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South Korea's $7 billion AI boost | Netanyahu sets date for Rafah invasion

<p>South Korea’s defence ministry, on Monday (Apr 8) said that the country’s second homegrown spy satellite had successfully been launched and entered orbit. The launch took place a day prior on a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from the John F Kennedy Space Center in Florida, United States.</p>

<h2><strong>Second spy satellite launched</strong></h2>

<p>The second launch comes months after the first one&nbsp;put South Korea’s spy satellite into orbit from Vandenberg Space Force Base, California in December.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The recent launch also comes days after North Korea reaffirmed its plan to launch multiple reconnaissance satellites this year.</p>

<p>The successful launch took place at 2317 GMT on Sunday, which was Monday morning in Seoul. South Korea’s defense ministry said that the satellite successfully separated from the launch vehicle 45 minutes after the launch and entered its targeted orbit.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>According to South Korea’s military officials, successful communications with a ground station were made two hours and 40 minutes after the launch.</p>

<p>The recently launched South Korean satellite is equipped with a Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) which is said to be capable of producing images regardless of weather conditions.</p>

<p>“With the success of the second military spy satellite launch, our military has acquired an additional independent surveillance ability and further bolstered our ‘kill chain’ capability,” defense ministry spokesperson Jeon Ha Gyu told reporters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>South Korea will launch five spy satellites by 2025 under a contract with Elon Musk’s SpaceX. In 2022, Seoul became the 10th nation in the world to successfully launch a satellite with its own technology by using a homegrown rocket.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We will proceed with future satellite launches without a hitch,” said a statement by the ministry after the second launch.</p>

<h2><strong>Race with North Korea</strong></h2>

<p>The spy satellite launches come amid growing tensions between Pyongyang and Seoul, with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un labelling South Korea as his country’s “principal enemy”.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Both countries have sought to improve their military capabilities in space. North Korea claimed that it successfully launched the Malligyong-1 satellite into orbit in November, after its two fiery failures.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/probe-begins-in-another-boeing-mishap-after-engine-cover-falls-off-passenger-records-scary-moment-watch-708794">Probe begins after engine cover falls off Southwest Boeing flight; passenger records 'scary' moment</a></strong></p>

<p>Speaking about North Korea’s first spy satellite,&nbsp;Marco Langbroek, a satellite expert at Delft University of Technology in the Netherlands said, "We can definitely say the satellite is alive,” as&nbsp;quoted by Reuters.</p>

<p>Pyongyang has also previously vowed to launch three new spy satellites in 2024.</p>

<p>South Korean defence minister Shin Won-sik said that North Korea could launch a second spy satellite as early as mid-April, reported news agency Yonhap.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Jeon told reporters that Shin’s comments are based on the military’s observation of North Korea’s related activities.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


South Korea’s defence ministry, on Monday (Apr 8) said that the country’s second homegrown spy satellite had successfully been launched and entered orbit. The launch took place a day prior on a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from the John F Kennedy Space Center in Florida, United States.

South Korea’s defence ministry, on Monday (Apr 8) said that the country’s second homegrown spy satellite had successfully been launched and entered orbit. The launch took place a day prior on a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from the John F Kennedy Space Center in Florida, United States. Second spy satellite launched The second launch comes months after the first one put South Korea’s spy satellite into orbit from Vandenberg Space Force Base, California in December. The recent launch also comes days after North Korea reaffirmed its plan to launch multiple reconnaissance satellites this year. The successful launch took place at 2317 GMT on Sunday, which was Monday morning in Seoul. South Korea’s defense ministry said that the satellite successfully separated from the launch vehicle 45 minutes after the launch and entered its targeted orbit. Also Read | Russia-Ukraine war: Drone strikes damage Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant According to South Korea’s military officials, successful communications with a ground station were made two hours and 40 minutes after the launch. The recently launched South Korean satellite is equipped with a Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) which is said to be capable of producing images regardless of weather conditions. “With the success of the second military spy satellite launch, our military has acquired an additional independent surveillance ability and further bolstered our ‘kill chain’ capability,” defense ministry spokesperson Jeon Ha Gyu told reporters. South Korea will launch five spy satellites by 2025 under a contract with Elon Musk’s SpaceX. In 2022, Seoul became the 10th nation in the world to successfully launch a satellite with its own technology by using a homegrown rocket. “We will proceed with future satellite launches without a hitch,” said a statement by the ministry after the second launch. Race with North Korea The spy satellite launches come amid growing tensions between Pyongyang and Seoul, with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un labelling South Korea as his country’s “principal enemy”. Both countries have sought to improve their military capabilities in space. North Korea claimed that it successfully launched the Malligyong-1 satellite into orbit in November, after its two fiery failures. Also Read | Probe begins after engine cover falls off Southwest Boeing flight; passenger records 'scary' moment Speaking about North Korea’s first spy satellite, Marco Langbroek, a satellite expert at Delft University of Technology in the Netherlands said, "We can definitely say the satellite is alive,” as quoted by Reuters. Pyongyang has also previously vowed to launch three new spy satellites in 2024. South Korean defence minister Shin Won-sik said that North Korea could launch a second spy satellite as early as mid-April, reported news agency Yonhap. Jeon told reporters that Shin’s comments are based on the military’s observation of North Korea’s related activities. (With inputs from agencies)

South Korea successfully launches second military spy satellite amid race with North Korea

It is a high-stakes election in South Korea where early voting began a few hours ago. The early voting comes just days ahead of April 10 parliamentary elections in the country. Polls are being held for 300-seat strong national assembly

South Korea Elections: President Yoon Suk Yeol casts vote in early ballot

South Korea's Yoon Suk Yeol in high stakes battle

South Korea's 'artificial Sun', known as the Korea Superconducting Tokamak Advanced Research (KSTAR), has set a world record in nuclear fusion. Watch in for more details!

South Korea: 'Artificial Sun' reaches a temperature of 100 million Celsius for record period

<p>Dozens of South Koreans were seen holding umbrellas and wearing raincoats as they braved the rainy weather to bid farewell to Fu Bao, the first giant panda born in the country, as she left for China, on Wednesday (Apr 3).&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Fu Bao's emotional farewell</strong></h2>

<p>The first giant panda was born in 2020 in South Korea’s Everland theme park near the capital city of Seoul. Fu Bao is the daughter of pandas Ai Bao and Le Bao who came from China in 2016 on a 15-year lease programme.</p>

<p>On Wednesday, the truck carrying Fu Bao slowly moved to a plaza which was surrounded by her fans standing in the rain as many shouted their parting messages and took photos and videos on their phone.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>The vehicle was also decorated with a huge picture of the panda whose name means lucky treasure along with the message, “It was a miracle to meet you. Thank you, Fu Bao.”&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Fu Bao, the first giant panda born in South Korea, has returned to China. Before her departure, thousands of panda lovers braved the rainy weather to attend a farewell event at theme park Everland and say goodbye to the country's top panda celebrity.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/panda?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#panda</a> <a href="https://t.co/oBcJrFjhRJ">pic.twitter.com/oBcJrFjhRJ</a></p>
— Our World (@MeetOurWorld) <a href="https://twitter.com/MeetOurWorld/status/1775491650728739067?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 3, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>She made her last public appearance a month ago and has been inside the park since. On March 3, the theme park witnessed thousands of fans queuing up in the early morning chill to see their beloved Fu Bao before she left for China.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“You are our baby panda forever even if 10 years pass or 100 years pass,” zookeeper Kang Cheol-won said in a speech during the ceremony, as quoted by the Associated Press.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added, “Dear all, Fu Bao is now leaving. Please, remember Fu Bao for a long, long time…and please don’t cry much!”&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Fu Bao lands in China</strong></h2>

