South Korea has passes the bill that bans the consumption of dog meat in the country. The bill will be outlaws slaughtering and selling dogs from 2027 - which is a centuries-old practice.

South Korea endorses bill to ban breeding, slaughtering of dogs

The annual Winter Festival has kicked off in Hwacheon in South Korea. Along with the usual winter festivities is a peculiar practice attendees at this Festival strip down to their t-shirts and boxers running straight into a frozen River to catch fish with their bare hands. Take a look.

Mid-winter Red Herrings for South Koreans at Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival 2024

South Korean parliament on Tuesday (Jan 9) passed a landmark bill that bans the centuries-old controversial practice of eating and selling dog meat. The legislation was passed after years of nationwide debate over whether to ban the traditional practice or not.

South Korean parliament on Tuesday (Jan 9) passed a landmark bill that bans the centuries-old controversial practice of eating and selling dog meat. The legislation was passed after years of nationwide debate over whether to ban the traditional practice or not. The bill received bipartisan support across the divided political landscape of South Korea, suggesting animal welfare had taken precedence. An overwhelming 208 votes were in favour of the bill in the single-chamber parliament of Seoul after a bipartisan agriculture committee approved it on Monday The language of the bill states that slaughtering a dog for food will be punishable by up to three years in prison or may incur a fine of up to $23,000 (30 million Korean won). The legislation will kick into effect after a three-year grace period which is done so to provide financial support for businesses to transition out of the trade. According to reports, most dogs are slaughtered or hanged when their meat is sold for consumption. Additionally, their breeding is done in harrowing conditions with the sole purpose of sending them to abattoirs. Watch | South Korea unveils plan to ban dog meat, Animal Rights Groups welcome the move × Changing attitudes among South Koreans "The bill would see an end to the breeding and killing of dogs for human consumption. We have reached a pivotal point to spare millions of dogs from this cruel industry," Borami Seo of Humane Society International Korea, an animal protection group, was quoted as saying by Reuters. The passing of the bill also highlights the changing attitudes towards eating dogs as the practice received flak from across the globe. Under President Yoon Suk Yeol, a known animal lover, the support for the ban has grown. Yoon has adopted six dogs and eight cats and has been a vocal critic of dog meat consumption for a long time. Also read | South Korea plans complete ban on eating of dog meat by 2027 In the past, the anti-dog meat bills failed due to protests from those working in the industry, and increasing concern regarding the livelihoods of restaurant owners and farmers. Moreover, eating dog meat was seen as a way to improve stamina in the humid conditions of the country. As per the agriculture ministry, till April 2022, there were 1,199 dog farms across the country, breeding 570,000 dogs to be served at around 1,600 restaurants. (With inputs from agencies)

South Korea passes landmark bill banning sale and consumption of dog meat

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

Kim Yo Jong, the powerful sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has denied claims made by South Korea that&nbsp;Pyongyang fired dozens of artillery rounds near their border on Saturday (Jan 6).&nbsp;

Seoul's military had claimed that North Korea fired over&nbsp;60 artillery rounds near Yeonpyeong Island which landed in a buffer zone, set up under an inter-Korean military accord signed on Sept&nbsp;19, 2018, to reduce border tensions.

"Our military did not fire a single shell into the water area,"&nbsp;Kim Yo Jong was quoted as saying by state news agency KCNA.&nbsp;

She added that the military had instead detonated explosives that simulated the sound of gunfire 60 times and "watched the reaction" of the South Korean forces who mistook them for missiles.&nbsp;

"The result was exactly as we expected. They misjudged the sound of explosives as gunfire, assumed it was an artillery fire provocation, and shamelessly made up a lie," she added.&nbsp;

"In the future, they will misjudge even the rumbling sound of thunder in the northern sky as artillery fire from our military," she said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/tensions-in-korean-peninsula-north-korea-conducts-artillery-drills-near-south-korean-islands-wion-676856">Watch |&nbsp;Tensions in Korean Peninsula: North Korea conducts artillery drills near South Korean islands</a>

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<h2>South Korea warns civilians</h2>

Notably, South Korea on Friday told civilians on Yeonpyeong Island, located about 115 km east of Seoul in terms of aerial distance,&nbsp;to evacuate after North Korea fired around 200 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.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kim-jong-uns-sister-calls-out-usa-for-double-standards-over-n-koreas-spy-satellite-664463">Also read |&nbsp;Kim Jong Un’s sister calls out USA for 'double standards' over N Korea's spy satellite</a>

Hours later, South Korean defence ministry described it as a&nbsp;"provocative act" and urged North to stop, warning Seoul would take "appropriate measures" in response.

