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<p>South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol arrived in Abu Dhabi, UAE, as part of his official visit where he is expected to expand the sale of his country’s military equipment here.</p>

<p>On Sunday, Suk Yeol received an honour of guard welcome at Qasr Al Watan palace, where he was greeted by Emirati leader Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, who assumed office in May after serving as the country's de facto ruler for years.</p>

<p>South Korea and UAE’s trade deals are worth billions of dollars, and the Asian country’s special forces troops have been stationed in UAE, an arrangement that drew criticism under his liberal predecessor.</p>

<p>It is believed that the South Korean leader’s visit is more focused towards the trade deals as the country’s military links with UAE have been sharply criticised.</p>

<p>South Korea's Yonhap news agency quoted Sheikh Mohammed as saying that the UAE is looking to invest $30 billion in South Korea.</p>

<p>“We decided to make the investment with confidence in the Republic of Korea that keeps its promises under all circumstances,” he said.</p>

<p>However, the report did not elaborate on the details of the investment.</p>

<p>Before Yoon's trip began, South Korean officials described the visit as seeking to solidify the ties between the two countries.</p>

<p>“This visit will strengthen strategic co-operation with our brother country UAE in the four core cooperative sectors of nuclear power, energy, investment and defence,” Kim Sung-han, director of national security in Yoon’s government, said</p>

<p>Yonhap quoted an anonymous presidency official on Saturday saying that an arms deal was planned.</p>

<p>"The atmosphere is extremely ripe for security or military co-operation between South Korea and the UAE involving the arms industry,” the official reportedly said.</p>

<p>&nbsp;(With inputs from agencies)</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE: </strong></p>

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South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol arrived in Abu Dhabi, UAE, as part of his official visit where he is expected to expand the sale of his country’s military equipment here.

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol arrived in Abu Dhabi, UAE, as part of his official visit where he is expected to expand the sale of his country’s military equipment here. On Sunday, Suk Yeol received an honour of guard welcome at Qasr Al Watan palace, where he was greeted by Emirati leader Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, who assumed office in May after serving as the country's de facto ruler for years. South Korea and UAE’s trade deals are worth billions of dollars, and the Asian country’s special forces troops have been stationed in UAE, an arrangement that drew criticism under his liberal predecessor. It is believed that the South Korean leader’s visit is more focused towards the trade deals as the country’s military links with UAE have been sharply criticised. South Korea's Yonhap news agency quoted Sheikh Mohammed as saying that the UAE is looking to invest $30 billion in South Korea. “We decided to make the investment with confidence in the Republic of Korea that keeps its promises under all circumstances,” he said. However, the report did not elaborate on the details of the investment. Before Yoon's trip began, South Korean officials described the visit as seeking to solidify the ties between the two countries. “This visit will strengthen strategic co-operation with our brother country UAE in the four core cooperative sectors of nuclear power, energy, investment and defence,” Kim Sung-han, director of national security in Yoon’s government, said Yonhap quoted an anonymous presidency official on Saturday saying that an arms deal was planned. "The atmosphere is extremely ripe for security or military co-operation between South Korea and the UAE involving the arms industry,” the official reportedly said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

South Korean president arrives in UAE amidst focus on expanding arms sales

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol is on a four-day state visit to UAE. UAE will invest $30 Billion in South Korea. Watch further to know more.

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol visits UAE

<p>An honour guard greeted President Yoon Suk Yeol while visiting the United Arab Emirates on Sunday to increase South Korea's military sales.</p>

<p>Yoon's visit comes when South Korea engages in multibillion-dollar commercial transactions and stationing special forces soldiers to guard the UAE. It is a plan that garnered criticism under his liberal predecessor.</p>

<p>The conservative leader, however, seems to seek to strengthen such military ties despite concerns with neighbouring Iran, which have already resulted in Tehran seizing a South Korean oil tanker in 2021.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="www.wionews.com/world/thousands-protest-in-israel-against-netanyahu-decries-government-of-shame-552831">Thousands protest in Israel against Netanyahu, decries 'government of shame'</a></p>

<p>Yoon arrived at the Qasr Al Watan mansion in Abu Dhabi on Sunday. Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, who assumed power in May after years as the nation's de facto leader, welcomed him.</p>

<p>Yoon and his wife Kim Keon Hee were received by an honour guard of Emiratis in traditional garb. They whirled replica Lee-Enfield weapons among warriors riding horses and camels. A military band played the Emirati and South Korean national anthems inside.</p>

<p>Even though the energy-starved South Korean depends on the Emirates for less than 10% of its crude oil needs, Seoul has made several agreements with this country of seven sheikhdoms that have a strong connection to Abu Dhabi and go well beyond oil. Cars, minerals, and other items worth billions of dollars are traded between South Korea and the UAE.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Tunisians march against the Saied regime</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/tunisians-march-against-the-saied-regime-552805/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Officials stated before Yoon's trip that the goal of the visit was to strengthen the existing connections between the two nations.</p>

<p>Already, in 2022, South Korea and the UAE agreed to a $3.5 billion sale of the M-SAM, an advanced air defence system that can intercept missiles as low as 40 kilometres in the air (25 miles).</p>

<p>Officials in the Emirati have grown more worried about safeguarding their airspace, as a result of Houthi rebels in Yemen, who are supported by Iran, being the focus of long-range drone assaults.</p>

<p>The Emiratis have been reducing their reliance on American military assistance ever since the chaotic American withdrawal from Afghanistan, even though American forces fired Patriot missiles for the first time in combat since the 2003 invasion of Iraq to defend Abu Dhabi during those attacks.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


An honour guard greeted President Yoon Suk Yeol while visiting the United Arab Emirates on Sunday to increase South Korea's military sales. Yoon's visit comes when South Korea engages in multibillion-dollar commercial transactions and stationing special forces soldiers to guard the UAE.