<p>The cub’s parents, 10-year-old female Ai Bao and Le Bao (11) came to South Korea from China’s Sichuan province, the home of the giant pandas, as part of Beijing’s “panda diplomacy”.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-paris-bids-adieu-to-yuan-meng-as-first-france-born-panda-heads-to-china-619329">Paris bids adieu to Yuan Meng as first France-born panda heads to China</a></strong></p>

<p>In July 2023, Ai Bao gave birth in South Korea to giant panda twins, one of whom was Fu Bao.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The beloved panda cub landed in China’s Chengdu, Sichuan Province, on Wednesday (Apr 3) night on a chartered flight, reported the Chinese newspaper People’s Daily.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Fu Bao will be transported to the Shenshuping giant panda base in Wolong National Nature Reserve, located 130 kilometres northwest of Chengdu for quarantine.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Dozens of South Koreans were seen holding umbrellas and wearing raincoats as they braved the rainy weather to bid farewell to Fu Bao, the first giant panda born in the country, as she left for China, on Wednesday (Apr 3).

Dozens of South Koreans were seen holding umbrellas and wearing raincoats as they braved the rainy weather to bid farewell to Fu Bao, the first giant panda born in the country, as she left for China, on Wednesday (Apr 3). Fu Bao's emotional farewell The first giant panda was born in 2020 in South Korea’s Everland theme park near the capital city of Seoul. Fu Bao is the daughter of pandas Ai Bao and Le Bao who came from China in 2016 on a 15-year lease programme. On Wednesday, the truck carrying Fu Bao slowly moved to a plaza which was surrounded by her fans standing in the rain as many shouted their parting messages and took photos and videos on their phone. Also Read | Company develops Harry Potter-like invisibility cloak. Watch how it works The vehicle was also decorated with a huge picture of the panda whose name means lucky treasure along with the message, “It was a miracle to meet you. Thank you, Fu Bao.” Fu Bao, the first giant panda born in South Korea, has returned to China. Before her departure, thousands of panda lovers braved the rainy weather to attend a farewell event at theme park Everland and say goodbye to the country's top panda celebrity.#panda pic.twitter.com/oBcJrFjhRJ — Our World (@MeetOurWorld) April 3, 2024 × She made her last public appearance a month ago and has been inside the park since. On March 3, the theme park witnessed thousands of fans queuing up in the early morning chill to see their beloved Fu Bao before she left for China. “You are our baby panda forever even if 10 years pass or 100 years pass,” zookeeper Kang Cheol-won said in a speech during the ceremony, as quoted by the Associated Press. He added, “Dear all, Fu Bao is now leaving. Please, remember Fu Bao for a long, long time…and please don’t cry much!” Fu Bao lands in China The cub’s parents, 10-year-old female Ai Bao and Le Bao (11) came to South Korea from China’s Sichuan province, the home of the giant pandas, as part of Beijing’s “panda diplomacy”. Also Read | Paris bids adieu to Yuan Meng as first France-born panda heads to China In July 2023, Ai Bao gave birth in South Korea to giant panda twins, one of whom was Fu Bao. The beloved panda cub landed in China’s Chengdu, Sichuan Province, on Wednesday (Apr 3) night on a chartered flight, reported the Chinese newspaper People’s Daily. Fu Bao will be transported to the Shenshuping giant panda base in Wolong National Nature Reserve, located 130 kilometres northwest of Chengdu for quarantine. (With inputs from agencies)

WATCH | South Koreans bid farewell to beloved Fu Bao as first panda born in South Korea heads to China

<p>South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol said his government is open to speaking with doctors who are opposing his plan to raise medical school enrollment, while accusing detractors of giving no acceptable alternative to help a doctor shortage.</p>

<p>Yoon made the first indication in a 50-minute speech to the nation that he was open to reaching a consensus on his proposed medical reforms&nbsp;after the government's demand for talks with striking physicians.</p>

<p>Yoon expressed regret for whatever trouble the continuing trainee doctor strike has caused ans also charged the medical community with prioritising its personal profits over the general welfare of the public.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korean-medical-professors-join-trainee-doctors-strike-against-government-plan-703982" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korean-medical-professors-join-trainee-doctors-strike-against-government-plan-703982&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjaxqzAvKKFAxVlS2cHHZT-D8cQFnoECAkQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw2MZFV5HhIJxPk6VODNexS6&amp;arm=e" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korean-medical-professors-join-trainee-doctors-strike-against-government-plan-703982" target="_blank"><b>South Korean</b>&nbsp;medical professors join trainee&nbsp;<b>doctors</b>' strike</a></p>

<p>"If you come up with a more proper and reasonable solution, we can discuss it as much as you want," he said. "If you present better opinions and rational grounds, government policy can change for the better."</p>

<p>Since February 20, over 90 per cent&nbsp;of the 13,000 resident trainee doctors in the nation have participated in walkouts over the government's proposal to increase the number of medical school admissions from 3,000 to 2,000 starting in 2025.</p>

<p>With 2.6 doctors per 1,000 persons in 2022, South Korea's 52 million inhabitants had a doctor-to-population ratio that was much lower than the 3.7 average for OECD countries.</p>

<p>Previous governments have devised measures to tackle deepening shortages of doctors in essential services including paediatrics and emergency units, as well as clinics outside the greater Seoul area, but their efforts fell apart amid strong opposition from the medical sector.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/videos/south-korea-doctors-protest-over-30000-doctors-protest-against-medical-reforms-in-seoul-696216" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/videos/south-korea-doctors-protest-over-30000-doctors-protest-against-medical-reforms-in-seoul-696216&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjaxqzAvKKFAxVlS2cHHZT-D8cQFnoECAcQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw3W7f7DJelq25GKzZkSBtVP&amp;arm=e" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/south-korea-doctors-protest-over-30000-doctors-protest-against-medical-reforms-in-seoul-696216" target="_blank">Over 30000&nbsp;<b>doctors</b>&nbsp;protest against medical reforms in&nbsp;<b>Seoul</b>&nbsp;</a></p>

<p>Some medical professionals have said the Yoon administration had failed to consult in advance, and its plan would do little to fix the current situation, including low pay for trainee doctors.</p>

<p>Yoon refuted several claims by doctors' groups and highlighted why medical reform is imperative.</p>

<p>"After keeping a deafening silence over the government's request to provide specific numbers for medical school quotas, the medical community is now throwing numbers like 350, 500 and 1,000 without any grounds," he said.</p>

<p>"If they want to argue that the scale of the increase should be reduced, they should propose a unified idea with solid scientific evidence, rather than taking collective action."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol said his government is open to speaking with doctors who are opposing his plan to raise medical school enrollment, while accusing detractors of giving no acceptable alternative to help a doctor shortage.

