North Korea has fired a ballistic missile into the sea after a break of two months and this comes at a time when US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken is visiting South Korea. Watch to know more!

North Korea fires ballistic missiles as Blinken visits Seoul, Japan PM Fumio Kishida condemns launch

South Korean government has now announced swift actions to improve the pay and working conditions of young doctors, several doctors had last week gone on strike paralysing the entire health care system.

South Korea to revamp working conditions for young doctors, Seoul announces new measures

The hackers of North Korea allegedly entered the systems of South Korean chip equipment makers, as per South Korea's spy agency. North Korea has been making efforts to create semiconductors for its weapons programmes, said the National Intelligence Service (NIS).

This was reported a month after South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol had warned that North Korea is likely to stage provocations like cyber attacks for meddling with upcoming elections.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-sent-millions-of-munitions-to-russia-in-exchange-for-food-south-korea-694948">North Korea sent millions of munitions to Russia in exchange for food: South Korea</a>

<h2>North Korea escalates hacking efforts&nbsp;</h2>

North Korea last year hacked the emails of President Yoon's aide.

"We believe that North Korea might possibly be preparing to produce its own semiconductors in the face of difficulties in procuring them due to sanctions," said the NIS, in a statement.

It stated that Pyongyang may have been making efforts to hack South Korean chip equipment firms because they need chips for the weapons programmes, which include satellites and missiles.

The NIS has stated that North Korean hackers broke into the two chip equipment companies' servers in December and February, stealing photographs of their facilities and product designs.

It further issued a warning to other companies in the chip-making industry to remain alert against cyber attacks.

The spy agency, however, failed to mention which firms were affected and did not even clarify if North Korea was able to get anything of value.

The NIS claimed that the companies of South Korea had remained a key target of North Korean hackers since last year.

Watch:&nbsp;South Korea and US begin large annual military drills as Pyongyang's rising nuclear threats

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According to NIS, the hackers employed a technique known as "living off the land," which decreases malicious codes and uses legitimate and existing tools installed within servers, which makes it difficult for hackers to detect it using security software.

President Yoon's office last month said that an aide's email account was breached which was caused by a violation of security regulations and added that the official system had not been hacked.

North Korea has always rejected claims of being involved in cyber-crimes, however, Seoul has blamed the hackers of North Korea for stealing large sums of money, generally in the form of cryptocurrency, for funding the regime as well as its nuclear weapons programme.

It has been estimated that North Korea has stolen almost $3bn (£2.36bn) since 2016. It is also believed to carry out hacks with the aim of stealing state secrets, which include details of advanced weapons technology.

North Korea, which has faced extreme international sanctions, is becoming increasingly sophisticated in the way cyber attacks are carried out.

(With inputs from agencies)

The hackers of North Korea allegedly entered the systems of South Korean chip equipment makers, as per South Korea's spy agency. North Korea has been making efforts to create semiconductors for its weapons programmes, said the National Intelligence Service (NIS).

The hackers of North Korea allegedly entered the systems of South Korean chip equipment makers, as per South Korea's spy agency. North Korea has been making efforts to create semiconductors for its weapons programmes, said the National Intelligence Service (NIS). This was reported a month after South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol had warned that North Korea is likely to stage provocations like cyber attacks for meddling with upcoming elections. Also Read: North Korea sent millions of munitions to Russia in exchange for food: South Korea North Korea escalates hacking efforts North Korea last year hacked the emails of President Yoon's aide. "We believe that North Korea might possibly be preparing to produce its own semiconductors in the face of difficulties in procuring them due to sanctions," said the NIS, in a statement. It stated that Pyongyang may have been making efforts to hack South Korean chip equipment firms because they need chips for the weapons programmes, which include satellites and missiles. The NIS has stated that North Korean hackers broke into the two chip equipment companies' servers in December and February, stealing photographs of their facilities and product designs. It further issued a warning to other companies in the chip-making industry to remain alert against cyber attacks. The spy agency, however, failed to mention which firms were affected and did not even clarify if North Korea was able to get anything of value. The NIS claimed that the companies of South Korea had remained a key target of North Korean hackers since last year. Watch: South Korea and US begin large annual military drills as Pyongyang's rising nuclear threats According to NIS, the hackers employed a technique known as "living off the land," which decreases malicious codes and uses legitimate and existing tools installed within servers, which makes it difficult for hackers to detect it using security software. President Yoon's office last month said that an aide's email account was breached which was caused by a violation of security regulations and added that the official system had not been hacked. North Korea has always rejected claims of being involved in cyber-crimes, however, Seoul has blamed the hackers of North Korea for stealing large sums of money, generally in the form of cryptocurrency, for funding the regime as well as its nuclear weapons programme. It has been estimated that North Korea has stolen almost $3bn (£2.36bn) since 2016. It is also believed to carry out hacks with the aim of stealing state secrets, which include details of advanced weapons technology. North Korea, which has faced extreme international sanctions, is becoming increasingly sophisticated in the way cyber attacks are carried out. (With inputs from agencies)

North Korean hackers broke into South Korean chip equipment firms: Seoul

South Korea's government has threatened to arrest thousands of striking junior doctors and revoke their medical licences if they do not return to work on Thursday.

South Korea doctors' strike: Seoul seeks to hold talks with striking doctors

South Korean doctors have continued their demonstrations against the government's plan to increase medical school admissions and at the center of this dispute is a recent government announcement that the colleges and the universities would admit 2,000 more medical students from the next academic year. Hundreds of senior doctors held a rally near the presidential office in Seoul. Watch to know more!

South Korea doctors' Strike: Doctors say higher admissions will lower medical education level

Seoul Doctors Protest: Is South Korea facing a shortage of doctors?

More than 1,600 trainee doctors in South Korea’s major hospitals staged a walkout on Tuesday to protest against a government plan to admit more students to medical schools, stoking fears of delays to surgical operations and patient treatment.

Seoul's Healthcare on Edge: Protests break out over proposed health reforms

Heavy snowfall has blanketed the South Korean capital Seoul. After more than 8 centimeters of snow was dumped on Seoul, Incheon and Gyeonggi province. Cold temperatures and strong winds are forecast to persist in the region.

Snow blankets South Korea, disrupts traffic

North Korea, in a bid to bring about a "qualitative change" in its defence capabilities, on Monday (Feb 12) said that it has developed a new ballistic control system for a multiple rocket launcher.

Pyongyang's Academy of Defense Science successfully carried out a "ballistic control test firing of 240-mm calibre multiple rocket launcher shells" on Saturday (Feb 10) to develop a "controllable shell and ballistic control system" for the launcher, reported state news agency KCNA.

According to the report, the new rocket launcher would now be "reevaluated" and its battlefield role would also be "increased" due to what it termed "rapid technical improvement."

Earlier this year, North Korea released a statement declaring South Korea as its "principal enemy", shutting down the agencies dedicated to reunification and outreach, and further threatening war over "even 0.001 millimetres" of territorial infringement.

Kim Jong Un on Friday (Feb 9) called Seoul Pyongyang's "most dangerous and first enemy state and invariable arch-enemy", warning that the North would not hesitate to "put an end" to South Korea.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-tunnel-under-un-agency-headquarters-in-gaza-israel-levels-fresh-allegations-689357">Hamas tunnel under UN agency headquarters in Gaza? Israel levels fresh allegations</a>

<h2>North Korea fires multiple cruise missiles into West Sea</h2>

Earlier, in January, the North fired multiple cruise missiles near two South Korean border islands which prompted the South to launch a live-fire drill and release evacuation orders for the residents.

Pyongyang had also conducted live-fire exercises on its western coast for three consecutive days last month.

The South had then issued a stern warning stating that the nuclear action around the Korean Peninsula would lead to the escalation of tensions.

Seoul's military had said that "the repeated artillery fire within the prohibited hostile act zone by North Korea poses a threat to the peace on the Korean Peninsula and escalates tensions".

"North Korea, following its claim of the complete nullification of the 'September 19 Military Agreement', continues to threaten our citizens with ongoing artillery fire within the prohibited hostile act zone," the JCS said, referring to the 2018 deal.&nbsp;

"In response, our military will take appropriate measures," it said.

(With inputs from agencies)

North Korea, in a bid to bring about a "qualitative change" in its defence capabilities, on Monday (Feb 12) said that it has developed a new ballistic control system for a multiple rocket launcher.

