North Korea fired a ballistic missile yet again, after which South Korea said that Pyongyang fired an unspecific ballistic missile towards the Sea of its Eastern coast. Pyongyang earlier warned of a strong response to the upcoming U.S., South Korea military drills.

North Korea tests another set of long range missile

Tensions are again on a rise in the Korean peninsula. North Korea has warned of turning the Pacific into a 'firing range'. Watch this video to find out why.

Why has North Korea warned of turning the Pacific into a 'firing range'?

North Korea fired two more ballistic missiles of its east coast on Monday, a day after U.S along with South Korea and Japan staged joint air drills in Korean peninsula. Defence correspondent, Sooyoung oh, joins us to discuss the implications of the fresh wave of tensions in the Korean peninsula.

North Korea threatens to turn Pacific into a 'firing range'

North Korea recently launched two ballistic missiles into waters off the east coast of the Korean Peninsula, and leader Kim Jong Un’s sister warned of more to come unless the United States halts military drills with South Korea.

North Korea fires ballistic missiles, warns of turning Pacific into 'firing range'

A day after North Korea showed off its new missiles, the U.S., Japan and South Korea have held joint air exercises. The drills saw South Korea's F-35 and F-15 and the United States' F-16.

A day after North Korea's ICBM launch, US, South Korea & Japan stage joint air drills

Korea fires another long range missile

North Korea announced on Sunday (February 19) that it has successfully tested an intercontinental ballistic missile as a warning to the United States and South Korea. Pyongyang claimed the successful "surprise" drill showed Pyongyang's capability to carry out a "fatal nuclear counterattack." The "sudden launching drill" was ordered by North Korean leader Kim Jong Un at 8:00 am Saturday (2300 GMT Friday), and a Hwasong-15 missile — a weapon originally tested by the North in 2017 — was fired from Pyongyang airport that afternoon, according to the official KCNA.

The ICBM was launched at 17:22 (08:22 GMT) on Saturday, according to South Korea's military, while Japan said it flew for 66 minutes before touching down in its Exclusive Economic Zone. Japan's inquiry found the missile could have hit the US mainland, as reported by AFP.

The test, the nation's first in seven weeks, was hailed by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kim-jong-uns-daughter-attends-sports-event-in-rare-public-appearance-563448">North Korea's leadership</a>, who said it demonstrated "the actual war capacity of the ICBM units which are ready for a mobile and mighty counterattack," according to KCNA.

It was also said that the launch was "actual proof" of the nation's "capacity of fatal nuclear counterattack on the hostile forces."

"The exercise displayed the timely and immediate deployment of the US extended deterrence assets to the Korean peninsula," demonstrating the "overwhelming force" of the allies, the ministry said in a statement.

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;North Korea fires another long range missile

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The North Korean launch, which breached sanctions, occurred just days before Seoul and Washington were scheduled to commence&nbsp;joint tabletop exercises aimed at strengthening their response in the event of a nuclear strike by North Korea.

Last week, Pyongyang warned of an "unprecedented" strong response to planned drills, which it sees as war preparations and linked to the deteriorating security situation on the Korean peninsula.

<h2 data-testid="Heading">US, South Korea demonstrate joint air exercise after North Korea's ICBM launch</h2>

A day after North Korea launched an ICBM, the Hwasong-15, in a "sudden launching drill," the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/oldest-living-former-us-president-jimmy-carter-to-receive-hospice-care-at-age-98-563550">United States</a> and South Korea conducted a combined air exercise with US strategic bombers.

The drill, which saw South Korean F-35A, F-15K, and American F-16 fighters join American B-1B bombers, was described by South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff as displaying&nbsp;the allies' "overwhelming" defence capabilities and readiness posture.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ballistic-missile-fired-by-north-korea-says-south-korea-563367">Ahead of Seoul-Washington joint tabletop exercise, North Korea missile lands in Japan exclusive economic zone</a>

"(The exercise) strengthened the combined operation capability and affirmed the United States' ironclad commitment to the defence of the Korean Peninsula and the implementation of extended deterrence," the South's military said in a statement.

The joint military drill between the United States and South Korea takes place a day after North Korea fired a long-range ballistic missile into the ocean off the west coast of Japan, despite warnings from South Korea and the United States that they would respond sternly to any future military exercises.

(With inputs from agencies)

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North Korea announced on Sunday (February 19) that it has successfully tested an intercontinental ballistic missile as a warning to the United States and South Korea.

North Korea announced on Sunday (February 19) that it has successfully tested an intercontinental ballistic missile as a warning to the United States and South Korea. Pyongyang claimed the successful "surprise" drill showed Pyongyang's capability to carry out a "fatal nuclear counterattack." The "sudden launching drill" was ordered by North Korean leader Kim Jong Un at 8:00 am Saturday (2300 GMT Friday), and a Hwasong-15 missile — a weapon originally tested by the North in 2017 — was fired from Pyongyang airport that afternoon, according to the official KCNA. The ICBM was launched at 17:22 (08:22 GMT) on Saturday, according to South Korea's military, while Japan said it flew for 66 minutes before touching down in its Exclusive Economic Zone. Japan's inquiry found the missile could have hit the US mainland, as reported by AFP. The test, the nation's first in seven weeks, was hailed by North Korea's leadership, who said it demonstrated "the actual war capacity of the ICBM units which are ready for a mobile and mighty counterattack," according to KCNA. It was also said that the launch was "actual proof" of the nation's "capacity of fatal nuclear counterattack on the hostile forces." "The exercise displayed the timely and immediate deployment of the US extended deterrence assets to the Korean peninsula," demonstrating the "overwhelming force" of the allies, the ministry said in a statement. ALSO WATCH | North Korea fires another long range missile The North Korean launch, which breached sanctions, occurred just days before Seoul and Washington were scheduled to commence joint tabletop exercises aimed at strengthening their response in the event of a nuclear strike by North Korea. Last week, Pyongyang warned of an "unprecedented" strong response to planned drills, which it sees as war preparations and linked to the deteriorating security situation on the Korean peninsula. US, South Korea demonstrate joint air exercise after North Korea's ICBM launch A day after North Korea launched an ICBM, the Hwasong-15, in a "sudden launching drill," the United States and South Korea conducted a combined air exercise with US strategic bombers. The drill, which saw South Korean F-35A, F-15K, and American F-16 fighters join American B-1B bombers, was described by South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff as displaying the allies' "overwhelming" defence capabilities and readiness posture. ALSO READ | Ahead of Seoul-Washington joint tabletop exercise, North Korea missile lands in Japan exclusive economic zone "(The exercise) strengthened the combined operation capability and affirmed the United States' ironclad commitment to the defence of the Korean Peninsula and the implementation of extended deterrence," the South's military said in a statement. The joint military drill between the United States and South Korea takes place a day after North Korea fired a long-range ballistic missile into the ocean off the west coast of Japan, despite warnings from South Korea and the United States that they would respond sternly to any future military exercises. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

