chamber. Also read: Hyundai names first foreign co-CEO amid Trump policy concerns Unventilated exhaust gases inside the chamber might have been responsible for the fatal accident, Yonhap said. "The three -- two Hyundai researchers and the other affiliated with a subcontractor -- were found collapsed at a test chamber of the plant where they were conducting a car performance test," Yonhap reported. "They were taken to nearby hospitals but were pronounced dead," it said. "The victims were presumed to have been suffocated due to toxic gas in the enclosed space, and a police investigation is underway to find the exact cause of the accident." In a statement to AFP, Hyundai said it was "deeply saddened by the incident that occurred" at the plant, and pledged full cooperation with investigators. "We will cooperate fully with all relevant authorities to determine the cause of this incident as more information becomes available," the automaker said. It added that it "will work tirelessly to implement measures to prevent any future incidents", said the statement which did not include details of the incident. Hyundai and Kia together account for around 80 per cent of all new vehicle sales in the South Korean domestic market, according to 2023 data. One worker died at the same Hyundai Motor factory in Ulsan in 2023 after his head was caught in a heat treatment machine during an inspection, local media reported at the time. The 2023 incident prompted Hyundai to issue an apology, saying they would "do our best to come up with follow-up measures" to prevent such incidents. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Three workers died during car test at Hyundai car plant in South Korea, presumed to be suffocated

North Korea said it tested an intercontinental ballistic missile on Thursday, upgrading what it called the "world's most powerful strategic weapon", as Seoul warned Pyongyang could get missile technology from Russia for help with the war in Ukraine.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un said the test was a warning to enemies that have been threatening the country's security, KCNA state news agency said.

"The test-fire is an appropriate military action that fully meets the purpose of informing the rivals, who have intentionally escalated the regional situation and posed a threat to the security of our Republic recently, of our counteraction will," Kim was quoted as saying by KCNA.

The muscle-flexing comes amid an international outcry and rising alarm over what the US&nbsp;and others say is North Korea's deployment of 11,000 troops to Russia - 3,000 of them close to the western frontlines with Ukraine.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-questions-why-west-can-support-kyiv-but-north-korea-cant-back-moscow-772177">Also read:&nbsp;Russia questions why West can support Kyiv but North Korea can’t back Moscow</a>

The launch drew swift condemnation from South Korea, Japan, and the United States.

A day earlier, Seoul cited military intelligence suggesting the North may test-launch an ICBM or conduct a seventh nuclear test around the U.S. presidential election on Tuesday, seeking to draw attention to its growing military prowess.

Shin Seung-ki, head of research on North Korea's military at the state-run Korea Institute for Defense Analyses, said the launch was likely to test improved booster performance of an existing ICBM - possibly with Russia's help.

"North Korea will want to keep getting help like this because it saves times and costs while improving performance and upgrading the stability of weapons system," he said.

Watch |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine War: North Korean Troops Will Return In Body Bags: US Envoy

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-north-korean-troops-will-return-in-body-bags-us-envoy-772179/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

It could also be Pyongyang's response to pressure over its engagement with Russia, Shin said.

"The intention may be to show that it will not bow to pressure, that it will respond to strength with strength, and also to seek some influence on the US presidential election."

<h2>New records</h2>

The launch early on Thursday was the longest ballistic missile test by the North with a flight-time of 87 minutes, according to South Korea.&nbsp;

KCNA said the test set new records for its missile capabilities.

The missile took off on a sharply lofted trajectory from an area near the North's capital and splashed down about 200 km (125 miles) west of Japan's Okushiri island, off Hokkaido.

It reached an altitude of 7,000 km (4,350 miles)and flew a distance of 1,000 km, the Japanese government said.

The so-called lofted trajectory of a projectile flying at a sharply raised angle is intended to test its thrust and stability over much shorter distances relative to the designed range, partly for safety and to avoid the political fallout of sending a missile far into the Pacific.

North Korea's last ICBM, dubbed the Hwasong-18, was tested in December 2023. Fuelled by solid-propellant and fired from a road launcher, it was also launched at a sharply raised angle and flew for 73 minutes, translating to a potential range of 15,000 km on a normal trajectory.

That is a distance that puts anywhere in the mainland United States within range.

South Korea announced on Thursday new export controls on materials needed by North Korea to produce solid-fuel missiles.

Asked about the missile launch, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said China "has always believed that peace and stability, and promoting a political solution to the peninsula issue is in accordance with the common interests of all sides."

Pyongyang's latest test came just hours after U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin and his South Korean counterpart Kim Yong-Hyun met in Washington to condemn the North Korean troop deployment in Russia.

Neither Moscow nor Pyongyang has directly acknowledged the deployment, but Russia's U.N. Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia on Wednesday questioned why its allies like North Korea could not help Moscow in its war against Ukraine when Western countries claim the right to help Kyiv.

South Korea said the deployment directly threatened its security because the North would gain valuable combat experience in modern warfare and was likely to be rewarded by Moscow with "technology transfers" in areas such as tactical nuclear weapons, ICBMs, ballistic missile submarines, and military reconnaissance satellites.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

North Korea said it tested an intercontinental ballistic missile on Thursday, upgrading what it called the "world's most powerful strategic weapon", as Seoul warned Pyongyang could get missile technology from Russia for help with the war in Ukraine.