An honour guard greeted President Yoon Suk Yeol while visiting the United Arab Emirates on Sunday to increase South Korea's military sales. Yoon's visit comes when South Korea engages in multibillion-dollar commercial transactions and stationing special forces soldiers to guard the UAE. It is a plan that garnered criticism under his liberal predecessor. The conservative leader, however, seems to seek to strengthen such military ties despite concerns with neighbouring Iran, which have already resulted in Tehran seizing a South Korean oil tanker in 2021. Also Read | Thousands protest in Israel against Netanyahu, decries 'government of shame' Yoon arrived at the Qasr Al Watan mansion in Abu Dhabi on Sunday. Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, who assumed power in May after years as the nation's de facto leader, welcomed him. Yoon and his wife Kim Keon Hee were received by an honour guard of Emiratis in traditional garb. They whirled replica Lee-Enfield weapons among warriors riding horses and camels. A military band played the Emirati and South Korean national anthems inside. Even though the energy-starved South Korean depends on the Emirates for less than 10% of its crude oil needs, Seoul has made several agreements with this country of seven sheikhdoms that have a strong connection to Abu Dhabi and go well beyond oil. Cars, minerals, and other items worth billions of dollars are traded between South Korea and the UAE. Watch | Tunisians march against the Saied regime Officials stated before Yoon's trip that the goal of the visit was to strengthen the existing connections between the two nations. Already, in 2022, South Korea and the UAE agreed to a $3.5 billion sale of the M-SAM, an advanced air defence system that can intercept missiles as low as 40 kilometres in the air (25 miles). Officials in the Emirati have grown more worried about safeguarding their airspace, as a result of Houthi rebels in Yemen, who are supported by Iran, being the focus of long-range drone assaults. The Emiratis have been reducing their reliance on American military assistance ever since the chaotic American withdrawal from Afghanistan, even though American forces fired Patriot missiles for the first time in combat since the 2003 invasion of Iraq to defend Abu Dhabi during those attacks. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

South Korean President Yoon reaches UAE, seeks arm sales

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A day after China halted its short-term visas for South Koreans and Japanese travellers after Japan imposed covid19 curbs on visitors from China, Japan has now lodged a protest over the suspension of visas and asked China to overturn the action.

China defends its retaliation against South Korea and Japan travel curbs

<p>In the latest,&nbsp;Guinness World Records (GWR) announced on Friday that Elon Musk has set a record for the biggest loss of personal wealth in history.&nbsp;China has suspended the issuing of short-term visas to South Koreans in response to Seoul’s imposition of travel restrictions on Chinese travellers over COVID concerns, Beijing’s embassy said on January 10, 2023. In the realm of showbiz,&nbsp;Shah Rukh Khan has bagged the fourth position in the list of the world's richest actors, leaving behind&nbsp;Tom Cruise, and George Clooney.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Click on the headlines to read more.</strong><br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/elon-musk-breaks-world-record-for-largest-ever-loss-of-personal-fortune-551123">Elon Musk breaks world record for largest-ever loss of personal fortune</a></p>

<p><img alt="picture" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0cb03227-cee4-4bc3-a0cb-cc90fc71f0c6" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Elon_Musk_%283017880307%29.jpg" /></p>

<p>Elon Musk, the billionaire tech magnate and new owner of Twitter, broke a new dubious record of the largest loss of personal fortune. Musk has lost around $182 billion of personal wealth since 2021. Some sources indicate that the loss figure is close to around $200 billion.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/east-asia/covid-19-retaliation-china-suspends-short-term-visas-for-south-koreans-japanese-551040">COVID-19 curbs retaliation: China suspends short-term visas for South Koreans, Japanese</a></p>

<p><img alt="picture" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4107526c-10de-47c4-beca-a5a113539874" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/cropped_image_m.png" /></p>

<p>In China's first reprisal against COVID-19 restrictions imposed on Chinese travellers, the country has suspended issuing short-term visas for South Koreans and Japanese. In a statement released on Tuesday, the Chinese embassy in South Korea said that South Koreans would no longer be granted visas for the purpose of travel, business, medical treatment, transit, and general private affairs, South China Morning Post (SCMP) reported.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;'Wealthy' UK Prime Minister accused of being 'Disconnected' from masses</strong></p>

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<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/brazil-riots-see-the-aftermath-of-the-pillage-of-government-buildings-551093">Brazil riots: See the aftermath of the pillage of government buildings</a></div>

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<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><img alt="picture" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9f468a40-764e-4684-bcc0-f764298abc15" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/16700115852953.jpg" /></div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">&nbsp;</div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">Supporters of former Brazilian President Jair Bolosonaro invaded the presidential palace, the Supreme court and other government buildings on Sunday. The post-election protests have ravaged the offices of government authorities and wrecked most of the public property around it. While the aftermath of the riots brings a wave of silence, incumbent President Lula da Silva has promised the prosecution of rioters who vandalised the nation.&nbsp;</div>

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<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-bengaluru-metro-pillar-comes-crashing-killing-mother-toddler-son-bmrcl-orders-enquiry-551105">India: Bengaluru Metro pillar comes crashing killing mother, toddler son; BMRCL orders inquiry</a></div>

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<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><img alt="picture" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8d9703ab-bf4f-4900-84b6-d7d3462de544" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Bengaluru_MetroPillar_Collapse_100123_1200.jpg" /></div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">&nbsp;</div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">In the early hours of 10 Jan,&nbsp;A woman and her two-and-a-half-year-old son died, while her husband and daughter were critically injured after an under-construction&nbsp;<em>Namma</em>&nbsp;Metro pillar on the Outer Ring Road near Nagavara fell&nbsp;on their two-wheeler in Karnataka's Bengaluru.&nbsp;Bhimashankar Guled, DCP, East division, who spoke to&nbsp;<i>The Hindu&nbsp;</i>said, “Today morning around 10.45 a.m., Namma Metro pillar collapsed and hit a bike on which four persons were travelling. They are Lohith, his wife Tejaswini and their twins (a son and a daughter). Tejaswini and son Vihan were seriously injured and shifted to a private hospital. Unfortunately, Tejaswini and Vihan died.”&nbsp;</div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">&nbsp;</div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/former-president-jair-bolsonaro-admitted-to-hospital-on-the-same-day-as-brasilia-riots-550869">Jair Bolsonaro hospitalised following Brazil riots, shares picture from hospital bed</a></div>

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<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><img alt="picture" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="29163ebd-ed62-4c67-9a27-95aa4cc23f27" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/r0_0_800_600_w800_h600_fmax.jpg" /></div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">&nbsp;</div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">On the day his legion of supporters ran riot across Brasilia by storming key government buildings, former president Jair Bolosnaro was hospitalised in a Florida hospital in the USA due to abdominal pain. He even shared a picture from the hospital. Meanwhile,&nbsp;1,500 of his supporters were rounded up in Brasilia for the riots.</div>

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<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/perilously-close-to-falling-into-recession-world-bank-cuts-global-growth-to-17-551183">‘Perilously close to falling into recession’: World Bank cuts 2023 global growth to 1.7%</a></div>