North Korea, in a bid to bring about a "qualitative change" in its defence capabilities, on Monday (Feb 12) said that it has developed a new ballistic control system for a multiple rocket launcher. Pyongyang's Academy of Defense Science successfully carried out a "ballistic control test firing of 240-mm calibre multiple rocket launcher shells" on Saturday (Feb 10) to develop a "controllable shell and ballistic control system" for the launcher, reported state news agency KCNA. According to the report, the new rocket launcher would now be "reevaluated" and its battlefield role would also be "increased" due to what it termed "rapid technical improvement." Earlier this year, North Korea released a statement declaring South Korea as its "principal enemy", shutting down the agencies dedicated to reunification and outreach, and further threatening war over "even 0.001 millimetres" of territorial infringement. Kim Jong Un on Friday (Feb 9) called Seoul Pyongyang's "most dangerous and first enemy state and invariable arch-enemy", warning that the North would not hesitate to "put an end" to South Korea. Also read: Hamas tunnel under UN agency headquarters in Gaza? Israel levels fresh allegations North Korea fires multiple cruise missiles into West Sea Earlier, in January, the North fired multiple cruise missiles near two South Korean border islands which prompted the South to launch a live-fire drill and release evacuation orders for the residents. Pyongyang had also conducted live-fire exercises on its western coast for three consecutive days last month. The South had then issued a stern warning stating that the nuclear action around the Korean Peninsula would lead to the escalation of tensions. Seoul's military had said that "the repeated artillery fire within the prohibited hostile act zone by North Korea poses a threat to the peace on the Korean Peninsula and escalates tensions". "North Korea, following its claim of the complete nullification of the 'September 19 Military Agreement', continues to threaten our citizens with ongoing artillery fire within the prohibited hostile act zone," the JCS said, referring to the 2018 deal. "In response, our military will take appropriate measures," it said. (With inputs from agencies)

North Korea develops new control system for multiple rocket launcher

In his first public response to the recent release of the hidden camera footage where South Korea's first lady, Kim Keon Hee, was seen accepting a luxury designer handbag as a gift, President Yoon Suk Yeol on Wednesday (Feb 8) called it a "political manoeuvre".

However, he assured that clearer lines would be drawn in order to ensure such incidents do not happen in future.

During his interview with broadcaster KBS, Yoon stated&nbsp;that the footage, which was filmed in September 2022, and released in November 2023, just before elections in the country, should be considered as "a political manoeuvre".

"However, it's not important whether to call it a political manoeuvre or not," he said. "What's important is to set clearer boundaries with others to prevent something like this from happening in the future."

The pastor, who offered the Dior handbag worth 3 million won ($2,250) and secretly captured the act, claimed to have ties with Kim's father who passed away when she was a child, claimed Yoon.

He further said that the fact&nbsp;he was living in their private home ahead of shifting to a newly constructed presidential residence may also have added to the confusion about how the gifts should have been handled.

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<h2>'Dior bag scandal'</h2>

The pastor, Reverend Abraham Choi, who presented the gift to the first lady, earlier told the news agency Reuters that he wanted to raise concerns about Yoon's hawkish North Korea policies and that offering expensive gifts seemed to be the way to secure a meeting with Kim Keon Hee.

Choi used a wristwatch to record himself presenting the designer handbag to Hee, who is heard saying "please don't buy an expensive item like this" in the footage.

However, she is not seen returning the handbag.&nbsp;

Accepting the gift is a breach of South Korean law where public officials and their spouses cannot accept gifts worth more than $750.&nbsp;

News agency AFP, citing a report from Yonhap News Agency, said that the gift was being "stored according to the relevant regulations".

After the incident came to light, members of Yoon's conservative People Power Party (PPP) urged the president and his wife to issue an apology and admit that receiving the gift was inappropriate.

(With inputs from agencies)

In his first public response to the recent release of the hidden camera footage where South Korea's first lady, Kim Keon Hee, was seen accepting a luxury designer handbag as a gift, President Yoon Suk Yeol on Wednesday (Feb 8) called it a "political manoeuvre".

In his first public response to the recent release of the hidden camera footage where South Korea's first lady, Kim Keon Hee, was seen accepting a luxury designer handbag as a gift, President Yoon Suk Yeol on Wednesday (Feb 8) called it a "political manoeuvre". However, he assured that clearer lines would be drawn in order to ensure such incidents do not happen in future. During his interview with broadcaster KBS, Yoon stated that the footage, which was filmed in September 2022, and released in November 2023, just before elections in the country, should be considered as "a political manoeuvre". "However, it's not important whether to call it a political manoeuvre or not," he said. "What's important is to set clearer boundaries with others to prevent something like this from happening in the future." The pastor, who offered the Dior handbag worth 3 million won ($2,250) and secretly captured the act, claimed to have ties with Kim's father who passed away when she was a child, claimed Yoon. He further said that the fact he was living in their private home ahead of shifting to a newly constructed presidential residence may also have added to the confusion about how the gifts should have been handled. Also read: Joe Biden gets ridiculed online after struggling to recall Hamas' name during speech 'Dior bag scandal' The pastor, Reverend Abraham Choi, who presented the gift to the first lady, earlier told the news agency Reuters that he wanted to raise concerns about Yoon's hawkish North Korea policies and that offering expensive gifts seemed to be the way to secure a meeting with Kim Keon Hee. Choi used a wristwatch to record himself presenting the designer handbag to Hee, who is heard saying "please don't buy an expensive item like this" in the footage. However, she is not seen returning the handbag. Accepting the gift is a breach of South Korean law where public officials and their spouses cannot accept gifts worth more than $750. News agency AFP, citing a report from Yonhap News Agency, said that the gift was being "stored according to the relevant regulations". After the incident came to light, members of Yoon's conservative People Power Party (PPP) urged the president and his wife to issue an apology and admit that receiving the gift was inappropriate. (With inputs from agencies)

South Korea's Yoon calls wife's 'Dior bag scandal' a political manoeuvre

Several cruise missiles were fired by North Korea towards the Yellow Sea on Wednesday (Jan 24), said Seoul's military, the latest in a series of tension-raising steps being taken by the nuclear-armed state.

The testing of weapons was accelerated by Pyongyang in the new year, which included tests of what the country called an "underwater nuclear weapon system" as well as a solid-fuelled hypersonic ballistic missile.

"Our military detected several cruise missiles launched by North Korea towards the Yellow Sea at around 7:00 am today," said the Joint Chiefs of Staff, in a statement.

"The detailed specifications are being closely analysed by South Korean and US intelligence authorities," the statement added.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-north-korea-in-a-public-trial-puts-2-teens-under-12-years-of-hard-labour-for-watching-k-pop-681813">North Korea teens, in a public trial, put under 12 years of hard labour for watching K-pop</a>

Unlike the country's ballistic counterparts, cruise missile testing is not banned under the current sanctions imposed by the United Nations over Pyongyang. Cruise missiles are generally jet-propelled and fly at a lower altitude in comparison to other more sophisticated ballistic missiles, which makes them harder to intercept and detect. &nbsp;

The latest missile launch by North Korea comes as South Korea has been carrying out a 10-day special forces infiltration drill off its east coast, "in light of serious security situations" with the North, which runs till Thursday (Jan 25), as per the South's navy.

"We will achieve our mission to infiltrate deep into the enemy's territory and neutralize them completely under any circumstances," said the drill's commander in a statement.

<h2>North Korea-South Korea's deteriorating ties&nbsp;</h2>

In recent months, there has been a sharp deterioration in ties between the two countries, with the two sides carrying out live-fire drills along the border, finalising key tension-reducing agreements and increasing frontier security.&nbsp;

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un last week declared South Korea as the country's "principal enemy" and said that a war can break out even if there is a territorial infringement of 0.001 mm.

Watch:&nbsp;Japan, US, South Korea share real-time data on North Korea's missiles&nbsp;

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The North Korean leader further said that Pyongyang will not recognise the de facto maritime border between the two countries - the Northern Limit Line - and appealed for constitutional changes which permitted the North to "occupy" Seoul in war, said the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).

Meanwhile, South Korea's President Yoon Suk Yeol informed his cabinet that if the nuclear-armed North adopts any provocative move, Seoul's response will be "multiple times stronger", while emphasising his military's "overwhelming response capabilities".