The shells reportedly splashed into the maritime buffer zone north of the Northern Limit Line (NLL), the de facto maritime border between both Koreas in the Yellow Sea.

On Sunday afternoon (Jan 7), South Korea media reports, citing military sources, claimed that North Korea had once again fired shots into the sea north of&nbsp;Yeonpyeong island.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Kim Yo Jong, the powerful sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has denied claims made by South Korea that Pyongyang fired dozens of artillery rounds near their border on Saturday (Jan 6).

Kim Yo Jong, the powerful sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has denied claims made by South Korea that Pyongyang fired dozens of artillery rounds near their border on Saturday (Jan 6). Seoul's military had claimed that North Korea fired over 60 artillery rounds near Yeonpyeong Island which landed in a buffer zone, set up under an inter-Korean military accord signed on Sept 19, 2018, to reduce border tensions. "Our military did not fire a single shell into the water area," Kim Yo Jong was quoted as saying by state news agency KCNA. She added that the military had instead detonated explosives that simulated the sound of gunfire 60 times and "watched the reaction" of the South Korean forces who mistook them for missiles. "The result was exactly as we expected. They misjudged the sound of explosives as gunfire, assumed it was an artillery fire provocation, and shamelessly made up a lie," she added. "In the future, they will misjudge even the rumbling sound of thunder in the northern sky as artillery fire from our military," she said. Watch | Tensions in Korean Peninsula: North Korea conducts artillery drills near South Korean islands × South Korea warns civilians Notably, South Korea on Friday told civilians on Yeonpyeong Island, located about 115 km east of Seoul in terms of aerial distance, to evacuate after North Korea fired around 200 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. Also read | Kim Jong Un’s sister calls out USA for 'double standards' over N Korea's spy satellite Hours later, South Korean defence ministry described it as a "provocative act" and urged North to stop, warning Seoul would take "appropriate measures" in response. The shells reportedly splashed into the maritime buffer zone north of the Northern Limit Line (NLL), the de facto maritime border between both Koreas in the Yellow Sea. On Sunday afternoon (Jan 7), South Korea media reports, citing military sources, claimed that North Korea had once again fired shots into the sea north of Yeonpyeong island. (With inputs from agencies)

Kim Jong Un’s sister claims S Korea 'misjudged' sound of explosives as artillery fire

North Korea on Friday (Jan 5) said that it had carried out naval artillery live-fire exercises as a "natural response and countermeasure" to South Korean drills, condemning Seoul's claim that it had threatened peace on the Korean Peninsula, state media reported.

Pyongyang's 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 Korea had on Friday told civilians on Yeonpyeong Island, located about 115km east of Seoul in terms of aerial distance,&nbsp;to evacuate after North Korea fired around 200 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.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korea-us-conduct-week-long-wargames-near-north-korea-border-676450">South Korea, US conduct week-long wargames near North Korea border</a>

Yeonpyeong local officials told news agency AFP that civilians had been asked to evacuate.

Hours later, South Korean defence ministry described it as a&nbsp;"provocative act" and urged North to stop, warning Seoul would take "appropriate measures" in response.

The shells reportedly splashed into the maritime buffer zone north of the Northern Limit Line (NLL), the de facto maritime border between both Koreas in the Yellow Sea.

Also watch |&nbsp;North Korea: Allies pushing region into brink of Nuclear War

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The buffer zone was set under an inter-Korean military accord signed on Sept&nbsp;19, 2018, to reduce border tensions.

"We gravely warn that the entire responsibility of such crisis-escalating situations lies with North Korea and strongly urge for its immediate halt," 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."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korea-us-conduct-week-long-wargames-near-north-korea-border-676450">South Korea, US conduct week-long wargames near North Korea border</a>

<h2>South Korea stages live-fire drills on border island</h2>

South Korean marines on the border island of Yeonpyeong conducted live-fire artillery drills on Friday (Jan 5), as per the Yonhap news agency reports.&nbsp;

This came hours after North Korea staged an artillery barrage in the area.