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<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">&nbsp;</div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">The World Bank has cut the global growth forecast for 2023 to 1.7 per cent from 2.9 per cent, while issuing a warning that the world is at risk of a recession.</div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">
<p>It has cut growth estimates of almost every developed country and nearly 70 per cent of emerging and developing countries.</p>

<p>The Washington-based institution has cited a combination of factors like high inflation, rising interest rates, lower investment and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine&nbsp;as threats to growth, apart from China’s Covid-related disruptions and stress in its real-estate sector, for lowering its estimate.</p>
</div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/worlds-richest-actors-shah-rukh-khan-bags-4th-position-beats-tom-cruise-george-clooney-551065">World's Richest Actors: Shah Rukh Khan bags 4th position; beats Tom Cruise, George Clooney</a></div>

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<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">&nbsp;</div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan has fans not just in India but across the world. The Indian actor, who has delivered over 90 films in his career spanning over three decades, is considered one of the most successful stars of global showbiz and his box office successes have made him a favourite of the masses. And, according to&nbsp;the 'Richest actors in the world' list released by World of Statistics on Twitter on Sunday, he is now the fourth richest actor in the world. Yes, you read it right! After&nbsp;Jerry Seinfeld, Tyler Perry and&nbsp;Dwayne Johnson, the Bollywood actor is the fourth wealthiest actor on the planet.&nbsp;</div>

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<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><strong>Watch | This glitzy Paris store has three-storey sculptures made from pots &amp; pans</strong></div>

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<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/golden-globe-awards-2023-hollywood-rolls-out-red-carpet-for-ukrainian-president-volodymyr-zelensky-551172">Golden Globe Awards 2023: Hollywood rolls out red carpet for Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky</a></div>

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<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has thus far virtually addressed a number of significant events, including the Cannes film festival in France, the G20 summit in Indonesia, the United Nations General Assembly in New York, and the Africa Union in Ethiopia among others. As an exception, however, Zelensky has appeared in person before the US Congress. Leaders from across the world pay close attention to every speech made by Zelensky as the conflict between Russia and Ukraine enters its eleventh month of hostilities. Check details of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's expected to deliver an address at the Golden Globe&nbsp;Awards 2023.&nbsp;</div>

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In the latest, Guinness World Records (GWR) announced on Friday that Elon Musk has set a record for the biggest loss of personal wealth in history. China has suspended the issuing of short-term visas to South Koreans in response to Seoul’s imposition of travel restrictions on Chinese travellers over COVID concerns, Beijing’s embassy said on January 10, 2023.

In the latest, Guinness World Records (GWR) announced on Friday that Elon Musk has set a record for the biggest loss of personal wealth in history. China has suspended the issuing of short-term visas to South Koreans in response to Seoul’s imposition of travel restrictions on Chinese travellers over COVID concerns, Beijing’s embassy said on January 10, 2023. In the realm of showbiz, Shah Rukh Khan has bagged the fourth position in the list of the world's richest actors, leaving behind Tom Cruise, and George Clooney. Click on the headlines to read more. Elon Musk breaks world record for largest-ever loss of personal fortune Elon Musk, the billionaire tech magnate and new owner of Twitter, broke a new dubious record of the largest loss of personal fortune. Musk has lost around $182 billion of personal wealth since 2021. Some sources indicate that the loss figure is close to around $200 billion. COVID-19 curbs retaliation: China suspends short-term visas for South Koreans, Japanese In China's first reprisal against COVID-19 restrictions imposed on Chinese travellers, the country has suspended issuing short-term visas for South Koreans and Japanese. In a statement released on Tuesday, the Chinese embassy in South Korea said that South Koreans would no longer be granted visas for the purpose of travel, business, medical treatment, transit, and general private affairs, South China Morning Post (SCMP) reported. Watch | 'Wealthy' UK Prime Minister accused of being 'Disconnected' from masses Brazil riots: See the aftermath of the pillage of government buildings Supporters of former Brazilian President Jair Bolosonaro invaded the presidential palace, the Supreme court and other government buildings on Sunday. The post-election protests have ravaged the offices of government authorities and wrecked most of the public property around it. While the aftermath of the riots brings a wave of silence, incumbent President Lula da Silva has promised the prosecution of rioters who vandalised the nation. India: Bengaluru Metro pillar comes crashing killing mother, toddler son; BMRCL orders inquiry In the early hours of 10 Jan, A woman and her two-and-a-half-year-old son died, while her husband and daughter were critically injured after an under-construction Namma Metro pillar on the Outer Ring Road near Nagavara fell on their two-wheeler in Karnataka's Bengaluru. Bhimashankar Guled, DCP, East division, who spoke to The Hindu said, “Today morning around 10.45 a.m., Namma Metro pillar collapsed and hit a bike on which four persons were travelling. They are Lohith, his wife Tejaswini and their twins (a son and a daughter). Tejaswini and son Vihan were seriously injured and shifted to a private hospital. Unfortunately, Tejaswini and Vihan died.” Jair Bolsonaro hospitalised following Brazil riots, shares picture from hospital bed On the day his legion of supporters ran riot across Brasilia by storming key government buildings, former president Jair Bolosnaro was hospitalised in a Florida hospital in the USA due to abdominal pain. He even shared a picture from the hospital. Meanwhile, 1,500 of his supporters were rounded up in Brasilia for the riots. ‘Perilously close to falling into recession’: World Bank cuts 2023 global growth to 1.7% The World Bank has cut the global growth forecast for 2023 to 1.7 per cent from 2.9 per cent, while issuing a warning that the world is at risk of a recession. It has cut growth estimates of almost every developed country and nearly 70 per cent of emerging and developing countries. The Washington-based institution has cited a combination of factors like high inflation, rising interest rates, lower investment and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine as threats to growth, apart from China’s Covid-related disruptions and stress in its real-estate sector, for lowering its estimate. World's Richest Actors: Shah Rukh Khan bags 4th position; beats Tom Cruise, George Clooney Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan has fans not just in India but across the world. The Indian actor, who has delivered over 90 films in his career spanning over three decades, is considered one of the most successful stars of global showbiz and his box office successes have made him a favourite of the masses. And, according to the 'Richest actors in the world' list released by World of Statistics on Twitter on Sunday, he is now the fourth richest actor in the world. Yes, you read it right! After Jerry Seinfeld, Tyler Perry and Dwayne Johnson, the Bollywood actor is the fourth wealthiest actor on the planet. Watch | This glitzy Paris store has three-storey sculptures made from pots & pans Golden Globe Awards 2023: Hollywood rolls out red carpet for Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has thus far virtually addressed a number of significant events, including the Cannes film festival in France, the G20 summit in Indonesia, the United Nations General Assembly in New York, and the Africa Union in Ethiopia among others. As an exception, however, Zelensky has appeared in person before the US Congress. Leaders from across the world pay close attention to every speech made by Zelensky as the conflict between Russia and Ukraine enters its eleventh month of hostilities. Check details of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's expected to deliver an address at the Golden Globe Awards 2023.