North Korea says it fired ICBM as a warning; US, South Korea conduct joint military drill in retaliation

North Korea fires another long range missile

North Korea fires 'ICBM-class' missile, says Japan

Days before Seoul and Washington are scheduled to start tabletop exercise, North Korea on Saturday fired at least one unspecified ballistic missile, South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff said. This is said to be Pyongyang's first missile launch since the start of the year.&nbsp;"North Korea fires an unidentified ballistic missile into (the) East Sea," South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff was quoted as saying by news agency AFP. He referred to the body of water also known as the Sea of Japan. Shortly after, Japan confirmed that an "ICBM-class" missile was fired by&nbsp;&nbsp;Pyongyang.&nbsp;North Korea "fired one intercontinental ballistic missile-class ballistic missile toward the east. It flew for about 66 minutes," chief government spokesman Hirokazu Matsuno told reporters. The missile reportedly landed in&nbsp;Japan's exclusive economic zone.&nbsp;

Here are the top developments&nbsp;on this story:&nbsp;

1) The North's first exercise since January 1 comes ahead of the Seoul-Washington joint tabletop exercise&nbsp;due on&nbsp;Wednesday at the Pentagon.&nbsp;

2) At the allied nuclear drills, called the Deterrence Strategy Committee Tabletop Exercise,&nbsp;senior defence policymakers from both sides will take part, Seoul's defence ministry said.&nbsp;The allies will&nbsp;discuss possible responses to the North's likely nuclear threat.&nbsp;

3)&nbsp;The South Korea-US exercise next week is set to focus on "joint planning, joint management and joint response with Washington's nuclear assets" in case of a nuclear attack by Pyongyang," a ministry official told AFP.&nbsp;

4)&nbsp;On Friday, North Korea threatened an "unprecedentedly" strong response to upcoming US-South Korea drills, describing them as preparations for war. If Washington and Seoul go ahead with the drills, "they will face unprecedentedly persistent and strong counteractions", a spokesperson for the North Korea foreign ministry was quoted as saying in reports.&nbsp;

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5) The Korean Peninsula has seen a rise in military tensions ever since North Korea declared itself an "irreversible" nuclear state.

6)&nbsp;Pyongyang has been carrying out sanctions-defying weapons' tests nearly every month despite international criticism.

7) The hermit nation has rebuffed condemnation, saying that it faces threat from Washington and other allies.&nbsp;

8) South Korea and the US are also reportedly&nbsp;planning a range of expanded field exercises, including&nbsp;live fire drills, in the coming weeks and months, news agency Reuters reported.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-north-korea-banning-women-from-having-same-name-as-kims-daughter-563247">Is North Korea banning women from having same name as Kim's daughter?</a>

9) Footages that emerged after a February 9 parade in the North suggest that the country may have created a military unit tasked with operating new&nbsp;intercontinental ballistic missiles or ICBMs.&nbsp;

10) The massive parade showed more ICBMs than ever before, including what is believed to be&nbsp;a solid fuel weapon.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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Days before Seoul and Washington are scheduled to start tabletop exercise, North Korea on Saturday fired at least one unspecified ballistic missile, South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff said.

Days before Seoul and Washington are scheduled to start tabletop exercise, North Korea on Saturday fired at least one unspecified ballistic missile, South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff said. This is said to be Pyongyang's first missile launch since the start of the year. "North Korea fires an unidentified ballistic missile into (the) East Sea," South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff was quoted as saying by news agency AFP. He referred to the body of water also known as the Sea of Japan. Shortly after, Japan confirmed that an "ICBM-class" missile was fired by Pyongyang. North Korea "fired one intercontinental ballistic missile-class ballistic missile toward the east. It flew for about 66 minutes," chief government spokesman Hirokazu Matsuno told reporters. The missile reportedly landed in Japan's exclusive economic zone. Here are the top developments on this story: 1) The North's first exercise since January 1 comes ahead of the Seoul-Washington joint tabletop exercise due on Wednesday at the Pentagon. 2) At the allied nuclear drills, called the Deterrence Strategy Committee Tabletop Exercise, senior defence policymakers from both sides will take part, Seoul's defence ministry said. The allies will discuss possible responses to the North's likely nuclear threat. 3) The South Korea-US exercise next week is set to focus on "joint planning, joint management and joint response with Washington's nuclear assets" in case of a nuclear attack by Pyongyang," a ministry official told AFP. 4) On Friday, North Korea threatened an "unprecedentedly" strong response to upcoming US-South Korea drills, describing them as preparations for war. If Washington and Seoul go ahead with the drills, "they will face unprecedentedly persistent and strong counteractions", a spokesperson for the North Korea foreign ministry was quoted as saying in reports. × 5) The Korean Peninsula has seen a rise in military tensions ever since North Korea declared itself an "irreversible" nuclear state. 6) Pyongyang has been carrying out sanctions-defying weapons' tests nearly every month despite international criticism. 7) The hermit nation has rebuffed condemnation, saying that it faces threat from Washington and other allies. 8) South Korea and the US are also reportedly planning a range of expanded field exercises, including live fire drills, in the coming weeks and months, news agency Reuters reported. Also read: Is North Korea banning women from having same name as Kim's daughter? 9) Footages that emerged after a February 9 parade in the North suggest that the country may have created a military unit tasked with operating new intercontinental ballistic missiles or ICBMs. 10) The massive parade showed more ICBMs than ever before, including what is believed to be a solid fuel weapon. (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.

Ahead of Seoul-Washington joint tabletop exercise, North Korea missile lands in Japan exclusive economic zone

North Korea again fires ballistic missile days before US-South Korea military exercises

Seoul, the capital city of South Korea, has removed women-only parking spaces as the authorities think they are "not necessary anymore", Korea Times reported on Wednesday. The apparent gender policy reversal move comes 14 years after it was introduced as a protection for women.&nbsp;

After a rise in reported violent crimes in basement car parks, the women-only parking spaces were allocated in 2009, which led to pink borders with signages, which read "Female Parking First" in two languages—Korean and English.&nbsp;

However, those signages are now being removed by the city officials, who also noted that those spaces will be converted to family parking spots.&nbsp;

ALSO READ&nbsp;| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/historic-move-spain-approves-menstrual-leave-first-such-step-in-europe-562747">Historic move: Spain approves ‘menstrual leave’, first such step in entire Europe</a>&nbsp;

But the move is largely seen as an attempt to promote anti-feminist policies in the country. According to Korea Times, the work to implement the changes will begin next month.&nbsp;

The media report mentioned that the women's priority parking spaces used to be closer to the entrances of buildings for safety purposes. They were often located next to handicapped spots. Some of them were reported to be longer and wider as compared to other parking spaces.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Pandemic-era workers missing work-from-home?&nbsp;

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The report also mentioned that the policy was criticised by some for being discriminating against men. Some critics also argued that the parking policy is promoting the stereotype that women are bad drivers.&nbsp;

A BBC report mentioned that more than 30 spaces were required to allocate 10 per cent to women, which means just under 2,000 of the 16,640 public parking spaces were reserved for women.&nbsp;

According to government data in 2021, more than two-thirds of violent crimes committed in the car parks of Seoul were sexual crimes: rape, sexual assault and harassment.&nbsp;

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Seoul, the capital city of South Korea, has removed women-only parking spaces as the authorities think they are "not necessary anymore", Korea Times reported on Wednesday.