The troops held "live-fire artillery drills with K9 self-propelled howitzers," Yonhap said, the first such drills in the area since both countries dropped a military accord in November.

(With inputs from agencies)

North Korea on Friday (Jan 5) said that it had carried out naval artillery live-fire exercises as a "natural response and countermeasure" to South Korean drills, condemning Seoul's claim that it had threatened peace on the Korean Peninsula, state media reported.

North Korea on Friday (Jan 5) said that it had carried out naval artillery live-fire exercises as a "natural response and countermeasure" to South Korean drills, condemning Seoul's claim that it had threatened peace on the Korean Peninsula, state media reported. Pyongyang's 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 Korea had on Friday told civilians on Yeonpyeong Island, located about 115km east of Seoul in terms of aerial distance, to evacuate after North Korea fired around 200 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. Also read | South Korea, US conduct week-long wargames near North Korea border Yeonpyeong local officials told news agency AFP that civilians had been asked to evacuate. Hours later, South Korean defence ministry described it as a "provocative act" and urged North to stop, warning Seoul would take "appropriate measures" in response. The shells reportedly splashed into the maritime buffer zone north of the Northern Limit Line (NLL), the de facto maritime border between both Koreas in the Yellow Sea. Also watch | North Korea: Allies pushing region into brink of Nuclear War × The buffer zone was set under an inter-Korean military accord signed on Sept 19, 2018, to reduce border tensions. "We gravely warn that the entire responsibility of such crisis-escalating situations lies with North Korea and strongly urge for its immediate halt," 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." Also read: South Korea, US conduct week-long wargames near North Korea border South Korea stages live-fire drills on border island South Korean marines on the border island of Yeonpyeong conducted live-fire artillery drills on Friday (Jan 5), as per the Yonhap news agency reports. This came hours after North Korea staged an artillery barrage in the area. The troops held "live-fire artillery drills with K9 self-propelled howitzers," Yonhap said, the first such drills in the area since both countries dropped a military accord in November. (With inputs from agencies)

North Korea says live-fire drills 'natural response' to South Korea threats

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

In one of the most serious military escalations between the North and South Korea in recent history, North Korea fired over 200 artillery shells on Friday, sparking tensions between the neighbours and forcing South Korea to evacuate two of its island towns.

North Korea fires 200 artillery shells; South Korea evacuates 2 border islands

South Korea conducts a live fire drills as North shells border islands

North Korea fired artillery rounds near its disputed sea boundary with South Korea on Friday in violation of a fragile 2018 military agreement, officials said, prompting the South to plan similar drills.

North Korea conducts artillery drills near South Korean islands

Tensions are rising in the Korean peninsula and the evacuation order has been issued in South Korean border island due to North Korean provocation. The orders have been issued by the South Korean military.

Tensions in Korean North Korea fires artillery shells after US-South Korea military drills

Tensions in Korean Peninsula: Kim Jong-Un vows to expand North Korea's nuclear arsenal

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol has vetoed a national assembly bill ordering a special probe into first lady's Kim Keon-hee's role in stock manipulation.

South Korea President Yoon Suk Yeol vetoes bill to probe wife

Tensions in Korean Peninsula: North Korea conducts artillery drills near South Korean islands | WION

Tensions in Korean Peninsula: South Korea's evacuation orders for Yeonpyeong Island | WION

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 and US troops recently conducted joint combat firing drills near the North Korean border, utilizing heavy weapons in an exercise aimed at testing and enhancing combat readiness.

South Korea, US hold firing drills near North Korea border

North Korea: Allies pushing region into brink of Nuclear War

South Korea, US conduct week-long firing drills near North Korea border

South Korea's opposition Democratic Party leader Lee Jae-myung remained hospitalised in intensive care on Wednesday, a day after a knife attack on him shocked political leaders who were vying for the upper hand in a major election three months away.

Surgeons operated on Lee for more than two hours late on Tuesday to repair a major blood vessel in his neck that was sliced when an assailant lunged and stabbed him with a knife.

"The act of terror against Chairman Lee Jae-myung was clearly a challenge against democracy and a threat against democracy," Democratic Party floor leader Hong Ik-pyo said at a party leadership council meeting.