Top 10 world news: China suspends short-term visas for South Koreans, and more

<p>In China's first reprisal against COVID-19 restrictions imposed on Chinese travellers, the country has suspended issuing short-term visas for South Koreans and Japanese. In a statement released on Tuesday, the Chinese embassy in South Korea said that South Koreans would no longer be granted visas for the purpose of travel, business, medical treatment, transit, and general private affairs, South China Morning Post (SCMP) reported.</p>

<p>The policy will change only if South Korea lifts its "discriminatory entry restrictions" against China, as per the embassy's official WeChat account.</p>

<p>According to China's foreign ministry, the announcement comes a day after Foreign Minister Qin Gang spoke with his South Korean counterpart Park Jin over the phone and voiced concern about the curbs, AFP reported. Park reportedly told Qin that the new border restrictions were nothing but "science-based" measures.</p>

<p>“The Korean government’s strengthened prevention measures for entrants from China are based on scientific and objective grounds,” Foreign Ministry spokesman Lim Soo-suk said in a briefing. “The government has been transparently sharing relevant information with the international community, and has continued to communicate with the Chinese side.”&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionnews.com/world/eu-nations-look-set-to-reach-consensus-on-covid-rules-for-chinese-travellers-549304" hreflang="en">EU nations agree on pre-departure Covid test for flyers from China, formal decision on Wednesday</a></strong></p>

<p>On Tuesday, China suspended issuing visas to Japanese travellers, Japan’s Kyodo News Agency reported citing unidentified sources in the travel industry. Other countries including the United States, South Korea, France, etc., have also introduced testing requirements in response to China's fresh Covid outbreak.</p>

<p>Chinese visitors were barred from visiting South Korea since the country had earlier halted providing short-term visas to Chinese travellers until January 31. Flights to Busan, Daegu, and Jeju are suspended, and flights between South Korea and China are only available through Seoul's Incheon International airport, SCMP reported. Seoul on Tuesday said that flights from Hong Kong and Macau will also be allowed to arrive only at Incheon airport.</p>

<p>South Korean authorities located a Chinese man, last week, who had vanished while awaiting quarantine after arriving in the country and testing positive for COVID-19, raising concerns.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/videos/china-covid-xi-administration-gradually-dismantles-zero-covid-policy-541962" hreflang="en">China Covid: Xi administration gradually dismantles Zero-Covid policy</a></strong></p>

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<p>Earlier this month, Beijing threatened&nbsp;countermeasures against “unacceptable” Covid measures. “We believe that the entry restrictions adopted by some countries targeting China lack scientific basis, and some excessive practices are even more unacceptable,” Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said.</p>

<p>In December last year, China decided to lift its "zero Covid" policy, following which the Chinese citizens and residents demanded flights to travel across world. The EU is worried that a sudden influx of Chinese travellers could spread Covid strains to other parts of the world that the current vaccinations&nbsp;may be able to withstand.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:</strong></p>

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In China's first reprisal against COVID-19 restrictions imposed on Chinese travellers, the country has suspended issuing short-term visas for South Koreans and Japanese.

In China's first reprisal against COVID-19 restrictions imposed on Chinese travellers, the country has suspended issuing short-term visas for South Koreans and Japanese. In a statement released on Tuesday, the Chinese embassy in South Korea said that South Koreans would no longer be granted visas for the purpose of travel, business, medical treatment, transit, and general private affairs, South China Morning Post (SCMP) reported. The policy will change only if South Korea lifts its "discriminatory entry restrictions" against China, as per the embassy's official WeChat account. According to China's foreign ministry, the announcement comes a day after Foreign Minister Qin Gang spoke with his South Korean counterpart Park Jin over the phone and voiced concern about the curbs, AFP reported. Park reportedly told Qin that the new border restrictions were nothing but "science-based" measures. “The Korean government’s strengthened prevention measures for entrants from China are based on scientific and objective grounds,” Foreign Ministry spokesman Lim Soo-suk said in a briefing. “The government has been transparently sharing relevant information with the international community, and has continued to communicate with the Chinese side.” Also Read | EU nations agree on pre-departure Covid test for flyers from China, formal decision on Wednesday On Tuesday, China suspended issuing visas to Japanese travellers, Japan’s Kyodo News Agency reported citing unidentified sources in the travel industry. Other countries including the United States, South Korea, France, etc., have also introduced testing requirements in response to China's fresh Covid outbreak. Chinese visitors were barred from visiting South Korea since the country had earlier halted providing short-term visas to Chinese travellers until January 31. Flights to Busan, Daegu, and Jeju are suspended, and flights between South Korea and China are only available through Seoul's Incheon International airport, SCMP reported. Seoul on Tuesday said that flights from Hong Kong and Macau will also be allowed to arrive only at Incheon airport. South Korean authorities located a Chinese man, last week, who had vanished while awaiting quarantine after arriving in the country and testing positive for COVID-19, raising concerns. Watch | China Covid: Xi administration gradually dismantles Zero-Covid policy Earlier this month, Beijing threatened countermeasures against “unacceptable” Covid measures. “We believe that the entry restrictions adopted by some countries targeting China lack scientific basis, and some excessive practices are even more unacceptable,” Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said. In December last year, China decided to lift its "zero Covid" policy, following which the Chinese citizens and residents demanded flights to travel across world. The EU is worried that a sudden influx of Chinese travellers could spread Covid strains to other parts of the world that the current vaccinations may be able to withstand. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

COVID-19 curbs retaliation: China suspends short-term visas for South Koreans, Japanese

The Chinese embassy in South Korea has suspended issuing short-term visas for South Korean visitors, it said on Tuesday, the first retaliatory move against nations imposing COVID-19 curbs on travellers from China.

Why has China halted short-term visas in South Korea?