North Korea said it tested an intercontinental ballistic missile on Thursday, upgrading what it called the "world's most powerful strategic weapon", as Seoul warned Pyongyang could get missile technology from Russia for help with the war in Ukraine. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un said the test was a warning to enemies that have been threatening the country's security, KCNA state news agency said. "The test-fire is an appropriate military action that fully meets the purpose of informing the rivals, who have intentionally escalated the regional situation and posed a threat to the security of our Republic recently, of our counteraction will," Kim was quoted as saying by KCNA. The muscle-flexing comes amid an international outcry and rising alarm over what the US and others say is North Korea's deployment of 11,000 troops to Russia - 3,000 of them close to the western frontlines with Ukraine. Also read: Russia questions why West can support Kyiv but North Korea can’t back Moscow The launch drew swift condemnation from South Korea, Japan, and the United States. A day earlier, Seoul cited military intelligence suggesting the North may test-launch an ICBM or conduct a seventh nuclear test around the U.S. presidential election on Tuesday, seeking to draw attention to its growing military prowess. Shin Seung-ki, head of research on North Korea's military at the state-run Korea Institute for Defense Analyses, said the launch was likely to test improved booster performance of an existing ICBM - possibly with Russia's help. "North Korea will want to keep getting help like this because it saves times and costs while improving performance and upgrading the stability of weapons system," he said. Watch | Russia-Ukraine War: North Korean Troops Will Return In Body Bags: US Envoy × It could also be Pyongyang's response to pressure over its engagement with Russia, Shin said. "The intention may be to show that it will not bow to pressure, that it will respond to strength with strength, and also to seek some influence on the US presidential election." New records The launch early on Thursday was the longest ballistic missile test by the North with a flight-time of 87 minutes, according to South Korea. KCNA said the test set new records for its missile capabilities. The missile took off on a sharply lofted trajectory from an area near the North's capital and splashed down about 200 km (125 miles) west of Japan's Okushiri island, off Hokkaido. It reached an altitude of 7,000 km (4,350 miles)and flew a distance of 1,000 km, the Japanese government said. The so-called lofted trajectory of a projectile flying at a sharply raised angle is intended to test its thrust and stability over much shorter distances relative to the designed range, partly for safety and to avoid the political fallout of sending a missile far into the Pacific. North Korea's last ICBM, dubbed the Hwasong-18, was tested in December 2023. Fuelled by solid-propellant and fired from a road launcher, it was also launched at a sharply raised angle and flew for 73 minutes, translating to a potential range of 15,000 km on a normal trajectory. That is a distance that puts anywhere in the mainland United States within range. South Korea announced on Thursday new export controls on materials needed by North Korea to produce solid-fuel missiles. Asked about the missile launch, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said China "has always believed that peace and stability, and promoting a political solution to the peninsula issue is in accordance with the common interests of all sides." Pyongyang's latest test came just hours after U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin and his South Korean counterpart Kim Yong-Hyun met in Washington to condemn the North Korean troop deployment in Russia. Neither Moscow nor Pyongyang has directly acknowledged the deployment, but Russia's U.N. Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia on Wednesday questioned why its allies like North Korea could not help Moscow in its war against Ukraine when Western countries claim the right to help Kyiv. South Korea said the deployment directly threatened its security because the North would gain valuable combat experience in modern warfare and was likely to be rewarded by Moscow with "technology transfers" in areas such as tactical nuclear weapons, ICBMs, ballistic missile submarines, and military reconnaissance satellites. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

North Korea launches new intercontinental ballistic missile days ahead of US election

On Thursday, October 17, 2024, North Korea confirmed that its newly revised constitution officially designates South Korea as "a hostile state" for the first time. This announcement comes just two days after North Korea destroyed the road and rail links at the border that once connected the two countries.

North Korea's Pyongyang Designates South Korea As "Hostile State"

South Korea's pressing on the United States for its approval to reprocess spent nuclear fuel. In a bit to secure reprocessing facilities South Korea needs to revise a 1976 nuclear energy cooperation pact with Washington DC, under this pact Seoul is barred from Gaining access to such facilities due to proliferation concerns. Watch to know more.

Seoul Eyes US' Nod To Reprocess Nuclear Fuel

North Korean military engineers have been deployed to help Russia in its invasion of Ukraine with ballistic missiles, and North Koreans operating in occupied regions of Ukraine have already been killed, alleged senior officials in Kyiv and Seoul.&nbsp;

A Ukrainian source told The Guardian that there are dozens of North Koreans behind Russian lines, in teams that “support launcher systems for KN-23 missiles”.&nbsp;

<h2>Kremlin dismisses Seoul's claim&nbsp;</h2>

The Kremlin on Thursday (Oct 10), dismissed the claim by South Korea that Pyongyang soldiers were fighting alongside Russian troops in Ukraine, and called it another "fake news story".&nbsp;

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told journalists, "This seems like yet another fake news story."&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-koreas-kim-calls-putin-his-closest-comrade-says-relation-between-both-countries-became-eternal-765691">Also read:&nbsp;North Korea's Kim calls Putin 'closest comrade', terms relations between two countries 'eternal'</a>

Last year, North Korean leader Kim Jong Yun travelled to Russia for a summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin where the two men bolstered their deepening ties with a secret arms deal.

North Korea's ammunition shipments were important in allowing Russian forces to advance in a grinding war of attrition in eastern Ukraine this summer.&nbsp;

Ukraine's Kyiv Post reported on Friday that six North Korean military officers had been killed in a Ukrainian missile attack on Russian-occupied territory near Donetsk a day earlier, citing intelligence sources.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine War: North Korea Slams US For Providing Military Aid To Ukraine | World DNA

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-north-korea-slams-us-for-providing-military-aid-to-ukraine-world-dna-763039/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

South Korean Defence Minister, Kim Yong-hyun, told lawmakers that the report was probably correct.

"We assess that the occurrence of casualties among North Korean officers and soldiers in Ukraine is highly likely, considering various circumstances," he said, adding, "The issue of deploying regular troops is highly likely due to the mutual agreements that resemble a military alliance between Russia and North Korea."

Head of Ukraine's centre for countering disinformation, Lieutenant Andriy Kovalenko, took to Telegram and said that there were "small numbers of combat engineers" from North Korea in the Donetsk region combat zone.

According to experts, North Korean missiles have been deployed in Ukraine by Russian forces, a report denied by both Moscow and Pyongyang.

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

North Korean military engineers have been deployed to help Russia in its invasion of Ukraine with ballistic missiles, and North Koreans operating in occupied regions of Ukraine have already been killed, alleged senior officials in Kyiv and Seoul.