He urged a speedy investigation and tougher security for high-profile political figures, echoing renewed questions about the safety on campaign trails in a country with a history of political violence despite tight restrictions on gun ownership.

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Jin Jeong-hwa, a party supporter who was a witness at the scene of the stabbing, said the incident clearly showed the need for stronger and professional security protection for political leaders, not simply police who are deployed to monitor.

"People like opposition leaders really need a dedicated security detail," Jin said in an interview with Reuters. He added it was clear from his experience at political events that Lee was very much exposed to personal safety threats.

Lee, a tough talking progressive who narrowly lost the 2022 presidential election, had been rallying the party to retain the parliamentary majority it holds against President Yoon Suk Yeol's conservatives.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-says-another-blast-heard-near-grave-of-general-qasem-soleimani-676221">Iran says 103 killed in twin blasts near late general Qasem Soleimani's grave</a>

South Korea holds a pivotal election on April 10 where the conservatives will try to win back a majority for the first time since 2016 and help Yoon's pro-business policies including tax cuts, deregulation and social reforms.

The attack against Lee, which unfolded quickly but was widely captured in footage of the outdoors public event, shocked his party and his rivals alike, who condemned all violence against political figures.

Yoon again condemned the attack as "terror" and said: "It is an enemy of liberal democracy," according to his office. He wished Lee a speedy recovery, it said.

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/bangladesh-politics-explainer-sheikh-hasinas-political-journey-675994">Bangladesh Politics Explainer: Sheikh Hasina's political journey</a>

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Lee was airlifted from Busan, where the attack occurred, to Seoul on Tuesday where he underwent surgery to reconstruct the jugular vein that pumps blood from the head back to the heart and insert a tube to support the damaged vessel.

He was conscious and recovering in the intensive care unit, party officials said.

The suspect, who was quickly subdued by party members and police officers at the scene, was a man born in 1957 from the central region who may have been in Busan for days, planning the attack with an 18-cm (7-inch) camping knife, police and news reports said.

He remains in police custody. The police have not commented on the detail of the investigation including a possible motive.

Investigators searched the suspect's home and office in the city of Asan, more than 300 km (186 miles) from the site of the attack, Yonhap news reported.

The leader of the conservative People Power Party scaled back scheduled public events, and both parties urged members to refrain from comments that could inflame voters as Lee recuperates.

Lee lost to Yoon by less than 1% point of votes, the narrowest margin, in a bitterly fought presidential election and has since faced bribery allegations stemming from a development project when he was mayor of a city near Seoul. He denies wrongdoing.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

South Korea's opposition Democratic Party leader Lee Jae-myung remained hospitalised in intensive care on Wednesday, a day after a knife attack on him shocked political leaders who were vying for the upper hand in a major election three months away.

