North Korea has launched a rocket shortly after it announced it was planning to send its first satellite into space. However, Tokyo claims it is a ballistic missile. The US condemned North Korea's launch saying that it raises tensions. However, North Korean officials on Wednesday said the launch ended in failure after the rocket's second stage malfunctioned. Pyongyang reported that the new "chollima-1" satellite launch rocket failed due to in-stability in the engine and fuel system. It said there was abnormal start of the two stage engine after stage one separation.

Drama in Korean Peninsula: North Korea rocket launch sends emergency alerts in South Korea & Japan

South Korean lawmakers have proposed the country's first same-sex marriage bill it is being called a defining moment in the fight for equality. The move seeks to amend the Civil Court but, lawmakers are arguing that it should include persons of the same sex in marriage. Experts say the bill is unlikely to pass as past efforts to get a green light on the same have met with opposition, especially from religious groups. They claim such moves would legalize homosexuality but it will help increase pressure on the government to expand the concept of a family.

Is South Korea's traditional society moving towards equality?

In a first, lawmakers in South Korea announced, on Wednesday (May 31), that they have proposed the country’s first same-sex marriage bill, reported The Guardian. The bill comes months after a South Korean court delivered a landmark ruling which recognised the rights of same-sex couples in the country.&nbsp;

<h2>What is the proposed marriage equality bill?</h2>

The marriage equality bill has been proposed by a lawmaker from the minor opposition Justice party’s Jang Hye-yeong and co-sponsored by 12 lawmakers across all the main parties. “Family is the most basic unit that forms a larger community called society,” said Jang, at the National Assembly on Wednesday, as quoted by The Guardian.&nbsp;

Notably, South Korea does not recognise same-sex civil partnerships, but their constitution stipulates that marriage and family shall be established “on the basis of individual dignity and equality of the sexes”. Furthermore, same-sex relations are not criminalised in South Korea but reports suggest that LGBTQ people tend to live under the radar.&nbsp;

Therefore, rights activists in the country have long called for legislation against discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation, but the anti-discrimination law has not been passed due to a lack of consensus among lawmakers.&nbsp;

A lawyer at the Marriage Equality Korea civic group, told the Guardian, “It’s a historic moment, but this is just the start,” and called for the bills to be discussed in the assembly “ immediately.” However, the efforts to pass such legislation including the anti-discrimination law have reportedly been opposed by religious groups that claim such moves would “legalise homosexuality”.&nbsp;

According to a Hankook Research survey, 52 per cent of respondents were against the legalisation of same-sex marriage in South Korea. However, Jang told the United Kingdom-based newspaper, that enacting such laws is a part of the process of achieving social consensus in a democratic society.&nbsp;

<h2>South Korea’s landmark ruling in February</h2>

Earlier this year, the High Court in South Korea ruled in favour of a gay couple, So Seong-wook and Kim Yong-min, when they sued South Korea’s National Health Insurance Service (NHIS) in 2021.&nbsp; 
 
This came after the insurance service terminated benefits for his partner, Kim whom So had registered as a dependent, after the officials found out they were a gay couple. So and Kim couple had been living together and got married in 2019, but it held no legal validity since the country does not recognise same-sex marriage.&nbsp;

At the time, the high court had acknowledged that it is difficult to recognise same-sex marriage under the country’s current common law. However, “those in same-sex marriage are fundamentally identical to those in a common-law marriage, except that they are homosexual,” said the court, as per the Yonhap News Agency.&nbsp;

It added that considering they form “the highly identical union” the withdrawal of the insurance coverage “constitutes discrimination based on sexual orientation” which is also against the state health insurance benefits.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
&nbsp;

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In a first, lawmakers in South Korea announced, on Wednesday (May 31), that they have proposed the country’s first same-sex marriage bill, reported The Guardian.

In a first, lawmakers in South Korea announced, on Wednesday (May 31), that they have proposed the country’s first same-sex marriage bill, reported The Guardian. The bill comes months after a South Korean court delivered a landmark ruling which recognised the rights of same-sex couples in the country. What is the proposed marriage equality bill? The marriage equality bill has been proposed by a lawmaker from the minor opposition Justice party’s Jang Hye-yeong and co-sponsored by 12 lawmakers across all the main parties. “Family is the most basic unit that forms a larger community called society,” said Jang, at the National Assembly on Wednesday, as quoted by The Guardian. Notably, South Korea does not recognise same-sex civil partnerships, but their constitution stipulates that marriage and family shall be established “on the basis of individual dignity and equality of the sexes”. Furthermore, same-sex relations are not criminalised in South Korea but reports suggest that LGBTQ people tend to live under the radar. Therefore, rights activists in the country have long called for legislation against discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation, but the anti-discrimination law has not been passed due to a lack of consensus among lawmakers. A lawyer at the Marriage Equality Korea civic group, told the Guardian, “It’s a historic moment, but this is just the start,” and called for the bills to be discussed in the assembly “ immediately.” However, the efforts to pass such legislation including the anti-discrimination law have reportedly been opposed by religious groups that claim such moves would “legalise homosexuality”. According to a Hankook Research survey, 52 per cent of respondents were against the legalisation of same-sex marriage in South Korea. However, Jang told the United Kingdom-based newspaper, that enacting such laws is a part of the process of achieving social consensus in a democratic society. South Korea’s landmark ruling in February Earlier this year, the High Court in South Korea ruled in favour of a gay couple, So Seong-wook and Kim Yong-min, when they sued South Korea’s National Health Insurance Service (NHIS) in 2021. This came after the insurance service terminated benefits for his partner, Kim whom So had registered as a dependent, after the officials found out they were a gay couple. So and Kim couple had been living together and got married in 2019, but it held no legal validity since the country does not recognise same-sex marriage. At the time, the high court had acknowledged that it is difficult to recognise same-sex marriage under the country’s current common law. However, “those in same-sex marriage are fundamentally identical to those in a common-law marriage, except that they are homosexual,” said the court, as per the Yonhap News Agency. It added that considering they form “the highly identical union” the withdrawal of the insurance coverage “constitutes discrimination based on sexual orientation” which is also against the state health insurance benefits. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

‘Historic’: South Korea’s same-sex marriage bill goes to parliament

North Korea state media said on Wednesday that a military spy satellite was&nbsp;launched but it failed and crashed into the sea.

"The launched new satellite transport rocket 'Cheollima-1' crashed into the West Sea of Korea as it lost momentum due to abnormal start-up of the two-stage engine after one step separation while flying normally," the Korean Central News Agency reported. 
 
Pyongyang’s&nbsp;failure to put the country’s first spy satellite into orbit is&nbsp;being viewed as an embarrassment for its leader Kim Jong Un who has been pushing for a boost of North Korea’s military capability amid the security tensions with the United States and South Korea. 
 
It was the nuclear-armed state's sixth satellite launch attempt, and the first since 2016 and would have been North Korea’s first spy satellite in orbit. 
 
North Korea's National Aerospace Development Administration (NADA) will investigate the "serious defects" and take action to overcome them before conducting a second launch as soon as possible, KCNA said.

The launch of the satellite, meanwhile, caused panic and a flurry of activity in South Korean capital Seoul as air raid sirens blared and city authorities asked citizens to be prepared for evacuation before saying that the evacuation order was 'incorrectly issued'.

The text alert that was initially sent read,&nbsp;"Citizens, please prepare to evacuate and allow children and the elderly to evacuate first."

<h2>Missile alert warning system activated in Japan</h2>

Japan activated its missile alert warning system for the southern region of Okinawa soon after the North Korean launch.

"Missile launch. Missile launch. North Korea appears to have launched a missile. Please take shelters inside buildings or underground," said the alert tweeted by the prime minister’s office and carried on national broadcaster NHK.

The official English language Twitter handle of Japan PMO said in its tweets that a 'suspected ballistic missile' has been fired by North Korea and that&nbsp;'it will possibly land in the area around Okinawa'.

But around 30 minutes later, the government tweeted that the alert was being cancelled.

"It is expected that the missile reported earlier will not come to Japan. The call for evacuation is lifted," it said.

News agency Yonhap quoted South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff assaying that the projectile flew over the Yellow Sea and didn't affect the Seoul metropolitan area. 
 
Officials from the United States, Japan, South Korea held a phone call and&nbsp;“strongly condemned" the launch, Japan’s foreign ministry said.

South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff said the military was conducting operation to recover parts of the space launch vehicle.&nbsp;The military shared pictures of debris pulled from the water.&nbsp;

North Korea had earlier given indications that it intends to launch a spy satellite. On Tuesday, North Korea said that the satellite would be "indispensable to tracking, monitoring... and coping with in advance in real time the dangerous military acts of the US and its vassal forces".

The North had criticised US-South Korea joint military exercises, including the one going on right now. According to North Korean state media, one of country's top military officials said that Pyongyang felt "the need to expand reconnaissance and information means and improve various defensive and offensive weapons."