Seoul, the capital city of South Korea, has removed women-only parking spaces as the authorities think they are "not necessary anymore", Korea Times reported on Wednesday. The apparent gender policy reversal move comes 14 years after it was introduced as a protection for women. After a rise in reported violent crimes in basement car parks, the women-only parking spaces were allocated in 2009, which led to pink borders with signages, which read "Female Parking First" in two languages—Korean and English. However, those signages are now being removed by the city officials, who also noted that those spaces will be converted to family parking spots. ALSO READ | Historic move: Spain approves ‘menstrual leave’, first such step in entire Europe But the move is largely seen as an attempt to promote anti-feminist policies in the country. According to Korea Times, the work to implement the changes will begin next month. The media report mentioned that the women's priority parking spaces used to be closer to the entrances of buildings for safety purposes. They were often located next to handicapped spots. Some of them were reported to be longer and wider as compared to other parking spaces. WATCH | Pandemic-era workers missing work-from-home? × The report also mentioned that the policy was criticised by some for being discriminating against men. Some critics also argued that the parking policy is promoting the stereotype that women are bad drivers. A BBC report mentioned that more than 30 spaces were required to allocate 10 per cent to women, which means just under 2,000 of the 16,640 public parking spaces were reserved for women. According to government data in 2021, more than two-thirds of violent crimes committed in the car parks of Seoul were sexual crimes: rape, sexual assault and harassment. 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: Women-only parking spaces to disappear in Seoul

Free rides have been a perk enjoyed nationally by those 65 and older for four decades and are credited with keeping senior citizens active. They have, however, become a thorny political issue as South Korea's population rapidly ages and subway operating costs soar.

In ageing South Korea, free subway rides for elderly become political headache

To help curb increasing car thefts using a method popularised on TikTok and other social media channels, South Korean automakers Hyundai and Kia will offer software upgrades to 8.3 million.

Hyundai, Kia: Software upgrade to 8.3 million vehicles

A North Korean food crisis appears to have deteriorated, South Korea said on Feb 15, that North Korea has cut rations to its soldiers for the first time in more than two decades.

North Korean food shortage seems to be worsening, South Korea says

South Korean startup Rebellions Inc launched an artificial intelligence (AI) chip , racing to win government contracts as Seoul seeks a place for local companies in the exploding AI industry.

South Korean startup launches AI Chips

Artificial intelligence (AI) has been the hot keyword in recent months.

Since its inception in the form of ChatGPT and various other Chatbot AI, the global race, which has just begun, is soon expected to get crowded.

Now, South Korea aims to take the baton of manufacturing chips for the booming AI industry.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/ai-that-learns-without-human-input-scientists-make-a-stunning-discovery-561776">Also read |&nbsp;AI that learns without human input? Scientists make a STUNNING discovery</a>

Recently, a South Korea-based startup, Rebellions.AI, launched its own chips and is set to win South Korean government contracts.

Currently, the market is dominated by the US-based chip designer Nvidia, with a weighted share of about 86 per cent&nbsp;in the power supply for a few of the world's biggest cloud services.

Rebellion.AI's recent launch, called the atom chip, is fast emerging as a strong competitor as the firm aims for the tag of being the largest AI-supporting chip manufacturer.

What makes this competition so intense?

The growth in the number of users of AI technology is unprecedented.

The users of ChatGPT rose to around 100 million in just 2 months after its launch, setting a new record for the fastest user growth.

Even Google rushed to tap into this market through its very own chatbot called "Bard", hinting at an AI boom.

Leading the race to manufacture AI-supporting chips will be a good win for any company.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korean-interior-minister-suspended-over-last-years-halloween-crowd-crush-560015">Also read |&nbsp;South Korean interior minister suspended over last year’s Halloween crowd crush</a>

Currently, Nvidia dominates the market. But South Korea is joining the race to penetrate and become the market leader.

Companies worldwide aim to secure government backing to produce a growing demand for AI.

South Korea wishes to foster a domestic industry, with a solid investment of nearly $800 million over the next five years, to lift the Korean AI chip market share from 0 to 80 per cent&nbsp;by 2030.

The chip by Rebellion.AI consumes only 20 per cent&nbsp;power compared to what Nvidia a100 chips consume, which specialises in Chatbot AI applications.

As countries such as Japan, Germany, the United States, Taiwan, and China aim to support their interest in diversifying by providing funding to the semiconductor industry, South Korea remains strong on securing a separate designation aimed at making it a global manufacturer.

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Artificial intelligence (AI) has been the hot keyword in recent months. Since its inception in the form of ChatGPT and various other Chatbot AI, the global race, which has just begun, is soon expected to get crowded.

Artificial intelligence (AI) has been the hot keyword in recent months. Since its inception in the form of ChatGPT and various other Chatbot AI, the global race, which has just begun, is soon expected to get crowded. Now, South Korea aims to take the baton of manufacturing chips for the booming AI industry. Also read | AI that learns without human input? Scientists make a STUNNING discovery Recently, a South Korea-based startup, Rebellions.AI, launched its own chips and is set to win South Korean government contracts. Currently, the market is dominated by the US-based chip designer Nvidia, with a weighted share of about 86 per cent in the power supply for a few of the world's biggest cloud services. Rebellion.AI's recent launch, called the atom chip, is fast emerging as a strong competitor as the firm aims for the tag of being the largest AI-supporting chip manufacturer. What makes this competition so intense? The growth in the number of users of AI technology is unprecedented. The users of ChatGPT rose to around 100 million in just 2 months after its launch, setting a new record for the fastest user growth. Even Google rushed to tap into this market through its very own chatbot called "Bard", hinting at an AI boom. Leading the race to manufacture AI-supporting chips will be a good win for any company. Also read | South Korean interior minister suspended over last year’s Halloween crowd crush Currently, Nvidia dominates the market. But South Korea is joining the race to penetrate and become the market leader. Companies worldwide aim to secure government backing to produce a growing demand for AI. South Korea wishes to foster a domestic industry, with a solid investment of nearly $800 million over the next five years, to lift the Korean AI chip market share from 0 to 80 per cent by 2030. The chip by Rebellion.AI consumes only 20 per cent power compared to what Nvidia a100 chips consume, which specialises in Chatbot AI applications. As countries such as Japan, Germany, the United States, Taiwan, and China aim to support their interest in diversifying by providing funding to the semiconductor industry, South Korea remains strong on securing a separate designation aimed at making it a global manufacturer. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

South Korea joins the AI race; aims to become a global leader

Visitors coming to India from China, Hong Kong, Japan, South Korea, Singapore and Thailand will no longer be required to furnish a pre-departure covid test report and upload a self-health declaration on the 'Air Suvidha' portal from February 13. Watch this to know more.