At North Korea's year-end policy meetings, Kim threatened to launch a nuclear attack on&nbsp;South and appealed for a build-up of the military arsenal as any armed conflict, he warned, can "break out any time".

(With inputs from agencies)

Several cruise missiles were fired by North Korea towards the Yellow Sea on Wednesday (Jan 24), said Seoul's military, the latest in a series of tension-raising steps being taken by the nuclear-armed state.

Several cruise missiles were fired by North Korea towards the Yellow Sea on Wednesday (Jan 24), said Seoul's military, the latest in a series of tension-raising steps being taken by the nuclear-armed state. The testing of weapons was accelerated by Pyongyang in the new year, which included tests of what the country called an "underwater nuclear weapon system" as well as a solid-fuelled hypersonic ballistic missile. "Our military detected several cruise missiles launched by North Korea towards the Yellow Sea at around 7:00 am today," said the Joint Chiefs of Staff, in a statement. "The detailed specifications are being closely analysed by South Korean and US intelligence authorities," the statement added. Also read: North Korea teens, in a public trial, put under 12 years of hard labour for watching K-pop Unlike the country's ballistic counterparts, cruise missile testing is not banned under the current sanctions imposed by the United Nations over Pyongyang. Cruise missiles are generally jet-propelled and fly at a lower altitude in comparison to other more sophisticated ballistic missiles, which makes them harder to intercept and detect. The latest missile launch by North Korea comes as South Korea has been carrying out a 10-day special forces infiltration drill off its east coast, "in light of serious security situations" with the North, which runs till Thursday (Jan 25), as per the South's navy. "We will achieve our mission to infiltrate deep into the enemy's territory and neutralize them completely under any circumstances," said the drill's commander in a statement. North Korea-South Korea's deteriorating ties In recent months, there has been a sharp deterioration in ties between the two countries, with the two sides carrying out live-fire drills along the border, finalising key tension-reducing agreements and increasing frontier security. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un last week declared South Korea as the country's "principal enemy" and said that a war can break out even if there is a territorial infringement of 0.001 mm. Watch: Japan, US, South Korea share real-time data on North Korea's missiles The North Korean leader further said that Pyongyang will not recognise the de facto maritime border between the two countries - the Northern Limit Line - and appealed for constitutional changes which permitted the North to "occupy" Seoul in war, said the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA). Meanwhile, South Korea's President Yoon Suk Yeol informed his cabinet that if the nuclear-armed North adopts any provocative move, Seoul's response will be "multiple times stronger", while emphasising his military's "overwhelming response capabilities". At North Korea's year-end policy meetings, Kim threatened to launch a nuclear attack on South and appealed for a build-up of the military arsenal as any armed conflict, he warned, can "break out any time". (With inputs from agencies)

North Korea fires multiple cruise missiles towards Yellow Sea, says South Korea

South Korea on Saturday (Jan 20) charged Seoul's chief of police with contributing through negligence to the deadly Halloween crowd crush in Seoul in 2022​ that claimed the lives of over 160 people, according to the prosecutors.

Seoul Western District Prosecutors Office released a statement saying that Kim Kwang-ho, chief of the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency, was charged with professional negligence resulting in injury or death.

As the head of the SMPA, he "did not take necessary measures, such as deploying sufficient police forces and ensuring proper command and supervision" on the day of the incident, said the statement.

Kim is the highest-ranking police official to go on trial over the tragic incident and was charged without detention.

Last year in the month of January, a special police investigation team had forwarded rescue and district offices to the prosecution over their alleged involvement in the government's mishandling of the incident.

The heads of the police station in Seoul's Yongsan district, which includes Itaewon, and the Yongsan Ward office were charged by the prosecutors but for over a year, they had not come to a decision over charging Kim.

Friday's statement said Kim, "along with the chief of the Yongsan Police Station and the head of the Yongsan Ward office who are currently on trial, collectively caused the deaths of 158 individuals and injuries to 312 individuals as a result of professional negligence".

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-north-korea-in-a-public-trial-puts-2-teens-under-12-years-of-hard-labour-for-watching-k-pop-681813">North Korea teens, in a public trial, put under 12 years of hard labour for watching K-pop</a>

The victims' families expressed their dismay at the prosecution's prolonged decision-making process prior to filing charges against Kim.

"Chief Kim must immediately step down from his position and face trial," the families said in a statement.

"President Yoon Suk Yeol must dismiss Kim immediately."&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Explained | How is a crowd crush different from a stampede?

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<h2>South Korea Halloween crush</h2>

Celebrations turned into chaos on Oct 29, 2022, as at least 151 people were killed and more than 100 were injured in South Korea when a gathering of primarily young people celebrating Halloween festivities in Seoul became trapped and crushed.&nbsp;

The Seoul police chief, Seoul mayor and the country's interior minister issued public apologies after the incident, admitting to the collective failure. The South Korean media reported that the Police did not respond to 7 of the 11 calls made by members of the public to report the overcrowding of the entertainment district, a revelation that stoked anger against the authorities all across South Korea.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

South Korea on Saturday (Jan 20) charged Seoul's chief of police with contributing through negligence to the deadly Halloween crowd crush in Seoul in 2022 that claimed the lives of over 160 people, according to the prosecutors.

South Korea on Saturday (Jan 20) charged Seoul's chief of police with contributing through negligence to the deadly Halloween crowd crush in Seoul in 2022 that claimed the lives of over 160 people, according to the prosecutors. Seoul Western District Prosecutors Office released a statement saying that Kim Kwang-ho, chief of the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency, was charged with professional negligence resulting in injury or death. As the head of the SMPA, he "did not take necessary measures, such as deploying sufficient police forces and ensuring proper command and supervision" on the day of the incident, said the statement. Kim is the highest-ranking police official to go on trial over the tragic incident and was charged without detention. Last year in the month of January, a special police investigation team had forwarded rescue and district offices to the prosecution over their alleged involvement in the government's mishandling of the incident. The heads of the police station in Seoul's Yongsan district, which includes Itaewon, and the Yongsan Ward office were charged by the prosecutors but for over a year, they had not come to a decision over charging Kim. Friday's statement said Kim, "along with the chief of the Yongsan Police Station and the head of the Yongsan Ward office who are currently on trial, collectively caused the deaths of 158 individuals and injuries to 312 individuals as a result of professional negligence". Also read: North Korea teens, in a public trial, put under 12 years of hard labour for watching K-pop The victims' families expressed their dismay at the prosecution's prolonged decision-making process prior to filing charges against Kim. "Chief Kim must immediately step down from his position and face trial," the families said in a statement. "President Yoon Suk Yeol must dismiss Kim immediately." WATCH | Explained | How is a crowd crush different from a stampede? × South Korea Halloween crush Celebrations turned into chaos on Oct 29, 2022, as at least 151 people were killed and more than 100 were injured in South Korea when a gathering of primarily young people celebrating Halloween festivities in Seoul became trapped and crushed. The Seoul police chief, Seoul mayor and the country's interior minister issued public apologies after the incident, admitting to the collective failure. The South Korean media reported that the Police did not respond to 7 of the 11 calls made by members of the public to report the overcrowding of the entertainment district, a revelation that stoked anger against the authorities all across South Korea. (With inputs from agencies)

South Korea Halloween crush: Seoul police chief charged over deadly incident

South Korea's main opposition party leader, Lee Jae-myung, said on Wednesday he hoped a stabbing attack he suffered could mark the end of the "politics of hate" in the country.

He was speaking to reporters and supporters after he was discharged from a hospital in Seoul, where he has been recovering since last week's attack in the southern city of Busan.

"I hope this case which shocked everyone can serve as a milestone to end the politics of hate and confrontation and restore proper politics," said Lee, who thanked medical staff at the hospital and vowed to serve his country.

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The attack was widely condemned as an "act of terror" and a challenge to democracy by President Yoon Suk Yeol and politicians from both the ruling and opposition parties.

Police are due to announce the outcome of an investigation into the attack later on Wednesday.

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Earlier, the alleged assailant told reporters he was sorry over the fallout from the attack as he was leaving a police station.

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Three members of the main opposition Democratic Party announced they would leave the party citing disagreements over Lee's leadership while wishing him a swift recovery.

Though the Democratic Party and Yoon's conservative People Power Party account for the majority of lawmakers in parliament, a number of politicians on both sides of the aisle have indicated they plan to break away to form new parties to run in general elections due in April.