However, since&nbsp;long-range rockets and space launchers share the same technology, analysts say developing the ability to put a satellite in orbit would provide Pyongyang with cover for testing banned intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs).

In 2012 and 2016, Pyongyang tested ballistic missiles that it called satellite launches. Both flew over Japan's southern Okinawa region.

(With inputs from agencies)

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North Korea state media said on Wednesday that a military spy satellite was launched but it failed and crashed into the sea. "The launched new satellite transport rocket 'Cheollima-1' crashed into the West Sea of Korea as it lost momentum due to abnormal start-up of the two-stage engine after one step separation while flying normally," the Korean Central News Agency reported.

North Korea state media said on Wednesday that a military spy satellite was launched but it failed and crashed into the sea. "The launched new satellite transport rocket 'Cheollima-1' crashed into the West Sea of Korea as it lost momentum due to abnormal start-up of the two-stage engine after one step separation while flying normally," the Korean Central News Agency reported. Pyongyang’s failure to put the country’s first spy satellite into orbit is being viewed as an embarrassment for its leader Kim Jong Un who has been pushing for a boost of North Korea’s military capability amid the security tensions with the United States and South Korea. It was the nuclear-armed state's sixth satellite launch attempt, and the first since 2016 and would have been North Korea’s first spy satellite in orbit. North Korea's National Aerospace Development Administration (NADA) will investigate the "serious defects" and take action to overcome them before conducting a second launch as soon as possible, KCNA said. The launch of the satellite, meanwhile, caused panic and a flurry of activity in South Korean capital Seoul as air raid sirens blared and city authorities asked citizens to be prepared for evacuation before saying that the evacuation order was 'incorrectly issued'. The text alert that was initially sent read, "Citizens, please prepare to evacuate and allow children and the elderly to evacuate first." Missile alert warning system activated in Japan Japan activated its missile alert warning system for the southern region of Okinawa soon after the North Korean launch. "Missile launch. Missile launch. North Korea appears to have launched a missile. Please take shelters inside buildings or underground," said the alert tweeted by the prime minister’s office and carried on national broadcaster NHK. The official English language Twitter handle of Japan PMO said in its tweets that a 'suspected ballistic missile' has been fired by North Korea and that 'it will possibly land in the area around Okinawa'. But around 30 minutes later, the government tweeted that the alert was being cancelled. "It is expected that the missile reported earlier will not come to Japan. The call for evacuation is lifted," it said. News agency Yonhap quoted South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff assaying that the projectile flew over the Yellow Sea and didn't affect the Seoul metropolitan area. Officials from the United States, Japan, South Korea held a phone call and “strongly condemned" the launch, Japan’s foreign ministry said. South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff said the military was conducting operation to recover parts of the space launch vehicle. The military shared pictures of debris pulled from the water. North Korea had earlier given indications that it intends to launch a spy satellite. On Tuesday, North Korea said that the satellite would be "indispensable to tracking, monitoring... and coping with in advance in real time the dangerous military acts of the US and its vassal forces". The North had criticised US-South Korea joint military exercises, including the one going on right now. According to North Korean state media, one of country's top military officials said that Pyongyang felt "the need to expand reconnaissance and information means and improve various defensive and offensive weapons." However, since long-range rockets and space launchers share the same technology, analysts say developing the ability to put a satellite in orbit would provide Pyongyang with cover for testing banned intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs). In 2012 and 2016, Pyongyang tested ballistic missiles that it called satellite launches. Both flew over Japan's southern Okinawa region. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

North Korea military spy satellite launch fails, crashes into sea; Pyongyang vows second attempt soon

In Pics | Panic hits Seoul after North Korea attempts satellite launch

The South Korean military said on Wednesday (May 31) that it had located and was salvaging a suspected part of the North Korean spy satellite that crashed soon after launch because of a rocket failure.

The South Korean military said on Wednesday (May 31) that it had located and was salvaging a suspected part of the North Korean spy satellite that crashed soon after launch because of a rocket failure. "At around 08:05 today, our military identified an object presumed to be part of North Korea's claimed 'Space Launch Vehicle' in waters 200km (124 miles) west of Eocheong Island and is salvaging it," Seoul's Joint Chiefs of Staff said, the news agency AFP reported. The military also released images of a part of the spy satellite. The images showed a large-barrel-like metal structure with some thin pipes and wires at the bottom, which the military said it salvaged in waters 200 kilometres west of Eocheong Island. The new "Chollima-1" satellite launch rocket failed because of instability in the engine and fuel system, according to the state news agency KCNA. This flight was North Korea's sixth satellite launch attempt and the first since 2016. Panic in Seoul after spy satellite launch Air raid sirens and mobile phone alerts calling for evacuations caused panic among residents of South Korea's capital city of Seoul after North Korea launched its spy satellite. The sirens started at 6.32 am (2132 GMT Tuesday) as the city issued a "Presidential Alert" asking citizens to prepare for a potential evacuation, the news agency Reuters reported. Shortly after, a second mobile alert came calling for evacuation which remained in place for at least 10 minutes until the administration said it had been sent in error. Speaking to Reuters, Seoul resident Lee Juyeon said, "I was so panicked. Nine-one-one lines were busy and the internet was slow." Juyeon, who has a nine-month-old child, also said, "So without knowing what was really happening, I was about to head down to a basement wearing a wrap carrier with my baby." Though residents are used to living in the shadow of threats from North Korea, an element of complacency has crept in among many in the city about the risks and how to respond. ALSO READ | Explained: When world was battling pandemic, why North Korea was busy sealing borders with China and Russia Reuters reported that some office workers in Seoul's central district said they had considered during their commute how to respond to the alarm, such as by withdrawing cash or hoarding water. "I understand it was a mistake, but even if it has to be simple, that alert message should have said what went on and where to go," Kim Jong-hyun, 48, said on his way to work after dropping off his child at school. On Wednesday morning, "alerts" and "evacuation" were the most trending topics on Twitter in South Korea. N. Korea launch violates UN resolutions: Japan Japan, which briefly activated its missile alert warning system for the Okinawa region after Pyongyang's military spy satellite launch, that such a launch by North Korea violated the resolutions of the United Nations Security Council. "We cannot tolerate this kind of launch whether it is a satellite or anything else, as it violates UN resolutions," Japan's Defence Minister Yasukazu Hamada told reporters. Earlier, the Prime Minister's office tweeted, "Missile launch. Missile launch. North Korea appears to have launched a missile. Please take shelter inside buildings or underground." But half an hour later, the government tweeted that the alert was being cancelled. "It is expected that the missile reported earlier will not come to Japan. The call for evacuation is lifted," it said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

South Korea ‘salvaging debris’ of crashed North  Korean military spy satellite

Here, we bring you the news that is trending across WION's social media platforms - South Korea to expand arms exports to Europe, North Korea to launch first spy satellite, Poland to set up commission on Russian influence, Clashes in Germany after Erdogan's victory, 17th air attack on Kyiv this month.

North Korea to launch 1st spy satellite | S. Korea to expand arm exports to Europe

South Korea is using a $13.7 billion arms deal with Poland, Seoul's biggest ever - to lay the groundwork for a military-industrial juggernaut that the two nations' defence companies hope will feed Europe's hunger for weapons far into the future.

South Korea signs $13.7 billion arms deal with Poland

The South Korean government is now paying young recluses to enter society again. According to South Korea's ministry of gender equality and family. Young people in isolation will now be paid about 490 dollars as a monthly living allowance. These are adolescents who have been living in a confined space for an extended period and face significant difficulty living a normal life.

South Korea govt paying youth to re-enter society

The media of North Korea called the plans of South Korea, Japan and the United States to share real-time data on the missile launches by the regime of Kim Jong-un as “sinister measures” as the Jong-un government lashed out at South for carrying out live-fire exercises with the US. 
 
The leaders of the US, Japan and South Korea met at the G7 summit in Hiroshima, Japan and discussed new co-ordination in the wake of illicit nuclear and missile threats from North Korea. 
 
A series of missile and weapons tests have been undertaken by North Korea in recent months, the most recent being in a new solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM). 
 
The missile and nuclear weapons programmes of North Korea are banned by the UN security council.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/construction-at-north-koreas-satellite-launch-pad-hits-new-urgency-report-596267">Construction at North Korea’s satellite launch pad hits ‘new urgency’: Report</a>

<h2>US and South Korea start live-fire exercises</h2>

The US and South Korean forces started the live-fire exercises on Thursday, which simulated a "full-scale attack" launched by North Korea, which they called as the biggest such drill to display the "overwhelming" military capability of the South against the growing threats of North. 
 
Howitzers were fired in Pocheon's mountainside near North Korea's fortified border. Meanwhile, manoeuvring battle tanks fired their guns at the targets, which sent dust, smoke as well as shockwaves across the valley. 
 