Indian govt eases norms for travellers from China & 5 other countries

North Korea on Wednesday (February 8) held a widely anticipated military parade, said South Korea's Yonhap news agency. The parade was expected to showcase the country's latest weapons to mark founding anniversary of the army. International analysts have said that imagery obtained from commercial satellites has for months shown North Korean troops practicing for major parade.

As of Wednesday night, North Korea's state media had not reported on the parade.

North Korea's past four military parades occurred after dark, and state media did not report on the events until the next day. It was not immediately known if North Korean leader Kim Jong Un presided over Wednesday's parade.

Such parades are typically held in downtown Pyongyang's Kim Il Sung Square and often used to show off new weapons, including ballistic missiles designed to carry nuclear warheads.

Kim called on Tuesday for strengthening the military as he paid tribute to soldiers and met with troops to commemorate the anniversary, the North's state media reported on Wednesday.

"For the strengthening and development of our armed forces, let us all double our efforts and do more for the prosperous development of the socialist motherland," he said during a speech at a banquet, accompanied by his wife and daughter, according to state news agency KCNA.

He spoke a day after pledging to expand military drills and beef up the nuclear-armed country's war readiness posture.

(With inputs from agencies)

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North Korea on Wednesday (February 8) held a widely anticipated military parade, said South Korea's Yonhap news agency. The parade was expected to showcase the country's latest weapons to mark founding anniversary of the army.

North Korea on Wednesday (February 8) held a widely anticipated military parade, said South Korea's Yonhap news agency. The parade was expected to showcase the country's latest weapons to mark founding anniversary of the army. International analysts have said that imagery obtained from commercial satellites has for months shown North Korean troops practicing for major parade. As of Wednesday night, North Korea's state media had not reported on the parade. North Korea's past four military parades occurred after dark, and state media did not report on the events until the next day. It was not immediately known if North Korean leader Kim Jong Un presided over Wednesday's parade. Such parades are typically held in downtown Pyongyang's Kim Il Sung Square and often used to show off new weapons, including ballistic missiles designed to carry nuclear warheads. Kim called on Tuesday for strengthening the military as he paid tribute to soldiers and met with troops to commemorate the anniversary, the North's state media reported on Wednesday. "For the strengthening and development of our armed forces, let us all double our efforts and do more for the prosperous development of the socialist motherland," he said during a speech at a banquet, accompanied by his wife and daughter, according to state news agency KCNA. He spoke a day after pledging to expand military drills and beef up the nuclear-armed country's war readiness posture. (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 carries out nighttime parade to celebrate army anniversary: Report

In a landmark judgement, a court in Seoul ruled on Tuesday that South Korea was&nbsp; responsible&nbsp;for the Vietnam War massacre. The court held the South Korean government accountable for the&nbsp;massacre committed by its soldiers and also ordered them to pay compensation.&nbsp;

The Vietnam War was a conflict in Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia, which started in 1955 and ended with the fall of Saigon on April 30, 1975. Reports and records of the casualties of the Vietnam War vary widely, but it is said that around 2,000,000 civilians on both sides lost their lives.&nbsp;

South Korea sent its troops to support America, which had entered the Vietnam War in an attempt to prevent the spread of communism. In a report by The New York Times, it was mentioned that South Korea sent 320,000 troops to Vietnam. It was the largest foreign contingent fighting alongside American forces in the war.&nbsp;

Although, Seoul denies allegations,&nbsp;rumours have persisted that South Korean marines were accused of killing around 70 civilians during a raid on February 12, 1968.&nbsp;

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The case was brought to court in Seoul by a Vietnamese woman who survived the massacre. Nguyen Thi Thanh, who was injured in the raid and lost her family, including her mother, filed a lawsuit in 2020. Thanh, who is now 62 years old, sought compensation from the South Korean government.&nbsp;

Seoul's Central District Court has ruled that Thanh should be compensated with $23,800, plus interest, for the mass killings in the town of Phong Nhi in Vietnam's central Quang Nam province.&nbsp;

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In a landmark judgement, a court in Seoul ruled on Tuesday that South Korea was responsible for the Vietnam War massacre. The court held the South Korean government accountable for the massacre committed by its soldiers and also ordered them to pay compensation.

In a landmark judgement, a court in Seoul ruled on Tuesday that South Korea was responsible for the Vietnam War massacre. The court held the South Korean government accountable for the massacre committed by its soldiers and also ordered them to pay compensation. The Vietnam War was a conflict in Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia, which started in 1955 and ended with the fall of Saigon on April 30, 1975. Reports and records of the casualties of the Vietnam War vary widely, but it is said that around 2,000,000 civilians on both sides lost their lives. South Korea sent its troops to support America, which had entered the Vietnam War in an attempt to prevent the spread of communism. In a report by The New York Times, it was mentioned that South Korea sent 320,000 troops to Vietnam. It was the largest foreign contingent fighting alongside American forces in the war. Although, Seoul denies allegations, rumours have persisted that South Korean marines were accused of killing around 70 civilians during a raid on February 12, 1968. WATCH | WION Pitstop: Ultraviolette F77 electric sports bike review × The case was brought to court in Seoul by a Vietnamese woman who survived the massacre. Nguyen Thi Thanh, who was injured in the raid and lost her family, including her mother, filed a lawsuit in 2020. Thanh, who is now 62 years old, sought compensation from the South Korean government. Seoul's Central District Court has ruled that Thanh should be compensated with $23,800, plus interest, for the mass killings in the town of Phong Nhi in Vietnam's central Quang Nam province. 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.

Seoul court holds South Korea responsible for Vietnam War massacre, orders it to pay compensation

A man accused of stalking a woman for years and later murdering her has been sentenced to 40 years in prison by a South Korean court on Tuesday. Terming it a 'revenge killing', the court said the stalker was out and about to kill the girl.

