<p>The military in South Korea announced that a solid-fueled rocket was test-fired on Friday after its undeclared launch created a brief scare among the public who believed it to be a suspected UFO appearance or a missile launch by North Korea.</p>

<p>In a statement, the defence ministry stated that the launch of the rocket was part of the country’s efforts to increase space-based surveillance capability and enhance its defence posture.</p>

<p>The military stated that the general public was not notified about the rocket’s launch in advance because it included sensitive security issues related to the military.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ|</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korea-plans-better-preparedness-after-north-koreas-drone-incursion-547642">South Korea plans to upgrade preparedness after unchecked North Korea’s drone incursion</a></p>

<p>On Friday evening, people saw a white and red-hued tendril of vapour behind a bright white light in the sky of South Korea. The internet sites and social media of South Korea were filled with messages from people who spotted an object or a coloured vapour or any kind of mysterious light in the sky.</p>

<p>A few of them also posted videos and photos. On Twitter user wrote, “What is this? Is this a UFO? I’m scared.”&nbsp;Another user stated that perhaps it was a missile launch by North Korea and worried that a war is going to start, while someone else said that a signal is being sent back by a North Korean spy operating in South Korea back to the North.</p>

<p>Some even suspected that the appearance of light was a supernatural phenomenon. As per the local media, South Korean police and emergency officers received reports of many citizens who had witnessed a suspicious object flying in the sky and mysterious light.&nbsp; &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH | Gravitas: South Korea retaliates after Kim's 'air invasion'</strong></p>

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<p>The rocket launch in South Korea took place four days after the North was accused by the South of flying five drones near the country’s border for the first time in five years. The government officials said that the solid-fueled rocket will be used to put the first spy satellite of the nation into orbit.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The military in South Korea announced that a solid-fueled rocket was test-fired on Friday after its undeclared launch created a brief scare among the public who believed it to be a suspected UFO appearance or a missile launch by North Korea.

The military in South Korea announced that a solid-fueled rocket was test-fired on Friday after its undeclared launch created a brief scare among the public who believed it to be a suspected UFO appearance or a missile launch by North Korea. In a statement, the defence ministry stated that the launch of the rocket was part of the country’s efforts to increase space-based surveillance capability and enhance its defence posture. The military stated that the general public was not notified about the rocket’s launch in advance because it included sensitive security issues related to the military. ALSO READ| South Korea plans to upgrade preparedness after unchecked North Korea’s drone incursion On Friday evening, people saw a white and red-hued tendril of vapour behind a bright white light in the sky of South Korea. The internet sites and social media of South Korea were filled with messages from people who spotted an object or a coloured vapour or any kind of mysterious light in the sky. A few of them also posted videos and photos. On Twitter user wrote, “What is this? Is this a UFO? I’m scared.” Another user stated that perhaps it was a missile launch by North Korea and worried that a war is going to start, while someone else said that a signal is being sent back by a North Korean spy operating in South Korea back to the North. Some even suspected that the appearance of light was a supernatural phenomenon. As per the local media, South Korean police and emergency officers received reports of many citizens who had witnessed a suspicious object flying in the sky and mysterious light. WATCH | Gravitas: South Korea retaliates after Kim's 'air invasion' The rocket launch in South Korea took place four days after the North was accused by the South of flying five drones near the country’s border for the first time in five years. The government officials said that the solid-fueled rocket will be used to put the first spy satellite of the nation into orbit. (With inputs from agencies)

Unannounced rocket launch leaves people puzzled in South Korea, triggers UFO scare

<p>South Korea on Friday became the latest country to impose restrictions on travellers from China over a huge spike in Covid infections.&nbsp;South Korea has imposed visa restrictions, testing requirements on Chinese travellers, and is also limiting flights.&nbsp;"Until February next year, those entering (South Korea) from China will be required to undergo a Covid test before and after their arrival," South Korean Prime Minister Han Duck-soo said, news agency AFP reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Han said that the government "is inevitably strengthening some anti-epidemic measures" to prevent the spread of Covid in South Korea due to the worsening pandemic situation in China.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-concerned-about-increase-of-covid-19-cases-in-china-calls-restrictions-by-countries-understandable-547971">WHO ‘concerned’ about increase of Covid-19 cases in China, calls restrictions by countries ‘understandable’</a></strong></p>