North Korean military engineers have been deployed to help Russia in its invasion of Ukraine with ballistic missiles, and North Koreans operating in occupied regions of Ukraine have already been killed, alleged senior officials in Kyiv and Seoul. A Ukrainian source told The Guardian that there are dozens of North Koreans behind Russian lines, in teams that “support launcher systems for KN-23 missiles”. Kremlin dismisses Seoul's claim The Kremlin on Thursday (Oct 10), dismissed the claim by South Korea that Pyongyang soldiers were fighting alongside Russian troops in Ukraine, and called it another "fake news story". Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told journalists, "This seems like yet another fake news story." Also read: North Korea's Kim calls Putin 'closest comrade', terms relations between two countries 'eternal' Last year, North Korean leader Kim Jong Yun travelled to Russia for a summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin where the two men bolstered their deepening ties with a secret arms deal. North Korea's ammunition shipments were important in allowing Russian forces to advance in a grinding war of attrition in eastern Ukraine this summer. Ukraine's Kyiv Post reported on Friday that six North Korean military officers had been killed in a Ukrainian missile attack on Russian-occupied territory near Donetsk a day earlier, citing intelligence sources. Watch | Russia-Ukraine War: North Korea Slams US For Providing Military Aid To Ukraine | World DNA × South Korean Defence Minister, Kim Yong-hyun, told lawmakers that the report was probably correct. "We assess that the occurrence of casualties among North Korean officers and soldiers in Ukraine is highly likely, considering various circumstances," he said, adding, "The issue of deploying regular troops is highly likely due to the mutual agreements that resemble a military alliance between Russia and North Korea." Head of Ukraine's centre for countering disinformation, Lieutenant Andriy Kovalenko, took to Telegram and said that there were "small numbers of combat engineers" from North Korea in the Donetsk region combat zone. According to experts, North Korean missiles have been deployed in Ukraine by Russian forces, a report denied by both Moscow and Pyongyang. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

North Koreans deployed alongside Russian troops to fight against Ukraine; Kremlin rejects claims as ‘fake’

Imagine a AI system making a split second decision to launch a nuclear strike without human intervension. Watch our report to know more.

Seoul summit declares human oversight for Nuclear arms

Seoul Fashion Week’s spring summer 2025 edition takes place at Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) from Tuesday, September 3 to Saturday, September 7 for five days. Watch in for more details!

Seoul Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2025: Opening show held at Dongdaemun design place

Rare Astronomical Event, supermoon and Blue Moon Coincide

Rare astronomical event where a supermoon and a blue moon coincided

North Korea's supreme leader Kim Jong-un has been making strides when it comes to succession. Seoul spy agency says the North Korean leader is grooming his pre-teen daughter as a successor to lead the nuclear armed state. Watch in for more details!

Kim Jong-Un to be succeeded by his daughter? Kim Ju Ae Be next Supreme leader

A man in his sixties ploughed his car into a crowd of people in the South Korean capital Seoul on Monday (Jul 1), killing at least nine people. The incident took place at 9:30 pm local time as the pedestrians waited at a traffic stop. Police said at least four people were taken to hospital and were being treated.

Local media reported the car was moving in the wrong direction and crashed into two other vehicles before hitting the pedestrians.

The man was immediately detained near Seoul city hall. He is understood to have told police that his car accidentally accelerated, killing six people on the spot. Three later succumbed to their injuries.

According to the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), the speed limit in South Korea is 50kmph on urban roads and 30kmph in residential areas.

Pedestrians are the most common casualties in road accidents in the country. In 2022, an OECD report revealed that pedestrians accounted for 35 per cent of all road-related deaths. However, the report also mentioned that road fatalities in South Korea have declined over the past years.

(With inputs from agencies)

A man in his sixties ploughed his car into a crowd of people in the South Korean capital Seoul on Monday (Jul 1), killing at least nine people. The incident took place at 9:30 pm local time as the pedestrians waited at a traffic stop.

A man in his sixties ploughed his car into a crowd of people in the South Korean capital Seoul on Monday (Jul 1), killing at least nine people. The incident took place at 9:30 pm local time as the pedestrians waited at a traffic stop. Police said at least four people were taken to hospital and were being treated. Local media reported the car was moving in the wrong direction and crashed into two other vehicles before hitting the pedestrians. The man was immediately detained near Seoul city hall. He is understood to have told police that his car accidentally accelerated, killing six people on the spot. Three later succumbed to their injuries. According to the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), the speed limit in South Korea is 50kmph on urban roads and 30kmph in residential areas. Pedestrians are the most common casualties in road accidents in the country. In 2022, an OECD report revealed that pedestrians accounted for 35 per cent of all road-related deaths. However, the report also mentioned that road fatalities in South Korea have declined over the past years. (With inputs from agencies)

Nine dead as man ploughs car into pedestrians in South Korean capital Seoul

Watch top headlines of the hour: - Josep Borell: West Asia conflict close to expanding - Gallant in US, focus on Israel-Hezbollah conflict - Ukraine makes its own targeting decision: Pentagon - Crimea attack: Russia vows retaliation - Seoul: 22 killed in Lithium battery factory fire - 18th Lok Sabha inaugural session begins

Seoul: 22 killed in battery factory fire | 18th Lok Sabha inaugural session begins

A fire&nbsp;at a battery plant in South Korea killed at least 22&nbsp;people on Monday (Jun 24), Yonhap news agency reported. Most of those killed were Chinese nationals. The fire broke out at 10:30 am local time in Hwaseong, south of the capital Seoul. The plant is owned by Aricell, a South Korean primary battery manufacturer.

Firefighters earlier said they were unable to go inside and carry out rescue operations due to the massive fire.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwi5w5ep6_OGAxX5g68BHbhlCAcQxfQBKAB6BAgQEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/autonews/south-koreas-sk-innovation-and-sk-es-to-go-ahead-with-merger-733506" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/autonews/south-koreas-sk-innovation-and-sk-es-to-go-ahead-with-merger-733506&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi5w5ep6_OGAxX5g68BHbhlCAcQxfQBKAB6BAgQEAE">South Korea`s SK Innovation and SK E&amp;S to go ahead with merger</a>

"We are still unable to go inside and carry out rescue operation. We will carry it out once we get the fire under control," firefighter Kim Jin-young was quoted as saying by news agency CNA.

Some workers were unaccounted for. "We are planning to track their whereabouts with their contacts provided from the company," he added.