&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

South Korea's main opposition party leader, Lee Jae-myung, said on Wednesday he hoped a stabbing attack he suffered could mark the end of the "politics of hate" in the country.

South Korea's main opposition party leader, Lee Jae-myung, said on Wednesday he hoped a stabbing attack he suffered could mark the end of the "politics of hate" in the country. He was speaking to reporters and supporters after he was discharged from a hospital in Seoul, where he has been recovering since last week's attack in the southern city of Busan. "I hope this case which shocked everyone can serve as a milestone to end the politics of hate and confrontation and restore proper politics," said Lee, who thanked medical staff at the hospital and vowed to serve his country. Also Read | Twitch, Amazon's live streaming platform, to trim workforce by 35pc with 500 job cuts The attack was widely condemned as an "act of terror" and a challenge to democracy by President Yoon Suk Yeol and politicians from both the ruling and opposition parties. Police are due to announce the outcome of an investigation into the attack later on Wednesday. Also Read | AI's double-edged sword: Technology making hacking easy for non tech savvy people, warn US officials Earlier, the alleged assailant told reporters he was sorry over the fallout from the attack as he was leaving a police station. Watch | Taiwan's Defence Ministry issues air raid alert ahead of polls × Three members of the main opposition Democratic Party announced they would leave the party citing disagreements over Lee's leadership while wishing him a swift recovery. Though the Democratic Party and Yoon's conservative People Power Party account for the majority of lawmakers in parliament, a number of politicians on both sides of the aisle have indicated they plan to break away to form new parties to run in general elections due in April.

South Korea opposition leader hopes for end to 'politics of hate' after attack

In an audacious attempt to go to Seoul, three 13-year-old Tamil Nadu students sought to meet their favorite members of the BTS. The Korean pop group Bangtan Boys, or BTS, has a sizable fan base among young people. Three teenage ladies from Tamil Nadu considered traveling to Seoul, the capital of South Korea, as a result of their popularity. They eventually gave up on their quest and were found in Vellore, a city in their home state, despite having meticulous plans to travel without a passport and with little money.

Gravitas: With only Rs14k in hand, 3 Tamil Nadu girls left home for Seoul to meet BTS stars

North Korea on Sunday (Jan 7) conducted live-fire exercises on its western coast, Seoul's military said in a statement.

This was the third consecutive day of military drills conducted by Pyongyang near its disputed maritime border with the South.

Seoul's army said that North Korea had "conducted artillery fire with over 90 rounds north of Yeonpyeong island from 1600 to 1710 (0400 to 0510 GMT) today".&nbsp;

"We issue a stern warning that North Korea's repeated artillery fire within the prohibited hostile act zone poses a threat to the peace on the Korean Peninsula and escalates tensions and strongly urge that it be stopped immediately."

South Korea had warned the residents on the border island of Yeonpyeong to stay indoors.

"North Korean gunfire is currently being heard," stated a text message that was sent to all residents on Sunday afternoon, as per news agency AFP.

"Troops on Yeonpyeong Island are currently responding, but residents are advised to be careful of outdoor activities," the message said.

North Korea fired artillery rounds in the same vicinity on Friday and Saturday, close to the thinly populated islands of Yeonpyeong and Baengnyeong, which are located just south of the de facto sea boundary between the two sides.

"North Korean forces conducted artillery fire with over 60 rounds" northwest of Yeonpyeong Island on Saturday afternoon, Seoul's Joint Chiefs of Staff said in a statement.

North Korea's shells, on Friday as well as on Saturday, landed in a buffer zone that was created under a 2018 deal aimed at reducing tensions between the two sides.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kim-jong-uns-sister-claims-s-korea-misjudged-sound-of-explosives-as-artillery-fire-677432">Kim Jong Un’s sister claims S Korea 'misjudged' sound of explosives as artillery fire</a>

The military accord fell apart in November last year after Pyongyang launched a spy satellite.

Seoul's military said Saturday that "the repeated artillery fire within the prohibited hostile act zone by North Korea poses a threat to the peace on the Korean Peninsula and escalates tensions".

"North Korea, following its claim of the complete nullification of the 'September 19 Military Agreement', continues to threaten our citizens with ongoing artillery fire within the prohibited hostile act zone," the JCS said, referring to the 2018 deal.&nbsp;

"In response, our military will take appropriate measures," it said.

<h2>Live-fire drills 'natural response' to South Korea threats, says North&nbsp;</h2>

Pyongyang after firing more than 200 artillery shots on Friday (Jan 5) said that the live-fire exercises were a "natural response and countermeasure" to South Korean drills, condemning Seoul's claim that it had threatened peace on the Korean Peninsula.

North Korea released a statement saying that its drills did "not even have any indirect impact on Baengnyeong Island and Yeonpyeong Island", where residents were told to evacuate by local authorities, according to KCNA's report.

South Korean defence ministry, condemned the fire drills calling it a "provocative act" and urged North to stop, warning Seoul would take "appropriate measures" in response.

"We gravely warn that the entire responsibility of such crisis-escalating situations lies with North Korea and strongly urge for its immediate halt," Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) spokesperson Col. Lee Sung-jun said in a press conference.

"Under close coordination between South Korea and the United States, our military is tracking and monitoring related activity, and will conduct corresponding measures to North Korea's provocations."

(With inputs from agencies)

North Korea on Sunday (Jan 7) conducted live-fire exercises on its western coast, Seoul's military said in a statement. This was the third consecutive day of military drills conducted by Pyongyang near its disputed maritime border with the South.

North Korea on Sunday (Jan 7) conducted live-fire exercises on its western coast, Seoul's military said in a statement. This was the third consecutive day of military drills conducted by Pyongyang near its disputed maritime border with the South. Seoul's army said that North Korea had "conducted artillery fire with over 90 rounds north of Yeonpyeong island from 1600 to 1710 (0400 to 0510 GMT) today". "We issue a stern warning that North Korea's repeated artillery fire within the prohibited hostile act zone poses a threat to the peace on the Korean Peninsula and escalates tensions and strongly urge that it be stopped immediately." South Korea had warned the residents on the border island of Yeonpyeong to stay indoors. "North Korean gunfire is currently being heard," stated a text message that was sent to all residents on Sunday afternoon, as per news agency AFP. "Troops on Yeonpyeong Island are currently responding, but residents are advised to be careful of outdoor activities," the message said. North Korea fired artillery rounds in the same vicinity on Friday and Saturday, close to the thinly populated islands of Yeonpyeong and Baengnyeong, which are located just south of the de facto sea boundary between the two sides. "North Korean forces conducted artillery fire with over 60 rounds" northwest of Yeonpyeong Island on Saturday afternoon, Seoul's Joint Chiefs of Staff said in a statement. North Korea's shells, on Friday as well as on Saturday, landed in a buffer zone that was created under a 2018 deal aimed at reducing tensions between the two sides. Also read: Kim Jong Un’s sister claims S Korea 'misjudged' sound of explosives as artillery fire The military accord fell apart in November last year after Pyongyang launched a spy satellite. Seoul's military said Saturday that "the repeated artillery fire within the prohibited hostile act zone by North Korea poses a threat to the peace on the Korean Peninsula and escalates tensions". "North Korea, following its claim of the complete nullification of the 'September 19 Military Agreement', continues to threaten our citizens with ongoing artillery fire within the prohibited hostile act zone," the JCS said, referring to the 2018 deal. "In response, our military will take appropriate measures," it said. Live-fire drills 'natural response' to South Korea threats, says North Pyongyang after firing more than 200 artillery shots on Friday (Jan 5) said that the live-fire exercises were a "natural response and countermeasure" to South Korean drills, condemning Seoul's claim that it had threatened peace on the Korean Peninsula. North Korea released a statement saying that its drills did "not even have any indirect impact on Baengnyeong Island and Yeonpyeong Island", where residents were told to evacuate by local authorities, according to KCNA's report. South Korean defence ministry, condemned the fire drills calling it a "provocative act" and urged North to stop, warning Seoul would take "appropriate measures" in response. "We gravely warn that the entire responsibility of such crisis-escalating situations lies with North Korea and strongly urge for its immediate halt," Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) spokesperson Col. Lee Sung-jun said in a press conference. "Under close coordination between South Korea and the United States, our military is tracking and monitoring related activity, and will conduct corresponding measures to North Korea's provocations." (With inputs from agencies)

North Korea conducts live-fire drills near maritime border on third consecutive day

North Korea fired over 60 artillery rounds on Saturday (Jan 6) near Yeonpyeong Island, said Seoul's army, a day after both the sides, North and South, conducted live-fire drills near their maritime border.