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol said his government is open to speaking with doctors who are opposing his plan to raise medical school enrollment, while accusing detractors of giving no acceptable alternative to help a doctor shortage. Yoon made the first indication in a 50-minute speech to the nation that he was open to reaching a consensus on his proposed medical reforms after the government's demand for talks with striking physicians. Yoon expressed regret for whatever trouble the continuing trainee doctor strike has caused ans also charged the medical community with prioritising its personal profits over the general welfare of the public. Also read: South Korean medical professors join trainee doctors' strike "If you come up with a more proper and reasonable solution, we can discuss it as much as you want," he said. "If you present better opinions and rational grounds, government policy can change for the better." Since February 20, over 90 per cent of the 13,000 resident trainee doctors in the nation have participated in walkouts over the government's proposal to increase the number of medical school admissions from 3,000 to 2,000 starting in 2025. With 2.6 doctors per 1,000 persons in 2022, South Korea's 52 million inhabitants had a doctor-to-population ratio that was much lower than the 3.7 average for OECD countries. Previous governments have devised measures to tackle deepening shortages of doctors in essential services including paediatrics and emergency units, as well as clinics outside the greater Seoul area, but their efforts fell apart amid strong opposition from the medical sector. Also read: Over 30000 doctors protest against medical reforms in Seoul Some medical professionals have said the Yoon administration had failed to consult in advance, and its plan would do little to fix the current situation, including low pay for trainee doctors. Yoon refuted several claims by doctors' groups and highlighted why medical reform is imperative. "After keeping a deafening silence over the government's request to provide specific numbers for medical school quotas, the medical community is now throwing numbers like 350, 500 and 1,000 without any grounds," he said. "If they want to argue that the scale of the increase should be reduced, they should propose a unified idea with solid scientific evidence, rather than taking collective action." (With inputs from agencies)

S.Korean President Yoon urges doctors to end impasse over trainees

Doctors in South Korea are continuing their prolonged standoff with the government over a plan to boost medical school admissions. Earlier the government showed no signs of stepping back however ahead of the upcoming elections in the country on Monday President Yoon Suk Yeol indicated that some flexibility would be seen.

Doctors' Strike to affect South Korean polls?

<p>North Korea fired up an alleged intermediate-range ballistic missile into the sea off its east coast on Tuesday (April 2), South Korea's military said, in a move that sparked immediate criticism from the prime minister of Japan.</p>

<p>South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff said that it detected the launch of what appeared to be a ballistic missile of an intermediate-range class from the area of the North Korean capital Pyongyang on Tuesday at 0653 a.m. (2153 GMT on Monday).</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-veto-puts-an-end-to-monitoring-of-uns-north-korea-sanctions-705365" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-veto-puts-an-end-to-monitoring-of-uns-north-korea-sanctions-705365&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiN_IjbgKOFAxV0R2cHHU24Bb0QFnoECAMQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw1X46P3IrcD1q8wY1p9fDmp&amp;arm=e" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-veto-puts-an-end-to-monitoring-of-uns-north-korea-sanctions-705365" target="_blank">Russian veto puts an end to monitoring of UN's&nbsp;<b>North Korea</b>&nbsp;sanctions</a></p>

<p>South Korea said the missile flew about 600 km (372 miles) before falling into the sea, while Japan's defence ministry estimated it covered a distance of 650 km (400 miles) and hit a maximum altitude of 100 km (62 miles).</p>

<p>While the statement from South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff did not specify the exact type of missile, North Korea has been testing a new intermediate-range hypersonic missile powered by a solid-fuel engine.</p>

<p>In March, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un overlooked a ground test of a solid-fuel engine for a new type of intermediate-range hypersonic missile to develop national defence capability, as reported by the state media.</p>

<p>Japan said the missile appeared to have fallen outside of Japan's exclusive economic zone (EEZ).<br />
Notably, Russia and North Korea are developing closer military links, and the United States and its major Asian allies South Korea and Japan are expanding security cooperation.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korean-hackers-break-into-south-korean-chip-equipment-firms-seoul-696774" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korean-hackers-break-into-south-korean-chip-equipment-firms-seoul-696774&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiN_IjbgKOFAxV0R2cHHU24Bb0QFnoECAEQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw0JHXzk6NRdLBuW208eDQvM&amp;arm=e" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korean-hackers-break-into-south-korean-chip-equipment-firms-seoul-696774" target="_blank"><b>North Korean</b>&nbsp;hackers broke into South Korean chip equipment firms</a></p>

<p>The authorities from the US, South Korea, and Ukraine have accused North Korea of giving Russia weaponry, including missiles, to use in the war with Ukraine. Both Moscow and Pyongyang have refuted the allegation.</p>

<p>The foreign ministry of South Korea said on Tuesday that the country had imposed sanctions on two Russian ships that it claimed had carried armaments between North Korea and Russia as well as two Russian companies that used North Korean labourers in order to assist Pyongyang generate foreign exchange.</p>

<p>Addressing the media, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida condemned North Korea for Tuesday's missile launch that affected the peace and stability of the region.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-is-north-korea-known-as-the-most-isolated-country-in-the-world-430945" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/why-is-north-korea-known-as-the-most-isolated-country-in-the-world-430945&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiN_IjbgKOFAxV0R2cHHU24Bb0QFnoECAgQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw1dO1uihWm_mGjQCzs-lNTi&amp;arm=e" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-is-north-korea-known-as-the-most-isolated-country-in-the-world-430945" target="_blank">Why is&nbsp;<b>North Korea</b>&nbsp;known as the most isolated country in the world?</a></p>

<p>Last month North Korea remarked it had no interest in a summit with Japan and would reject any talks, potentially worsening already-hostile relations between the two countries.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the United States government is arranging a summit between President Joe Biden and his Japanese and South Korean counterparts in July on the sidelines of a NATO summit in Washington, Japanese media outlets reported.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


North Korea fired up an alleged intermediate-range ballistic missile into the sea off its east coast on Tuesday (April 2), South Korea's military said, in a move that sparked immediate criticism from the prime minister of Japan.

North Korea fired up an alleged intermediate-range ballistic missile into the sea off its east coast on Tuesday (April 2), South Korea's military said, in a move that sparked immediate criticism from the prime minister of Japan. South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff said that it detected the launch of what appeared to be a ballistic missile of an intermediate-range class from the area of the North Korean capital Pyongyang on Tuesday at 0653 a.m. (2153 GMT on Monday). Also read: Russian veto puts an end to monitoring of UN's North Korea sanctions South Korea said the missile flew about 600 km (372 miles) before falling into the sea, while Japan's defence ministry estimated it covered a distance of 650 km (400 miles) and hit a maximum altitude of 100 km (62 miles). While the statement from South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff did not specify the exact type of missile, North Korea has been testing a new intermediate-range hypersonic missile powered by a solid-fuel engine. In March, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un overlooked a ground test of a solid-fuel engine for a new type of intermediate-range hypersonic missile to develop national defence capability, as reported by the state media. Japan said the missile appeared to have fallen outside of Japan's exclusive economic zone (EEZ). Notably, Russia and North Korea are developing closer military links, and the United States and its major Asian allies South Korea and Japan are expanding security cooperation. Also read: North Korean hackers broke into South Korean chip equipment firms The authorities from the US, South Korea, and Ukraine have accused North Korea of giving Russia weaponry, including missiles, to use in the war with Ukraine. Both Moscow and Pyongyang have refuted the allegation. The foreign ministry of South Korea said on Tuesday that the country had imposed sanctions on two Russian ships that it claimed had carried armaments between North Korea and Russia as well as two Russian companies that used North Korean labourers in order to assist Pyongyang generate foreign exchange. Addressing the media, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida condemned North Korea for Tuesday's missile launch that affected the peace and stability of the region. Also read: Why is North Korea known as the most isolated country in the world? Last month North Korea remarked it had no interest in a summit with Japan and would reject any talks, potentially worsening already-hostile relations between the two countries. Meanwhile, the United States government is arranging a summit between President Joe Biden and his Japanese and South Korean counterparts in July on the sidelines of a NATO summit in Washington, Japanese media outlets reported. (With inputs from agencies)