South Korea's opposition Democratic Party leader Lee Jae-myung remained hospitalised in intensive care on Wednesday, a day after a knife attack on him shocked political leaders who were vying for the upper hand in a major election three months away. Surgeons operated on Lee for more than two hours late on Tuesday to repair a major blood vessel in his neck that was sliced when an assailant lunged and stabbed him with a knife. "The act of terror against Chairman Lee Jae-myung was clearly a challenge against democracy and a threat against democracy," Democratic Party floor leader Hong Ik-pyo said at a party leadership council meeting. He urged a speedy investigation and tougher security for high-profile political figures, echoing renewed questions about the safety on campaign trails in a country with a history of political violence despite tight restrictions on gun ownership. Also Read | Who was Qasem Soleimani? The mighty Iranian general who controlled proxy militias across Middle East Jin Jeong-hwa, a party supporter who was a witness at the scene of the stabbing, said the incident clearly showed the need for stronger and professional security protection for political leaders, not simply police who are deployed to monitor. "People like opposition leaders really need a dedicated security detail," Jin said in an interview with Reuters. He added it was clear from his experience at political events that Lee was very much exposed to personal safety threats. Lee, a tough talking progressive who narrowly lost the 2022 presidential election, had been rallying the party to retain the parliamentary majority it holds against President Yoon Suk Yeol's conservatives. Also Read | Iran says 103 killed in twin blasts near late general Qasem Soleimani's grave South Korea holds a pivotal election on April 10 where the conservatives will try to win back a majority for the first time since 2016 and help Yoon's pro-business policies including tax cuts, deregulation and social reforms. The attack against Lee, which unfolded quickly but was widely captured in footage of the outdoors public event, shocked his party and his rivals alike, who condemned all violence against political figures. Yoon again condemned the attack as "terror" and said: "It is an enemy of liberal democracy," according to his office. He wished Lee a speedy recovery, it said. Watch | Bangladesh Politics Explainer: Sheikh Hasina's political journey × Lee was airlifted from Busan, where the attack occurred, to Seoul on Tuesday where he underwent surgery to reconstruct the jugular vein that pumps blood from the head back to the heart and insert a tube to support the damaged vessel. He was conscious and recovering in the intensive care unit, party officials said. The suspect, who was quickly subdued by party members and police officers at the scene, was a man born in 1957 from the central region who may have been in Busan for days, planning the attack with an 18-cm (7-inch) camping knife, police and news reports said. He remains in police custody. The police have not commented on the detail of the investigation including a possible motive. Investigators searched the suspect's home and office in the city of Asan, more than 300 km (186 miles) from the site of the attack, Yonhap news reported. The leader of the conservative People Power Party scaled back scheduled public events, and both parties urged members to refrain from comments that could inflame voters as Lee recuperates. Lee lost to Yoon by less than 1% point of votes, the narrowest margin, in a bitterly fought presidential election and has since faced bribery allegations stemming from a development project when he was mayor of a city near Seoul. He denies wrongdoing. (With inputs from agencies)

South Korea opposition leader in ICU after knife attack amid calls for stronger security

South Korean Opposition leader Lee Jae-Myung was stabbed in the neck at a news conference. The attacker has been reportedly arrested in a dramatic turn of events. Lee was attacked by an unidentified man.

South Korean Opposition leader Lee Jae-Myung stabbed by unidentified attacker in Busan, arrested

BREAKING: South Korea Opposition leader Lee Jae-Myung stabbed, rushed to hospital

South Korean opposition Democratic Party leader Lee Jae-Myung was stabbed in the neck and rushed to hospital for treatment on Tuesday, months ahead of a national parliamentary election. The country has a history of political violence dating back to its founding in 1948.

South Korea's main opposition leader stabbed in the neck in Busan

In a shocking turn of events, a South Korean leader of the opposition Democratic party Lee Jae-Myung has been stabbed in the neck at a news conference in Busan City. According to the latest reports, the attacker has reportedly been arrested.

South Korean opposition leader Lee Jae-Myung stabbed in the neck

South Korea leader Lee Jae-Myung rushed to hospital after getting stabbed; President condemns attack

Lee Jae-myung, leader of South Korea's main opposition Democratic Party, was attacked on Tuesday (Jan 2) during a visit to the southeastern port city&nbsp;of Busan, the Yonhap News Agency reported.

As per reports, Lee was stabbed on the left side of his neck with a weapon.

His attacker, identified as a 1957-born&nbsp;man surnamed Kim, was subdued and arrested at the scene.&nbsp;

The man, who has confessed that he wanted to kill Lee,&nbsp;reportedly used an 18-centimeter-long knife he&nbsp;purchased online.

In a statement, NPA Commissioner General Yoon Hee-keun said he has ordered the police to establish an investigation headquarters to probe the incident.&nbsp;

The Busan Metropolitan Police Agency said in a statement it plans to charge Kim with attempted murder.

<h2>How the attack unfolded</h2>

The attack, as per Yonhap, happened at 10:27 am local time as the opposition party chief who was touring the site of a proposed airport in Busan's Gadeok Island was engaged in a&nbsp;question-and-answer session with reporters.

The assailant, who based on videos of the incident appeared to be a man in his 50s or 60s, wore a paper crown with Lee's name on it.&nbsp;

He reportedly&nbsp;approached Lee asking for an autograph, before suddenly lunging forward and attacking him, news reports said.&nbsp;

A video of the attack is going viral on social media. It shows&nbsp;the attacker lunging at Lee with his arm stretched out, and the leader grimacing and collapsing to the ground, as people in the crowd grab the assailant.

&nbsp;You can see the video here. Viewer discretion is advised.