Watch:&nbsp;US, Japan &amp; South Korea to start military exercise in June

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-japan-south-korea-to-start-military-exercise-in-june-734323/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The fire erupted after several&nbsp;battery cells exploded inside a warehouse with some 35,000 units, the firefighter added.

South Korea’s President Yoon Suk Yeol has issued emergency instructions to authorities to “mobilise all available personnel and equipment to focus on searching for and rescuing people”, according to the agency.

(With inputs from agencies)

A fire at a battery plant in South Korea killed at least 22 people on Monday (Jun 24), Yonhap news agency reported. Most of those killed were Chinese nationals. The fire broke out at 10:30 am local time in Hwaseong, south of the capital Seoul.

A fire at a battery plant in South Korea killed at least 22 people on Monday (Jun 24), Yonhap news agency reported. Most of those killed were Chinese nationals. The fire broke out at 10:30 am local time in Hwaseong, south of the capital Seoul. The plant is owned by Aricell, a South Korean primary battery manufacturer. Firefighters earlier said they were unable to go inside and carry out rescue operations due to the massive fire. Also read: South Korea`s SK Innovation and SK E&S to go ahead with merger "We are still unable to go inside and carry out rescue operation. We will carry it out once we get the fire under control," firefighter Kim Jin-young was quoted as saying by news agency CNA. Some workers were unaccounted for. "We are planning to track their whereabouts with their contacts provided from the company," he added. Watch: US, Japan & South Korea to start military exercise in June × The fire erupted after several battery cells exploded inside a warehouse with some 35,000 units, the firefighter added. South Korea’s President Yoon Suk Yeol has issued emergency instructions to authorities to “mobilise all available personnel and equipment to focus on searching for and rescuing people”, according to the agency. (With inputs from agencies)

At least 22 dead after major fire breaks out at South Korean battery plant

A state-backed think tank in South Korea set the cat among the pigeons after suggesting that girls be put in primary schools a year earlier than boys to fix the country's poor birthrate. Earlier this week, authors at the Korea Institute of Public Finance published a report claiming creating a one-year gap between boys and girls would make them more desirable to each other by the time they reach the marriageable age. This logic is based on a theory that men mature at a slower pace than girls and thus girls prefer to marry older men. After the report came out, several South Korean experts condemned the report, with one professor terming it 'ridiculous.'

<h2>'The suggestion'</h2>

The report, which focused on tackling South Korea's falling birthrate, said, "Considering that the developmental level of men is slower than that of women, having females enter school one year earlier could potentially contribute to men and women finding each other more attractive when they reach the appropriate age for marriage.”

Watch:&nbsp;South Korean military resumes activities on demarcation lines

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/south-korean-military-resumes-activities-on-demarcation-lines-729285/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

“If there is a willingness to marry, then a willingness to date can certainly be assumed. However, that does not necessarily lead to successful dating. To improve this, policies that could be included in this category are those that arrange meetups, improve social skills, and support self-development to boost one’s attractiveness to the opposite sex,” it added.

<h2>Pushback</h2>

The report was immediately criticised by social media users as well as academic experts. Shin Gyeong-a, a sociology professor at Hallym University, was quoted as saying by Korea JoongAng Daily newspaper: “That such a report, without any screening, was published in a democratic country – by a state-run research institute that will evaluate measures to address low birthrates in the future, no less – is ridiculous.” &nbsp;

Opposition leader Lee Jae-Myung called the suggestion 'absurd,' saying, "We need to take fundamental and macro-level measures [against the low birthrate].”

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjN7ee5ssmGAxX5bGwGHcCqCuEQxfQBKAB6BAgIEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/north-korea-south-korea-tensions-nkorea-sends-rubbish-filled-balloons-to-skorea-729491" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/videos/north-korea-south-korea-tensions-nkorea-sends-rubbish-filled-balloons-to-skorea-729491&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjN7ee5ssmGAxX5bGwGHcCqCuEQxfQBKAB6BAgIEAE">North Korea-South Korea tensions: N.Korea sends rubbish-filled balloons to S.Korea</a>

Users online pointed out how the government needs to focus on policies that favour raising children to improve the birthrate in the country. “We need to take fundamental and macro-level measures [against the low birthrate],” one user said. “Are they really looking at people, at children, as reproductive tools? Disgusting,” another commented.

Responding to the criticism, the Korea Institute of Public Finance clarified the report carried the views of one author and not the institute itself.&nbsp;

With 0.72 children born per woman, South Korea has the lowest birthrate globally. The rate is considerably lower in Seoul, the nation's capital, where officials predict that the population in the city would drastically drop from 9.4 million in 2022 to 7.9 million in 2052 if the trend continues.

(With inputs from agencies)

A state-backed think tank in South Korea set the cat among the pigeons after suggesting that girls be put in primary schools a year earlier than boys to fix the country's poor birthrate.

A state-backed think tank in South Korea set the cat among the pigeons after suggesting that girls be put in primary schools a year earlier than boys to fix the country's poor birthrate. Earlier this week, authors at the Korea Institute of Public Finance published a report claiming creating a one-year gap between boys and girls would make them more desirable to each other by the time they reach the marriageable age. This logic is based on a theory that men mature at a slower pace than girls and thus girls prefer to marry older men. After the report came out, several South Korean experts condemned the report, with one professor terming it 'ridiculous.' 'The suggestion' The report, which focused on tackling South Korea's falling birthrate, said, "Considering that the developmental level of men is slower than that of women, having females enter school one year earlier could potentially contribute to men and women finding each other more attractive when they reach the appropriate age for marriage.” Watch: South Korean military resumes activities on demarcation lines × “If there is a willingness to marry, then a willingness to date can certainly be assumed. However, that does not necessarily lead to successful dating. To improve this, policies that could be included in this category are those that arrange meetups, improve social skills, and support self-development to boost one’s attractiveness to the opposite sex,” it added. Pushback The report was immediately criticised by social media users as well as academic experts. Shin Gyeong-a, a sociology professor at Hallym University, was quoted as saying by Korea JoongAng Daily newspaper: “That such a report, without any screening, was published in a democratic country – by a state-run research institute that will evaluate measures to address low birthrates in the future, no less – is ridiculous.” Opposition leader Lee Jae-Myung called the suggestion 'absurd,' saying, "We need to take fundamental and macro-level measures [against the low birthrate].” Also read: North Korea-South Korea tensions: N.Korea sends rubbish-filled balloons to S.Korea Users online pointed out how the government needs to focus on policies that favour raising children to improve the birthrate in the country. “We need to take fundamental and macro-level measures [against the low birthrate],” one user said. “Are they really looking at people, at children, as reproductive tools? Disgusting,” another commented. Responding to the criticism, the Korea Institute of Public Finance clarified the report carried the views of one author and not the institute itself. With 0.72 children born per woman, South Korea has the lowest birthrate globally. The rate is considerably lower in Seoul, the nation's capital, where officials predict that the population in the city would drastically drop from 9.4 million in 2022 to 7.9 million in 2052 if the trend continues. (With inputs from agencies)