South Korea says North Korea fired intermediate-range ballistic missile

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol said on Monday his government is open to talks with doctors who oppose his plan to increase medical school admissions, while accusing critics of offering no reasonable alternative to ease a doctor shortage.

South Korea: President Yoon calls doctors for constructive dialogue

South Korean President Yoon calls doctors for constructive dialogue

South Korea launches high-speed train to help improve country's birth rate by cutting commuting times. South Korea has the world's lowest fertility rate and its youth have often cited long commutes and cramped, expensive housing in greater Seoul as the main reasons for not getting married and starting a family.

South Korea: New speed train links will help boost birthrate

<p>The commuters and citizens of South Korean town of Seongnam were left baffled after they saw an ostrich running around and dodging cars amid heavy traffic, on Tuesday (Mar 26) before the flightless bird was eventually cornered and caught by the police and firefighters.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Who let the ostrich out?</strong></h2>

<p>According to the local authorities, the ostrich is believed to have escaped from a nearby ecological park and was spotted running loose on the streets of the South Korean town around 9:30 am (local time), surprising several drivers.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-billionaire-boom-mumbai-overtakes-beijing-as-asias-wealth-hub-704497">India's billionaire boom: Mumbai overtakes Beijing as Asia's wealth hub</a></strong></p>

<p>The photos and videos of the flightless bird dodging motorists and running on what seemed to be a highway quickly went viral.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
<em><strong>Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos, videos and information shared on social media.</strong></em></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="ko">성남에 타조 출현~ <a href="https://t.co/lmt1chrnVI">pic.twitter.com/lmt1chrnVI</a></p>
— DongTan_짱 (@kimeunhwa8270) <a href="https://twitter.com/kimeunhwa8270/status/1772443318397411399?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 26, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Ostrich caught and safely returned</strong></h2>

<p>The ordeal lasted for about an hour and the ostrich, who broke free from a zoo named Bug City, was eventually captured by the police and firefighters around 10:30 am (local time).&nbsp;</p>

<p>No injuries or damage was reported due to the incident, said officials as per South Korean news agency Yonhap.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/man-stuck-in-drain-rescued-after-36-hours-in-knee-deep-stormwater-in-australias-brisbane-704293">Man stuck in drain, rescued after 36 hours from 'knee deep' stormwaters in Australia's Brisbane</a></strong></p>

<p>The flightless bird, identified as the four-year-old male ostrich named Tadori, was caught by the police and a local fire department using a net at a car park about 2.6 kilometres away, according to news agency Reuters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Tadori was safe and returned to the zoo in stable condition, zoo owner Choi Yun-joo told Reuters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“His only friend, a female ostrich Tasooni, passed away about a month ago. Guess that has been tough on Tadori,” said Choi.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


The commuters and citizens of South Korean town of Seongnam were left baffled after they saw an ostrich running around and dodging cars amid heavy traffic, on Tuesday (Mar 26) before the flightless bird was eventually cornered and caught by the police and firefighters.

The commuters and citizens of South Korean town of Seongnam were left baffled after they saw an ostrich running around and dodging cars amid heavy traffic, on Tuesday (Mar 26) before the flightless bird was eventually cornered and caught by the police and firefighters. Who let the ostrich out? According to the local authorities, the ostrich is believed to have escaped from a nearby ecological park and was spotted running loose on the streets of the South Korean town around 9:30 am (local time), surprising several drivers. Also Read | India's billionaire boom: Mumbai overtakes Beijing as Asia's wealth hub The photos and videos of the flightless bird dodging motorists and running on what seemed to be a highway quickly went viral. Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos, videos and information shared on social media. View this post on Instagram A post shared by 최혜수 (@hola.__.m) × 성남에 타조 출현~ pic.twitter.com/lmt1chrnVI — DongTan_짱 (@kimeunhwa8270) March 26, 2024 × Ostrich caught and safely returned The ordeal lasted for about an hour and the ostrich, who broke free from a zoo named Bug City, was eventually captured by the police and firefighters around 10:30 am (local time). No injuries or damage was reported due to the incident, said officials as per South Korean news agency Yonhap. Also Read | Man stuck in drain, rescued after 36 hours from 'knee deep' stormwaters in Australia's Brisbane The flightless bird, identified as the four-year-old male ostrich named Tadori, was caught by the police and a local fire department using a net at a car park about 2.6 kilometres away, according to news agency Reuters. Tadori was safe and returned to the zoo in stable condition, zoo owner Choi Yun-joo told Reuters. “His only friend, a female ostrich Tasooni, passed away about a month ago. Guess that has been tough on Tadori,” said Choi. (With inputs from agencies)

WATCH | Ostrich runs around, dodging traffic after escape from South Korean zoo

<p>Medical professors in South Korea on Monday (Mar 25) announced that they would reduce their practice hours in solidarity with trainee doctors who have been on strike for over a month.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The trainee doctors have been protesting a government plan to increase medical school admissions.</p>

<h2><strong>A cause of concern</strong></h2>

<p>Kim Chang-soo, president of the Medical Professors Association of Korea, expressed concern about the increasing medical school admissions and said it would negatively impact medical education and potentially lead to the collapse of the country's healthcare system.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-raises-terror-alert-warning-to-highest-level-after-moscow-concert-attack-703916">France raises terror alert warning to highest level after Moscow concert attack</a></strong></p>

<p>"It is clear that increasing medical school admissions will not only ruin medical school education but cause our country's healthcare system to collapse," said Kim Chang-soo.</p>

<p>He announced that professors will start scaling back outpatient treatment and will only focus on emergency and severely ill patients, while some may even submit their resignations.</p>

<p>"If the punishment against trainee doctors is implemented, the medical professors' voluntary resignation will proceed forth, and our professors will inevitably be even more willing to resign," said&nbsp;Kim Chang-soo.</p>

<h2><strong>Why the government wants to increase medical school admissions&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The nation plans to increase the number of students admitted each year to medical school from 2025.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to South Korean government increasing medical school admissions is necessary to address a shortage of doctors in one of the world's fastest-ageing societies.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, critics argue that the focus should be on improving the working conditions of trainee doctors first.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ecuadors-youngest-mayor-brigitte-garcia-found-shot-dead-in-car-703925">Ecuador's youngest mayor Brigitte Garcia found shot dead in car</a></strong></p>

<p>President Yoon Suk Yeol, who has prioritised healthcare reforms as his signature policy initiatives, has vowed to proceed with the admissions plan despite the strike.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The government has also threatened to suspend the licences of striking doctors. However, President Yoon has urged Prime Minister Han Duck-soo to consider more "flexible measures" in dealing with the situation.</p>

<p>Yoon has also instructed the prime minister to establish a "constructive consultative body" to engage with medical professionals.</p>

<h2><strong>How the strike is affecting South Korea</strong></h2>

<p>As per Reuters, the strike by trainee doctors, which began on February 20, has caused several hospitals to reject patients and delay procedures.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A Gallup poll released on March 15 revealed that public opinion is divided on the government's handling of the situation. While 38 per cent approve of its response to the backlash from doctors and the medical void caused by the strike, 49 per cent disapprove and said "not a good job".</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Medical professors in South Korea on Monday (Mar 25) announced that they would reduce their practice hours in solidarity with trainee doctors who have been on strike for over a month.