China stops issuing short-term visas for South Koreans

<p>The military of South Korea on Thursday confirmed that their key no-fly zone near the presidential office was breached by a North Korean drone in a rare incident of incursion last month, which they had previously denied.&nbsp;Military tensions increased on the Korean peninsula last year as weapons tests were carried out by North Korea every month, which included firing one of the most advanced intercontinental ballistic missiles.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Five drones were then sent by Pyongyang across the border into the airspace of South Korea on December 26 for the first time in five years, which instigated Seoul to scramble jets in response.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ|</strong>&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></p>

<p>The military of South Korea issued an apology after it failed to shoot down any of North Korea's drones in a five-hour operation, as it said that the drones were "too small".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Reports of infiltration by drones in the crucial no-fly zone, which is called P-73, were repeatedly denied by South Korea's military.</p>

<p>"It is not true that (the North Korean drone) did not pass over Yongsan," a spokesperson for the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Lee Sung-jun on Thursday said, talking about the area of the presidential office and defence ministry's location.&nbsp;</p>

<p>An official of the military said that in an investigation they discovered "the trail of a small drone of the enemy" had crossed the no-fly zone's northern end.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We make it clear that there is no problem with the safety of the Yongsan office," said the official.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Tension in North Korean peninsula; Seoul's Yoon warns of breaking defence pact</strong></p>

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<p>Last week, the military of South Korea said that the North "could not have obtained meaningful information" by sending drones because of their low technology level.</p>

<p>"It is worrisome that Yongsan, where South Korea's top security control facilities are located, was infiltrated in the height of tension between the two Koreas," said Yang Moo-jin, University of North Korean Studies' professor in Seoul.</p>

<p>He added that public trust will be damaged by their initial denials.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>

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The military of South Korea on Thursday confirmed that their key no-fly zone near the presidential office was breached by a North Korean drone in a rare incident of incursion last month, which they had previously denied.

The military of South Korea on Thursday confirmed that their key no-fly zone near the presidential office was breached by a North Korean drone in a rare incident of incursion last month, which they had previously denied. Military tensions increased on the Korean peninsula last year as weapons tests were carried out by North Korea every month, which included firing one of the most advanced intercontinental ballistic missiles. Five drones were then sent by Pyongyang across the border into the airspace of South Korea on December 26 for the first time in five years, which instigated Seoul to scramble jets in response. ALSO READ| US, South Korea plan 'coordinated response' against North Korea's nuclear threat The military of South Korea issued an apology after it failed to shoot down any of North Korea's drones in a five-hour operation, as it said that the drones were "too small". Reports of infiltration by drones in the crucial no-fly zone, which is called P-73, were repeatedly denied by South Korea's military. "It is not true that (the North Korean drone) did not pass over Yongsan," a spokesperson for the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Lee Sung-jun on Thursday said, talking about the area of the presidential office and defence ministry's location. An official of the military said that in an investigation they discovered "the trail of a small drone of the enemy" had crossed the no-fly zone's northern end. "We make it clear that there is no problem with the safety of the Yongsan office," said the official. WATCH | Tension in North Korean peninsula; Seoul's Yoon warns of breaking defence pact Last week, the military of South Korea said that the North "could not have obtained meaningful information" by sending drones because of their low technology level. "It is worrisome that Yongsan, where South Korea's top security control facilities are located, was infiltrated in the height of tension between the two Koreas," said Yang Moo-jin, University of North Korean Studies' professor in Seoul. He added that public trust will be damaged by their initial denials. (With inputs from agencies)

North Korean drone breaches key no-fly zone, claims South Korea's military

South Korea and the United States are discussing joint planning and implementation of US nuclear operations to counter North Korea.

US & S. Korea to plan joint nuclear exercise

The leaders of the U.S. and South Korea are making contradictory statements. South Korean president Yoon Suk Yeol says that the U.S. and South Korea are discussing joint nuclear exercises, but Biden has denied having any such discussions. Molly Gambhir tells you more.

Gravitas: U.S. denies discussing joint nuclear drills with S. Korea

South Korea authorities said on Wednesday they were trying to track down a Chinese national who tested positive for COVID-19 on arrival but went missing while waiting at a quarantine facility.

South Korea seeks Chinese national missing from Covid quarantine

In the light of rising tensions between with the North, South Korea has warned that they will scrap the defence pact with North Korea if it violates it airspace again. Yoon had instructed senior security officials to consider suspending the military agreement if North carries out another provocating violation.

Tension in North Korean peninsula;  Seoul's Yoon warns of breaking defence pact

South Korea and the United States are discussing planning and implementation of U.S. nuclear operations to counter North Korea, Seoul's presidential office said on Tuesday.

South Korea and U.S. discuss nuclear planning operations

South Korea’s antitrust regulator said it would impose a 2.85 billion won ($2.2 million) fine on Tesla Inc for failing to tell its customers about the shorter driving range of its electric vehicles (EVs).

World Business Watch: Tesla fined $2.2 mln for exaggerating driving range of EVs

South Korea will fine Tesla Inc. 2.2 million for alleged violations of advertising law. Tesla falsely promoted and exaggerated the driving range and charging speed of its electric cars. Watch further to know more.

WION Fineprint: Tesla fined with 2.2 Million for false advertisement in South Korea

<p>Black-and-white photos of the surfaces of Earth and Moon, captured by South Korea's Danuri lunar orbiter, are stoking the fascination of the world as it steps forward in 2023.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Danuri, meaning 'Moon' and Enjoy' in Korean, was launched by Elon Musk-led SpaceX's rocket last year in August and entered lunar orbit in December 2022.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korea-launches-its-first-lunar-orbiter-danuri-on-a-spacex-rocket-503898">South Korea launches its first lunar orbiter, Danuri, on a SpaceX rocket</a></strong></p>

<p>The images from Danuri, taken between December 24 and January 1, show the lunar surface and Earth, shot from less than 120 kilometers over the Moon, according to an official statement by the Korea Aerospace Research Institute (KARI).</p>
<img alt="Photo taken by Danuri on December 24 at 344 km above the moon" data-caption="&lt;br /&gt;
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Photo taken by Danuri on December 24 at 344 km above the moon | @kari2030 | Twitter&lt;br /&gt;
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&amp;nbsp;" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="df35919b-910a-4349-8487-1aef300d2f2e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/24Dec_344km_kari_0.jpg" /><img alt="Danuri is scheduled to carry out full-scale science and technology missions from February | @kari2030 | Twitter" data-caption="Danuri&amp;nbsp;is scheduled to carry out full-scale science and technology missions from February |&amp;nbsp;@kari2030 | Twitter" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="26206aa1-b774-4324-bde0-9ff6d1063df5" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Danuri_full_space.jpg" />
<p>The statement added that the images and videos will be "used to select potential sites for a Moon landing in 2032".&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korea-launches-its-first-lunar-orbiter-danuri-on-a-spacex-rocket-503898">South Korea joins Lunar Race by sending its first spacecraft to the Moon</a></strong></p>