Around 2,500 troops from the United States and South Korea participated in the exercises. These exercises will be carried out four more times from now until mid-June, stated South Korea's defence ministry. 
 
"The exercise demonstrated our military's capability and readiness to strongly respond to North Korea's nuclear and missile threats and to a full-scale attack," the ministry added in a press release, vowing to maintain "peace through overwhelming strength".

WATCH |&nbsp;US and South Korea hold live-fire drills, 5-day exercise kicks off in Pocheon | World News | WION

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<h2> 
North Korea's first military spy satellite</h2>

Last week, the state media of North Korea reported that final approval was given by their leader Kim Jong Un for final preparations for launching the country's first military spy satellite. 
 
Kim stated that it is important for the country to counter threats from South Korea and the US. Analysts stated that the satellite will improve the surveillance capability of North Korea which will enable it to hit targets more accurately when it engages in a war. 
 
In recent commercial satellite imagery, progress made on the new launch pad in the satellite launching station of North could be seen, with activity appearing to be carried out with a "new level of urgency” for the launch, stated the US-based monitoring group 38 North. 
 
The forces of South Korea and the US have been carrying out multiple training exercises in recent months, which included air and sea drills involving US B-1B bombers. 
 
North Korea has angrily reacted to the drills which it characterised as preparations being carried out by US and South Korean forces for an invasion.

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The media of North Korea called the plans of South Korea, Japan and the United States to share real-time data on the missile launches by the regime of Kim Jong-un as “sinister measures” as the Jong-un government lashed out at South for carrying out live-fire exercises with the US.

The media of North Korea called the plans of South Korea, Japan and the United States to share real-time data on the missile launches by the regime of Kim Jong-un as “sinister measures” as the Jong-un government lashed out at South for carrying out live-fire exercises with the US. The leaders of the US, Japan and South Korea met at the G7 summit in Hiroshima, Japan and discussed new co-ordination in the wake of illicit nuclear and missile threats from North Korea. A series of missile and weapons tests have been undertaken by North Korea in recent months, the most recent being in a new solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM). The missile and nuclear weapons programmes of North Korea are banned by the UN security council. ALSO READ | Construction at North Korea’s satellite launch pad hits ‘new urgency’: Report US and South Korea start live-fire exercises The US and South Korean forces started the live-fire exercises on Thursday, which simulated a "full-scale attack" launched by North Korea, which they called as the biggest such drill to display the "overwhelming" military capability of the South against the growing threats of North. Howitzers were fired in Pocheon's mountainside near North Korea's fortified border. Meanwhile, manoeuvring battle tanks fired their guns at the targets, which sent dust, smoke as well as shockwaves across the valley. Around 2,500 troops from the United States and South Korea participated in the exercises. These exercises will be carried out four more times from now until mid-June, stated South Korea's defence ministry. "The exercise demonstrated our military's capability and readiness to strongly respond to North Korea's nuclear and missile threats and to a full-scale attack," the ministry added in a press release, vowing to maintain "peace through overwhelming strength". WATCH | US and South Korea hold live-fire drills, 5-day exercise kicks off in Pocheon | World News | WION North Korea's first military spy satellite Last week, the state media of North Korea reported that final approval was given by their leader Kim Jong Un for final preparations for launching the country's first military spy satellite. Kim stated that it is important for the country to counter threats from South Korea and the US. Analysts stated that the satellite will improve the surveillance capability of North Korea which will enable it to hit targets more accurately when it engages in a war. In recent commercial satellite imagery, progress made on the new launch pad in the satellite launching station of North could be seen, with activity appearing to be carried out with a "new level of urgency” for the launch, stated the US-based monitoring group 38 North. The forces of South Korea and the US have been carrying out multiple training exercises in recent months, which included air and sea drills involving US B-1B bombers. North Korea has angrily reacted to the drills which it characterised as preparations being carried out by US and South Korean forces for an invasion. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

North Korea criticises ‘sinister’ South as live-fire exercises with US start

Here, we bring you the news that is trending across WION's social media platforms- A passenger aboard a c opened an emergency door moments before the plane landed, sparking panic among the passengers in the wind-swept cabin. The man was arrested upon landing.

Passenger onboard flight opens emergency door

The United States and South Korea kicked off their largest-ever live-fire exercise drills in South Korea's northern city of Pocheon. This comes despite a warning by North Korea stating hostile invasion.

US and South Korea hold live-fire drills, 5-day exercise kicks off in Pocheon | World News | WION

A passenger aboard a South Korean flight opened an emergency door moments before the plane landed, sparking panic among the passengers in the wind-swept cabin. The man was arrested upon landing.

South Korea: Passenger onboard Asiana airlines flight opens emergency door

A day after&nbsp;South Korea cancelled the planned launch of its&nbsp;domestically produced space rocket, it announced the&nbsp;successful delivery of&nbsp;a commercial-grade satellite into orbit on Thursday, (May 25).&nbsp;This comes as the country has been moving to mark a significant step in its space programme after its neighbouring North Korea&nbsp;last month said it would launch its first military spy satellite into orbit.&nbsp; 
 
Successful&nbsp;launch 
 
South Korea’s homegrown Nuri rocket took off from&nbsp;the Naro Space Centre in Goheung, a launch facility in the southern part of the country, at 6:24 pm (local time)&nbsp;in its third flight after the launch. 
 
Speaking about the launch,&nbsp;Science Minister Lee Jong-ho, said that among the&nbsp;eight satellites&nbsp;aboard the rocket was the&nbsp;main commercial-grade satellite which made contact with a base station in Antarctica after successfully separating from the space vehicle.&nbsp; 
 
"This will greatly change the way the world sees South Korea's space science technology and its advanced industry," said South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol. He also went on to tout the launch which places Seoul among the top seven countries in the world that&nbsp;have put their homegrown&nbsp;satellites into orbit with their domestically built space launch vehicles. 
 
Why was the launch delayed?

The announcement was made just two hours before the planned launch was supposed to take place on Wednesday, citing technical glitches, most likely due to&nbsp;communication errors between systems which control a helium relief valve, said the officials, adding that there seems to be no issue with the vehicle itself.&nbsp;

Country’s Deputy Science Minister, Oh Tae-seok, had said during a press conference&nbsp;that the launch could be back on track as soon as Thursday if the glitch is fixed.&nbsp; 
 
About the launch vehicle,&nbsp;satellites

The vehicle carrying eight satellites was stopped after an anomaly was noticed between the launch control computer and the launch pad control computer during the launch preparation process. The launch would mark the third test for the country’s commercial-grade satellite.&nbsp;

The&nbsp;third planned launch of Nuri follows&nbsp;a failed first attempt and a successful second mission last year. “It’s currently believed there is no problem with the projectile itself, so it will remain erected,” said Oh, adding that scientists and software engineers are working to resolve the issue.&nbsp;

The three-stage rocket, which is more than 150 feet long and weighs at least 200 tonnes, was supposed to take off at 6:24 pm (local time) after it was transferred and erected at the launch pad on Tuesday.&nbsp;

Ko Jeong-hwan, director of the Nuri rocket project at the Korea Aerospace Research Institute (KARI), told the press that the launch aims to put the domestically developed 180-kilogram NEXTSat 2 satellite into “target orbit,” which is at an altitude of 550 kilometres.&nbsp;

The satellite has the ability to capture high-resolution images regardless of weather conditions, and while South Korea currently has no military reconnaissance satellites of its own and largely depends on the United States for monitoring facilities in North Korea, Seoul aspires to launch its surveillance satellites soon.&nbsp; 
 
Last month, North Korea said that it would launch its first military spy satellite into orbit which has supposedly increased pressure on South Korea, as the tensions in the region remain high.&nbsp;Pyongyang tested over 100 missiles since the beginning of last year some of which were also said to be nuclear-capable.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
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A day after South Korea cancelled the planned launch of its domestically produced space rocket, it announced the successful delivery of a commercial-grade satellite into orbit on Thursday, (May 25).