<p>Travellers from China will have to provide a negative report of PCR test taken within 48 hours before boarding an aircraft to South Korea, or a negative antigen test within 24 hours before departure.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Prime Minister Han said on Friday that these travellers will be required to undergo a PCR test on the first day of their arrival, adding the government is scaling back the number of flights from China and all flights (from China) will now have to land only at South Korea's Incheon International Airport.&nbsp;</p>

<p>South Korea will also restrict issuing of short-term visas to Chinese nationals until the end of January next year. However, this excludes public officials, diplomats and people with crucial humanitarian and business purposes.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO WATCH | South Korea's consumer prices rise 5 per cent from the previous year </strong></p>

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<p><br />
Earlier, the United States, India, Italy and Japan imposed curbs on Chinese travellers — citing a lack of details from Beijing on variants and concerns over a new wave of infections.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In Pakistan's Sindh, the government recommended testing all inbound travellers from China. Spain and Italy, who are members of the European Union, also imposed Covid curbs on Chinese travellers.</p>

<p>On Thursday, Italy had urged the rest of the European Union to test travellers from China for the virus, but EU's other member states have resisted the pressure to immediately impose&nbsp;checks on travellers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the Chinese state media has hit out at the curbs imposed by countries by calling them unfounded and discriminatory. A report by the Global Times late Thursday said, "The real intention is to sabotage China's three years of Covid-19 control efforts and attack the country's system."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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South Korea on Friday became the latest country to impose restrictions on travellers from China over a huge spike in Covid infections. South Korea has imposed visa restrictions, testing requirements on Chinese travellers, and is also limiting flights.

South Korea on Friday became the latest country to impose restrictions on travellers from China over a huge spike in Covid infections. South Korea has imposed visa restrictions, testing requirements on Chinese travellers, and is also limiting flights. "Until February next year, those entering (South Korea) from China will be required to undergo a Covid test before and after their arrival," South Korean Prime Minister Han Duck-soo said, news agency AFP reported. Han said that the government "is inevitably strengthening some anti-epidemic measures" to prevent the spread of Covid in South Korea due to the worsening pandemic situation in China. ALSO READ | WHO ‘concerned’ about increase of Covid-19 cases in China, calls restrictions by countries ‘understandable’ Travellers from China will have to provide a negative report of PCR test taken within 48 hours before boarding an aircraft to South Korea, or a negative antigen test within 24 hours before departure. Prime Minister Han said on Friday that these travellers will be required to undergo a PCR test on the first day of their arrival, adding the government is scaling back the number of flights from China and all flights (from China) will now have to land only at South Korea's Incheon International Airport. South Korea will also restrict issuing of short-term visas to Chinese nationals until the end of January next year. However, this excludes public officials, diplomats and people with crucial humanitarian and business purposes. ALSO WATCH | South Korea's consumer prices rise 5 per cent from the previous year × Earlier, the United States, India, Italy and Japan imposed curbs on Chinese travellers — citing a lack of details from Beijing on variants and concerns over a new wave of infections. In Pakistan's Sindh, the government recommended testing all inbound travellers from China. Spain and Italy, who are members of the European Union, also imposed Covid curbs on Chinese travellers. On Thursday, Italy had urged the rest of the European Union to test travellers from China for the virus, but EU's other member states have resisted the pressure to immediately impose checks on travellers. Meanwhile, the Chinese state media has hit out at the curbs imposed by countries by calling them unfounded and discriminatory. A report by the Global Times late Thursday said, "The real intention is to sabotage China's three years of Covid-19 control efforts and attack the country's system." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

South Korea latest nation to impose Covid curbs on travellers from China; some EU nations desist

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has set new goals for the isolated nation's military for the coming year, hinting at another year of intensive weapon tests and tension. Molly Gambhir asks: Is Kim Jong Un preparing to resume the Korean War?