How to fix South Korea's birthrate? Thinktank suggests girls be put in schools earlier

North Korea launched an "unidentified projectile", said South Korea's army on Monday (May 27).&nbsp;

The move came hours after Pyongyang informed Japan of its plan to fire another "spy satellite".

"North Korea has fired an unidentified projectile southwards," over the Yellow Sea, South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff said, after Seoul, Beijing and Tokyo wrapped up their first trilateral summit since 2019.

Following this, Japan also issued an evacuation order to southern Okinawa prefecture, confirming the launch.

"Missile launch. Missile launch. It appears a missile(s) was launched from North Korea. Please evacuate inside buildings or underground. Information was received at 22:46 (1346 GMT). Target region: Okinawa."

The Japanese government's alert was lifted at 23:03 (1403 GMT), adding that the missile(s) appeared not to fly to Japan".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kim-jong-un-issues-alert-on-military-satellite-launch-as-leaders-of-japan-south-korea-china-meet-in-seoul-725726">Also read:&nbsp;Kim Jong Un issues alert on military satellite launch as leaders of Japan, South Korea, China meet in Seoul</a>

<h2>Satellite launch failed</h2>

Hours later, Pyongyang said that its fresh attempt to place a spy satellite into orbit on Monday had failed after it burst into flames mid-air.

Further elucidating the issue behind the failed attempt, North Korea said that due to a suspected engine problem, the satellite exploded during the first-stage flight.

The launch of the Malligyong-1-1 reconnaissance satellite "exploded in the air during the first flight and failed to launch," the country's National Aerospace Technology Administration said in a statement carried by state media, adding the "cause of the accident was the reliability of the newly developed liquid oxygen and kerosene engine."

<h2>'Fragments of missile found in ocean,' say Seoul</h2>

Pyongyang's statement came after the South Korean military said that it had detected several "fragments" in the ocean after Pyongyang's spy satellite launch which it said indicated that the launch may have failed.

The army said that South Korean and US intelligence agencies were investigating whether the launch had failed.

Around two minutes after it detected "what's suspected to be the North's military reconnaissance satellite... many fragments of the projectile were detected around 22:46 (1346 GMT) in North Korea waters and the US and South Korea are analysing whether it had an operational flight," Seoul's Joint Chiefs of Staff said.

A senior Japanese defence ministry official told reporters that "the missile did not fly into the area that had been announced, and the situation is not as North Korea had intended. We are still analysing whether it is a satellite or not," Japan's Kyodo news agency reported.

(With inputs from agencies)

North Korea launched an "unidentified projectile", said South Korea's army on Monday (May 27). The move came hours after Pyongyang informed Japan of its plan to fire another "spy satellite".

North Korea launched an "unidentified projectile", said South Korea's army on Monday (May 27). The move came hours after Pyongyang informed Japan of its plan to fire another "spy satellite". "North Korea has fired an unidentified projectile southwards," over the Yellow Sea, South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff said, after Seoul, Beijing and Tokyo wrapped up their first trilateral summit since 2019. Following this, Japan also issued an evacuation order to southern Okinawa prefecture, confirming the launch. "Missile launch. Missile launch. It appears a missile(s) was launched from North Korea. Please evacuate inside buildings or underground. Information was received at 22:46 (1346 GMT). Target region: Okinawa." The Japanese government's alert was lifted at 23:03 (1403 GMT), adding that the missile(s) appeared not to fly to Japan". Also read: Kim Jong Un issues alert on military satellite launch as leaders of Japan, South Korea, China meet in Seoul Satellite launch failed Hours later, Pyongyang said that its fresh attempt to place a spy satellite into orbit on Monday had failed after it burst into flames mid-air. Further elucidating the issue behind the failed attempt, North Korea said that due to a suspected engine problem, the satellite exploded during the first-stage flight. The launch of the Malligyong-1-1 reconnaissance satellite "exploded in the air during the first flight and failed to launch," the country's National Aerospace Technology Administration said in a statement carried by state media, adding the "cause of the accident was the reliability of the newly developed liquid oxygen and kerosene engine." 'Fragments of missile found in ocean,' say Seoul Pyongyang's statement came after the South Korean military said that it had detected several "fragments" in the ocean after Pyongyang's spy satellite launch which it said indicated that the launch may have failed. The army said that South Korean and US intelligence agencies were investigating whether the launch had failed. Around two minutes after it detected "what's suspected to be the North's military reconnaissance satellite... many fragments of the projectile were detected around 22:46 (1346 GMT) in North Korea waters and the US and South Korea are analysing whether it had an operational flight," Seoul's Joint Chiefs of Staff said. A senior Japanese defence ministry official told reporters that "the missile did not fly into the area that had been announced, and the situation is not as North Korea had intended. We are still analysing whether it is a satellite or not," Japan's Kyodo news agency reported. (With inputs from agencies)

North Korea's spy satellite explodes mid-air, Seoul detects ‘many fragments’ in ocean

The plight of Bella, a beluga whale trapped alone in an insufficiently small tank for a decade, has sparked campaigns in Seoul over her unethical confinement, demanding her release.

The isolated beluga whale languishes in a lifeless and weeny 1,224-tonne tank amid bustling luxury shops at the foot of Lotte World Tower, the world’s sixth-tallest skyscraper.