A man accused of stalking a woman for years and later murdering her has been sentenced to 40 years in prison by a South Korean court on Tuesday. Terming it a 'revenge killing', the court said the stalker was out and about to kill the girl. "From the defendant's testimony, it appeared he was determined to murder the victim unless she agreed to settle," observed the Seoul District Court in the judgment. "Despite the victim's wish to cut ties, the defendant forced her to suffer stalking and committed a revenge crime... instead of reflecting on his misdeeds." The case and its chilling details had sparked an outcry across Korea. Calls have been raised by the public to reform the legal fabric of the country which was responsible for the death of the victim. WATCH | US and South Korea hold joint military drills over Yellow Sea × 31-year-old Jeon Joo-hwan, a subway worker, for the better part of last two years stalked the victim and threatened her on 300 occasions after she repeatedly refused to date him. Despite the victim's complaints, the police shrugged it off saying Joo-hwan was a 'low risk' individual. After multiple complaints, the police finally took cognisance, and in October 2019, Joo-hwan was fired from the job and arrested. Read more: South Korea's famous Kimchi pits country's economy against China. Here's how However, he was soon let out and later never imprisoned or given a restraining order. The victim was placed under police protection for a month before being left out on her own. On September 14 last year, the day before Joo-hwan was scheduled to be sentenced for the offences, he went to the subway station the girl had been working. He waited outside the toilet for over an hour, wearing gloves and a disposable shower cap. After the girl came, he followed her inside and stabbed her to death. An anti-stalking law that was passed in the aftermath of the murder has been deemed too weak by the public. It currently carries a maximum three-year prison sentence. However, in light of the case, the justice ministry is looking to clock in the changes. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Man guilty of stalking and murdering a woman sentenced to 40 years in prison in S Korea

South Korea&nbsp;said on Thursday that it had staged joint air drills with the United States that also featured strategic bombers and stealth fighters. North Korea responded by saying&nbsp;that such exercises could "ignite an all-out showdown".&nbsp;The joint air drills&nbsp;came a day after the US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin and his South Korean counterpart promised&nbsp;to boost security cooperation in the wake of military posturing by nuclear-armed North Korea.

The drills on Wednesday showed "the US's will and capabilities to provide strong and credible extended deterrence against North Korea's nuclear and missile threats," the South Korean defence ministry said.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kim-jong-un-says-north-koreas-ultimate-goal-is-to-possess-worlds-strongest-nuclear-force-537800">Kim says North Korea will have world's strongest nuclear force, makes second appearance with daughter</a>

The drills&nbsp;involved American B-1B long-range heavy bombers and stealth fighters -- US Air Force F-22s and South Korean F-35s -- flying over the Yellow Sea, the ministry added.

A North Korean foreign ministry spokesman warned that the exercises could "ignite an all-out showdown", the state news agency KCNA reported.

Seoul and Washington's moves to ramp up joint drills crossed "an extreme red-line", it added.

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-south-korea-retaliates-after-kims-air-invasion-547185">Gravitas: South Korea retaliates after Kim's 'air invasion'</a>

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South Korea expects to assert its cautionary dependence on America's defence commitment. This is crucial&nbsp;after a year in which North Korea declared itself an "irreversible" nuclear power and conducted a weapons test almost every month in defiance of international sanctions.

Austin and South Korean Defence Minister Lee Jong-sup agreed this week to "expand and bolster the level and scale" of joint military exercises in light of "continued provocations" from Pyongyang, including a recent drone incursion into the South.

'Nuke for nuke'

Bolstering US-South Korean military drills and deploying strategic weapons to the region was akin to "talking about the use of nuclear weapons against the DPRK", the North Korean statement on KCNA said, using the country's official name.

It warned that North Korea would follow the "principle of 'nuke for nuke' and an all-out confrontation!'"

"The DPRK is not interested in any contact or dialogue with the U.S. as long as it pursues its hostile policy and confrontational line," it added.

(With inputs from agencies)

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South Korea said on Thursday that it had staged joint air drills with the United States that also featured strategic bombers and stealth fighters. North Korea responded by saying that such exercises could "ignite an all-out showdown".

South Korea said on Thursday that it had staged joint air drills with the United States that also featured strategic bombers and stealth fighters. North Korea responded by saying that such exercises could "ignite an all-out showdown". The joint air drills came a day after the US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin and his South Korean counterpart promised to boost security cooperation in the wake of military posturing by nuclear-armed North Korea. The drills on Wednesday showed "the US's will and capabilities to provide strong and credible extended deterrence against North Korea's nuclear and missile threats," the South Korean defence ministry said. ALSO READ | Kim says North Korea will have world's strongest nuclear force, makes second appearance with daughter The drills involved American B-1B long-range heavy bombers and stealth fighters -- US Air Force F-22s and South Korean F-35s -- flying over the Yellow Sea, the ministry added. A North Korean foreign ministry spokesman warned that the exercises could "ignite an all-out showdown", the state news agency KCNA reported. Seoul and Washington's moves to ramp up joint drills crossed "an extreme red-line", it added. ALSO WATCH | Gravitas: South Korea retaliates after Kim's 'air invasion' × South Korea expects to assert its cautionary dependence on America's defence commitment. This is crucial after a year in which North Korea declared itself an "irreversible" nuclear power and conducted a weapons test almost every month in defiance of international sanctions. Austin and South Korean Defence Minister Lee Jong-sup agreed this week to "expand and bolster the level and scale" of joint military exercises in light of "continued provocations" from Pyongyang, including a recent drone incursion into the South. 'Nuke for nuke' Bolstering US-South Korean military drills and deploying strategic weapons to the region was akin to "talking about the use of nuclear weapons against the DPRK", the North Korean statement on KCNA said, using the country's official name. It warned that North Korea would follow the "principle of 'nuke for nuke' and an all-out confrontation!'" "The DPRK is not interested in any contact or dialogue with the U.S. as long as it pursues its hostile policy and confrontational line," it added. (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.

North Korea warns of 'nuke for nuke, all-out confrontation' after US-South Korea air drills

US and South Korean militaries held joint air drills over the Yellow Sea. These exercises are seen to be a direct response to the North Korea's nuclear ambisions and as expected, Pyongyang has hit back.

US and South Korea hold joint military drills over Yellow Sea

US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin met his South Korean counterpart in Seoul, pledging to beef up joint drills and security cooperation as South Korea seeks nuclear reassurances in the face of growing North Korean threats.