Medical professors in South Korea on Monday (Mar 25) announced that they would reduce their practice hours in solidarity with trainee doctors who have been on strike for over a month. The trainee doctors have been protesting a government plan to increase medical school admissions. A cause of concern Kim Chang-soo, president of the Medical Professors Association of Korea, expressed concern about the increasing medical school admissions and said it would negatively impact medical education and potentially lead to the collapse of the country's healthcare system. Also read | France raises terror alert warning to highest level after Moscow concert attack "It is clear that increasing medical school admissions will not only ruin medical school education but cause our country's healthcare system to collapse," said Kim Chang-soo. He announced that professors will start scaling back outpatient treatment and will only focus on emergency and severely ill patients, while some may even submit their resignations. "If the punishment against trainee doctors is implemented, the medical professors' voluntary resignation will proceed forth, and our professors will inevitably be even more willing to resign," said Kim Chang-soo. Why the government wants to increase medical school admissions The nation plans to increase the number of students admitted each year to medical school from 2025. According to South Korean government increasing medical school admissions is necessary to address a shortage of doctors in one of the world's fastest-ageing societies. However, critics argue that the focus should be on improving the working conditions of trainee doctors first. Also read | Ecuador's youngest mayor Brigitte Garcia found shot dead in car President Yoon Suk Yeol, who has prioritised healthcare reforms as his signature policy initiatives, has vowed to proceed with the admissions plan despite the strike. The government has also threatened to suspend the licences of striking doctors. However, President Yoon has urged Prime Minister Han Duck-soo to consider more "flexible measures" in dealing with the situation. Yoon has also instructed the prime minister to establish a "constructive consultative body" to engage with medical professionals. How the strike is affecting South Korea As per Reuters, the strike by trainee doctors, which began on February 20, has caused several hospitals to reject patients and delay procedures. A Gallup poll released on March 15 revealed that public opinion is divided on the government's handling of the situation. While 38 per cent approve of its response to the backlash from doctors and the medical void caused by the strike, 49 per cent disapprove and said "not a good job". (With inputs from agencies)

South Korean medical professors join trainee doctors' strike against government plan

<p>North Korea has successfully tested a solid-fuel engine for a new type of intermediate-range hypersonic missile that could potentially hit the US territory of Guam.</p>

<p>According to state media, this marks progress in North Korea’s efforts to develop a more powerful and agile missile capable of hitting far-away targets in the region including Guam, where the US has a military base.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>North Korea’s hypersonic missile development</strong></p>

<p>North Korean leader Kim Jong Un guided the ground test of the solid-fuel engine, state news agency KCNA reported on Wednesday (Mar 20).&nbsp;</p>

<p>The test took place on Tuesday (Mar 19) morning at Sohae satellite launch station near the country’s west coast, said the report.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;North Korea: Kim Jong Un leads new war tank training in mock battle</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/north-korea-kim-jong-un-leads-new-war-tank-training-in-mock-battle-700042/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>The strategic value of the new missile with an intermediate range is as important as intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBM) targeting the US mainland and the “enemies know better about it,” Kim said, as per the state media.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Back in January,&nbsp;North Korea tested an intermediate-range hypersonic missile which it said involved a new solid-fuel engine.</p>

<p>The KCNA did not provide the specifics of the engine tested except to say that it was a “great success”.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korean-leader-oversees-firing-drills-of-super-large-rocket-launchers-to-potentially-target-seoul-701669">North Korean leader oversees firing drills of ‘super-large’ rocket launchers to potentially target Seoul</a></strong></p>

<p>Tuesday’s test would allow the project to proceed under a timetable for completing the development of the new hypersonic intermediate-range ballistic missile (IRMB), state media reported.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Live fire&nbsp;drills of ‘super-large’ rocket launchers</strong></h2>

<p>The developments come a day after Kim oversaw a live fire drill of nuclear-capable “super-large” multiple rocket launchers which are designed to target the South Korean capital Seoul.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The live fire drills on Monday (Mar 18) tested the “real war capabilities” of the 600-millimetre multiple rocket launchers and improve the operators’ combat readiness, state media reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-fires-ballistic-missiles-toward-sea-of-japan-as-blinken-attends-seoul-summit-701275">North Korea fires ballistic missiles towards Sea of Japan as Blinken attends key Seoul summit</a></strong></p>

<p>North Korea claims to have tested a number of new missiles and weapons since 2022.</p>

<p>Starting late last year, Kim had repeatedly called on the military to ramp up war preparations to counter the US and South Korea.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Monday, South Korean and Japanese militaries reported that North Korea launched multiple ballistic missiles towards the Sea of Japan when US Secretary of State Antony Blinken was attending a democracy summit in Seoul.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The state media reports about the live firing drills of “super-large” rocket launchers and the progress in the development of a new hypersonic IRMB come days after the US and South Korea concluded their large-scale annual joint military drills.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


North Korea has successfully tested a solid-fuel engine for a new type of intermediate-range hypersonic missile that could potentially hit the US territory of Guam.

North Korea has successfully tested a solid-fuel engine for a new type of intermediate-range hypersonic missile that could potentially hit the US territory of Guam. According to state media, this marks progress in North Korea’s efforts to develop a more powerful and agile missile capable of hitting far-away targets in the region including Guam, where the US has a military base. North Korea’s hypersonic missile development North Korean leader Kim Jong Un guided the ground test of the solid-fuel engine, state news agency KCNA reported on Wednesday (Mar 20). The test took place on Tuesday (Mar 19) morning at Sohae satellite launch station near the country’s west coast, said the report. WATCH | North Korea: Kim Jong Un leads new war tank training in mock battle The strategic value of the new missile with an intermediate range is as important as intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBM) targeting the US mainland and the “enemies know better about it,” Kim said, as per the state media. Back in January, North Korea tested an intermediate-range hypersonic missile which it said involved a new solid-fuel engine. The KCNA did not provide the specifics of the engine tested except to say that it was a “great success”. Also Read | North Korean leader oversees firing drills of ‘super-large’ rocket launchers to potentially target Seoul Tuesday’s test would allow the project to proceed under a timetable for completing the development of the new hypersonic intermediate-range ballistic missile (IRMB), state media reported. Live fire drills of ‘super-large’ rocket launchers The developments come a day after Kim oversaw a live fire drill of nuclear-capable “super-large” multiple rocket launchers which are designed to target the South Korean capital Seoul. The live fire drills on Monday (Mar 18) tested the “real war capabilities” of the 600-millimetre multiple rocket launchers and improve the operators’ combat readiness, state media reported. Also Read | North Korea fires ballistic missiles towards Sea of Japan as Blinken attends key Seoul summit North Korea claims to have tested a number of new missiles and weapons since 2022. Starting late last year, Kim had repeatedly called on the military to ramp up war preparations to counter the US and South Korea. On Monday, South Korean and Japanese militaries reported that North Korea launched multiple ballistic missiles towards the Sea of Japan when US Secretary of State Antony Blinken was attending a democracy summit in Seoul. The state media reports about the live firing drills of “super-large” rocket launchers and the progress in the development of a new hypersonic IRMB come days after the US and South Korea concluded their large-scale annual joint military drills. (With inputs from agencies)