"North Korean forces conducted artillery fire with over 60 rounds" northwest of Yeonpyeong Island on Saturday afternoon, Seoul's Joint Chiefs of Staff said in a statement.

North Korea's shells, on Friday as well as on Saturday, landed in a buffer zone that was created under a 2018 deal aimed at reducing tensions between the two sides.

The military accord fell apart in November last year after Pyongyang launched a spy satellite.

Seoul's military said Saturday that "the repeated artillery fire within the prohibited hostile act zone by North Korea poses a threat to the peace on the Korean Peninsula and escalates tensions".

"North Korea, following its claim of the complete nullification of the 'September 19 Military Agreement', continues to threaten our citizens with ongoing artillery fire within the prohibited hostile act zone," the JCS said, referring to the 2018 deal.&nbsp;

"In response, our military will take appropriate measures," it said.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-fires-200-artillery-shells-south-korea-forced-to-evacuate-island-town-676765">North Korea says live-fire drills 'natural response' to South Korea threats</a>

<h2>Live-fire drills 'natural response' to South Korea threats, says North&nbsp;</h2>

Pyongyang after firing more than 200 artillery shots on Friday (Jan 5) said that the live-fire exercises were a "natural response and countermeasure" to South Korean drills, condemning Seoul's claim that it had threatened peace on the Korean Peninsula.

North Korea released a statement saying that its drills did "not even have any indirect impact on Baengnyeong Island and Yeonpyeong Island", where residents were told to evacuate by local authorities, according to KCNA's report.

Seoul had on Friday told civilians on Yeonpyeong Island, located about 115km east of Seoul in terms of aerial distance, to evacuate after the North fired artillery shells off its west coast.

"About 200 shots were fired by North Korea (near) Yeonpyeong Island," a defence ministry official said at a briefing.

South Korean defence ministry, condemned the fire drills calling it a "provocative act" and urged North to stop, warning Seoul would take "appropriate measures" in response.

"We gravely warn that the entire responsibility of such crisis-escalating situations lies with North Korea and strongly urge for its immediate halt," Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) spokesperson Col. Lee Sung-jun said in a press conference.

"Under close coordination between South Korea and the United States, our military is tracking and monitoring related activity, and will conduct corresponding measures to North Korea's provocations."

(With inputs from agencies)

North Korea fired over 60 artillery rounds on Saturday (Jan 6) near Yeonpyeong Island, said Seoul's army, a day after both the sides, North and South, conducted live-fire drills near their maritime border.

North Korea fired over 60 artillery rounds on Saturday (Jan 6) near Yeonpyeong Island, said Seoul's army, a day after both the sides, North and South, conducted live-fire drills near their maritime border. "North Korean forces conducted artillery fire with over 60 rounds" northwest of Yeonpyeong Island on Saturday afternoon, Seoul's Joint Chiefs of Staff said in a statement. North Korea's shells, on Friday as well as on Saturday, landed in a buffer zone that was created under a 2018 deal aimed at reducing tensions between the two sides. The military accord fell apart in November last year after Pyongyang launched a spy satellite. Seoul's military said Saturday that "the repeated artillery fire within the prohibited hostile act zone by North Korea poses a threat to the peace on the Korean Peninsula and escalates tensions". "North Korea, following its claim of the complete nullification of the 'September 19 Military Agreement', continues to threaten our citizens with ongoing artillery fire within the prohibited hostile act zone," the JCS said, referring to the 2018 deal. "In response, our military will take appropriate measures," it said. Also read: North Korea says live-fire drills 'natural response' to South Korea threats Live-fire drills 'natural response' to South Korea threats, says North Pyongyang after firing more than 200 artillery shots on Friday (Jan 5) said that the live-fire exercises were a "natural response and countermeasure" to South Korean drills, condemning Seoul's claim that it had threatened peace on the Korean Peninsula. North Korea released a statement saying that its drills did "not even have any indirect impact on Baengnyeong Island and Yeonpyeong Island", where residents were told to evacuate by local authorities, according to KCNA's report. Seoul had on Friday told civilians on Yeonpyeong Island, located about 115km east of Seoul in terms of aerial distance, to evacuate after the North fired artillery shells off its west coast. "About 200 shots were fired by North Korea (near) Yeonpyeong Island," a defence ministry official said at a briefing. South Korean defence ministry, condemned the fire drills calling it a "provocative act" and urged North to stop, warning Seoul would take "appropriate measures" in response. "We gravely warn that the entire responsibility of such crisis-escalating situations lies with North Korea and strongly urge for its immediate halt," Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) spokesperson Col. Lee Sung-jun said in a press conference. "Under close coordination between South Korea and the United States, our military is tracking and monitoring related activity, and will conduct corresponding measures to North Korea's provocations." (With inputs from agencies)

North Korea fires over 60 artillery rounds near South’s Yeonpyeong Island

South Korean and U.S. troops have conducted joint combat firing drills near the border with North Korea involving heavy weapons, as Pyongyang lambasted the allies for dangerous moves pushing the region to the brink of "an inferno of nuclear war."

The exercise by a South Korean Army mechanised infantry brigade and U.S. Army armoured Stryker brigade was to test and enhance combat readiness simulating enemy aggression, South Korea said in a statement on Thursday.

The drills took place over a week starting on Dec. 29 and ended on Thursday, the South Korean Army said.

The allies have dramatically increased the scale and intensity of joint drills in the past year amid escalating tension on the Korean peninsula as Pyongyang tested both long-range ballistic missiles and tactical weapons designed to strike targets in the South and the Pacific.

The U.S. has also deployed more military assets near the Korean peninsula including a nuclear missile submarine, aircraft carriers and large bombers.

Wrapping up a major ruling party meeting, leader Kim Jong Un on Saturday lashed out at Washington for deploying large weapons and vowed to increase the North's nuclear arsenal and grow attack capabilities to "pacify the South."

The North called the joint firing drills "reckless war manoeuvres" and mocked South Korea for backing Washington's hegemonic ambitions "when it has no chance of winning or survival."

"With the instinct of confrontation deep in their bones, the puppets again marked the new year by making the aggressive choice that stokes war," the North's official KCNA news agency said in a commentary.

"2024 is the year of the highest risk of conflict," it said.

The joint drills involved more than 110 large combat weapons including South Korean army tanks, anti-aircraft artillery and combat earthmovers supported by U.S. military attack aircraft and armoured fighting vehicles, the Army said.

South Korea's navy on Wednesday conducted live firing drills and anti-submarine manoeuvres in the waters in the east, west and the south involving destroyers, frigates and corvettes, the navy said.

South Korean and U.S. troops have conducted joint combat firing drills near the border with North Korea involving heavy weapons, as Pyongyang lambasted the allies for dangerous moves pushing the region to the brink of "an inferno of nuclear war.

South Korean and U.S. troops have conducted joint combat firing drills near the border with North Korea involving heavy weapons, as Pyongyang lambasted the allies for dangerous moves pushing the region to the brink of "an inferno of nuclear war." The exercise by a South Korean Army mechanised infantry brigade and U.S. Army armoured Stryker brigade was to test and enhance combat readiness simulating enemy aggression, South Korea said in a statement on Thursday. The drills took place over a week starting on Dec. 29 and ended on Thursday, the South Korean Army said. The allies have dramatically increased the scale and intensity of joint drills in the past year amid escalating tension on the Korean peninsula as Pyongyang tested both long-range ballistic missiles and tactical weapons designed to strike targets in the South and the Pacific. The U.S. has also deployed more military assets near the Korean peninsula including a nuclear missile submarine, aircraft carriers and large bombers. Wrapping up a major ruling party meeting, leader Kim Jong Un on Saturday lashed out at Washington for deploying large weapons and vowed to increase the North's nuclear arsenal and grow attack capabilities to "pacify the South." The North called the joint firing drills "reckless war manoeuvres" and mocked South Korea for backing Washington's hegemonic ambitions "when it has no chance of winning or survival." "With the instinct of confrontation deep in their bones, the puppets again marked the new year by making the aggressive choice that stokes war," the North's official KCNA news agency said in a commentary. "2024 is the year of the highest risk of conflict," it said. The joint drills involved more than 110 large combat weapons including South Korean army tanks, anti-aircraft artillery and combat earthmovers supported by U.S. military attack aircraft and armoured fighting vehicles, the Army said. South Korea's navy on Wednesday conducted live firing drills and anti-submarine manoeuvres in the waters in the east, west and the south involving destroyers, frigates and corvettes, the navy said.