South Korea's defence minister welcomes US counterpart in Seoul

China on Sunday (January 29) announced that it would resume issuing visas for Japanese citizens, weeks after suspending them as a retaliatory step against Tokyo's decision to require Covid testing for travellers arriving from China. Issuing a notice, the Chinese embassy in Tokyo said, "Starting today, the Embassy and the Offices of Consulates-General of the People's Republic of China will resume issuing ordinary visas for Japanese citizens." The embassy did not elaborate on this further.&nbsp;

On January 10, China had suspended issuing visas for Japan as well as South Korea as the two countries imposed Covid restrictions on Chinese travelling to the countries due to a sharp surge in Covid cases in China after it lifted all restrictions. Both Japan and South Korea had protested against the suspension.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-wave-past-its-peak-deaths-declining-rapidly-claims-china-556640">Covid wave past its peak, deaths declining rapidly, claims China</a>

"As part of Covid-19 countermeasures, our country is implementing border curbs that will not hinder international visitors from entering and exiting Japan as much as possible. So it is very regrettable that China has unilaterally taken visa suspension action for reasons beyond virus control. We have lodged a protest to China through our diplomatic channel and asked them to lift visa suspension," Japanese chief cabinet secretary Hirokazu Matsuno had said on January 11.&nbsp;

On the other hand, South Korea called the suspension ''deeply regrettable," with foreign minister Park Jin pointing out that Seoul was still issuing visas to Chinese visitors for urgent business or humanitarian purposes.

Though China will now start issuing visas to Japanese citizens, the suspension remains imposed on South Koreans. Japan is still requiring those travelling on direct flights from the mainland to show proof of negative Covid test results from samples taken no more than 72 hours before leaving China.&nbsp;

South Korea, meanwhile, said it would continue to restrict the entry of short-term travellers from China through the end of February amid concerns that the spread of Covid (in China) might worsen following the Lunar New Year Holiday. Currently, South Korea requires all passengers from China, Hong Kong and Macau to submit proof of negative Covid tests taken within 48 hours before their arrival and put them through tests again once they arrive.

According to Seoul's Disease Control and Prevention Agency, around 10 per cent of the 6,900 short-term travellers from China who arrived in the country from January 2 to January 26 tested positive after being tested at the airport. South Korea also stopped issuing most short-term visas at its consulates in China except for essential government, diplomatic and business activities and humanitarian reasons.

(With inputs from agencies)

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China on Sunday (January 29) announced that it would resume issuing visas for Japanese citizens, weeks after suspending them as a retaliatory step against Tokyo's decision to require Covid testing for travellers arriving from China.

China on Sunday (January 29) announced that it would resume issuing visas for Japanese citizens, weeks after suspending them as a retaliatory step against Tokyo's decision to require Covid testing for travellers arriving from China. Issuing a notice, the Chinese embassy in Tokyo said, "Starting today, the Embassy and the Offices of Consulates-General of the People's Republic of China will resume issuing ordinary visas for Japanese citizens." The embassy did not elaborate on this further. On January 10, China had suspended issuing visas for Japan as well as South Korea as the two countries imposed Covid restrictions on Chinese travelling to the countries due to a sharp surge in Covid cases in China after it lifted all restrictions. Both Japan and South Korea had protested against the suspension. ALSO READ | Covid wave past its peak, deaths declining rapidly, claims China "As part of Covid-19 countermeasures, our country is implementing border curbs that will not hinder international visitors from entering and exiting Japan as much as possible. So it is very regrettable that China has unilaterally taken visa suspension action for reasons beyond virus control. We have lodged a protest to China through our diplomatic channel and asked them to lift visa suspension," Japanese chief cabinet secretary Hirokazu Matsuno had said on January 11. On the other hand, South Korea called the suspension ''deeply regrettable," with foreign minister Park Jin pointing out that Seoul was still issuing visas to Chinese visitors for urgent business or humanitarian purposes. Though China will now start issuing visas to Japanese citizens, the suspension remains imposed on South Koreans. Japan is still requiring those travelling on direct flights from the mainland to show proof of negative Covid test results from samples taken no more than 72 hours before leaving China. South Korea, meanwhile, said it would continue to restrict the entry of short-term travellers from China through the end of February amid concerns that the spread of Covid (in China) might worsen following the Lunar New Year Holiday. Currently, South Korea requires all passengers from China, Hong Kong and Macau to submit proof of negative Covid tests taken within 48 hours before their arrival and put them through tests again once they arrive. According to Seoul's Disease Control and Prevention Agency, around 10 per cent of the 6,900 short-term travellers from China who arrived in the country from January 2 to January 26 tested positive after being tested at the airport. South Korea also stopped issuing most short-term visas at its consulates in China except for essential government, diplomatic and business activities and humanitarian reasons. (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.

China to resume issuing visas for Japanese citizens, no decision on South Koreans yet

For the first time since 2020's second quarter, the economy of South Korea shrank in October-December as exports crashed while spending of consumers dipped due to inflation in interest rates, stated the central bank of the country on Thursday.&nbsp;

The Bank of Korea stated that in the last year's final quarter, the country's gross domestic product contracted by 0.4 per cent compared to the previous quarter.

The report of economic shrink comes after the borrowing costs were hiked for the tenth time by the Bank of Korea in a period of 18 months in early January, so as to tame inflation.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-south-korea-plan-coordinated-response-against-north-koreas-nuclear-threat-549144">US, South Korea plan 'coordinated response' against North Korea's nuclear threat</a>

The economic figures can force monetary policymakers to decrease their pace of hikes, as central banks across the world are trying to slow their tightening moves as the effects of steps adopted last years kicks in.&nbsp;

However, the Bank of Korea's major concern continues to be inflation which hit five per cent in December.

"Private consumption fell 0.4 per cent due to a decrease in consumption of goods and services, (including) home appliances, clothing, accommodation, food and entertainment," stated the central bank, in a statement.

"Exports decreased by 5.8 per cent mainly in semiconductors and chemicals," the bank added.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: South Korea retaliates after Kim's 'air invasion'

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In the quarter, imports declined by 4.6 per cent because of a decrease in imports of crude oil and basic metals, the bank stated.&nbsp;

The economy still increased by 1.4 per cent on-year in the quarter and marked an increase of 2.6 per cent in the complete year of 2022.&nbsp;

As per the estimates of the central bank, the economy of the country will grow by 1.7 per cent in 2023 and inflation will increase by 3.6 per cent.&nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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For the first time since 2020's second quarter, the economy of South Korea shrank in October-December as exports crashed while spending of consumers dipped due to inflation in interest rates, stated the central bank of the country on Thursday.