Gravitas: North Korea vows to boost military power in 2023

At least five people were killed and 40 injured after a traffic accident sparked a fire in an expressway tunnel near Seoul, South Korea. Hundreds of firefighters were dispatched to the scene and managed to get the blaze under control.

WION Fineprint | South Korea: Highway collision kills five, 40 injured

<p>At least five people have been killed and dozens of others injured&nbsp;after a bus and truck crash on a South Korean expressway tunnel on the outskirts of the capital city, Seoul, caused a massive fire,&nbsp;reported AFP.&nbsp;The incident took place on Thursday, on the Second Gyeongin Expressway, at around 1:50 pm (local time) and several videos on social media showed the raised tunnel which was designed to protect the surrounding buildings from the noise was quickly engulfed by flames and smoke after the crash.&nbsp;</p>

<p>An emergency official told the press that so far at least 37 people have been injured and three of them are in serious condition, said media reports. The fire was triggerred after a bus collided with a truck in an expressway tunnel in Gwacheon, an official at the Gwacheon fire department told AFP.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, officials also said that the investigation for the&nbsp;cause of the incident is still underway, although the fire has been put out, reported Reuters. He added, that altogether 44 vehicles were destroyed in the fire.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We are doing a search inside the tunnel in case of additional casualties",&nbsp;the fire official told AFP.&nbsp;"Three have suffered burns on facial areas while the rest are being treated for smoke inhalation," the report added. Meanwhile, Interior Minister Lee Sang-min called for&nbsp;maximum resources deployed&nbsp;to save lives, the Yonhap News Agency reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added, "I urge the authorities to put out the best efforts to save the lives of those who have not escaped."&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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At least five people have been killed and dozens of others injured after a bus and truck crash on a South Korean expressway tunnel on the outskirts of the capital city, Seoul, caused a massive fire, reported AFP.

At least five people have been killed and dozens of others injured after a bus and truck crash on a South Korean expressway tunnel on the outskirts of the capital city, Seoul, caused a massive fire, reported AFP. The incident took place on Thursday, on the Second Gyeongin Expressway, at around 1:50 pm (local time) and several videos on social media showed the raised tunnel which was designed to protect the surrounding buildings from the noise was quickly engulfed by flames and smoke after the crash. An emergency official told the press that so far at least 37 people have been injured and three of them are in serious condition, said media reports. The fire was triggerred after a bus collided with a truck in an expressway tunnel in Gwacheon, an official at the Gwacheon fire department told AFP. However, officials also said that the investigation for the cause of the incident is still underway, although the fire has been put out, reported Reuters. He added, that altogether 44 vehicles were destroyed in the fire. "We are doing a search inside the tunnel in case of additional casualties", the fire official told AFP. "Three have suffered burns on facial areas while the rest are being treated for smoke inhalation," the report added. Meanwhile, Interior Minister Lee Sang-min called for maximum resources deployed to save lives, the Yonhap News Agency reported. He added, "I urge the authorities to put out the best efforts to save the lives of those who have not escaped." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

South Korea: 5 killed, 37 hurt, 44 vehicles gutted in highway tunnel blaze after bus, truck collision

<p>South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol on Thursday said that the country will boost its readiness to respond to airspace intrusions after five drones of North Korea crossed the border and could not be shot down by the military.&nbsp;Fighter jets were deployed by South Korea's military after the airspace intrusion by North Korea's drones on Monday as one of the drones flew close to the capital.</p>

<p>However, even after carrying out a five-hour-long operation, the North Korean drones were not shot down which led to the South Korean military's widespread criticism and the military issued an apology.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ|</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korea-plans-to-spend-441-million-until-2027-to-counter-nkorean-drones-547448">South Korea plans to spend $441 million until 2027 to counter N.Korean drones</a></p>