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Footage showing the Stabbing Attack earlier against the Leader of the Democratic Party of South Korea, Lee Jae-myung while he was Speaking to a Crowd in the Southeastern City of Busan. <a href="https://t.co/uEAabsxzmX">pic.twitter.com/uEAabsxzmX</a>
— OSINTdefender (@sentdefender) <a href="https://twitter.com/sentdefender/status/1742003417411727760?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 2, 2024</a></blockquote>
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The attack, as per YTN television, has left Lee with a gash of about 1 cm on his neck. While&nbsp;the wound is not life-threatening, the 59-year-old was airlifted to Seoul for surgery amid fears of additional bleeding.

Photographs of the incident show the opposition leader lying on the ground with his eyes closed, as&nbsp;people around him press a handkerchief against the bleeding wound at the side of his neck.

He remained conscious after the stabbing and was transported to a hospital.

(With inputs from agencies)

Lee Jae-myung, leader of South Korea's main opposition Democratic Party, was attacked on Tuesday (Jan 2) during a visit to the southeastern port city of Busan, the Yonhap News Agency reported.

Lee Jae-myung, leader of South Korea's main opposition Democratic Party, was attacked on Tuesday (Jan 2) during a visit to the southeastern port city of Busan, the Yonhap News Agency reported. As per reports, Lee was stabbed on the left side of his neck with a weapon. His attacker, identified as a 1957-born man surnamed Kim, was subdued and arrested at the scene. The man, who has confessed that he wanted to kill Lee, reportedly used an 18-centimeter-long knife he purchased online. In a statement, NPA Commissioner General Yoon Hee-keun said he has ordered the police to establish an investigation headquarters to probe the incident. The Busan Metropolitan Police Agency said in a statement it plans to charge Kim with attempted murder. How the attack unfolded The attack, as per Yonhap, happened at 10:27 am local time as the opposition party chief who was touring the site of a proposed airport in Busan's Gadeok Island was engaged in a question-and-answer session with reporters. The assailant, who based on videos of the incident appeared to be a man in his 50s or 60s, wore a paper crown with Lee's name on it. He reportedly approached Lee asking for an autograph, before suddenly lunging forward and attacking him, news reports said. A video of the attack is going viral on social media. It shows the attacker lunging at Lee with his arm stretched out, and the leader grimacing and collapsing to the ground, as people in the crowd grab the assailant. You can see the video here. Viewer discretion is advised. Footage showing the Stabbing Attack earlier against the Leader of the Democratic Party of South Korea, Lee Jae-myung while he was Speaking to a Crowd in the Southeastern City of Busan. pic.twitter.com/uEAabsxzmX — OSINTdefender (@sentdefender) January 2, 2024 × The attack, as per YTN television, has left Lee with a gash of about 1 cm on his neck. While the wound is not life-threatening, the 59-year-old was airlifted to Seoul for surgery amid fears of additional bleeding. Photographs of the incident show the opposition leader lying on the ground with his eyes closed, as people around him press a handkerchief against the bleeding wound at the side of his neck. He remained conscious after the stabbing and was transported to a hospital. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch the moment South Korean oppn politician Lee Jae-myung is stabbed in neck by attacker

Will there be another war between the Koreas? North Korea's Supreme Leader Kim Jong Un has asked his troops to prepare for war & be ready to 'annihilate' the enemy. Priyanka Sharma brings you a report.

Gravitas | Will North & South Korea go to war again?

North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un ended 2023 with a list of new threats ordering his military to prepare for a war that he says can break out at any time on the Korean Peninsula. It's no shock that Kim's lengthy speech included criticism of the joint military cooperation between the United States and South Korea.

North Korea's Supreme Leader Kim Jong-Un orders military to prepare for war

North Korea said that it will no longer seek reunification and reconciliation with South Korea as leader Kim Jong Un declared that his country vows&nbsp;to place three new military spy satellites into orbit in 2024. 
 
Speaking about inter-Korean relations, Kim said that it had become “a relationship between two hostile countries and two belligerents at war”, as reported by the state-run news agency KCNA. 
 
“It’s time for us to acknowledge the reality and clarify our relationship with the South,” said Kim, adding that if Washington and Seoul were to attempt a military confrontation with Pyongyang, its “nuclear war deterrent will not hesitate to take serious action.” 
 