North Korea claims progress in hypersonic missile that can target US territories like Guam military base

<p>A South Korean chemical tanker, the Keoyoung Sun, capsized near Mutsure Island in southwestern Japan, approximately 1,000 kilometres from the capital of Tokyo,&nbsp;media reports said.</p>

<p>Authorities confirmed that a total of seven crew members died during the incident which took place on Wednesday (Mar 20). The coastguard said it had rescued two people alive out of an 11-member crew. It consisted of two South Koreans, including the captain, a Chinese national, and eight Indonesians.</p>

<p>The rescue operation started after a distress call reached the Japan Coast Guard. It was communicated that due to the severe weather conditions, the ship was leaning to protect itself from any danger.</p>

<p>However, by the time rescuers reached the scene, the vessel had overturned and&nbsp;completely&nbsp;capsized. The exact cause of the incident remains unknown at the moment.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The visuals of the unfortunate incident were also depicted vividly in footage aired on NHK television, media reports said. The footage showed the&nbsp;boat in the turbulent waves and the boat's red underside against the swirling waters.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/construction-workers-discover-a-1800-year-old-roman-statue-in-parking-lot-702241">Construction workers discover a 1,800-year-old Roman statue in parking lot</a></p>

<p>Efforts are ongoing to locate the remaining individuals.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-elections-primary-2024-trump-biden-secure-key-wins-during-march-for-presidential-rematch-702231">US elections primary 2024: Trump, Biden secure key wins during march for presidential rematch</a></p>

<p>The Keoyoung Sun was en route from Himeji in Japan to Ulsan in South Korea.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, the tanker is carrying&nbsp;980 tonnes of acrylic acid.&nbsp;Acrylic acid is a versatile and industrially significant compound that plays a crucial role in various fields.&nbsp;Acrylic acid has found applications in polymers, adhesives, coatings, and even in the production of certain pharmaceuticals.</p>

<p>Despite its utility, acrylic acid poses some challenges in handling and storage due to its corrosive nature. It can cause severe irritation or burns upon contact with skin, eyes, and mucous membranes. Inhalation of its vapours can also lead to respiratory irritation and damage to the respiratory tract.</p>

<p>Therefore, proper safety measures and handling protocols are necessary to mitigate these risks in industrial settings</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/spain-police-parade-robo-dog-helper-in-malaga-702242">Spain: Police parade 'robo-dog' helper in Malaga</a></strong></p>

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<p>Hence, the incident has raised concerns about potential environmental hazards in the event of a potential leak. Details surrounding the cause of the capsizing remain scarce.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A South Korean chemical tanker, the Keoyoung Sun, capsized near Mutsure Island in southwestern Japan, approximately 1,000 kilometres from the capital of Tokyo, media reports said.

A South Korean chemical tanker, the Keoyoung Sun, capsized near Mutsure Island in southwestern Japan, approximately 1,000 kilometres from the capital of Tokyo, media reports said. Authorities confirmed that a total of seven crew members died during the incident which took place on Wednesday (Mar 20). The coastguard said it had rescued two people alive out of an 11-member crew. It consisted of two South Koreans, including the captain, a Chinese national, and eight Indonesians. The rescue operation started after a distress call reached the Japan Coast Guard. It was communicated that due to the severe weather conditions, the ship was leaning to protect itself from any danger. However, by the time rescuers reached the scene, the vessel had overturned and completely capsized. The exact cause of the incident remains unknown at the moment. The visuals of the unfortunate incident were also depicted vividly in footage aired on NHK television, media reports said. The footage showed the boat in the turbulent waves and the boat's red underside against the swirling waters. Also Read | Construction workers discover a 1,800-year-old Roman statue in parking lot Efforts are ongoing to locate the remaining individuals. Also Read | US elections primary 2024: Trump, Biden secure key wins during march for presidential rematch The Keoyoung Sun was en route from Himeji in Japan to Ulsan in South Korea. Notably, the tanker is carrying 980 tonnes of acrylic acid. Acrylic acid is a versatile and industrially significant compound that plays a crucial role in various fields. Acrylic acid has found applications in polymers, adhesives, coatings, and even in the production of certain pharmaceuticals. Despite its utility, acrylic acid poses some challenges in handling and storage due to its corrosive nature. It can cause severe irritation or burns upon contact with skin, eyes, and mucous membranes. Inhalation of its vapours can also lead to respiratory irritation and damage to the respiratory tract. Therefore, proper safety measures and handling protocols are necessary to mitigate these risks in industrial settings Watch | Spain: Police parade 'robo-dog' helper in Malaga × Hence, the incident has raised concerns about potential environmental hazards in the event of a potential leak. Details surrounding the cause of the capsizing remain scarce. (With inputs from agencies)

South Korean chemical tanker capsizes near Japan’s Mutsure island, 7 dead

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken arrived in South Korea on the first stop of a brief Asia tour also including the Philippines. Blinken met South Korean President and also attended the third Summit for Democracy on Monday. Watch in for more details!

Antony Blinken meets South Korean President, discusses North Korea

<p>North Korean leader Kim Jong Un oversaw a live fire drill of nuclear-capable “super-large” multiple rocket launchers which are designed to target the South Korean capital Seoul, reported Pyongyang’s state media on Tuesday (Mar 19).&nbsp;</p>

<p>The media report came a day after South Korea and Japan said North Korea fired ballistic missiles towards the Sea of Japan for the first time in two months when Washington’s top diplomat was in Seoul to attend a conference.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Kim oversees live fire drills</strong></h2>

<p>The live fire drills took place on Monday (Mar 18), according to the KCNA, to test the “real war capabilities” of the 600-millimetre multiple rocket launchers and improve the operators’ combat readiness.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;North Korea fires ballistic missiles as Blinken visits Seoul</strong></p>

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<p>According to the state media report, some of the systems tested on Monday included the 600mm multiple rocket launchers which were capable of delivering tactical nuclear warheads.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The drills also reportedly saw the simulation of an air explosion of a shell of the super-large multiple rocket launcher at a preset altitude above the target.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The unit displayed “high mobility and accurate and strong striking power” in carrying out a sudden combat mission, reported the KCNA.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-prime-minister-narendra-modi-congratulates-russian-president-vladimir-putin-on-his-re-election-701516">PM Modi congratulates Russian President Vladimir Putin on his re-election</a></strong></p>