<p>On Thursday, President Yoon said that the situation was "intolerable" and added that the government should make Pyongyang "realise that provocations are always met with harsh consequences".</p>

<p>"In order for us to achieve peace, we need to make overwhelmingly superior war preparations," he added, while speaking during his visit to the state-run Agency for Defence Development.</p>

<p>"The overall response system against all flying objects invading our airspace, on top of drones, must be re-examined to quickly make up for any deficiencies," he added.</p>

<p>Earlier this week, Yoon criticised the way the incident was handled by the military and called for accelerating the plan for launching a drone unit, in which advanced stealth models will be included for carrying out surveillance on important military facilities in Pyongyang.</p>

<p>The South's Joint Chiefs of Staff on Thursday said that exercises, focused on drones, will be staged.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH|&nbsp;WION Fineprint: South Korean President Yoon Suk-Yeol announces new drone unit</strong></p>

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<p>For the first time in five years, the drones of Pyongyang made an air incursion into the airspace of South. This year, North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un, said that he aims to make his country the most powerful nuclear force in the world, and said that the country is an "irreversible" nuclear state.</p>

<p>President Yoon said that nuclear weapons of North Korea would not affect the response of Seoul to any future provocations by Pyongyang.</p>

<p>"Regardless of whether the opponent has nuclear weapons or weapons of mass destruction, we should give a clear message to those who are provoking," he added.</p>

<p>(With inputs from agencies)</p>

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South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol on Thursday said that the country will boost its readiness to respond to airspace intrusions after five drones of North Korea crossed the border and could not be shot down by the military.

South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol on Thursday said that the country will boost its readiness to respond to airspace intrusions after five drones of North Korea crossed the border and could not be shot down by the military. Fighter jets were deployed by South Korea's military after the airspace intrusion by North Korea's drones on Monday as one of the drones flew close to the capital. However, even after carrying out a five-hour-long operation, the North Korean drones were not shot down which led to the South Korean military's widespread criticism and the military issued an apology. ALSO READ| South Korea plans to spend $441 million until 2027 to counter N.Korean drones On Thursday, President Yoon said that the situation was "intolerable" and added that the government should make Pyongyang "realise that provocations are always met with harsh consequences". "In order for us to achieve peace, we need to make overwhelmingly superior war preparations," he added, while speaking during his visit to the state-run Agency for Defence Development. "The overall response system against all flying objects invading our airspace, on top of drones, must be re-examined to quickly make up for any deficiencies," he added. Earlier this week, Yoon criticised the way the incident was handled by the military and called for accelerating the plan for launching a drone unit, in which advanced stealth models will be included for carrying out surveillance on important military facilities in Pyongyang. The South's Joint Chiefs of Staff on Thursday said that exercises, focused on drones, will be staged. WATCH| WION Fineprint: South Korean President Yoon Suk-Yeol announces new drone unit For the first time in five years, the drones of Pyongyang made an air incursion into the airspace of South. This year, North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un, said that he aims to make his country the most powerful nuclear force in the world, and said that the country is an "irreversible" nuclear state. President Yoon said that nuclear weapons of North Korea would not affect the response of Seoul to any future provocations by Pyongyang. "Regardless of whether the opponent has nuclear weapons or weapons of mass destruction, we should give a clear message to those who are provoking," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

South Korea plans to upgrade preparedness after unchecked North Korea’s drone incursion

South Korea's semiconductor production in November fell by the most since the global financial crisis. Chip production shrank for a fourth straight month.

World Business Watch: South Korea's chip output falls most since the global financial crisis

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un unveiled new goals for the country's military for 2023 at an ongoing meeting of the ruling Workers' Party, hinting at another year of intensive weapons tests and tension.