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<p>Danuri is reportedly circling the Moon every two hours.</p>

<p>Next month, the orbiter will start mapping and analysing the lunar terrain as well as measuring the magnetic strength of lunar surface. This will be the part of its scientific mission.</p>

<p><strong>Test for 'space internet'</strong></p>

<p>South Korea's Danuri space mission will&nbsp;also test experimental "space internet" technology by transmitting photos and videos to Earth. Space internet, heralded by SpaceX under its Starlink network project, aims&nbsp;to provide low-cost and reliable space-based Internet services to the world.</p>

<p>By transmitting photos and videos to Earth, the $180 million orbiter will send the data to be used for&nbsp;selection of potential sites for a South Korean moon landing in 2032.</p>

<p>South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol has hailed Danuri's achievements as a "historical moment" in the country's space program.&nbsp;"It is a historic moment telling the world of the excellence of Korea's space and science technology and marking a leap to one of the top seven space powers in the world," President Yoon Suk-yeol said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the concluding days of 2022, South Korea became the seventh country in the world to explore the moon, following Russia, the United States, Japan, the European Union, China and India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>South Korea has laid out plans for outer space missions, including landing spacecraft on the Moon by 2032 and Mars by 2045.</p>

<p>(<em>With inputs from agencies</em>)</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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Black-and-white photos of the surfaces of Earth and Moon, captured by South Korea's Danuri lunar orbiter, are stoking the fascination of the world as it steps forward in 2023.

Black-and-white photos of the surfaces of Earth and Moon, captured by South Korea's Danuri lunar orbiter, are stoking the fascination of the world as it steps forward in 2023. Danuri, meaning 'Moon' and Enjoy' in Korean, was launched by Elon Musk-led SpaceX's rocket last year in August and entered lunar orbit in December 2022. ALSO READ | South Korea launches its first lunar orbiter, Danuri, on a SpaceX rocket The images from Danuri, taken between December 24 and January 1, show the lunar surface and Earth, shot from less than 120 kilometers over the Moon, according to an official statement by the Korea Aerospace Research Institute (KARI). The statement added that the images and videos will be "used to select potential sites for a Moon landing in 2032". WATCH | South Korea joins Lunar Race by sending its first spacecraft to the Moon × Danuri is reportedly circling the Moon every two hours. Next month, the orbiter will start mapping and analysing the lunar terrain as well as measuring the magnetic strength of lunar surface. This will be the part of its scientific mission. Test for 'space internet' South Korea's Danuri space mission will also test experimental "space internet" technology by transmitting photos and videos to Earth. Space internet, heralded by SpaceX under its Starlink network project, aims to provide low-cost and reliable space-based Internet services to the world. By transmitting photos and videos to Earth, the $180 million orbiter will send the data to be used for selection of potential sites for a South Korean moon landing in 2032. South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol has hailed Danuri's achievements as a "historical moment" in the country's space program. "It is a historic moment telling the world of the excellence of Korea's space and science technology and marking a leap to one of the top seven space powers in the world," President Yoon Suk-yeol said. During the concluding days of 2022, South Korea became the seventh country in the world to explore the moon, following Russia, the United States, Japan, the European Union, China and India. South Korea has laid out plans for outer space missions, including landing spacecraft on the Moon by 2032 and Mars by 2045. (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 Korean quest for moon landing reverts with stunning lunar visuals

South Korea's antitrust regular fined Tesla 2.85 billion won ($2.2 million) for false advertising, saying the company overstated the range of its cars in cold weather.

Tesla has been slapped with a $2 million fine in South Korea

<p>The US and South Korea are planning an "effective coordinated" response if North Korea led by Kim Jong-un uses nuclear weapons, the White House said on Tuesday.</p>

<p>South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol and US President Joe Biden have "tasked their teams to plan for an effective coordinated response to a range of scenarios, including nuclear use by North Korea," a spokesperson for the National Security Council at the White House said in a media briefing on Tuesday.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/joe-biden-contradicts-yoon-suk-yeol-says-us-not-discussing-joint-nuclear-exercises-with-south-korea-548907">Joe Biden contradicts Yoon Suk-yeol, says US not discussing joint nuclear exercises with South Korea</a></strong></p>

<p>The development comes after confirmation by the US President Joe Biden that Seoul and Washington are discussing its involvement in nuclear asset management&nbsp;in the face of increased&nbsp;North Korean nuclear threats.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>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></strong></p>

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<p>Earlier, while referring to the US nuclear assets, the South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol&nbsp;told <em>The Chosun Ilbo</em> newspaper in an interview that their "planning, information sharing, exercises and training should be jointly conducted by South Korea and the United States".&nbsp;He said he finds it difficult to assure his people of a security guarantee with the current levels of U.S. security commitment.</p>

<p>The latest White House statement is expected to pacify South Korean concerns over US' commitment to react for Seoul&nbsp;in the event of a North Korean nuclear attack.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>North Korea's N-threat: Why increased concerns?</strong></p>

<p>The increased Washington-Seoul ramping up to deter North Korea's nuclear threats is followed by Kim Jong-un's escalated rhetoric against Washington and Seoul.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The North Korean dictator entered 2023 with a vow to mass-produce battlefield nuclear weapons as well as more powerful intercontinental ballistic missiles.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The North Korean state media in the past has quoted Kim Jong-un as saying that he is ready to use his nuclear weapons in potential military conflicts with the United States and South Korea.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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The US and South Korea are planning an "effective coordinated" response if North Korea led by Kim Jong-un uses nuclear weapons, the White House said on Tuesday. South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol and US President Joe Biden have "tasked their teams to plan for an effective coordinated response to a range of scenarios, including nuclear use by North Korea," a spokesperson for the National Security Council at the White House said in a media briefing on Tuesday.