A day after South Korea cancelled the planned launch of its domestically produced space rocket, it announced the successful delivery of a commercial-grade satellite into orbit on Thursday, (May 25). This comes as the country has been moving to mark a significant step in its space programme after its neighbouring North Korea last month said it would launch its first military spy satellite into orbit. Successful launch South Korea’s homegrown Nuri rocket took off from the Naro Space Centre in Goheung, a launch facility in the southern part of the country, at 6:24 pm (local time) in its third flight after the launch. Speaking about the launch, Science Minister Lee Jong-ho, said that among the eight satellites aboard the rocket was the main commercial-grade satellite which made contact with a base station in Antarctica after successfully separating from the space vehicle. "This will greatly change the way the world sees South Korea's space science technology and its advanced industry," said South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol. He also went on to tout the launch which places Seoul among the top seven countries in the world that have put their homegrown satellites into orbit with their domestically built space launch vehicles. Why was the launch delayed? The announcement was made just two hours before the planned launch was supposed to take place on Wednesday, citing technical glitches, most likely due to communication errors between systems which control a helium relief valve, said the officials, adding that there seems to be no issue with the vehicle itself. Country’s Deputy Science Minister, Oh Tae-seok, had said during a press conference that the launch could be back on track as soon as Thursday if the glitch is fixed. About the launch vehicle, satellites The vehicle carrying eight satellites was stopped after an anomaly was noticed between the launch control computer and the launch pad control computer during the launch preparation process. The launch would mark the third test for the country’s commercial-grade satellite. The third planned launch of Nuri follows a failed first attempt and a successful second mission last year. “It’s currently believed there is no problem with the projectile itself, so it will remain erected,” said Oh, adding that scientists and software engineers are working to resolve the issue. The three-stage rocket, which is more than 150 feet long and weighs at least 200 tonnes, was supposed to take off at 6:24 pm (local time) after it was transferred and erected at the launch pad on Tuesday. Ko Jeong-hwan, director of the Nuri rocket project at the Korea Aerospace Research Institute (KARI), told the press that the launch aims to put the domestically developed 180-kilogram NEXTSat 2 satellite into “target orbit,” which is at an altitude of 550 kilometres. The satellite has the ability to capture high-resolution images regardless of weather conditions, and while South Korea currently has no military reconnaissance satellites of its own and largely depends on the United States for monitoring facilities in North Korea, Seoul aspires to launch its surveillance satellites soon. Last month, North Korea said that it would launch its first military spy satellite into orbit which has supposedly increased pressure on South Korea, as the tensions in the region remain high. Pyongyang tested over 100 missiles since the beginning of last year some of which were also said to be nuclear-capable. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

South Korea successfully launches homegrown rocket after delay due to technical glitch

The governments of the United States and South Korea on Tuesday (May 23) announced new North Korean sanctions related to thousands of IT workers, many operating in China and Russia, whose labours allegedly help fund weapons of mass destruction (WMD) and missile programmes.

The governments of the United States and South Korea on Tuesday (May 23) announced new North Korean sanctions related to thousands of IT workers, many operating in China and Russia, whose labours allegedly help fund weapons of mass destruction (WMD) and missile programmes. According to a statement issued by the US Treasury Department, "The DPRK (Democratic People’s Republic of Korea) conducts malicious cyber activities and deploys information technology (IT) workers who fraudulently obtain employment to generate revenue, including in virtual currency, to support the Kim regime and its priorities, such as its unlawful weapons of mass destruction (WMD) and ballistic missile programmes." The Treasury Department said that one individual Kim Sang Man, and the North Korea-based Chinyong Information Technology Cooperation Company were sanctioned jointly (by the US and South Korea) in relation to their IT worker activities. North Korea oversees thousands of IT workers worldwide, primarily those in China and Russia to generate revenue that contributes to its unlawful WMD and ballistic missile programmes, the statement said. "In some cases, DPRK (Democratic People’s Republic of Korea) IT workers can each earn more than $300,000 per year. These workers deliberately obfuscate their identities, locations, and nationalities, typically using fake personas, proxy accounts, stolen identities, and falsified or forged documentation to apply for jobs at these companies," it added. Three N.Korean entities previously sanctioned by South Korea The department also said that three entities - the 110th Research Center, Pyongyang University of Automation, and Technical Reconnaissance Bureau - were previously sanctioned by South Korea for engaging in cyber operations and illicit revenue generation that support North Korea's WMD programs. Technical Reconnaissance Bureau currently leads North Korea's offensive cyber efforts and oversees staff affiliated with the infamous Lazarus hacking group. Lazarus had been accused of carrying out some of the largest virtual currency heists to date. "On March 23, 2022, the Lazarus Group carried out the largest virtual currency heist to date, stealing about $620 million in virtual currency from a blockchain project linked to the online game Axie Infinity," the department also said on Tuesday. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US, South Korea announce new North Korea sanctions on IT workers

Olaf Scholz, the chancellor of Germany, has urged North Korea to stop testing ballistic missiles. Right before a summit with the president of South Korea, he toured the fortified border between North and South Korea.

South Korea, Germany to strengthen solidarity in Europe, Asia

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol turned down a controversial nursing bill that defined the roles and responsibilities of nurses in the country. The bill which was heavily pushed by the country's main Opposition Party was vetoed.

South Korean nurses strike after Yoon vetoes bill on pay, working conditions

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a bilateral meetings with South Korea's President Yoon Suk Yeol and Vietnam's Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh on the sidelines of the Group of Seven (G7) leaders' summit in Hiroshima, Japan, on Saturday (May 20).

In a tweet, the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) stated, “PM @narendramodi had a productive meeting with @President_KR Yoon Suk Yeol. India and the Republic of Korea share a warm friendship and deep-rooted cultural linkages. Today’s talks focused on ways to further cement this friendship in key developmental sectors.”

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> had a productive meeting with <a href="https://twitter.com/President_KR?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@President_KR</a> Yoon Suk Yeol. India and the Republic of Korea share a warm friendship and deep rooted cultural linkages. Today’s talks focused on ways to further cement this friendship in key developmental sectors. <a href="https://t.co/pkU5qEVzO6">pic.twitter.com/pkU5qEVzO6</a>
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia/status/1659741815606738950?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 20, 2023</a></blockquote>
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The prime minister also held talks&nbsp;with Vietnam's Pham Minh Chinh and discussed different aspects of India-Vietnam friendly relations, especially in areas like energy, technology, commerce and defence.

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Prime Ministers <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> and Pham Minh Chinh held talks in Hiroshima. They discussed different aspects of India-Vietnam friendship, particularly in areas like energy, technology, commerce and defence. <a href="https://t.co/9bsdWS1MHO">pic.twitter.com/9bsdWS1MHO</a>
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia/status/1659763278686588928?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 20, 2023</a></blockquote>
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"Propelling - ties to new levels. Wide-ranging talks between PM @narendramodi and PM Pham Minh Chinh of Vietnam," the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) tweeted.

"Leaders discussed expanding cooperation in the fields of trade and investment, defence, building resilient supply chains, energy, science &amp; technology, human resource development, culture &amp; people to people ties," it stated. 
&nbsp;

<h2>PM Modi at G7 Summit 
&nbsp;</h2>

Earlier in the day, PM Modi also held talks with Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida during which the two leaders discussed ways to grow India-Japan friendship across various sectors including trade, economy and culture.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-and-japans-kishida-hold-talks-on-sidelines-of-g7-594288">PM Narendra Modi meets Japan's Kishida on sidelines of G7 in Hiroshima</a>

The prime minister had stated, "I congratulate you on the successful presidency of G7. I also want to thank you for inviting India to the G7 Summit. Your (PM Kishida) visit to India was a memorable one." 
 
"It is a delightful moment for me as the Bodhi tree I gifted you has been planted by you in Hiroshima, I believe India-Japan relations will grow with the growth of this tree," he added. 
 
The Indian prime minister also unveiled a bust of Mahatma Gandhi in Hiroshima and said that even today the world is frightened when they hear the name of 'Hiroshima'. "I got the opportunity to unveil a bust of Mahatma Gandhi during my visit to Japan for the G7 Summit," he stated.

WATCH | G7 leaders reach Hiroshima in Japan ahead of the official G7 Summit

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He added that Mahatma Gandhi's bust in Hiroshima will propagate the idea of non-violence. "It is a great moment for me to know that the Bodhi tree that I gifted to the Japanese PM has been planted here in Hiroshima so that people can understand the importance of peace when they come here. I pay my respect to Mahatma Gandhi,” he said. 
 
Later in the day, PM Modi will participate in the G7 grouping's annual summit. The three-day summit will end on Sunday (May 21). Indian prime minister will also attend the Quad leaders' meeting to be held on the sidelines of the G7 Summit. 
 
The prime minister will also attend the working session of G7 and hold bilateral talks with French President Emmanuel Macron and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. 
 
This year, Japan is hosting the G7 Summit and India is attending as a guest country. G7 comprises Britain, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan and the United States.

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a bilateral meetings with South Korea's President Yoon Suk Yeol and Vietnam's Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh on the sidelines of the Group of Seven (G7) leaders' summit in Hiroshima, Japan, on Saturday (May 20).