Campaigners have been racing to rescue her before it is too late and calling on Lotte to close the Seoul exhibit entirely. An international petition has been launched to demand her liberation.

Referring to the Lotte Group which owns the aquarium, Jo Yak-gol, of the marine environmentalist group Hot Pink Dolphins, said: “Almost five years have passed since they said they would release her.”

<h2>Bella’s early life and initial crusade</h2>

In 2013, the beluga whale was captured in the Arctic Ocean off the Russian coast at the age of two. She was sold to the aquarium, housed in the mega-mall beneath the 555-metre-high Lotte World Tower, along with two other male belugas, Bello and Belli.

In 2016, Bello died prematurely at the age of five, followed by the death of 12-year-old Belli in 2019. However, the average lifespan of beluga whales in the wild is 35 to 50 years.

A public outcry started soon after, leading Lotte to pledge to release Bella following the second death and again in 2021. Nevertheless, such efforts have repeatedly stalled, for reasons like the Covid pandemic, but are seen more as token gestures.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/66-year-old-florida-man-arrested-after-decapitated-dog-found-in-park-days-after-adoption-723526">66-year-old Florida man arrested after decapitated dog found in park days after adoption</a>

As things stand at the moment, Bella can be seen switching between aimless spinning and floating motionless in her scanty confines. The whales can grow to 5.5 metres (18ft) long but the tank is only 7 metres deep. “She lacks stimulation and is showing signs of a mental illness,” said Jo.

Dr Valeria Vergara, the co-director of the Raincoast Conservation Foundation’s cetacean research programme, said belugas are highly intelligent and social. “They cooperate with each other to the point of helping raise each other’s young,” she said.

“They have long lives, and, of course, they have a very complex communication system,” said the marine biologist, who has studied beluga whales for more than two decades. “Keeping such beings in captivity is simply unethical.”

Bella is one of five captive belugas in South Korea, alongside one at Aqua Planet Yeosu and three others at Geoje Sea World. Until recently, the latter offered packages where visitors could pay to ride on the whales. But these have since been outlawed.

The aquarium industry is thriving, in South Korea and Asia on the whole. Lotte’s aquarium in Seoul is one of the largest in the region, attracting millions of visitors since it opened in 2014.

<h2>The way ahead for the beluga whale</h2>

Last December, South Korea banned buying whales and dolphins for display. However, the law does not apply retroactively, implying that animals already in captivity, such as Bella, can be kept.

Bella’s transfer to a seaside sanctuary is “the only ethical option”, according to Vergara. Having been removed from her natural habitat at such a young age, Bella could not survive in the open ocean. Belugas learn necessary skills such as hunting, migrating and communicating from their social groups.

In a statement, Lotte World Aquarium said it was working to protect animal rights and was “ready to send the beluga whale at any time”. It said it was having discussions with a committee composed of the oceans and fisheries ministry, animal rights groups and whale experts to carry out Bella’s release “based on a scientific and practical plan”.

It added that it was looking at a sanctuary in Iceland and planned sanctuaries in Norway and Canada as options.

Amid the concurrent bureaucratic tangle and different offers from sanctuaries, Bella remains in her tank. Outside Lotte World Tower, the Hot Pink Dolphins group still protest, demanding: “Free Bella now!”

(With inputs from agencies)

The plight of Bella, a beluga whale trapped alone in an insufficiently small tank for a decade, has sparked campaigns in Seoul over her unethical confinement, demanding her release.

The plight of Bella, a beluga whale trapped alone in an insufficiently small tank for a decade, has sparked campaigns in Seoul over her unethical confinement, demanding her release. The isolated beluga whale languishes in a lifeless and weeny 1,224-tonne tank amid bustling luxury shops at the foot of Lotte World Tower, the world’s sixth-tallest skyscraper. Campaigners have been racing to rescue her before it is too late and calling on Lotte to close the Seoul exhibit entirely. An international petition has been launched to demand her liberation. Referring to the Lotte Group which owns the aquarium, Jo Yak-gol, of the marine environmentalist group Hot Pink Dolphins, said: “Almost five years have passed since they said they would release her.” Bella’s early life and initial crusade In 2013, the beluga whale was captured in the Arctic Ocean off the Russian coast at the age of two. She was sold to the aquarium, housed in the mega-mall beneath the 555-metre-high Lotte World Tower, along with two other male belugas, Bello and Belli. In 2016, Bello died prematurely at the age of five, followed by the death of 12-year-old Belli in 2019. However, the average lifespan of beluga whales in the wild is 35 to 50 years. A public outcry started soon after, leading Lotte to pledge to release Bella following the second death and again in 2021. Nevertheless, such efforts have repeatedly stalled, for reasons like the Covid pandemic, but are seen more as token gestures. Also read: 66-year-old Florida man arrested after decapitated dog found in park days after adoption As things stand at the moment, Bella can be seen switching between aimless spinning and floating motionless in her scanty confines. The whales can grow to 5.5 metres (18ft) long but the tank is only 7 metres deep. “She lacks stimulation and is showing signs of a mental illness,” said Jo. Dr Valeria Vergara, the co-director of the Raincoast Conservation Foundation’s cetacean research programme, said belugas are highly intelligent and social. “They cooperate with each other to the point of helping raise each other’s young,” she said. “They have long lives, and, of course, they have a very complex communication system,” said the marine biologist, who has studied beluga whales for more than two decades. “Keeping such beings in captivity is simply unethical.” Bella is one of five captive belugas in South Korea, alongside one at Aqua Planet Yeosu and three others at Geoje Sea World. Until recently, the latter offered packages where visitors could pay to ride on the whales. But these have since been outlawed. The aquarium industry is thriving, in South Korea and Asia on the whole. Lotte’s aquarium in Seoul is one of the largest in the region, attracting millions of visitors since it opened in 2014. The way ahead for the beluga whale Last December, South Korea banned buying whales and dolphins for display. However, the law does not apply retroactively, implying that animals already in captivity, such as Bella, can be kept. Bella’s transfer to a seaside sanctuary is “the only ethical option”, according to Vergara. Having been removed from her natural habitat at such a young age, Bella could not survive in the open ocean. Belugas learn necessary skills such as hunting, migrating and communicating from their social groups. In a statement, Lotte World Aquarium said it was working to protect animal rights and was “ready to send the beluga whale at any time”. It said it was having discussions with a committee composed of the oceans and fisheries ministry, animal rights groups and whale experts to carry out Bella’s release “based on a scientific and practical plan”. It added that it was looking at a sanctuary in Iceland and planned sanctuaries in Norway and Canada as options. Amid the concurrent bureaucratic tangle and different offers from sanctuaries, Bella remains in her tank. Outside Lotte World Tower, the Hot Pink Dolphins group still protest, demanding: “Free Bella now!” (With inputs from agencies)