The US and South Korea are planning an "effective coordinated" response if North Korea led by Kim Jong-un uses nuclear weapons, the White House said on Tuesday. South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol and US President Joe Biden have "tasked their teams to plan for an effective coordinated response to a range of scenarios, including nuclear use by North Korea," a spokesperson for the National Security Council at the White House said in a media briefing on Tuesday. ALSO READ | Joe Biden contradicts Yoon Suk-yeol, says US not discussing joint nuclear exercises with South Korea The development comes after confirmation by the US President Joe Biden that Seoul and Washington are discussing its involvement in nuclear asset management in the face of increased North Korean nuclear threats. WATCH | Gravitas: South Korea retaliates after Kim's 'air invasion' × Earlier, while referring to the US nuclear assets, the South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol told The Chosun Ilbo newspaper in an interview that their "planning, information sharing, exercises and training should be jointly conducted by South Korea and the United States". He said he finds it difficult to assure his people of a security guarantee with the current levels of U.S. security commitment. The latest White House statement is expected to pacify South Korean concerns over US' commitment to react for Seoul in the event of a North Korean nuclear attack. North Korea's N-threat: Why increased concerns? The increased Washington-Seoul ramping up to deter North Korea's nuclear threats is followed by Kim Jong-un's escalated rhetoric against Washington and Seoul. The North Korean dictator entered 2023 with a vow to mass-produce battlefield nuclear weapons as well as more powerful intercontinental ballistic missiles. The North Korean state media in the past has quoted Kim Jong-un as saying that he is ready to use his nuclear weapons in potential military conflicts with the United States and South Korea. 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 plan 'coordinated response' against North Korea's nuclear threat

In response to North Korea's increasing nuclear and missile threats, South Korea and the United States are talking about potential cooperative planning and exercises utilising US nuclear capabilities, according to South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol in a newspaper interview. Yoon was reported by the Chosun Ilbo newspaper as adding that the cooperative planning and drills will be intended to improve the US "extended deterrence."

US-South Korea Mull Nuke Drills: President Yoon Suk-Yeol says talks ongoing

<p>North Korea has reportedly sacked the nation's second-highest military official. As per reports by the state media, Pak Jong Chon, the second most powerful leader Kim Jong Un has been replaced with Ri Yong Gil.</p>

<p>As per a KCNA news agency report, Pak who's the vice-chairman of the Central Military Commission of the ruling Workers' Party and a secretary of the party's Central Committee, was replaced at the committee's annual meeting last week.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;North Korean leaders chairs key party meet; Kim Jong-un calls for bigger Nuclear arsenal</strong></p>

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<p>No reason for the replacement was iven. However, as per Reuters North Korea regularly revamps its leadership and the year-end party has often been used for major policy decisions and reshuffles.</p>

<p>The replacement comes as Kim Jong Un recently announced that the country will be developing new intercontinental ballistic missiles and a large nuclear arsenal, as a way to counter Units States and South Korea.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-kim-jong-un-wants-exponential-increase-in-nuclear-arsenal-548408">North Korea: Kim Jong Un wants ‘exponential increase’ in nuclear arsenal</a></strong></p>

<p>Pak's replacement, Ri, too is a senior military leader who has held important roles like chief of the army's general staff and defence minister.</p>

<p>According to Oh Gyeong-sup, a fellow at the Korea Institute for National Unification in Seoul, the recent increase in tension between North Korea and South Kora over Pyongyang's intrusion of drones into Seoul territory could be a factor.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-fires-three-unidentified-ballistic-missile-says-south-korea-548212">North Korea fired three ‘unidentified ballistic missiles,’ says South Korea</a></strong></p>

<p>In response to the intrusion, three drones were reportedly sent across the border by South Korea. However, the North did not respond, which according to Oh could indicate that it did not detect the drones.</p>

<p>Oh speculated that "Pak might have taken responsibility for the failure of security operations."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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North Korea has reportedly sacked the nation's second-highest military official. As per reports by the state media, Pak Jong Chon, the second most powerful leader Kim Jong Un has been replaced with Ri Yong Gil.

North Korea has reportedly sacked the nation's second-highest military official. As per reports by the state media, Pak Jong Chon, the second most powerful leader Kim Jong Un has been replaced with Ri Yong Gil. As per a KCNA news agency report, Pak who's the vice-chairman of the Central Military Commission of the ruling Workers' Party and a secretary of the party's Central Committee, was replaced at the committee's annual meeting last week. Watch | North Korean leaders chairs key party meet; Kim Jong-un calls for bigger Nuclear arsenal No reason for the replacement was iven. However, as per Reuters North Korea regularly revamps its leadership and the year-end party has often been used for major policy decisions and reshuffles. The replacement comes as Kim Jong Un recently announced that the country will be developing new intercontinental ballistic missiles and a large nuclear arsenal, as a way to counter Units States and South Korea. Also read | North Korea: Kim Jong Un wants ‘exponential increase’ in nuclear arsenal Pak's replacement, Ri, too is a senior military leader who has held important roles like chief of the army's general staff and defence minister. According to Oh Gyeong-sup, a fellow at the Korea Institute for National Unification in Seoul, the recent increase in tension between North Korea and South Kora over Pyongyang's intrusion of drones into Seoul territory could be a factor. Also read | North Korea fired three ‘unidentified ballistic missiles,’ says South Korea In response to the intrusion, three drones were reportedly sent across the border by South Korea. However, the North did not respond, which according to Oh could indicate that it did not detect the drones. Oh speculated that "Pak might have taken responsibility for the failure of security operations." (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's second most powerful man after Kim Jong Un replaced

Signalling depending or deepening animosity with South Korea and the United States, North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has pledged to increase the production of nuclear warheads exponentially.

Jong-un to increase Nuclear warhead production, pledges to launch country's 1st military satellite

North Korean leaders chairs key party meet; Kim Jong-un calls for bigger Nuclear arsenal

South Korea’s military confirmed it test-fired a solid-fuelled rocket on Friday after its unannounced launch triggered brief public scare of a suspected UFO appearance.

South Korea's missile test causes UFO scare

Tensions continue in the Korean peninsula and in the latest North Korea has fired three ballistic missiles. South Korea's Joint Chief's of Staff stated that it was fired into the East Sea. The Japan Coast Guards also confirmed the same.