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a bilateral meetings with South Korea's President Yoon Suk Yeol and Vietnam's Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh on the sidelines of the Group of Seven (G7) leaders' summit in Hiroshima, Japan, on Saturday (May 20). In a tweet, the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) stated, “PM @narendramodi had a productive meeting with @President_KR Yoon Suk Yeol. India and the Republic of Korea share a warm friendship and deep-rooted cultural linkages. Today’s talks focused on ways to further cement this friendship in key developmental sectors.” PM @narendramodi had a productive meeting with @President_KR Yoon Suk Yeol. India and the Republic of Korea share a warm friendship and deep rooted cultural linkages. Today’s talks focused on ways to further cement this friendship in key developmental sectors. pic.twitter.com/pkU5qEVzO6 — PMO India (@PMOIndia) May 20, 2023 × The prime minister also held talks with Vietnam's Pham Minh Chinh and discussed different aspects of India-Vietnam friendly relations, especially in areas like energy, technology, commerce and defence. Prime Ministers @narendramodi and Pham Minh Chinh held talks in Hiroshima. They discussed different aspects of India-Vietnam friendship, particularly in areas like energy, technology, commerce and defence. pic.twitter.com/9bsdWS1MHO — PMO India (@PMOIndia) May 20, 2023 × "Propelling - ties to new levels. Wide-ranging talks between PM @narendramodi and PM Pham Minh Chinh of Vietnam," the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) tweeted. "Leaders discussed expanding cooperation in the fields of trade and investment, defence, building resilient supply chains, energy, science & technology, human resource development, culture & people to people ties," it stated. PM Modi at G7 Summit Earlier in the day, PM Modi also held talks with Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida during which the two leaders discussed ways to grow India-Japan friendship across various sectors including trade, economy and culture. ALSO READ | PM Narendra Modi meets Japan's Kishida on sidelines of G7 in Hiroshima The prime minister had stated, "I congratulate you on the successful presidency of G7. I also want to thank you for inviting India to the G7 Summit. Your (PM Kishida) visit to India was a memorable one." "It is a delightful moment for me as the Bodhi tree I gifted you has been planted by you in Hiroshima, I believe India-Japan relations will grow with the growth of this tree," he added. The Indian prime minister also unveiled a bust of Mahatma Gandhi in Hiroshima and said that even today the world is frightened when they hear the name of 'Hiroshima'. "I got the opportunity to unveil a bust of Mahatma Gandhi during my visit to Japan for the G7 Summit," he stated. WATCH | G7 leaders reach Hiroshima in Japan ahead of the official G7 Summit He added that Mahatma Gandhi's bust in Hiroshima will propagate the idea of non-violence. "It is a great moment for me to know that the Bodhi tree that I gifted to the Japanese PM has been planted here in Hiroshima so that people can understand the importance of peace when they come here. I pay my respect to Mahatma Gandhi,” he said. Later in the day, PM Modi will participate in the G7 grouping's annual summit. The three-day summit will end on Sunday (May 21). Indian prime minister will also attend the Quad leaders' meeting to be held on the sidelines of the G7 Summit. The prime minister will also attend the working session of G7 and hold bilateral talks with French President Emmanuel Macron and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. This year, Japan is hosting the G7 Summit and India is attending as a guest country. G7 comprises Britain, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan and the United States. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

G7 Summit: India's PM Modi holds bilateral talks with leaders of South Korea, Vietnam

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol turned down a controversial nursing bill that defined the roles and responsibilities of the nurses in the country. The bill which was heavily pushed by the country's main Opposition Party was vetoed.

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol vetoes new nursing bill; nurses threaten to go on strike | WION

The South Korean President and Canadian Prime Minister agreed to step up cooperation on critical minerals and other economic security issues. Hem Kaur Saroya brings you the report.

Ottawa, Seoul focus on critical minerals | WION Climate Tracker

A South Korean footballer has been detained in Shanghai. The player has been accused of bribery. China is currently not releasing any further information. How many players has China arrested in the past? Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas: South Korean footballer detained in China

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is scheduled to arrive in South Korea on Tuesday for a meeting with President Yoon Suk Yeol to discuss security and vital minerals used in batteries.

Yoon and Trudeau will meet and have a joint press conference on Wednesday, followed by a formal dinner, according to Yoon's deputy national security advisor, Kim Tae-hyo.

Trudeau's visit, the first by a Canadian leader in nine years, commemorates the 60th anniversary of bilateral ties, and both sides will publish a joint statement outlining their cooperation for the next 60 years, Kim added.

The two nations have been discussing ways to expand cooperation on crucial minerals used in EV batteries and increase intelligence sharing.

"The two leaders will discuss intensively on ways to build a norms-based global order including on North Korea's human rights issues, launching a high-level economic and security dialogue, strengthening cooperation on key minerals," Kim told reporters.

Yoon and Trudeau will sign an agreement on major mineral supply chains, renewable energy conversion, and energy security cooperation, a South Korean government official told Reuters, demanding anonymity because the accord was not finished.

<h2>Canada to increase EV manufacturing</h2>

Canada has been attempting to increase EV manufacturing due to abundant mineral deposits, including lithium, cobalt, and nickel, which are needed to produce batteries for such cars.

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;US gun violence: 18-year-old gunman kills three, injures two in New Mexico

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When the two presidents met in September, they pledged to expand cooperation on mineral supply chains as part of efforts to reduce emissions and combat climate change.

While navigating a rising rivalry between the US and China, the two nations have also worked to increase security cooperation, including intelligence sharing.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/mortgage-mayhem-recoveries-canadas-housing-market-defies-the-odds-592568">Mortgage mayhem &amp; recoveries: Canada's housing market defies the odds</a>

Since the imprisonment of Huawei Technologies executive Meng Wanzhou in 2018 and Beijing's subsequent arrest of two Canadians on spying charges, diplomatic relations between Canada and China have been high.&nbsp;

China expelled a Canadian diplomat in Shanghai last week in retaliation for Ottawa's expulsion of a Chinese ambassador in Toronto.

Yoon has treaded carefully with China, South Korea's major trading partner, but he has been more vocal about Taiwan Strait tensions. Last month, Seoul and Beijing traded barbs over Yoon's remarks in an interview with Reuters. 
&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is scheduled to arrive in South Korea on Tuesday for a meeting with President Yoon Suk Yeol to discuss security and vital minerals used in batteries.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is scheduled to arrive in South Korea on Tuesday for a meeting with President Yoon Suk Yeol to discuss security and vital minerals used in batteries. Yoon and Trudeau will meet and have a joint press conference on Wednesday, followed by a formal dinner, according to Yoon's deputy national security advisor, Kim Tae-hyo. Trudeau's visit, the first by a Canadian leader in nine years, commemorates the 60th anniversary of bilateral ties, and both sides will publish a joint statement outlining their cooperation for the next 60 years, Kim added. The two nations have been discussing ways to expand cooperation on crucial minerals used in EV batteries and increase intelligence sharing. "The two leaders will discuss intensively on ways to build a norms-based global order including on North Korea's human rights issues, launching a high-level economic and security dialogue, strengthening cooperation on key minerals," Kim told reporters. Yoon and Trudeau will sign an agreement on major mineral supply chains, renewable energy conversion, and energy security cooperation, a South Korean government official told Reuters, demanding anonymity because the accord was not finished. Canada to increase EV manufacturing Canada has been attempting to increase EV manufacturing due to abundant mineral deposits, including lithium, cobalt, and nickel, which are needed to produce batteries for such cars. ALSO WATCH | US gun violence: 18-year-old gunman kills three, injures two in New Mexico When the two presidents met in September, they pledged to expand cooperation on mineral supply chains as part of efforts to reduce emissions and combat climate change. While navigating a rising rivalry between the US and China, the two nations have also worked to increase security cooperation, including intelligence sharing. ALSO READ | Mortgage mayhem & recoveries: Canada's housing market defies the odds Since the imprisonment of Huawei Technologies executive Meng Wanzhou in 2018 and Beijing's subsequent arrest of two Canadians on spying charges, diplomatic relations between Canada and China have been high. China expelled a Canadian diplomat in Shanghai last week in retaliation for Ottawa's expulsion of a Chinese ambassador in Toronto. Yoon has treaded carefully with China, South Korea's major trading partner, but he has been more vocal about Taiwan Strait tensions. Last month, Seoul and Beijing traded barbs over Yoon's remarks in an interview with Reuters. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Canada's Trudeau to make first official visit to S Korea; minerals, security on the agenda

South Korean soccer player Son Jun-ho is being held in police custody in northeast China in connection with a bribery case, a Korean diplomatic source said on Monday. Son was detained on Friday, his 31st birthday.

Reuters was unable to reach him for comment.

Son plays for the South Korean national team and Chinese Super League club Shandong Taishan, based in the northeastern province of Shandong.

Son was currently in the custody of the Liaoning Public Security Department in connection to a bribery case, according to an official at South Korea's consulate-general in Shenyang.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ligue-1-french-soccer-anti-homophobia-campaign-causes-row-592661">Ligue 1: French soccer anti-homophobia campaign causes row</a>

The official, who requested anonymity due to the sensitivity of the case, said the consulate had requested a meeting with Son as soon as possible and was in contact with his family.

The official gave no further details.

Shandong Taishan have not commented publicly on the case but the club posted a message on its official Weibo account on the day he was detained wishing him a happy birthday.