South Korea, US conduct week-long wargames near North Korea border

South Korean actor Lee Sun-Kyun's family and friends mourn his demise and the public criticism of police and media conduct during the investigation of his alleged drug use is now on the rise. Lee who was best known for his performance in the Oscar-winning movie Parasite was found dead in a car earlier this week. While celebrities continue to mourn his demise the actor's reputation has suffered a blow.

Seoul: South Korean actor Lee Sun-Kyun found dead in a car amid drug case

South Korea and Japan engaged in high-level economic talks on Thursday, marking the resumption of discussions that had been stalled for eight years, Reuters reported.<o:p></o:p>

The talks, initiated in 1999, faced a hiatus since 2016 due to strained relations stemming from historical disputes related to Japan's occupation of Korea from 1910 to 1945. South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, prioritising diplomatic mending, has taken significant steps to improve ties with Tokyo since assuming office in 2022.<o:p></o:p>

Kang Jae-kwon, South Korea's deputy foreign minister for economic affairs, met with his Japanese counterpart Keiichi Ono, senior deputy foreign minister, to assess bilateral economic cooperation and discuss economic security policy. Kang expressed optimism, stating, "I hope that today's meeting will be a constructive time to contribute to restoring and deepening economic relations between the two countries."<o:p></o:p>

The thaw in relations reflects a broader trend of increasing cooperation driven by shared geopolitical concerns. Earlier this year, South Korea announced plans for its companies to compensate individuals who were forced to work under Japan's occupation from 1910 to 1945, signalling efforts to resolve historical disputes. This move aimed to strengthen unity among US-led efforts against common challenges posed by China and North Korea.<o:p></o:p>

In a demonstration of enhanced trilateral collaboration, Japan, South Korea, and the United States recently launched a real-time missile data-sharing system to monitor Pyongyang's nuclear and missile programs. <o:p></o:p>

Furthermore, Japan reinstated South Korea to its "white list" for exports, granting fast-track trade status, and lifted export curbs on high-tech materials in March. However, despite these positive steps, lingering friction remains in the ties between Japan and South Korea.<o:p></o:p>

Ongoing challenges include South Korea's decade-long ban on seafood from the vicinity of the Fukushima nuclear power plant and a recent South Korean court ruling in favour of "comfort women" – women forced to work in Japanese wartime brothels. <o:p></o:p>

Notably, South Korea's Supreme Court on Thursday upheld rulings ordering two Japanese companies to compensate South Koreans who were forced to work under Japan's colonial rule, prompting a swift protest from Tokyo.<o:p></o:p>

(With inputs from Reuters)<o:p></o:p>

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South Korea and Japan engaged in high-level economic talks on Thursday, marking the resumption of discussions that had been stalled for eight years, Reuters reported.

South Korea and Japan engaged in high-level economic talks on Thursday, marking the resumption of discussions that had been stalled for eight years, Reuters reported. The talks, initiated in 1999, faced a hiatus since 2016 due to strained relations stemming from historical disputes related to Japan's occupation of Korea from 1910 to 1945. South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, prioritising diplomatic mending, has taken significant steps to improve ties with Tokyo since assuming office in 2022. Kang Jae-kwon, South Korea's deputy foreign minister for economic affairs, met with his Japanese counterpart Keiichi Ono, senior deputy foreign minister, to assess bilateral economic cooperation and discuss economic security policy. Kang expressed optimism, stating, "I hope that today's meeting will be a constructive time to contribute to restoring and deepening economic relations between the two countries." The thaw in relations reflects a broader trend of increasing cooperation driven by shared geopolitical concerns. Earlier this year, South Korea announced plans for its companies to compensate individuals who were forced to work under Japan's occupation from 1910 to 1945, signalling efforts to resolve historical disputes. This move aimed to strengthen unity among US-led efforts against common challenges posed by China and North Korea. In a demonstration of enhanced trilateral collaboration, Japan, South Korea, and the United States recently launched a real-time missile data-sharing system to monitor Pyongyang's nuclear and missile programs. Furthermore, Japan reinstated South Korea to its "white list" for exports, granting fast-track trade status, and lifted export curbs on high-tech materials in March. However, despite these positive steps, lingering friction remains in the ties between Japan and South Korea. Ongoing challenges include South Korea's decade-long ban on seafood from the vicinity of the Fukushima nuclear power plant and a recent South Korean court ruling in favour of "comfort women" – women forced to work in Japanese wartime brothels. Notably, South Korea's Supreme Court on Thursday upheld rulings ordering two Japanese companies to compensate South Koreans who were forced to work under Japan's colonial rule, prompting a swift protest from Tokyo. (With inputs from Reuters) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Diplomatic Thaw: South Korea and Japan renew economic talks after eight-year hiatus

North Korea launched a ballistic projectile on Sunday (Dec 17), a statement by Seoul's army read, after the United States and South Korea warned any nuclear attack by Pyongyang would lead to the end of its regime.

"Our military detected a suspected short-range ballistic missile launched from the Pyongyang area towards the East Sea at around 22:38 today," Seoul's Joint Chiefs of Staff said, referring to the body of water also known as the Sea of Japan.

It further added that the military had amplified its alert stance and was "closely sharing information regarding North Korea's ballistic missile with the United States and Japan".

Japan's defence ministry also stated North Korea launched "what appears to be a ballistic missile", with its coastguard adding that it seemed to have already fallen.

Kyodo News, citing unnamed Japanese government sources, said it was a short-range missile and had fallen outside Japan's Exclusive Economic Zone.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-weighs-options-to-retaliate-against-houthi-attacks-in-red-sea-report-670514">US weighs options to retaliate against Houthi attacks in Red Sea: Report</a>

<h2>US, South Korea warn North Korea&nbsp;</h2>

The United States and South Korea issued a warning to North Korea that any kind of nuclear attack against Seoul and Washington "is unacceptable and will result in the end of the (Kim Jong) Un regime”.&nbsp;

"The US side reiterated that any nuclear attack by the DPRK against the ROK will be met with a swift, overwhelming, and decisive response," read the statement.

Both allies held their second session of the Nuclear Consultative Group in Washington on Friday (Dec 15), where they discussed nuclear deterrence in the event of conflict with the North.

Earlier on Sunday (Dec 17), a spokesperson for the North's defence ministry slammed the US and South Korea's plans to expand a key annual joint military drill next year to include a nuclear operation drill and warned of "a preemptive and deadly counteraction".

"This is an open declaration on nuclear confrontation to make the use of nuclear weapons against the DPRK a fait accompli," the statement carried by the KCNA news agency said, using the official acronym for North Korea.

(With inputs from agencies)

North Korea launched a ballistic projectile on Sunday (Dec 17), a statement by Seoul's army read, after the United States and South Korea warned any nuclear attack by Pyongyang would lead to the end of its regime.

North Korea launched a ballistic projectile on Sunday (Dec 17), a statement by Seoul's army read, after the United States and South Korea warned any nuclear attack by Pyongyang would lead to the end of its regime. "Our military detected a suspected short-range ballistic missile launched from the Pyongyang area towards the East Sea at around 22:38 today," Seoul's Joint Chiefs of Staff said, referring to the body of water also known as the Sea of Japan. It further added that the military had amplified its alert stance and was "closely sharing information regarding North Korea's ballistic missile with the United States and Japan". Japan's defence ministry also stated North Korea launched "what appears to be a ballistic missile", with its coastguard adding that it seemed to have already fallen. Kyodo News, citing unnamed Japanese government sources, said it was a short-range missile and had fallen outside Japan's Exclusive Economic Zone. Also read: US weighs options to retaliate against Houthi attacks in Red Sea: Report US, South Korea warn North Korea The United States and South Korea issued a warning to North Korea that any kind of nuclear attack against Seoul and Washington "is unacceptable and will result in the end of the (Kim Jong) Un regime”. "The US side reiterated that any nuclear attack by the DPRK against the ROK will be met with a swift, overwhelming, and decisive response," read the statement. Both allies held their second session of the Nuclear Consultative Group in Washington on Friday (Dec 15), where they discussed nuclear deterrence in the event of conflict with the North. Earlier on Sunday (Dec 17), a spokesperson for the North's defence ministry slammed the US and South Korea's plans to expand a key annual joint military drill next year to include a nuclear operation drill and warned of "a preemptive and deadly counteraction". "This is an open declaration on nuclear confrontation to make the use of nuclear weapons against the DPRK a fait accompli," the statement carried by the KCNA news agency said, using the official acronym for North Korea. (With inputs from agencies)

North Korea has fired ballistic projectile, says South Korea

North Korea has warned that it would carry more spy satellite launches in the coming months in order to gather more information about the military activities of its enemies, a commentary carried by state news agency KCNA said on Saturday (Dec 9).