For the first time since 2020's second quarter, the economy of South Korea shrank in October-December as exports crashed while spending of consumers dipped due to inflation in interest rates, stated the central bank of the country on Thursday. The Bank of Korea stated that in the last year's final quarter, the country's gross domestic product contracted by 0.4 per cent compared to the previous quarter. The report of economic shrink comes after the borrowing costs were hiked for the tenth time by the Bank of Korea in a period of 18 months in early January, so as to tame inflation. ALSO READ | US, South Korea plan 'coordinated response' against North Korea's nuclear threat The economic figures can force monetary policymakers to decrease their pace of hikes, as central banks across the world are trying to slow their tightening moves as the effects of steps adopted last years kicks in. However, the Bank of Korea's major concern continues to be inflation which hit five per cent in December. "Private consumption fell 0.4 per cent due to a decrease in consumption of goods and services, (including) home appliances, clothing, accommodation, food and entertainment," stated the central bank, in a statement. "Exports decreased by 5.8 per cent mainly in semiconductors and chemicals," the bank added. WATCH | Gravitas: South Korea retaliates after Kim's 'air invasion' In the quarter, imports declined by 4.6 per cent because of a decrease in imports of crude oil and basic metals, the bank stated. The economy still increased by 1.4 per cent on-year in the quarter and marked an increase of 2.6 per cent in the complete year of 2022. As per the estimates of the central bank, the economy of the country will grow by 1.7 per cent in 2023 and inflation will increase by 3.6 per cent. (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

South Korea records first economic contraction since early 2020

South Korea is experiencing cold weather temperatures. Weather authorities have also issued cold wave alerts for most of the country. Watch this report to know more.

WION Climate Tracker: Heavy snow causes chaos in South Korea as cold snap sweeps through Asia

South Korea's Kimchi, a uniquely sour, salty and umami flavoured dish of fermented vegetables, has hurt the country's economy last year, data from Korea Customs Service showed. South Korea imported record Kimchi-related ingredients even as inflation upped the prices of cabbage and related items that give Kimchi its signature pickle-like flavour.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korea-banks-on-massive-cabbage-depots-to-avert-kimchi-crisis-521066">South Korea banks on massive cabbage depots to avert kimchi crisis</a>

The total value of imported Kimchi was recorded at $169.4 million last year, showing a spike of more than 20 per cent from 2021, according to data from the Korea Customs Service released Wednesday.&nbsp;

How much Kimchi did South Korea import?

In terms of volume, South Korea imported 263,434 tonnes of kimchi, a 9.5 per cent increase from 2021 but lower than the level of 281,187 tonnes in 2020.

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-fineprint-meet-the-south-korean-based-k-pop-band-blackswan-553593">WION Fineprint: Meet the South Korean-based K-Pop band Blackswan</a>

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This implies that South Koreans did not consume record Kimchi. But whatever Kimchi they consumed, it was priced higher than before due to price rise.&nbsp;

Where does South Korea import Kimchi from?

South Korea imports Kimchi mainly from China. In China, reports say that the price of Kimchi can be as low as up to one-fifth the price of Korea-made Kimchi.&nbsp;

Kimchi in Korea

Kimchi is omnipresent in both North and South Korea's. It is consumed both as a side and as an ingredient in other dishes like stews.&nbsp;

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Across South Korea, restaurants and eateries have been long using imported Kimchi. However, amid local price rise, South Koreans upped their imports from China for ingredients used to prepare Kimchi.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, inflation in South Korea was recorded at an elevated level of 5 per cent in December. This was more than double the target of the South Korean central bank. However, inflation is expected to be eased to 3.6 per cent in 2023.

South Korea's Kimchi, a uniquely sour, salty and umami flavoured dish of fermented vegetables, has hurt the country's economy last year, data from Korea Customs Service showed.

South Korea's Kimchi, a uniquely sour, salty and umami flavoured dish of fermented vegetables, has hurt the country's economy last year, data from Korea Customs Service showed. South Korea imported record Kimchi-related ingredients even as inflation upped the prices of cabbage and related items that give Kimchi its signature pickle-like flavour. ALSO READ | South Korea banks on massive cabbage depots to avert kimchi crisis The total value of imported Kimchi was recorded at $169.4 million last year, showing a spike of more than 20 per cent from 2021, according to data from the Korea Customs Service released Wednesday. How much Kimchi did South Korea import? In terms of volume, South Korea imported 263,434 tonnes of kimchi, a 9.5 per cent increase from 2021 but lower than the level of 281,187 tonnes in 2020. ALSO WATCH | WION Fineprint: Meet the South Korean-based K-Pop band Blackswan × This implies that South Koreans did not consume record Kimchi. But whatever Kimchi they consumed, it was priced higher than before due to price rise. Where does South Korea import Kimchi from? South Korea imports Kimchi mainly from China. In China, reports say that the price of Kimchi can be as low as up to one-fifth the price of Korea-made Kimchi. Kimchi in Korea Kimchi is omnipresent in both North and South Korea's. It is consumed both as a side and as an ingredient in other dishes like stews. 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. Across South Korea, restaurants and eateries have been long using imported Kimchi. However, amid local price rise, South Koreans upped their imports from China for ingredients used to prepare Kimchi. Meanwhile, inflation in South Korea was recorded at an elevated level of 5 per cent in December. This was more than double the target of the South Korean central bank. However, inflation is expected to be eased to 3.6 per cent in 2023.

South Korea's famous Kimchi pits country's economy against China. Here's how

Hong Kong-based ship has sunk in the waters between South Korea and Japan and the rescue operations are going on to rescue the 22 crew members. South Korean officials say that their coast guards along with those from Japan are trying to rescue the crew members.

Cargo ship 'Jintian' sinks off Japan cost between waters of South Korea, Japan

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all latest news, top headlines and international breakings from all across the globe, stay tuned with Gravitas for more!

Gravitas Global Headlines: South Korea Fire | US: Human error caused airport outage

The World Health Organisation (WHO) said on Thursday (January 19) that China reported a 70% rise in weekly Covid hospitalisations, the highest since the pandemic started. According to the WHO's report based on data submitted by Beijing, the number of people hospitalised rose by 70 % to 63,307 versus the previous week, news agency Reuters reported. However, the United Nations health agency said it was awaiting "detailed provincial data disaggregated by week of reporting" on nearly 60,000 virus-related hospital deaths reported by China last week and did not include them in the tally.

A few days back, the WHO had urged China to share more information on the pandemic and said it will continue to work with the government providing technical advice and support, and engaging in analysing the situation.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a data-loopstyle="link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-announces-censorship-crackdown-to-get-rid-of-covid-rumours-on-internet-554148">China announces censorship crackdown to remove Covid ‘rumours’&nbsp;</a>

Thursday's development comes as Beijing said that the worst was over in its battle against Covid ahead of the Lunar New Year celebrations. Vice Premier Sun Chunlan, who oversees the country's virus response, said on Thursday the outbreak was at a "relatively low" level. Chunlan's comment comes after health officials said the number of virus patients in clinics, emergency rooms and with critical conditions had peaked.