News of his detention was first published by Yonhap News.

When asked about Son on Monday, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin said he was not aware of the case.

Neither Shandong Taishan nor the Liaoning Public Security Department immediately responded to requests for comment.

South Korean soccer player Son Jun-ho is being held in police custody in northeast China in connection with a bribery case, a Korean diplomatic source said on Monday.

South Korean soccer player Son Jun-ho is being held in police custody in northeast China in connection with a bribery case, a Korean diplomatic source said on Monday. Son was detained on Friday, his 31st birthday. Reuters was unable to reach him for comment. Son plays for the South Korean national team and Chinese Super League club Shandong Taishan, based in the northeastern province of Shandong. Son was currently in the custody of the Liaoning Public Security Department in connection to a bribery case, according to an official at South Korea's consulate-general in Shenyang. ALSO READ: Ligue 1: French soccer anti-homophobia campaign causes row The official, who requested anonymity due to the sensitivity of the case, said the consulate had requested a meeting with Son as soon as possible and was in contact with his family. The official gave no further details. Shandong Taishan have not commented publicly on the case but the club posted a message on its official Weibo account on the day he was detained wishing him a happy birthday. News of his detention was first published by Yonhap News. When asked about Son on Monday, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin said he was not aware of the case. Neither Shandong Taishan nor the Liaoning Public Security Department immediately responded to requests for comment.

Football: South Korean player Son Jun-ho detained in China on suspicion of bribery - Reports

Over a period of 10 years (2023-32), South Korean automaker Hyundai will be investing USD&nbsp;2.5 billion (INR 20,000 crore) in India. This investment is&nbsp;aimed at scaling up the firm's existing manufacturing operations of electric vehicles and internal combustion engine vehicles, developing an Electric Vehicle (EV) ecosystem, setting up EV charging stations and establishing an EV battery assembly unit.

Unsoo Kim, MD and&nbsp;CEO&nbsp;of Hyundai Motor India Limited (HMIL) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Tamil Nadu government in this regard.&nbsp;The MoU was exchanged in the presence of top officials from HMIL and the Tamil Nadu government led by Chief Minister MK Stalin.

"As part of our long-term vision, we have finalised plans to develop and establish Tamil Nadu as a base for Hyundai's EV manufacturing in India," said Unsoo Kim. He added that this investment would be utilised to set up a battery pack assembly unit with the capacity to assemble 1,78,000 units per year. In addition to this, the firm would install 100 EV charging stations at key locations on major highways over a period of five years.&nbsp;

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin recalled how his father and then Chief Minister M&nbsp;Karunanidhi had laid the foundation stone for the first Hyundai factory in Chennai, in the year 1996. Tracing the growth of Hyundai, he said that the South Korean firm is now the second-largest carmaker in India and the largest exporter of cars from the country. He also added that in terms of the manufacture of automobiles and automobile components, Tamil Nadu has been the leading state in India. Coinciding with its 25th-year milestone in India, Hyundai also rolled out its millionth car made in the country, in the year 2021.&nbsp;

Speaking to WION, Hyundai's AVP, of Corporate Affairs, Puneet Anand said that the firm will be expanding its automobile manufacturing capacity in the Chennai factory.

"Outside Korea, India is the single largest manufacturing hub of Hyundai, and we will be scaling up the manufacturing capacity from the current&nbsp;775,000&nbsp;(7.75 lakh) cars per annum to&nbsp;850,000&nbsp;(8.5 lakh). We export made-in-India cars to 88 countries," he added.

According to him, the latest investment by Hyundai is focussed on sustainable mobility and assembling EV batteries locally and it'll eventually bring down the cost of electric vehicles in the country. The firm also announced that it will also be launching a range of electric vehicles across price segments in India.&nbsp;

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Over a period of 10 years (2023-32), South Korean automaker Hyundai will be investing USD 2.5 billion (INR 20,000 crore) in India. This investment is aimed at scaling up the firm's existing manufacturing operations of electric vehicles and internal combustion engine vehicles, developing an Electric Vehicle (EV) ecosystem, setting up EV charging stations and establishing an EV battery assembly unit.

Over a period of 10 years (2023-32), South Korean automaker Hyundai will be investing USD 2.5 billion (INR 20,000 crore) in India. This investment is aimed at scaling up the firm's existing manufacturing operations of electric vehicles and internal combustion engine vehicles, developing an Electric Vehicle (EV) ecosystem, setting up EV charging stations and establishing an EV battery assembly unit. Unsoo Kim, MD and CEO of Hyundai Motor India Limited (HMIL) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Tamil Nadu government in this regard. The MoU was exchanged in the presence of top officials from HMIL and the Tamil Nadu government led by Chief Minister MK Stalin. "As part of our long-term vision, we have finalised plans to develop and establish Tamil Nadu as a base for Hyundai's EV manufacturing in India," said Unsoo Kim. He added that this investment would be utilised to set up a battery pack assembly unit with the capacity to assemble 1,78,000 units per year. In addition to this, the firm would install 100 EV charging stations at key locations on major highways over a period of five years. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin recalled how his father and then Chief Minister M Karunanidhi had laid the foundation stone for the first Hyundai factory in Chennai, in the year 1996. Tracing the growth of Hyundai, he said that the South Korean firm is now the second-largest carmaker in India and the largest exporter of cars from the country. He also added that in terms of the manufacture of automobiles and automobile components, Tamil Nadu has been the leading state in India. Coinciding with its 25th-year milestone in India, Hyundai also rolled out its millionth car made in the country, in the year 2021. Speaking to WION, Hyundai's AVP, of Corporate Affairs, Puneet Anand said that the firm will be expanding its automobile manufacturing capacity in the Chennai factory. "Outside Korea, India is the single largest manufacturing hub of Hyundai, and we will be scaling up the manufacturing capacity from the current 775,000 (7.75 lakh) cars per annum to 850,000 (8.5 lakh). We export made-in-India cars to 88 countries," he added. According to him, the latest investment by Hyundai is focussed on sustainable mobility and assembling EV batteries locally and it'll eventually bring down the cost of electric vehicles in the country. The firm also announced that it will also be launching a range of electric vehicles across price segments in India. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Hyundai to invest $2.5bn in India, scale up production at its largest manufacturing hub outside Korea

Japan and South Korea have agreed to link their radar via a US system. This is to share real-time information on North Korea's ballistic missile. Japan, South Korea and United States plan to reach an agreement on the sidelines of an Asean defense Summit to be held in Singapore early next year. According to reports, South Korea will form a group with Japan and United States to share information about North Korea's missiles. Ties between Japan and South Korea have warmed in recent months in the face of the North Korean threat and with North Korea launching ballistic missiles at an unprecedented Pace in the past year the three countries in November.

Japan, South Korea to link radars via US systems

Japan's PM Fumio Kishida visited the National Cemetery on May 7. He arrived in Seoul for a meeting with S.Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol.

Japan's Kishida visits South Korea’s National Cemetery

In an effort to forge strong connections with South Korea in the face of North Korean nuclear threats and China's increasing assertiveness, Fumio Kishida, the prime minister of Japan, is currently in Seoul after starting his first trip to South Korea.

Japan's PM Kishida in South Korea amid North Korea threats

As he welcomed Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida to Seoul on Sunday, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol stressed that unresolved historical differences should not prevent South Korea and Japan from fostering closer ties in the face of global issues.

The United States has welcomed the leaders' vow to increase cooperation as a means of better fending off North Korean threats and competition from China.

Kishida's visit, the first by a Japanese leader to Seoul in 12 years, follows Yoon's travel to Tokyo in March, during which they attempted to put an end to the long-standing disagreements that have divided Japan and South Korea.

"Cooperation and coordination between South Korea and Japan are essential not only for the common interests of the two countries but also for world peace and prosperity in the face of the current severe international situation," Yoon said in opening remarks at their meeting.

Ahead of&nbsp;Hiroshima G7 summit scheduled from 19 May, Kishida is working to repair their fraught ties amid shared concerns over North Korea's nuclear and missile programs.

One of the main issues between the two countries is the legacy of Japan's colonization of Korea from 1910 to 1945. Many Koreans still harbor resentment towards Japan for its brutal treatment during this period, including forced labor and sexual slavery.

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Before leaving on Sunday, Kishida stated that the two leaders were trying to resume their so-called "shuttle diplomacy" which had been put on hold for years due to a contentious trade dispute including the problem of forced labour.

Kishida invited Yoon to a G7 meeting in Hiroshima this month. In their March summit, both the nations agreed to eliminate tit-for-tat trade restrictions. In a statement, Kishida expressed his desire for "an honest exchange of views" with Yoon, "based on a relationship of trust".