Activists launch ‘Free Bella’ campaign to save lonely beluga whale from Seoul mall

Hundreds of South Koreans on Saturday (May 18) gathered in the capital&nbsp;Seoul&nbsp;for&nbsp;an unusual yet significant event: The sleeping contest. Dressed in sleepwear, people shut their eyes and got comfortable for one hour and 30 minutes at the Han River Park to send&nbsp;out&nbsp;an important message to fellow South Koreans and the world: Taking rest is&nbsp;important.

The event&nbsp;was held to raise&nbsp;awareness about the importance and significance of taking timely breaks and rests.

To&nbsp;level up the challenges for participants,&nbsp;some distractions like feather tickling, whispering and mosquito noises were used.

Then,&nbsp;their heart rate measurements were taken. The participant who experienced the&nbsp;largest&nbsp;deviation between the heart rate before and during the nap was&nbsp;to be&nbsp;declared the winner as it would indicate the best sleep quality.

Event organisers and participants said they wanted to bring the&nbsp;world's&nbsp;attention to the importance of sleep and rest in a world that has become too challenging for many.

“Our country is known for its competitive society, and the importance of sleep seems to be undervalued,”&nbsp;said Son Ji-hong, 24, who came to the contest with a neck pillow and sunglasses.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwi988WnvZmGAxWN1TgGHbsKCh8QxfQBKAB6BAgSEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/science/rethinking-the-brains-cleanup-crew-sleep-does-not-detox-brain-as-previously-thought-heres-what-does-721131" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/science/rethinking-the-brains-cleanup-crew-sleep-does-not-detox-brain-as-previously-thought-heres-what-does-721131&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi988WnvZmGAxWN1TgGHbsKCh8QxfQBKAB6BAgSEAE">Rethinking the brain`s cleanup crew: Sleep does not detox brain as previously thought. Here`s what does</a>

Lack of sleep is a&nbsp;major&nbsp;problem in South Korea. South&nbsp;Korea’s&nbsp;National Assembly reports that its citizens get the least&nbsp;amount of&nbsp;sleep on average compared to other Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) nations. They clock in at just 7 hours and 41 minutes per night,&nbsp;which is&nbsp;notably lower than the OECD average of 8 hours and 22 minutes.

Watch:&nbsp;South Koreans participate in 'power nap' contest

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/south-koreans-participate-in-power-nap-contest-722957/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

India is also the&nbsp;world's&nbsp;second most sleep-deprived nation after Japan. A 2023 survey revealed that around 55 per cent of Indians&nbsp;aren't&nbsp;getting enough sleep or are sleeping for less than 6 hours. Another survey found that a whopping 88 per cent of Indians wake up multiple times during the night&nbsp;and&nbsp;at least 25 per cent of Indians say they&nbsp;suffer from insomnia.

(With inputs from agencies)

Hundreds of South Koreans on Saturday (May 18) gathered in the capital Seoul for an unusual yet significant event: The sleeping contest. Dressed in sleepwear, people shut their eyes and got comfortable for one hour and 30 minutes at the Han River Park to send out an important message to fellow South Koreans and the world: Taking rest is important.

Hundreds of South Koreans on Saturday (May 18) gathered in the capital Seoul for an unusual yet significant event: The sleeping contest. Dressed in sleepwear, people shut their eyes and got comfortable for one hour and 30 minutes at the Han River Park to send out an important message to fellow South Koreans and the world: Taking rest is important. The event was held to raise awareness about the importance and significance of taking timely breaks and rests. To level up the challenges for participants, some distractions like feather tickling, whispering and mosquito noises were used. Then, their heart rate measurements were taken. The participant who experienced the largest deviation between the heart rate before and during the nap was to be declared the winner as it would indicate the best sleep quality. Event organisers and participants said they wanted to bring the world's attention to the importance of sleep and rest in a world that has become too challenging for many. “Our country is known for its competitive society, and the importance of sleep seems to be undervalued,” said Son Ji-hong, 24, who came to the contest with a neck pillow and sunglasses. Also read: Rethinking the brain`s cleanup crew: Sleep does not detox brain as previously thought. Here`s what does Lack of sleep is a major problem in South Korea. South Korea’s National Assembly reports that its citizens get the least amount of sleep on average compared to other Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) nations. They clock in at just 7 hours and 41 minutes per night, which is notably lower than the OECD average of 8 hours and 22 minutes. Watch: South Koreans participate in 'power nap' contest × India is also the world's second most sleep-deprived nation after Japan. A 2023 survey revealed that around 55 per cent of Indians aren't getting enough sleep or are sleeping for less than 6 hours. Another survey found that a whopping 88 per cent of Indians wake up multiple times during the night and at least 25 per cent of Indians say they suffer from insomnia. (With inputs from agencies)

‘You sleep you win’: Hundreds gather in South Korea for ‘power nap’ contest

North Korea on Friday (May 17) launched multiple suspected short-range ballistic projectiles off its east coast, said South Korea.&nbsp;

This came hours after North Korean leader Kim Jong Un's sister refuted the widespread accusations levelled against Pyongyang that it was shipping weapons to Russia.

This is the latest in a spate of similar incidents where Pyongyang has fired off cruise missiles, tactical rockets and hypersonic weapons in recent months which the country claims is their drive aimed at upgrading the defence system.

Earlier, South Korea and the United States alleged that Pyongyang was supplying arms to Russia, which they stated would be in violation of several UN sanctions that were imposed on both countries.

Seoul's army on Friday said that it had detected the launch of what it termed as "several flying objects presumed to be short-range ballistic missiles" into waters off North Korea's coast from the country's eastern Wonsan area.