Zhang Xiangyang, the director of the emergency department at the Beijing Tsinghua Changgeng Hospital told CCTV on Thursday that since mid-December last year, the number of patients received at the ER increased by two to three folds. The CCTV report said that Zhang's department received over 70 Covid patients in critical condition in just one day on January 8, whose average age was over 70 years. Of these, more than 10 recovered and were discharged over the past 10 days, the report added.&nbsp;

South Korea to lift mask mandate for indoor public places from Jan 30

South Korean Prime Minister Han Duck-soo said on Friday (January 20) that the government will lift the face mask mandate for most indoor public places from January 30, becoming the latest step to ease Covid rules in the country. However, Prime Minister Duck-soo still recommended that people should keep their faces covered and pointed out that masks will still be required on transport and in medical facilities. During a Covid response meeting, he said, "The daily number of new infections is continuing to decline and despite concerns over a spike in cases in China, the situation here is under control without major troubles," news agency Reuters reported.&nbsp;

The dropping of the mask mandate for public places comes as South Koreans will mark the Lunar Year Holidays during which they will travel to their home towns. Prime Minister Duck-soo also warned during Friday's meeting that the easing of mask rules could cause a temporary surge in new Covid infections, urging health authorities to stay vigilant, especially to those who are more vulnerable to the virus.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a data-loopstyle="link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/around-500-people-evacuated-as-massive-blaze-engulfs-south-korean-slum-554291">Around 500 people evacuated as massive blaze engulfs South Korean slum</a>

Since the onset of the pandemic, South Korea has recorded more than 29.9 million infections and 33,104 deaths, according to data from the World Health Organization (WHO). The government has scrapped most of the Covid-related curbs including dropping the outdoor mask rule in May last year, but it maintains a seven-day isolation for people testing positive for the virus.&nbsp;

Additionally, the South Korean government requires that travellers from China, Macau and Hong Kong should provide a negative Covid test result before departure. As a retaliation,&nbsp;<a data-loopstyle="link" href="https://www.wionews.com/east-asia/covid-19-curbs-japan-protests-over-citizens-visa-suspension-china-defends-retaliation-551384">China suspended issuing short-term visas</a>&nbsp;in South Korea. The Chinese embassy in Seoul suspended issuing short-term visas for South Korean visitors on January 10. Taking to WeChat, the embassy said it would adjust the policy subject to the lifting of South Korea's "discriminatory entry restrictions" against Beijing.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a data-loopstyle="link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korea-halloween-stampede-cops-blame-fatal-crush-on-negligence-552279">South Korea Halloween crowd crush: Cops blame negligence for fatal incident</a>

South Korea's foreign minister &nbsp;Park Jin said on January 11 that the visa suspension was deeply regrettable while highlighting that Seoul still issues visas to Chinese visitors with urgent requests. "It's deeply regrettable that China took such a countermeasure by entirely suspending issuance of short-term visas. We make exceptions and issue visas for diplomatic, work, urgent business or humanitarian purposes," Jin told reporters, according to an earlier Reuters report.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The World Health Organisation (WHO) said on Thursday (January 19) that China reported a 70% rise in weekly Covid hospitalisations, the highest since the pandemic started.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) said on Thursday (January 19) that China reported a 70% rise in weekly Covid hospitalisations, the highest since the pandemic started. According to the WHO's report based on data submitted by Beijing, the number of people hospitalised rose by 70 % to 63,307 versus the previous week, news agency Reuters reported. However, the United Nations health agency said it was awaiting "detailed provincial data disaggregated by week of reporting" on nearly 60,000 virus-related hospital deaths reported by China last week and did not include them in the tally. A few days back, the WHO had urged China to share more information on the pandemic and said it will continue to work with the government providing technical advice and support, and engaging in analysing the situation. ALSO READ | China announces censorship crackdown to remove Covid ‘rumours’ Thursday's development comes as Beijing said that the worst was over in its battle against Covid ahead of the Lunar New Year celebrations. Vice Premier Sun Chunlan, who oversees the country's virus response, said on Thursday the outbreak was at a "relatively low" level. Chunlan's comment comes after health officials said the number of virus patients in clinics, emergency rooms and with critical conditions had peaked. Zhang Xiangyang, the director of the emergency department at the Beijing Tsinghua Changgeng Hospital told CCTV on Thursday that since mid-December last year, the number of patients received at the ER increased by two to three folds. The CCTV report said that Zhang's department received over 70 Covid patients in critical condition in just one day on January 8, whose average age was over 70 years. Of these, more than 10 recovered and were discharged over the past 10 days, the report added. South Korea to lift mask mandate for indoor public places from Jan 30 South Korean Prime Minister Han Duck-soo said on Friday (January 20) that the government will lift the face mask mandate for most indoor public places from January 30, becoming the latest step to ease Covid rules in the country. However, Prime Minister Duck-soo still recommended that people should keep their faces covered and pointed out that masks will still be required on transport and in medical facilities. During a Covid response meeting, he said, "The daily number of new infections is continuing to decline and despite concerns over a spike in cases in China, the situation here is under control without major troubles," news agency Reuters reported. The dropping of the mask mandate for public places comes as South Koreans will mark the Lunar Year Holidays during which they will travel to their home towns. Prime Minister Duck-soo also warned during Friday's meeting that the easing of mask rules could cause a temporary surge in new Covid infections, urging health authorities to stay vigilant, especially to those who are more vulnerable to the virus. ALSO READ | Around 500 people evacuated as massive blaze engulfs South Korean slum Since the onset of the pandemic, South Korea has recorded more than 29.9 million infections and 33,104 deaths, according to data from the World Health Organization (WHO). The government has scrapped most of the Covid-related curbs including dropping the outdoor mask rule in May last year, but it maintains a seven-day isolation for people testing positive for the virus. Additionally, the South Korean government requires that travellers from China, Macau and Hong Kong should provide a negative Covid test result before departure. As a retaliation, China suspended issuing short-term visas in South Korea. The Chinese embassy in Seoul suspended issuing short-term visas for South Korean visitors on January 10. Taking to WeChat, the embassy said it would adjust the policy subject to the lifting of South Korea's "discriminatory entry restrictions" against Beijing. ALSO READ | South Korea Halloween crowd crush: Cops blame negligence for fatal incident South Korea's foreign minister Park Jin said on January 11 that the visa suspension was deeply regrettable while highlighting that Seoul still issues visas to Chinese visitors with urgent requests. "It's deeply regrettable that China took such a countermeasure by entirely suspending issuance of short-term visas. We make exceptions and issue visas for diplomatic, work, urgent business or humanitarian purposes," Jin told reporters, according to an earlier Reuters report. (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.

Covid: China reports 70% rise in weekly hospitalisations, highest since pandemic began, says WHO

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