North Korea fires three ballistic missiles, Japan Coast Guard confirms firing of missiles

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<p>As Covid cases continue to mount in China, countries across the world are opting for precautionary measures to avoid a repeat of the first wave. France, Spain, South Korea and Israel are the recent entrants to the list of countries to have announced different Covid curbs.&nbsp;In France, passengers travelling from China will have to show a negative report of Covid test done less than 48 hours prior to boarding the flight.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, in South Korea, Chinese passengers will have to present a negative PCR or antigen test before boarding the flight. Afterwards, on their arrival&nbsp;in South Korea, the passengers will have to undergo a PCR test.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As for Spain, Chinese travellers can skip the tests if they are fully vaccinated. In Israel, the authorities have directed foreign airlines to not accept any Chinese passenger if they fail to provide a negative Covid test report.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Previously, Malaysia, India, US and Japan had put different measures in place to screen Chinese travellers.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/global-alarm-over-chinas-covid-surge-travel-curbs-imposed-on-chinese-travelers-547881"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Global alarm over China's Covid surge, travel curbs imposed on Chinese travelers</strong></a></p>

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<p>While cases are on an unprecedented rise, the Xi Jinping regime has let go of its draconian 'zero-Covid' policy, primarily responsible for the current predicament.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The countries are anxious about Chinese travellers as the country is opaque regarding its Covid numbers and the Chinese vaccines and their efficacy continue to divide the scientists.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Such has been the situation that the World Health Organisation (WHO) on Friday urged Beijing to release real-time data on the prevailing situation in the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“WHO again asked for regular sharing of specific and real-time data on the epidemiological situation," said the global health body before adding, "Including more genetic sequencing data, data on disease impact including hospitalisations, ICU admissions and deaths, and data on vaccinations delivered and vaccination status, especially in vulnerable people and those over 60 years old."&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-asks-china-to-share-real-time-covid-19-data-amid-uncertainty-regarding-numbers-548227" target="_blank"><strong>Read more: WHO asks China to share real-time COVID-19 data amid uncertainty regarding numbers</strong></a></p>

<p>According to a Bloomberg report, the minutes of an internal meeting of the NHC held earlier this month showed that 248 million people, or nearly 18 per cent of the country's population, likely contracted Covid in the first 20 days of December.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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As Covid cases continue to mount in China, countries across the world are opting for precautionary measures to avoid a repeat of the first wave. France, Spain, South Korea and Israel are the recent entrants to the list of countries to have announced different Covid curbs.

As Covid cases continue to mount in China, countries across the world are opting for precautionary measures to avoid a repeat of the first wave. France, Spain, South Korea and Israel are the recent entrants to the list of countries to have announced different Covid curbs. In France, passengers travelling from China will have to show a negative report of Covid test done less than 48 hours prior to boarding the flight. Meanwhile, in South Korea, Chinese passengers will have to present a negative PCR or antigen test before boarding the flight. Afterwards, on their arrival in South Korea, the passengers will have to undergo a PCR test. As for Spain, Chinese travellers can skip the tests if they are fully vaccinated. In Israel, the authorities have directed foreign airlines to not accept any Chinese passenger if they fail to provide a negative Covid test report. Previously, Malaysia, India, US and Japan had put different measures in place to screen Chinese travellers. WATCH | Global alarm over China's Covid surge, travel curbs imposed on Chinese travelers × While cases are on an unprecedented rise, the Xi Jinping regime has let go of its draconian 'zero-Covid' policy, primarily responsible for the current predicament. The countries are anxious about Chinese travellers as the country is opaque regarding its Covid numbers and the Chinese vaccines and their efficacy continue to divide the scientists. Such has been the situation that the World Health Organisation (WHO) on Friday urged Beijing to release real-time data on the prevailing situation in the country. “WHO again asked for regular sharing of specific and real-time data on the epidemiological situation," said the global health body before adding, "Including more genetic sequencing data, data on disease impact including hospitalisations, ICU admissions and deaths, and data on vaccinations delivered and vaccination status, especially in vulnerable people and those over 60 years old." Read more: WHO asks China to share real-time COVID-19 data amid uncertainty regarding numbers According to a Bloomberg report, the minutes of an internal meeting of the NHC held earlier this month showed that 248 million people, or nearly 18 per cent of the country's population, likely contracted Covid in the first 20 days of December. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Spain, France, Israel and S Korea tighten Covid rules for travellers from China as cases mount

<p>North Korea fired three ballistic missiles towards the eastern waters on Saturday morning, South Korea’s military said. It comes five days after Pyongyang flew five drones into the South’s airspace, stoking further tensions in the peninsula.&nbsp;The missile&nbsp;landed in the Sea of Japan, the South Korean military said, but did not give further details as to what type of missile was fired, reports AFP news agency.</p>

<p>The latest missile launch comes after eight days as the military tensions between the two countries rose sharply this year.</p>

<p>"North Korea fires an unidentified ballistic missile into (the) East Sea," South Korea's Joint Chiefs&nbsp;of Staff said, referring to the body of water also known as the Sea of Japan.</p>

<p>North Korea has test-fired more than 70 ballistic and cruise missiles this year, a move seen by experts as a warning to the US and South Korea in a bid to bolster its leverage in future dealings.</p>

<p>South Korea has already been on alert over potential intrusions ever since one of the North's drones flew close to the capital Seoul.</p>

<p>Though South's&nbsp;military deployed fighter jets and attack helicopters, it failed to bring down the drones after a five-hour operation.</p>

<p>The major embarrassment caused South Korea’s defence minister to offer a public apology after much criticism.</p>

<p>South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol said the incident was “intolerable” and assured to fight back against Pyongyang to make them realise that "provocations are always met with harsh consequences".</p>

<p>The latest provocation comes at a time when North Korea is holding a major party meeting in Pyongyang in which Kim Jong-un and other senior party officials are setting out their policy goals for 2023 in key areas including diplomacy, security and the economy.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


North Korea fired three ballistic missiles towards the eastern waters on Saturday morning, South Korea’s military said. It comes five days after Pyongyang flew five drones into the South’s airspace, stoking further tensions in the peninsula.

North Korea fired three ballistic missiles towards the eastern waters on Saturday morning, South Korea’s military said. It comes five days after Pyongyang flew five drones into the South’s airspace, stoking further tensions in the peninsula. The missile landed in the Sea of Japan, the South Korean military said, but did not give further details as to what type of missile was fired, reports AFP news agency. The latest missile launch comes after eight days as the military tensions between the two countries rose sharply this year. "North Korea fires an unidentified ballistic missile into (the) East Sea," South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff said, referring to the body of water also known as the Sea of Japan. North Korea has test-fired more than 70 ballistic and cruise missiles this year, a move seen by experts as a warning to the US and South Korea in a bid to bolster its leverage in future dealings. South Korea has already been on alert over potential intrusions ever since one of the North's drones flew close to the capital Seoul. Though South's military deployed fighter jets and attack helicopters, it failed to bring down the drones after a five-hour operation. The major embarrassment caused South Korea’s defence minister to offer a public apology after much criticism. South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol said the incident was “intolerable” and assured to fight back against Pyongyang to make them realise that "provocations are always met with harsh consequences". The latest provocation comes at a time when North Korea is holding a major party meeting in Pyongyang in which Kim Jong-un and other senior party officials are setting out their policy goals for 2023 in key areas including diplomacy, security and the economy. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

North Korea fired three ‘unidentified ballistic missiles,’ says South Korea

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