The missiles reportedly travelled a distance of around 300 kilometres (186 miles), said the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

He added that the military had "strengthened vigilance and surveillance in preparation for additional launches".

The launches also come just hours after Kim Jong Un's influential sister Kim Yo Jong denounced the US and South Korea over their repeated accusations, claiming that the nuclear-armed Pyongyang was sending its weapons to Russia for use in its offensive against Ukraine.

She alleged that Seoul and Washington were "misleading the public opinion" with their claims.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-issues-alert-after-north-korea-fires-ballistic-missile-towards-east-sea-713775">Also read: Japan issues alert after North Korea fires ballistic missile towards East Sea</a>

<h2>Kim inspects arms factories as Pyongyang denounces ‘monitoring activities’ by US</h2>

Earlier this week, Kim was seen visiting arms and ammunition factories after Pyongyang denounced what it termed as the "activities of monitoring sanctions against DPRK" by the United States and its allies.

Kim on Saturday (May 11) as well as Sunday (May 12) inspected weapons including sniper rifles and rocket launchers at the weapons manufacturing facilities and heaped praises on their quality.

He further directed the factories to implement production plans without fail, said the state media reports.

The North Korean leader on Friday (May 10) gained an understanding of the technically updated version of the 240 mm multiple rocket launcher system and oversaw the live test-fire of controllable shells for multiple rocket launchers manufactured at various national defence industrial enterprises.

"The updated multiple rocket launcher with high mobility and concentration of fire has an automatic fire combined control system and will be deployed to units of the Korean People's Army as replacement equipment from 2024 to 2026," KCNA said, adding such "a significant change" will soon be made in increasing the artillery combat ability of the North's army.

This came after North Korea's foreign ministry condemned what it described as an increased surveillance of North Korea by US allies under the pretence of monitoring the UN sanctions violations.&nbsp;

"The Democratic People's Republic Of Korea (DPRK) will take necessary measures to firmly defend the sovereignty and security of the state on the basis of a rigorous analysis of the negative influence being caused by the grave acts of some countries including UK, Canada, Germany, France, New Zealand and Australia taking part in the so-called 'activities of monitoring sanctions against DPRK,'" said North Korea's foreign ministry in a statement.

(With inputs from agencies)

North Korea on Friday (May 17) launched multiple suspected short-range ballistic projectiles off its east coast, said South Korea. This came hours after North Korean leader Kim Jong Un's sister refuted the widespread accusations levelled against Pyongyang that it was shipping weapons to Russia.

North Korea on Friday (May 17) launched multiple suspected short-range ballistic projectiles off its east coast, said South Korea. This came hours after North Korean leader Kim Jong Un's sister refuted the widespread accusations levelled against Pyongyang that it was shipping weapons to Russia. This is the latest in a spate of similar incidents where Pyongyang has fired off cruise missiles, tactical rockets and hypersonic weapons in recent months which the country claims is their drive aimed at upgrading the defence system. Earlier, South Korea and the United States alleged that Pyongyang was supplying arms to Russia, which they stated would be in violation of several UN sanctions that were imposed on both countries. Seoul's army on Friday said that it had detected the launch of what it termed as "several flying objects presumed to be short-range ballistic missiles" into waters off North Korea's coast from the country's eastern Wonsan area. The missiles reportedly travelled a distance of around 300 kilometres (186 miles), said the Joint Chiefs of Staff. He added that the military had "strengthened vigilance and surveillance in preparation for additional launches". The launches also come just hours after Kim Jong Un's influential sister Kim Yo Jong denounced the US and South Korea over their repeated accusations, claiming that the nuclear-armed Pyongyang was sending its weapons to Russia for use in its offensive against Ukraine. She alleged that Seoul and Washington were "misleading the public opinion" with their claims. Also read: Japan issues alert after North Korea fires ballistic missile towards East Sea Kim inspects arms factories as Pyongyang denounces ‘monitoring activities’ by US Earlier this week, Kim was seen visiting arms and ammunition factories after Pyongyang denounced what it termed as the "activities of monitoring sanctions against DPRK" by the United States and its allies. Kim on Saturday (May 11) as well as Sunday (May 12) inspected weapons including sniper rifles and rocket launchers at the weapons manufacturing facilities and heaped praises on their quality. He further directed the factories to implement production plans without fail, said the state media reports. The North Korean leader on Friday (May 10) gained an understanding of the technically updated version of the 240 mm multiple rocket launcher system and oversaw the live test-fire of controllable shells for multiple rocket launchers manufactured at various national defence industrial enterprises. "The updated multiple rocket launcher with high mobility and concentration of fire has an automatic fire combined control system and will be deployed to units of the Korean People's Army as replacement equipment from 2024 to 2026," KCNA said, adding such "a significant change" will soon be made in increasing the artillery combat ability of the North's army. This came after North Korea's foreign ministry condemned what it described as an increased surveillance of North Korea by US allies under the pretence of monitoring the UN sanctions violations. "The Democratic People's Republic Of Korea (DPRK) will take necessary measures to firmly defend the sovereignty and security of the state on the basis of a rigorous analysis of the negative influence being caused by the grave acts of some countries including UK, Canada, Germany, France, New Zealand and Australia taking part in the so-called 'activities of monitoring sanctions against DPRK,'" said North Korea's foreign ministry in a statement. (With inputs from agencies)

North Korea fires multiple ballistic missiles after Kim's sister denies supplying arms to Russia

The highly awaited BTS pop-up Monochrome opened at Ap Again in Seoul's eastern Seongdong District on Friday. However, an hour before the pop-up's official launch, at around 10 a.m., the area around the venue remained relatively quiet and under control. Only a few hundred supporters were waiting outside the arena.

BTS unveils 'monochrome' logistics project

Environmentalists participate in a fashion show featuring plastic wastes to mark the Earth Day in Seoul, South Korea, Monday, April 22, 2024. Watch to know more.

South Korean environmentalists celebrate Earth Day in Seoul

seoul

Seoul, News on Seoul, stories on Seoul, articles on Seoul, Seoul stories at Wion, Seoul news, Seoul latest news