“I believe that it is a mistake that we must no longer make to deal with the people who declare us as ‘the main enemy’ and seek only opportunities for ‘[our] regime collapse’ and ‘unification by absorption’ by collaborating for reconciliation and unification,” the North Korean leader added.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korean-officials-attend-year-end-political-meeting-in-luxury-cars-despite-un-sanctions-674349">North Korean officials attend year-end political meeting in luxury cars despite ban</a>

North and South Korea have remained detached from each other after the Korean War ended in 1953 with an armistice. The two countries have been at war technically but both the governments have been seeking the goal of reunifying one day.

<h2 lang="en-US">North Korea to launch three new spy satellites in 2024</h2>

Meanwhile, North Korea's state media reported Sunday (Dec 31) that the country has planned to launch three more spy satellites in 2024 as part of its measures to ramp up its military. 
 
Last month, a spy satellite was successfully placed into an orbit by Pyongyang and since then, it has claimed to be providing images of major US and South Korean military sites. 
 
The country this year also carried out a record-breaking number of weapons tests, which included the launch of the country's most powerful intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) this month. 
 
"The task of launching three additional reconnaissance satellites in 2024 was declared" as one of the key major decisions at a year-end party meeting for next year, said the official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).

Watch:&nbsp;Japan, US, South Korea share real-time data on North Korea's missiles

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The five-day meeting, which came to an end on Saturday, also saw participation of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. 
 
"The United States, which has long caused and worsened political instability on the Korean peninsula, continues to pose various types of military threat to our country even as the year is coming to an end," said Kim. 
 
In the wake of growing missile and nuclear threats from Pyongyang this year, Seoul, Tokyo and Washington ramped up defence co-operation and also activated a system for sharing real-time data on missile launches by North Korea.

(With inputs from agencies)

North Korea said that it will no longer seek reunification and reconciliation with South Korea as leader Kim Jong Un declared that his country vows to place three new military spy satellites into orbit in 2024.

North Korea said that it will no longer seek reunification and reconciliation with South Korea as leader Kim Jong Un declared that his country vows to place three new military spy satellites into orbit in 2024. Speaking about inter-Korean relations, Kim said that it had become “a relationship between two hostile countries and two belligerents at war”, as reported by the state-run news agency KCNA. “It’s time for us to acknowledge the reality and clarify our relationship with the South,” said Kim, adding that if Washington and Seoul were to attempt a military confrontation with Pyongyang, its “nuclear war deterrent will not hesitate to take serious action.” “I believe that it is a mistake that we must no longer make to deal with the people who declare us as ‘the main enemy’ and seek only opportunities for ‘[our] regime collapse’ and ‘unification by absorption’ by collaborating for reconciliation and unification,” the North Korean leader added. Also read: North Korean officials attend year-end political meeting in luxury cars despite ban North and South Korea have remained detached from each other after the Korean War ended in 1953 with an armistice. The two countries have been at war technically but both the governments have been seeking the goal of reunifying one day. North Korea to launch three new spy satellites in 2024 Meanwhile, North Korea's state media reported Sunday (Dec 31) that the country has planned to launch three more spy satellites in 2024 as part of its measures to ramp up its military. Last month, a spy satellite was successfully placed into an orbit by Pyongyang and since then, it has claimed to be providing images of major US and South Korean military sites. The country this year also carried out a record-breaking number of weapons tests, which included the launch of the country's most powerful intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) this month. "The task of launching three additional reconnaissance satellites in 2024 was declared" as one of the key major decisions at a year-end party meeting for next year, said the official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA). Watch: Japan, US, South Korea share real-time data on North Korea's missiles The five-day meeting, which came to an end on Saturday, also saw participation of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. "The United States, which has long caused and worsened political instability on the Korean peninsula, continues to pose various types of military threat to our country even as the year is coming to an end," said Kim. In the wake of growing missile and nuclear threats from Pyongyang this year, Seoul, Tokyo and Washington ramped up defence co-operation and also activated a system for sharing real-time data on missile launches by North Korea. (With inputs from agencies)

North Korea rejects idea of reunification with South Korea, plans to launch spy satellites in 2024

In a bid to accommodate the growing trend of remote work and vacations, South Korea is poised to introduce a "digital nomad" visa starting January 1. This will enable foreign residents to reside in the country for up to two years while maintaining employment in their home country, media reports said quoting officials.