"If necessary, they will perfectly execute the job of guiding and leading us towards a super strong strike," the anonymous commentary said while defending space development as its right to defend itself.

The satellites will be sported after the Malligyong-1 satellite that Pyongyang launched in the month of November, the move which governments in the United States, South Korea and Japan condemned stating it violated UN&nbsp;Security Council resolutions.

<h2>US, S Korea and Japan security advisors set to discuss North Korea</h2>

The national security advisers of the United States, South Korea and Japan are scheduled to hold a trilateral meeting in Seoul on Saturday (Dec 9) after Pyongyang warned of launching more spy satellites.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-makes-rare-appearance-at-un-defends-spy-satellite-launch-663579">North Korea makes rare appearance at UN, defends spy satellite launch after Kim inspects White House images</a>

US Indo-Pacific coordinator Kurt Campbell on Thursday said that Washington was to focus more on deterrence while also working with its allies.

"I am worried that North Korea, in the current environment, has decided that they are no longer interested in diplomacy with the United States," Campbell said.

<h2>Kim Jong Un inspects photos of ‘major target regions’</h2>

Earlier, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un reportedly examined the pictures of "major target regions" that were taken by his spy rocket satellite.

The regions included South Korea's capital Seoul and all the other cities that host US military bases.

Kim inspected the shots, along with other imagery captured of some areas within North Korea, during his visit to the control centre of the National Aerospace Technology Administration (NATA) in Pyongyang on Friday (Nov 24), reported state news agency KCNA.

The pictures were taken as the satellite passed over the peninsula on Friday morning, said KCNA, which included captures of Seoul, and Mokpo, Kunsan, Pyeongtaek, Osan, where US and South Korean military bases are located.

"The NATA reported to Kim Jong Un on the plan for photographing the region of South Korean puppets and the additional fine-tuning process of the reconnaissance satellite," the report said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

North Korea has warned that it would carry more spy satellite launches in the coming months in order to gather more information about the military activities of its enemies, a commentary carried by state news agency KCNA said on Saturday (Dec 9).

North Korea has warned that it would carry more spy satellite launches in the coming months in order to gather more information about the military activities of its enemies, a commentary carried by state news agency KCNA said on Saturday (Dec 9). "If necessary, they will perfectly execute the job of guiding and leading us towards a super strong strike," the anonymous commentary said while defending space development as its right to defend itself. The satellites will be sported after the Malligyong-1 satellite that Pyongyang launched in the month of November, the move which governments in the United States, South Korea and Japan condemned stating it violated UN Security Council resolutions. US, S Korea and Japan security advisors set to discuss North Korea The national security advisers of the United States, South Korea and Japan are scheduled to hold a trilateral meeting in Seoul on Saturday (Dec 9) after Pyongyang warned of launching more spy satellites. Also read: North Korea makes rare appearance at UN, defends spy satellite launch after Kim inspects White House images US Indo-Pacific coordinator Kurt Campbell on Thursday said that Washington was to focus more on deterrence while also working with its allies. "I am worried that North Korea, in the current environment, has decided that they are no longer interested in diplomacy with the United States," Campbell said. Kim Jong Un inspects photos of ‘major target regions’ Earlier, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un reportedly examined the pictures of "major target regions" that were taken by his spy rocket satellite. The regions included South Korea's capital Seoul and all the other cities that host US military bases. Kim inspected the shots, along with other imagery captured of some areas within North Korea, during his visit to the control centre of the National Aerospace Technology Administration (NATA) in Pyongyang on Friday (Nov 24), reported state news agency KCNA. The pictures were taken as the satellite passed over the peninsula on Friday morning, said KCNA, which included captures of Seoul, and Mokpo, Kunsan, Pyeongtaek, Osan, where US and South Korean military bases are located. "The NATA reported to Kim Jong Un on the plan for photographing the region of South Korean puppets and the additional fine-tuning process of the reconnaissance satellite," the report said. (With inputs from agencies)

North Korea boasts of satellite capability, warns to launch more soon

The World Economic Forum (WEF) has identified Seoul, Dubai, and Santa Monica as the leading cities in the growing metaverse sector, as per a report by technology intelligence firm ABI Research. <o:p></o:p>

The report anticipates that nearly 700 cities worldwide will embrace metaverse infrastructure by 2030. WEF highlighted the advantages of cities exploring the metaverse, citing potential cost savings in urban infrastructure design and operation. The metaverse also offers a pathway for cities to gain 'political capital' by fostering tech-friendly communities.<o:p></o:p>

In Santa Monica, the metaverse has manifested through FlickPlay, a social media app enabling users to navigate the city virtually. FlickPlay encourages users to explore less-traveled areas, creating economic activity and reducing crime. <o:p></o:p>

In Dubai, the metaverse plays a pivotal role in the city's economic growth campaign, aiming to become one of the world's top cities in terms of GDP. Dubai plans to attract 1,000 firms in blockchain and metaverse sectors and host over 40,000 Web3 professionals in the next seven years. The WEF report noted that over 50 per cent of Dubai consumers are eager to create and monetise metaverse content.<o:p></o:p>

Seoul's metaverse expansion is government-backed, with South Korea committing $180 million to develop a national metaverse ecosystem. Metaverse Seoul, in its initial phase, offers an urban metaverse app for residents to play games, explore attractions, and complete tasks. Seoul's future metaverse plans include connecting local industries with foreign investors and integrating virtual and augmented reality into the city's infrastructure. The WEF report emphasises the Korean government's dedication to fostering metaverse growth.<o:p></o:p>

Despite challenges faced by the metaverse sector, including consecutive losses in Meta's metaverse-dedicated unit, industry leaders like Mark Zuckerberg remain optimistic. 

The global metaverse market, estimated at $65.5 billion in 2022, is expected to reach $82 billion in 2023 and surge to an impressive $936.6 billion by 2030, according to Statista. As cities worldwide invest in metaverse infrastructure, the sector's projected growth aligns with the continued enthusiasm and commitment from influential figures like Zuckerberg.<o:p></o:p>

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The World Economic Forum (WEF) has identified Seoul, Dubai, and Santa Monica as the leading cities in the growing metaverse sector, as per a report by technology intelligence firm ABI Research.

The World Economic Forum (WEF) has identified Seoul, Dubai, and Santa Monica as the leading cities in the growing metaverse sector, as per a report by technology intelligence firm ABI Research. The report anticipates that nearly 700 cities worldwide will embrace metaverse infrastructure by 2030. WEF highlighted the advantages of cities exploring the metaverse, citing potential cost savings in urban infrastructure design and operation. The metaverse also offers a pathway for cities to gain 'political capital' by fostering tech-friendly communities. In Santa Monica, the metaverse has manifested through FlickPlay, a social media app enabling users to navigate the city virtually. FlickPlay encourages users to explore less-traveled areas, creating economic activity and reducing crime. In Dubai, the metaverse plays a pivotal role in the city's economic growth campaign, aiming to become one of the world's top cities in terms of GDP. Dubai plans to attract 1,000 firms in blockchain and metaverse sectors and host over 40,000 Web3 professionals in the next seven years. The WEF report noted that over 50 per cent of Dubai consumers are eager to create and monetise metaverse content. Seoul's metaverse expansion is government-backed, with South Korea committing $180 million to develop a national metaverse ecosystem. Metaverse Seoul, in its initial phase, offers an urban metaverse app for residents to play games, explore attractions, and complete tasks. Seoul's future metaverse plans include connecting local industries with foreign investors and integrating virtual and augmented reality into the city's infrastructure. The WEF report emphasises the Korean government's dedication to fostering metaverse growth. Despite challenges faced by the metaverse sector, including consecutive losses in Meta's metaverse-dedicated unit, industry leaders like Mark Zuckerberg remain optimistic. The global metaverse market, estimated at $65.5 billion in 2022, is expected to reach $82 billion in 2023 and surge to an impressive $936.6 billion by 2030, according to Statista. As cities worldwide invest in metaverse infrastructure, the sector's projected growth aligns with the continued enthusiasm and commitment from influential figures like Zuckerberg. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Global Metaverse Leaders Emerge: Seoul, Dubai, and Santa Monica spearhead WEF report's list

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un examined the pictures of "major target regions" that were taken by his new spy rocket satellite, state media reported on Saturday (Nov 25).