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Kishida also laid flowers at the Seoul National Cemetery after his arrival, which is home to South Korea's war dead.&nbsp;

According to local reports, Yoon is anticipated to organise a dinner party in the presidential mansion where Korean barbecue would probably be served. Yoon may even prepare food for Kishida.

The Supreme Court of South Korea in 2018 ordered Japanese companies to pay compensation to those who were subjected to forced labour during the Korean War, angering Tokyo and leading to a deterioration in relations.

In recent years, economic issues have also become a source of tension between Japan and South Korea. In 2019, Japan imposed restrictions on the export of key materials used in the production of semiconductors to South Korea, citing national security concerns. This move was seen by many in South Korea as retaliation for the country's court rulings on compensation for forced labor during Japan's colonial rule.

Yoon, who assumed office last year, has attempted to put the past behind him. Earlier this year, he unveiled a proposal to recompense victims without assistance from Tokyo.

The leaders intended to have "candid exchanges" on this subject, Kishida said on Sunday.

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On Saturday, some 100 South Koreans gathered to oppose Kishida's travel to Seoul.

The efforts to improve relations come as North Korean leader Kim Jong Un intensifies his nation's weapons production and testing after declaring itself&nbsp;"irreversible" nuclear power last year. In response, the United States and South Korea have increased their defence cooperation by holding a number of significant military manoeuvres, including two trilateral exercises this year with Japan.

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As he welcomed Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida to Seoul on Sunday, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol stressed that unresolved historical differences should not prevent South Korea and Japan from fostering closer ties in the face of global issues.

As he welcomed Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida to Seoul on Sunday, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol stressed that unresolved historical differences should not prevent South Korea and Japan from fostering closer ties in the face of global issues. The United States has welcomed the leaders' vow to increase cooperation as a means of better fending off North Korean threats and competition from China. Kishida's visit, the first by a Japanese leader to Seoul in 12 years, follows Yoon's travel to Tokyo in March, during which they attempted to put an end to the long-standing disagreements that have divided Japan and South Korea. "Cooperation and coordination between South Korea and Japan are essential not only for the common interests of the two countries but also for world peace and prosperity in the face of the current severe international situation," Yoon said in opening remarks at their meeting. Ahead of Hiroshima G7 summit scheduled from 19 May, Kishida is working to repair their fraught ties amid shared concerns over North Korea's nuclear and missile programs. One of the main issues between the two countries is the legacy of Japan's colonization of Korea from 1910 to 1945. Many Koreans still harbor resentment towards Japan for its brutal treatment during this period, including forced labor and sexual slavery. Also Read | Teenager girl killed, five other injured after shooting at party in California Before leaving on Sunday, Kishida stated that the two leaders were trying to resume their so-called "shuttle diplomacy" which had been put on hold for years due to a contentious trade dispute including the problem of forced labour. Kishida invited Yoon to a G7 meeting in Hiroshima this month. In their March summit, both the nations agreed to eliminate tit-for-tat trade restrictions. In a statement, Kishida expressed his desire for "an honest exchange of views" with Yoon, "based on a relationship of trust". Also Read | At least nine people killed in shooting at Texas mall; gunman killed by police Kishida also laid flowers at the Seoul National Cemetery after his arrival, which is home to South Korea's war dead. According to local reports, Yoon is anticipated to organise a dinner party in the presidential mansion where Korean barbecue would probably be served. Yoon may even prepare food for Kishida. The Supreme Court of South Korea in 2018 ordered Japanese companies to pay compensation to those who were subjected to forced labour during the Korean War, angering Tokyo and leading to a deterioration in relations. In recent years, economic issues have also become a source of tension between Japan and South Korea. In 2019, Japan imposed restrictions on the export of key materials used in the production of semiconductors to South Korea, citing national security concerns. This move was seen by many in South Korea as retaliation for the country's court rulings on compensation for forced labor during Japan's colonial rule. Yoon, who assumed office last year, has attempted to put the past behind him. Earlier this year, he unveiled a proposal to recompense victims without assistance from Tokyo. The leaders intended to have "candid exchanges" on this subject, Kishida said on Sunday. Watch | World at War: How is Russia's Wagner Group sending weapons into Sudan? × On Saturday, some 100 South Koreans gathered to oppose Kishida's travel to Seoul. The efforts to improve relations come as North Korean leader Kim Jong Un intensifies his nation's weapons production and testing after declaring itself "irreversible" nuclear power last year. In response, the United States and South Korea have increased their defence cooperation by holding a number of significant military manoeuvres, including two trilateral exercises this year with Japan. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Japan, South Korea to forge deeper ties, overcome historical differences

While Italian artist Maurizio Cattelan’s "famous" artwork—a banana affixed to a wall with duct tape—may have awed art connoisseurs across the globe, an art student visiting a South Korean museum, where it was put up for display, thought of it as nothing more than a snack.

On Thursday afternoon,&nbsp;Noh Huyn-so&nbsp;from Seoul National University removed the banana, ate it and then&nbsp;taped the peel to the wall of the Leeum Museum of Art in Seoul.&nbsp;

Called "Comedian", the ripe banana artwork was part of Cattelan’s exhibition "WE", and was placed for exhibition at the museum.&nbsp;

According to local media reports, the incident, which lasted more than a minute, was recorded by Noh's friend.&nbsp;The video posted online purportedly shows Noh taking the banana off the wall as shouts of "excuse me" can be heard. He does not respond and starts eating as the room goes quiet.

After he was caught red-handed by security at the museum, the student told them that he was starving as he missed his breakfast.

The museum later placed a new banana at the same spot, reported local media. The banana is reportedly replaced every two or three days.

The museum said it will not press any charges against the student.

<h2>Robot peels a banana without squashing it</h2>

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Speaking to the local media later, the student said that Cattelan's work signifies rebellion against a certain authority.

"There could be another rebellion against the rebellion," the Seoul National University student told&nbsp;KBS.

"Damaging an artwork could also be seen as an artwork, I thought that would be interesting... Isn't it taped there to be eaten?"

When informed about the incident, Cattelan responded, "No problem at all".

This is not the first time that the bananas used for Cattelan's art have been eaten by a visitor.

In 2019, performance artist David Datuna pulled the banana from the wall after the artwork was sold for $120,000 (£91,000) at Art Basel in Miami.

The banana was swiftly replaced and no further action was taken.

(With inputs from agencies)

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While Italian artist Maurizio Cattelan’s "famous" artwork—a banana affixed to a wall with duct tape—may have awed art connoisseurs across the globe, an art student visiting a South Korean museum, where it was put up for display, thought of it as nothing more than a snack.

While Italian artist Maurizio Cattelan’s "famous" artwork—a banana affixed to a wall with duct tape—may have awed art connoisseurs across the globe, an art student visiting a South Korean museum, where it was put up for display, thought of it as nothing more than a snack. On Thursday afternoon, Noh Huyn-so from Seoul National University removed the banana, ate it and then taped the peel to the wall of the Leeum Museum of Art in Seoul. Called "Comedian", the ripe banana artwork was part of Cattelan’s exhibition "WE", and was placed for exhibition at the museum. According to local media reports, the incident, which lasted more than a minute, was recorded by Noh's friend. The video posted online purportedly shows Noh taking the banana off the wall as shouts of "excuse me" can be heard. He does not respond and starts eating as the room goes quiet. After he was caught red-handed by security at the museum, the student told them that he was starving as he missed his breakfast. The museum later placed a new banana at the same spot, reported local media. The banana is reportedly replaced every two or three days. The museum said it will not press any charges against the student. Robot peels a banana without squashing it Speaking to the local media later, the student said that Cattelan's work signifies rebellion against a certain authority. "There could be another rebellion against the rebellion," the Seoul National University student told KBS. "Damaging an artwork could also be seen as an artwork, I thought that would be interesting... Isn't it taped there to be eaten?" When informed about the incident, Cattelan responded, "No problem at all". This is not the first time that the bananas used for Cattelan's art have been eaten by a visitor. In 2019, performance artist David Datuna pulled the banana from the wall after the artwork was sold for $120,000 (£91,000) at Art Basel in Miami. The banana was swiftly replaced and no further action was taken. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

South Korean student eats artwork of banana duct-taped to wall because ‘he was hungry’

South Korea's President Yoon Suk Yeol, on Friday, said that Seoul was taking into consideration the options of supplying lethal aid to Kyiv and that it was necessary to make sure that Russia's invasion of Ukraine never happens.

In a speech at Harvard University's Kennedy School on the fifth day of a state visit to mark the 70th anniversary of the US-South Korean alliance, Yoon said the Russian offensive was a violation of international law and the rights of Ukrainians.

"We should prove that such attempts will never reach success, to block further attempts being made in the future," he said, as per the concurrent translations of his remarks.&nbsp;

On being asked about the possibility of providing lethal aid to Ukraine, the South Korean leader said, "We are closely monitoring the situation that’s going on the battlefield in Ukraine and will take proper measures in order to uphold the international norms and international law. Right now we are closely monitoring the situation and we are considering various options."