South Korea's Justice Ministry acknowledged the increasing popularity of the "workcation" phenomenon. In this, individuals work remotely from diverse locations.

The ministry said, "To make remote work and vacation of foreigners in Korea smoother, we have decided to launch a new digital nomad visa."

Previously, foreigners had to apply for tourist visas or limit their stays to less than 90 days without a visa for a 'workcation' in Korea. The new visa system is designed to allow employees and employers from overseas firms to tour and work remotely in Korea for an extended period.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-to-tighten-security-for-new-year-celebrations-due-to-very-high-terrorist-threat-minister-674866">France to tighten security for New Year celebrations due to 'very high' terror threat</a>

<h2>Documents required&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>

Applicants for the digital nomad visa must provide documentation to the South Korean embassy in their respective countries. They must be able to show an annual income exceeding 84.96 million won (S$86,700), double South Korea's gross national income per capita as of 2022.

Additional documents such as employment verification and a criminal record check must also be submitted.

Also, applicants must possess private health insurance with coverage of at least 100 million won. This is to ensure their ability to return home in case of emergencies.

<h2>Age requirements&nbsp;</h2>

Applicants must be 18 or older and have a minimum of one year of experience in their current field.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/argentinas-new-far-right-president-ditches-brics-to-support-us-and-israel-674880">Argentina’s new far-right president ditches BRICS to ‘support US and Israel’</a>

Once granted the visa, digital nomads can bring along their spouses and children. Notably, the visa initially permits a one-year stay in South Korea, with an option to extend for another year.

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-biggest-aerial-attacks-since-the-start-of-the-war-674937">Russia-Ukraine war: Biggest aerial attacks since the start of the war</a>

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Another attractive offer is that foreigners already in South Korea on short-term tourist visas like B-1, B-2, or C-3 can apply for the new digital nomad visa. But there is a catch to it. This move does not grant digital nomads the ability to seek employment within South Korea.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a bid to accommodate the growing trend of remote work and vacations, South Korea is poised to introduce a "digital nomad" visa starting January 1. This will enable foreign residents to reside in the country for up to two years while maintaining employment in their home country, media reports said quoting officials.

In a bid to accommodate the growing trend of remote work and vacations, South Korea is poised to introduce a "digital nomad" visa starting January 1. This will enable foreign residents to reside in the country for up to two years while maintaining employment in their home country, media reports said quoting officials. South Korea's Justice Ministry acknowledged the increasing popularity of the "workcation" phenomenon. In this, individuals work remotely from diverse locations. The ministry said, "To make remote work and vacation of foreigners in Korea smoother, we have decided to launch a new digital nomad visa." Previously, foreigners had to apply for tourist visas or limit their stays to less than 90 days without a visa for a 'workcation' in Korea. The new visa system is designed to allow employees and employers from overseas firms to tour and work remotely in Korea for an extended period. Also Read | France to tighten security for New Year celebrations due to 'very high' terror threat Documents required Applicants for the digital nomad visa must provide documentation to the South Korean embassy in their respective countries. They must be able to show an annual income exceeding 84.96 million won (S$86,700), double South Korea's gross national income per capita as of 2022. Additional documents such as employment verification and a criminal record check must also be submitted. Also, applicants must possess private health insurance with coverage of at least 100 million won. This is to ensure their ability to return home in case of emergencies. Age requirements Applicants must be 18 or older and have a minimum of one year of experience in their current field. Also Read | Argentina’s new far-right president ditches BRICS to ‘support US and Israel’ Once granted the visa, digital nomads can bring along their spouses and children. Notably, the visa initially permits a one-year stay in South Korea, with an option to extend for another year. Watch | Russia-Ukraine war: Biggest aerial attacks since the start of the war × Another attractive offer is that foreigners already in South Korea on short-term tourist visas like B-1, B-2, or C-3 can apply for the new digital nomad visa. But there is a catch to it. This move does not grant digital nomads the ability to seek employment within South Korea. (With inputs from agencies)

Do you know about South Korea’s ‘digital nomad’ visa launching next year? You can avail it from THIS date

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

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