<p>Kim called the recently tested multiple rocket launchers a key part of the country’s growing arsenal of weapons, as per the media report, which would supposedly be used to target Seoul if another war breaks out on the Korean Peninsula.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The North Korean leader said “it is necessary to further impress upon the enemies that if an armed conflict and a war break out, they can never avoid disastrous consequences,” as quoted by the KCNA.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He also called on his army to “more thoroughly fulfil their missions to block and suppress the possibility of war with the constant perfect preparedness to collapse the capital of the enemy and the structure of its military forces.”</p>

<h2><strong>South Korea on&nbsp;the multiple rocket launchers</strong></h2>

<p>On Monday, South Korean and Japanese militaries reported that North Korea launched multiple ballistic missiles towards the Sea of Japan when US Secretary of State Antony Blinken was attending a conference hosted by President Yoon Suk Yeol in Seoul.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-fires-ballistic-missiles-toward-sea-of-japan-as-blinken-attends-seoul-summit-701275">North Korea fires ballistic missiles towards Sea of Japan as Blinken attends key Seoul summit</a></strong></p>

<p>The launch also came days after the United States and South Korea concluded their large-scale annual joint military drills.&nbsp;</p>

<p>If Pyongyang fires a large number of conventional missiles against the South, it would “constitute a war” and prompt strong retaliatory attacks, Seoul’s defence minister, Shin Won-sik warned&nbsp;on Monday when asked about the North’s multiple rocket launches.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


North Korean leader Kim Jong Un oversaw a live fire drill of nuclear-capable “super-large” multiple rocket launchers which are designed to target the South Korean capital Seoul, reported Pyongyang’s state media on Tuesday (Mar 19).

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un oversaw a live fire drill of nuclear-capable “super-large” multiple rocket launchers which are designed to target the South Korean capital Seoul, reported Pyongyang’s state media on Tuesday (Mar 19). The media report came a day after South Korea and Japan said North Korea fired ballistic missiles towards the Sea of Japan for the first time in two months when Washington’s top diplomat was in Seoul to attend a conference. Kim oversees live fire drills The live fire drills took place on Monday (Mar 18), according to the KCNA, to test the “real war capabilities” of the 600-millimetre multiple rocket launchers and improve the operators’ combat readiness. WATCH | North Korea fires ballistic missiles as Blinken visits Seoul According to the state media report, some of the systems tested on Monday included the 600mm multiple rocket launchers which were capable of delivering tactical nuclear warheads. The drills also reportedly saw the simulation of an air explosion of a shell of the super-large multiple rocket launcher at a preset altitude above the target. The unit displayed “high mobility and accurate and strong striking power” in carrying out a sudden combat mission, reported the KCNA. Also Read | PM Modi congratulates Russian President Vladimir Putin on his re-election Kim called the recently tested multiple rocket launchers a key part of the country’s growing arsenal of weapons, as per the media report, which would supposedly be used to target Seoul if another war breaks out on the Korean Peninsula. The North Korean leader said “it is necessary to further impress upon the enemies that if an armed conflict and a war break out, they can never avoid disastrous consequences,” as quoted by the KCNA. He also called on his army to “more thoroughly fulfil their missions to block and suppress the possibility of war with the constant perfect preparedness to collapse the capital of the enemy and the structure of its military forces.” South Korea on the multiple rocket launchers On Monday, South Korean and Japanese militaries reported that North Korea launched multiple ballistic missiles towards the Sea of Japan when US Secretary of State Antony Blinken was attending a conference hosted by President Yoon Suk Yeol in Seoul. Also Read | North Korea fires ballistic missiles towards Sea of Japan as Blinken attends key Seoul summit The launch also came days after the United States and South Korea concluded their large-scale annual joint military drills. If Pyongyang fires a large number of conventional missiles against the South, it would “constitute a war” and prompt strong retaliatory attacks, Seoul’s defence minister, Shin Won-sik warned on Monday when asked about the North’s multiple rocket launches. (With inputs from agencies)

North Korean leader oversees firing drills of ‘super-large’ rocket launchers to potentially target Seoul

<p>Former K-pop star Jung Joon-young walked out of prison on Tuesday after serving a five-year sentence for his involvement in a high-profile spycam and rape scandal that shook South Korea. Jung, now 35 years old, was found guilty of rape on two occasions in 2016. He was also convicted of filming himself having intercourse with other women without their knowledge and then sharing the footage without their consent. These videos, known as "molka" in Korean, are clandestinely shot and often depict women in schools, toilets, and other private spaces.</p>

<p>His case was part of a series of sex scandals involving male celebrities that emerged during South Korea's #MeToo movement in 2018. Thousands of women took to the streets of Seoul to protest, demanding an end to the exploitation of women and chanting, "My life is not your porn."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/sophie-turner-seeks-to-reactivate-divorce-case-with-joe-jonas-701800">Sophie Turner seeks to reactivate divorce case with Joe Jonas</a></strong></p>

<p>Jung, wearing a black hat and mask, left the prison in Mokpo, approximately 350 kilometres (218 miles) south of Seoul, without speaking to the press on Tuesday morning, according to News1 agency.</p>

<p>Another K-pop star, Seungri, a former member of the popular boy band BIGBANG, was also implicated in the scandal. Seungri was found to have received spycam videos from Jung and was later separately found guilty of multiple charges related to a sex and drugs scandal at his nightclub, Burning Sun.</p>

<p>Jung, who rose to fame in 2012 after finishing third in the audition show <em>Super Star K</em>, announced his retirement from the entertainment industry when the spycam scandal broke in 2019. He expressed remorse for his actions, stating that he had "committed crimes that cannot be forgiven."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/singer-r-kelly-seeks-appeals-court-relief-from-30-year-prison-term-701787">Singer R. Kelly seeks appeals court relief from 30-year prison term</a></strong></p>

<p>The spycam scandal not only led to legal repercussions for Jung and others involved but also highlighted the broader issue of non-consensual filming and distribution of intimate images and videos in South Korea. Goo Hara, a former member of the girl group Kara, tragically died by suicide in 2019 after being blackmailed with "revenge porn" by an ex-boyfriend.</p>

<p>The scandal has continued to reverberate in South Korea, with international footballer Hwang Ui-jo currently under investigation for allegedly filming sexual encounters without consent. Hwang, who is on loan from Nottingham Forest to Turkish club Alanyaspor, denies the charges.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Former K-pop star Jung Joon-young walked out of prison on Tuesday after serving a five-year sentence for his involvement in a high-profile spycam and rape scandal that shook South Korea.