North Korea's Kim unveils new military goals at key party meeting

<p>Full-body sex doll imports are now officially permitted in South Korea, putting an end to years of controversy about how far the government should intervene in people's personal lives. Despite the fact that there are no laws or regulations prohibiting the import of sex dolls, the Korea Customs Service has nonetheless confiscated hundreds, if not thousands of them, citing a provision in the law that forbids the import of goods that "harm the country's beautiful traditions and public moral."</p>

<p>The majority of the judges heard complaints from importers and agreed with them, ordering customs to release the sex dolls since they are utilised in people's private places and do not diminish human dignity.</p>

<p>The customs office said in a statement on Monday that it has started enforcing a revised policy on the import of life-size adult sex dolls. It claimed to have examined recent court decisions as well as recommendations from pertinent governmental organisations, such as the Ministry of Gender Equality and Family.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;North Korea's Kim kicks off key party meeting ahead of New Year</strong></p>

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<p>The customs office stated that it will continue to ban the entry of dolls that resemble children or those that represent particular individuals. It claimed that other nations, including the US, Australia, and the UK, prohibit child-like sex toys as well.</p>

<p>Although the decision underscores South Korea's cautious but steady efforts to limit official meddling in private affairs, several conservative and women's rights organisations are expected to once again express their objections to the usage of sex dolls. According to them, they intensify the sexual objectification of women and undermine public morals.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/skorea-reports-first-death-by-naegleria-fowleri-heres-all-you-need-to-know-about-the-brain-eating-amoeba-547004">S.Korea reports first death by Naegleria fowleri. Here's all you need to know about the 'brain-eating amoeba'</a></p>

<p>Sex doll importer Carenshare Co. from South Korea said in a statement that it was "deplorable" for the customs department to withdraw the import restriction following what it said was a waste of government funds on legal actions against importers. The company claimed to have incurred significant losses. It stated that additional rules that hurt the economy in South Korea must be changed.</p>

<p>“We thought our people’s rights to seek happiness and use (sex dolls) in their private lives have been restricted by the state,” said Lee Sang-jin, who headed one of the company’s online shopping malls. “There are various types of people who use (sex dolls), including those who are sexually alienated or those who need them for artistic purposes.”</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Full-body sex doll imports are now officially permitted in South Korea, putting an end to years of controversy about how far the government should intervene in people's personal lives.

Full-body sex doll imports are now officially permitted in South Korea, putting an end to years of controversy about how far the government should intervene in people's personal lives. Despite the fact that there are no laws or regulations prohibiting the import of sex dolls, the Korea Customs Service has nonetheless confiscated hundreds, if not thousands of them, citing a provision in the law that forbids the import of goods that "harm the country's beautiful traditions and public moral." The majority of the judges heard complaints from importers and agreed with them, ordering customs to release the sex dolls since they are utilised in people's private places and do not diminish human dignity. The customs office said in a statement on Monday that it has started enforcing a revised policy on the import of life-size adult sex dolls. It claimed to have examined recent court decisions as well as recommendations from pertinent governmental organisations, such as the Ministry of Gender Equality and Family. Also watch | North Korea's Kim kicks off key party meeting ahead of New Year The customs office stated that it will continue to ban the entry of dolls that resemble children or those that represent particular individuals. It claimed that other nations, including the US, Australia, and the UK, prohibit child-like sex toys as well. Although the decision underscores South Korea's cautious but steady efforts to limit official meddling in private affairs, several conservative and women's rights organisations are expected to once again express their objections to the usage of sex dolls. According to them, they intensify the sexual objectification of women and undermine public morals. Also read | S.Korea reports first death by Naegleria fowleri. Here's all you need to know about the 'brain-eating amoeba' Sex doll importer Carenshare Co. from South Korea said in a statement that it was "deplorable" for the customs department to withdraw the import restriction following what it said was a waste of government funds on legal actions against importers. The company claimed to have incurred significant losses. It stated that additional rules that hurt the economy in South Korea must be changed. “We thought our people’s rights to seek happiness and use (sex dolls) in their private lives have been restricted by the state,” said Lee Sang-jin, who headed one of the company’s online shopping malls. “There are various types of people who use (sex dolls), including those who are sexually alienated or those who need them for artistic purposes.” (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

South Korea lifts ban on import of adult-sized sex dolls, customs office releases revised guidelines

Tensions are mounting in the Korean peninsula. North Korean drones crossed over to South Korea and Seoul has followed it up with a tat-for-tat move. Could a small mistake resume the Korean War?