President Yoon met his United States counterpart Joe Biden at the White House on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Amidst soaring tensions over Pyongyang's growing arsenal of projectiles and explosives, the United States vowed to provide South Korea with more insight into its nuclear planning over any conflict with North Korea, signing the Washington Declaration in the process.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-south-korea-security-pact-will-worsen-situation-says-kim-jong-uns-sister-587196">WATCH |&nbsp;US, South Korea security pact will worsen situation, says Kim Jong Un's sister</a>

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&nbsp;

<h2>'South Korea might extend its support for Ukraine beyond humanitarian aid': Yoon</h2>

Yoon, in an interview with Reuters before leaving for the United States, had highlighted that Seoul might extend its support for Ukraine beyond humanitarian and economic aid if it comes under a large-scale civilian attack.

"If there is a situation the international community cannot condone, such as any large-scale attack on civilians, massacre or serious violation of the laws of war, it might be difficult for us to insist only on humanitarian or financial support," he said. &nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-what-is-us-south-korea-nuclear-weapons-deal-about-is-this-end-of-peace-in-korean-peninsula-586684">ALSO READ |&nbsp;Explained | What is US-South Korea nuclear weapons deal about? Is this end of peace in Korean Peninsula?</a>

"I believe there won't be limitations to the extent of the support to defend and restore a country that's been illegally invaded both under international and domestic law," he&nbsp;added. "However, considering our relationship with the parties engaged in the war and developments in the battlefield, we will take the most appropriate measures."

(With inputs from agencies)

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South Korea's President Yoon Suk Yeol, on Friday, said that Seoul was taking into consideration the options of supplying lethal aid to Kyiv and that it was necessary to make sure that Russia's invasion of Ukraine never happens.

South Korea's President Yoon Suk Yeol, on Friday, said that Seoul was taking into consideration the options of supplying lethal aid to Kyiv and that it was necessary to make sure that Russia's invasion of Ukraine never happens. In a speech at Harvard University's Kennedy School on the fifth day of a state visit to mark the 70th anniversary of the US-South Korean alliance, Yoon said the Russian offensive was a violation of international law and the rights of Ukrainians. "We should prove that such attempts will never reach success, to block further attempts being made in the future," he said, as per the concurrent translations of his remarks. On being asked about the possibility of providing lethal aid to Ukraine, the South Korean leader said, "We are closely monitoring the situation that’s going on the battlefield in Ukraine and will take proper measures in order to uphold the international norms and international law. Right now we are closely monitoring the situation and we are considering various options." President Yoon met his United States counterpart Joe Biden at the White House on Wednesday. Amidst soaring tensions over Pyongyang's growing arsenal of projectiles and explosives, the United States vowed to provide South Korea with more insight into its nuclear planning over any conflict with North Korea, signing the Washington Declaration in the process. WATCH | US, South Korea security pact will worsen situation, says Kim Jong Un's sister × 'South Korea might extend its support for Ukraine beyond humanitarian aid': Yoon Yoon, in an interview with Reuters before leaving for the United States, had highlighted that Seoul might extend its support for Ukraine beyond humanitarian and economic aid if it comes under a large-scale civilian attack. "If there is a situation the international community cannot condone, such as any large-scale attack on civilians, massacre or serious violation of the laws of war, it might be difficult for us to insist only on humanitarian or financial support," he said. ALSO READ | Explained | What is US-South Korea nuclear weapons deal about? Is this end of peace in Korean Peninsula? "I believe there won't be limitations to the extent of the support to defend and restore a country that's been illegally invaded both under international and domestic law," he added. "However, considering our relationship with the parties engaged in the war and developments in the battlefield, we will take the most appropriate measures." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'Seoul considering options over lethal aid to Ukraine', says South Korean president

Kim Yo Jong, the powerful sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, has issued a warning to the US and South Korea for signing a new nuclear weapons agreement and called President Joe Biden 'senile' and 'too miscalculating and irresponsibly brave' for his statements.&nbsp;

Kim said that the new agreement&nbsp;aimed at&nbsp;strengthening deterrence against Pyongyang would lead to 'more serious danger' in the region.&nbsp;

“When we consider that this expression was personally used by the president of the US, our most hostile adversary, it is threatening rhetoric for which he should be prepared for far too great an after-storm,” she was quoted as saying by state news agency KCNA.&nbsp;

"The more the enemies are dead set on staging nuclear war exercises, and the more nuclear assets they deploy in the vicinity of the Korean peninsula, the stronger the exercise of our right to self-defence will become in direct proportion to them," she added.&nbsp;

“The pipe dream of the US and (South) Korea will henceforth be faced with the entity of more powerful strength."

<h2>Why did Kim's sister lash out?</h2>

The statement by&nbsp;Kim Yo Jong comes in the backdrop of Biden saying Kim Jong Un's regime would cease to exist if he were to launch a nuclear attack on the United States or its allies. Biden made the comment after signing the Washington Declaration while South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeo was on a US visit earlier this week.&nbsp;

"A nuclear attack by North Korea against the United States or its allies or partners is unacceptable and will result at the end of whatever regime were to take such an action," Biden had&nbsp;said.&nbsp;

This is not the first instance when&nbsp;Pyongyang's top leaders have hurled such derogatory words at&nbsp;the US president. In 2017, Kim Jong Un called then-president Donald Trump a&nbsp;“mentally deranged U.S. dotard” while both were engaged in exchanging verbal threats.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Biden-Yoon meet in White House; South Korea, US&nbsp;sign declaration | WION Pulse

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<h2>What is the Washington Declaration?</h2>

Under the declaration, Seoul&nbsp;will not be developing its own nuclear weapons but the US will aid in the use of them in any potential conflict with North Korea.

The US will also deploy nuclear-armed submarines to South Korea as part of the agreement. Additionally, there will be a routine visit of aircraft carriers and bombers to the region to send a message to the enemy, informed officials.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-nuclear-weapons-for-south-korea-yoon-and-biden-set-to-ink-landmark-agreement-586416">ALSO READ |&nbsp;US nuclear weapons for S Korea? Yoon, Biden ink landmark agreement</a>

Notably, this is the first time since the US withdrew all of its nuclear weapons from South Korea in 1991 that talks about such an agreement have reached fruition. However, no immediate plan exists to station nuclear weapons in South Korea.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
&nbsp;

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Kim Yo Jong, the powerful sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, has issued a warning to the US and South Korea for signing a new nuclear weapons agreement and called President Joe Biden 'senile' and 'too miscalculating and irresponsibly brave' for his statements.

Kim Yo Jong, the powerful sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, has issued a warning to the US and South Korea for signing a new nuclear weapons agreement and called President Joe Biden 'senile' and 'too miscalculating and irresponsibly brave' for his statements. Kim said that the new agreement aimed at strengthening deterrence against Pyongyang would lead to 'more serious danger' in the region. “When we consider that this expression was personally used by the president of the US, our most hostile adversary, it is threatening rhetoric for which he should be prepared for far too great an after-storm,” she was quoted as saying by state news agency KCNA. "The more the enemies are dead set on staging nuclear war exercises, and the more nuclear assets they deploy in the vicinity of the Korean peninsula, the stronger the exercise of our right to self-defence will become in direct proportion to them," she added. “The pipe dream of the US and (South) Korea will henceforth be faced with the entity of more powerful strength." Why did Kim's sister lash out? The statement by Kim Yo Jong comes in the backdrop of Biden saying Kim Jong Un's regime would cease to exist if he were to launch a nuclear attack on the United States or its allies. Biden made the comment after signing the Washington Declaration while South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeo was on a US visit earlier this week. "A nuclear attack by North Korea against the United States or its allies or partners is unacceptable and will result at the end of whatever regime were to take such an action," Biden had said. This is not the first instance when Pyongyang's top leaders have hurled such derogatory words at the US president. In 2017, Kim Jong Un called then-president Donald Trump a “mentally deranged U.S. dotard” while both were engaged in exchanging verbal threats. ALSO WATCH | Biden-Yoon meet in White House; South Korea, US sign declaration | WION Pulse × What is the Washington Declaration? Under the declaration, Seoul will not be developing its own nuclear weapons but the US will aid in the use of them in any potential conflict with North Korea. The US will also deploy nuclear-armed submarines to South Korea as part of the agreement. Additionally, there will be a routine visit of aircraft carriers and bombers to the region to send a message to the enemy, informed officials. ALSO READ | US nuclear weapons for S Korea? Yoon, Biden ink landmark agreement Notably, this is the first time since the US withdrew all of its nuclear weapons from South Korea in 1991 that talks about such an agreement have reached fruition. However, no immediate plan exists to station nuclear weapons in South Korea. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Kim Jong Un’s sister calls Joe Biden ‘senile’, blasts US-S Korea for new nuclear deal

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