These regions included South Korea's capital Seoul and all the other cities that host US military bases.

Kim inspected the shots, along with other imagery captured of some areas within North Korea, during his visit to the control centre of the National Aerospace Technology Administration (NATA) in Pyongyang on Friday (Nov 24), reported state news agency KCNA.

The pictures were taken as the satellite passed over the peninsula on Friday morning, said KCNA, which included captures of Seoul, and Mokpo, Kunsan, Pyeongtaek, Osan, where US and South Korean military bases are located.

"The NATA reported to Kim Jong Un on the plan for photographing the region of South Korean puppets and the additional fine-tuning process of the reconnaissance satellite," the report said. That process would continue on Saturday, it said.&nbsp;

On Tuesday, Kim reviewed photographs of major US military bases in Guam.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-rocket-stage-explodes-after-separation-during-launch-video-suggests-662135">North Korea rocket stage exploded after separation during launch, video suggests</a>

State-run news agency KCNA said that Kim "watched the aerospace photos of Anderson Air Force Base, Apra Harbor and other major military bases of the US forces taken in the sky above Guam in the Pacific, which were received at 9:21 am on Nov 22".&nbsp;

<h2>Top diplomats of US, Japan, South Korea discuss Pyongyang's satellite launch</h2>

The top diplomats of the United States, South Korea and Japan discussed Pyongyang's launch of the satellite over telephone conversation and condemned the move, the US State Department said on Friday.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, South Korean Foreign Minister Park Jin and Japan Foreign Minister Kamikawa Yoko "strongly condemned the (Nov. 21) launch for its destabilizing effect on the region," the State Department said in a statement.

North Korea invited global condemnation, after releasing a statement saying that it placed its first spy satellite in orbit, for breaching UN resolutions that bar its use of technology applicable to ballistic projectile programmes.

(With inputs from agencies)

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un examined the pictures of "major target regions" that were taken by his new spy rocket satellite, state media reported on Saturday (Nov 25).

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un examined the pictures of "major target regions" that were taken by his new spy rocket satellite, state media reported on Saturday (Nov 25). These regions included South Korea's capital Seoul and all the other cities that host US military bases. Kim inspected the shots, along with other imagery captured of some areas within North Korea, during his visit to the control centre of the National Aerospace Technology Administration (NATA) in Pyongyang on Friday (Nov 24), reported state news agency KCNA. The pictures were taken as the satellite passed over the peninsula on Friday morning, said KCNA, which included captures of Seoul, and Mokpo, Kunsan, Pyeongtaek, Osan, where US and South Korean military bases are located. "The NATA reported to Kim Jong Un on the plan for photographing the region of South Korean puppets and the additional fine-tuning process of the reconnaissance satellite," the report said. That process would continue on Saturday, it said. On Tuesday, Kim reviewed photographs of major US military bases in Guam. Also read: North Korea rocket stage exploded after separation during launch, video suggests State-run news agency KCNA said that Kim "watched the aerospace photos of Anderson Air Force Base, Apra Harbor and other major military bases of the US forces taken in the sky above Guam in the Pacific, which were received at 9:21 am on Nov 22". Top diplomats of US, Japan, South Korea discuss Pyongyang's satellite launch The top diplomats of the United States, South Korea and Japan discussed Pyongyang's launch of the satellite over telephone conversation and condemned the move, the US State Department said on Friday. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, South Korean Foreign Minister Park Jin and Japan Foreign Minister Kamikawa Yoko "strongly condemned the (Nov. 21) launch for its destabilizing effect on the region," the State Department said in a statement. North Korea invited global condemnation, after releasing a statement saying that it placed its first spy satellite in orbit, for breaching UN resolutions that bar its use of technology applicable to ballistic projectile programmes. (With inputs from agencies)

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un inspects photos of ‘major target regions’ taken by spy satellite

North Korea on Thursday (Nov 23) said that it was suspending a military accord that it had reached with South Korea, under which measures were agreed upon to ease military tensions between the two countries, news agency Yonhap reported.

"From now on, our army will never be bound by the September 19 North-South Military Agreement," the statement said.

"We will withdraw military measures taken to prevent military tensions and clashes in all areas such as land, sea and air, and will place strong armed forces and advanced military equipment in border areas," the nuclear-armed North's defence ministry said, according to the South's Yonhap news agency.

The ministry said it "will not be restrained" by the 2018 agreement any longer.

This move by Pyongyang comes after Seoul on Wednesday announced that it would resume its surveillance operations along the border and would also partially suspend the 2018 deal in retaliation to North's successful launch of a spy rocket satellite.

The Comprehensive Military Agreement was signed in Pyongyang on September 19, 2018, by Kim and South Korean President Moon Jae-in.&nbsp;

Under the pact, both countries agreed to "completely cease all hostile acts against each other", by implementing military confidence-building measures in the air, land, and sea domains.

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<h2>US condemns launch</h2>

The United States and its allies condemned the launch of the "Malligyong-1" spy satellite calling it a "brazen violation" of UN sanctions.

South Korea's military said that the satellite had entered orbit, further cautioning that it was too early to tell if it was functioning.

Pyongyang's defence ministry, on Thursday, reiterated that the satellite launch was part of its "right to self-defence", and disregarded the "extremely hysterical" response from the South in particular.&nbsp;

It condemned the South for placing the deal under strain through its "military provocations", stating that the agreement had "long been reduced to a mere scrap of paper".

The South "must pay dearly for their irresponsible and grave political and military provocations that have pushed the present situation to an uncontrollable phase," the ministry said.

(With inputs from agencies)

North Korea on Thursday (Nov 23) said that it was suspending a military accord that it had reached with South Korea, under which measures were agreed upon to ease military tensions between the two countries, news agency Yonhap reported.

North Korea on Thursday (Nov 23) said that it was suspending a military accord that it had reached with South Korea, under which measures were agreed upon to ease military tensions between the two countries, news agency Yonhap reported. "From now on, our army will never be bound by the September 19 North-South Military Agreement," the statement said. "We will withdraw military measures taken to prevent military tensions and clashes in all areas such as land, sea and air, and will place strong armed forces and advanced military equipment in border areas," the nuclear-armed North's defence ministry said, according to the South's Yonhap news agency. The ministry said it "will not be restrained" by the 2018 agreement any longer. This move by Pyongyang comes after Seoul on Wednesday announced that it would resume its surveillance operations along the border and would also partially suspend the 2018 deal in retaliation to North's successful launch of a spy rocket satellite. The Comprehensive Military Agreement was signed in Pyongyang on September 19, 2018, by Kim and South Korean President Moon Jae-in. Under the pact, both countries agreed to "completely cease all hostile acts against each other", by implementing military confidence-building measures in the air, land, and sea domains. Also read: No Gaza hostage release before Friday, say Israeli officials US condemns launch The United States and its allies condemned the launch of the "Malligyong-1" spy satellite calling it a "brazen violation" of UN sanctions. South Korea's military said that the satellite had entered orbit, further cautioning that it was too early to tell if it was functioning. Pyongyang's defence ministry, on Thursday, reiterated that the satellite launch was part of its "right to self-defence", and disregarded the "extremely hysterical" response from the South in particular. It condemned the South for placing the deal under strain through its "military provocations", stating that the agreement had "long been reduced to a mere scrap of paper". The South "must pay dearly for their irresponsible and grave political and military provocations that have pushed the present situation to an uncontrollable phase," the ministry said. (With inputs from agencies)

North Korea suspends military deal with South after spy satellite launch

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