Former K-pop star Jung Joon-young walked out of prison on Tuesday after serving a five-year sentence for his involvement in a high-profile spycam and rape scandal that shook South Korea. Jung, now 35 years old, was found guilty of rape on two occasions in 2016. He was also convicted of filming himself having intercourse with other women without their knowledge and then sharing the footage without their consent. These videos, known as "molka" in Korean, are clandestinely shot and often depict women in schools, toilets, and other private spaces. His case was part of a series of sex scandals involving male celebrities that emerged during South Korea's #MeToo movement in 2018. Thousands of women took to the streets of Seoul to protest, demanding an end to the exploitation of women and chanting, "My life is not your porn." Also read: Sophie Turner seeks to reactivate divorce case with Joe Jonas Jung, wearing a black hat and mask, left the prison in Mokpo, approximately 350 kilometres (218 miles) south of Seoul, without speaking to the press on Tuesday morning, according to News1 agency. Another K-pop star, Seungri, a former member of the popular boy band BIGBANG, was also implicated in the scandal. Seungri was found to have received spycam videos from Jung and was later separately found guilty of multiple charges related to a sex and drugs scandal at his nightclub, Burning Sun. Jung, who rose to fame in 2012 after finishing third in the audition show Super Star K, announced his retirement from the entertainment industry when the spycam scandal broke in 2019. He expressed remorse for his actions, stating that he had "committed crimes that cannot be forgiven." Also read: Singer R. Kelly seeks appeals court relief from 30-year prison term The spycam scandal not only led to legal repercussions for Jung and others involved but also highlighted the broader issue of non-consensual filming and distribution of intimate images and videos in South Korea. Goo Hara, a former member of the girl group Kara, tragically died by suicide in 2019 after being blackmailed with "revenge porn" by an ex-boyfriend. The scandal has continued to reverberate in South Korea, with international footballer Hwang Ui-jo currently under investigation for allegedly filming sexual encounters without consent. Hwang, who is on loan from Nottingham Forest to Turkish club Alanyaspor, denies the charges. (With inputs from agencies)

Former K-pop star Jung Joon-young leaves prison after completing five-year term for sex crimes

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 fired multiple short-range missiles: South Korea

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is currently in South Korea the first stop of his South Asia tour and Washington stop Diplomat will also visit Philippines and this as the US moves to reinforce ties with these two Regional allies. Watch to know more!

Antony Blinken attends democracy summit in South Korea

North Korea fires ballistic missiles as Blinken visits Seoul

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken arrived in South Korea on the first stop of a brief Asia tour also including the Philippines. Blinken attended the third Summit for Democracy on Monday in South Korea. Watch in for more details!

US State Secretary Antony Blinken attends democracy summit in South Korea

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

South Korean researchers have grown beef cells in rice grains in what they say is a major step towards achieving a sustainable, affordable and environmentally friendly source of protein.

South Korean scientists develop 'beef rice' as source of protein for the future

North Korea has unwelded a new battle tank. The state news agency claims that the country's leader Kim Jong-un even drove this new tank and the heavy armored fighting vehicle was unveiled during a training match between tank units. Watch to know more!

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un watches military exercises alongside his daughter

US special operations forces practiced airdrops with brigade of South Korean commandos. The drills were conducted on the last day of the Freedom Shield exercises. The drills are seen as a part of efforts to deter the unexpected from North Korea.

US special forces hold joint airdrop drills with South Korean commandos

North Korea's new tank amid joint drills between South Korea & US

North Korea: Kim Jong Un leads new war tank training in mock battle

<p>South Korea is grappling with a major healthcare crisis as nearly 12,000 trainee doctors from over 100 hospitals have embarked on a walkout over government reform plans. In response, the government has initiated measures to mitigate the impact of this mass strike on patient care by deploying military physicians and doctors from public health centres to the strike-hit hospitals.</p>

<p>The deployment would include&nbsp;20 military surgeons and 138 public health doctors who will be assigned to hospitals for a four-week period, as announced by&nbsp;Health Minister Cho Kyoo-hong on Sunday (March 10).</p>

<h2><strong>What would be the scale of military involvement</strong>?</h2>

<p>Despite the deployment, the number of military physicians called upon is only a fraction of the approximately 2,400 military doctors available.</p>

<p>While the government has kept its stance&nbsp;that the walkout has not resulted in a full-blown health crisis, the reality on the ground tells a different story.</p>

<p>Some hospitals have been forced to turn away patients, while others are experiencing delays in medical procedures.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Efforts to persuade the striking doctors to return to work have been met with limited success. Despite warnings of potential license suspension, many doctors remain steadfast in their protest against the government's reform plans.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korea-doctors-strike-will-not-tolerate-walkouts-vows-president-yoon-697490">Also read |&nbsp;South Korea doctors' strike: Will not tolerate walkouts, vows President Yoon</a></p>

<p>Additionally, the government has sent notices to over 4,900 doctors, hinting at the possibility of license suspension if explanations for their absence are not provided. However, Health Minister Cho has stated that leniency will be granted to those who voluntarily return to work.</p>

<p>The government has also asserted&nbsp;its authority to mandate doctors' return to work if deemed necessary to safeguard public health. At the heart of the dispute are government plans to increase medical school admissions by 2,000 annually starting from 2025.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, striking doctors argue that simply increasing the number of medical students will not address underlying issues, such as pay and work conditions.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Tensions brew in Korean peninsula, is North Korea preparing for war?</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/tensions-brew-in-korean-peninsula-is-north-korea-preparing-for-war-698208/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>There are concerns that the proposed reforms may exacerbate existing problems rather than resolve them.</p>

<p>Additionally, critics have accused&nbsp;President Yoon Suk Yeol of using medical reforms for political gain ahead of parliamentary elections.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


South Korea is grappling with a major healthcare crisis as nearly 12,000 trainee doctors from over 100 hospitals have embarked on a walkout over government reform plans.

South Korea is grappling with a major healthcare crisis as nearly 12,000 trainee doctors from over 100 hospitals have embarked on a walkout over government reform plans. In response, the government has initiated measures to mitigate the impact of this mass strike on patient care by deploying military physicians and doctors from public health centres to the strike-hit hospitals. The deployment would include 20 military surgeons and 138 public health doctors who will be assigned to hospitals for a four-week period, as announced by Health Minister Cho Kyoo-hong on Sunday (March 10). What would be the scale of military involvement? Despite the deployment, the number of military physicians called upon is only a fraction of the approximately 2,400 military doctors available. While the government has kept its stance that the walkout has not resulted in a full-blown health crisis, the reality on the ground tells a different story. Some hospitals have been forced to turn away patients, while others are experiencing delays in medical procedures. Efforts to persuade the striking doctors to return to work have been met with limited success. Despite warnings of potential license suspension, many doctors remain steadfast in their protest against the government's reform plans. Also read | South Korea doctors' strike: Will not tolerate walkouts, vows President Yoon Additionally, the government has sent notices to over 4,900 doctors, hinting at the possibility of license suspension if explanations for their absence are not provided. However, Health Minister Cho has stated that leniency will be granted to those who voluntarily return to work. The government has also asserted its authority to mandate doctors' return to work if deemed necessary to safeguard public health. At the heart of the dispute are government plans to increase medical school admissions by 2,000 annually starting from 2025. However, striking doctors argue that simply increasing the number of medical students will not address underlying issues, such as pay and work conditions. Also watch | Tensions brew in Korean peninsula, is North Korea preparing for war? There are concerns that the proposed reforms may exacerbate existing problems rather than resolve them. Additionally, critics have accused President Yoon Suk Yeol of using medical reforms for political gain ahead of parliamentary elections. (With inputs from agencies)

South Korea to mobilise military, public doctors to aid strike-hit hospitals

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

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