Gravitas: South Korea retaliates after Kim's 'air invasion'

South Korea has reported its first death due to Naegleria fowleri or 'Brain-eating amoeba.' The amoeba enters through the nose and attacks the brain, causing meningitis. Should you be scared?

Gravitas: South Korea reports first 'brain-eating amoeba' death

<p>South Korea on Wednesday became the latest country to issue a strategy on the Indo Pacific and aims to increase "strategic communication and cooperation" with India through high-level exchanges in foreign affairs and defense. Under the strategy, Seoul also hopes to upgrade the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) with India signed more than decade ago. Both sides have been negotiating the upgradation of the trade pact, with the last round taking place in Seoul in November of this year.</p>

<p>The document highlighted the need to "advance our special strategic partnership with India" describing the country as a "leading regional partner with shared values". It explained how the South Asian country "presents great potential for growth" having the "world’s second largest population and cutting-edge IT and space technologies". The mention of India under the strategy shows Seoul intent to take the relationship further.</p>

<p>The Republic of Korea began to formulate its own Indo-Pacific Strategy with the inauguration of the Yoon Suk Yeol administration. The country sees itself as an Indo Pacific nation which is home to 65% of the world population, 62% of the world’s GDP, 46% of international trade, and half of global maritime transport.</p>

<p>The 42 Page document has "core lines of efforts" which include promotion of "rule of law and human rights", "strengthen nonproliferation and counter terrorism efforts across the region", "expand comprehensive security cooperation", &nbsp;" engage in contributive diplomacy" among others. The document termed China as a "key partner for achieving prosperity and peace" and called the freedom of navigation and overflight in the South China Sea to be "respected".</p>

<p>Indo Pacific sees Indian and the Pacific oceans as a common construct and has been backed by many countries, including India, US, Japan, Australia. China has been critical of the vision and sees it as an attempt to corner it.</p>

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South Korea on Wednesday became the latest country to issue a strategy on the Indo Pacific and aims to increase "strategic communication and cooperation" with India through high-level exchanges in foreign affairs and defense.

South Korea on Wednesday became the latest country to issue a strategy on the Indo Pacific and aims to increase "strategic communication and cooperation" with India through high-level exchanges in foreign affairs and defense. Under the strategy, Seoul also hopes to upgrade the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) with India signed more than decade ago. Both sides have been negotiating the upgradation of the trade pact, with the last round taking place in Seoul in November of this year. The document highlighted the need to "advance our special strategic partnership with India" describing the country as a "leading regional partner with shared values". It explained how the South Asian country "presents great potential for growth" having the "world’s second largest population and cutting-edge IT and space technologies". The mention of India under the strategy shows Seoul intent to take the relationship further. The Republic of Korea began to formulate its own Indo-Pacific Strategy with the inauguration of the Yoon Suk Yeol administration. The country sees itself as an Indo Pacific nation which is home to 65% of the world population, 62% of the world’s GDP, 46% of international trade, and half of global maritime transport. The 42 Page document has "core lines of efforts" which include promotion of "rule of law and human rights", "strengthen nonproliferation and counter terrorism efforts across the region", "expand comprehensive security cooperation", " engage in contributive diplomacy" among others. The document termed China as a "key partner for achieving prosperity and peace" and called the freedom of navigation and overflight in the South China Sea to be "respected". Indo Pacific sees Indian and the Pacific oceans as a common construct and has been backed by many countries, including India, US, Japan, Australia. China has been critical of the vision and sees it as an attempt to corner it.

South Korea to increase strategic communication with India under new Indo-Pacific strategy

<p>South Korea's defence ministry said on Wednesday that it has plans to spend $441.26 million (560 billion won) until 2027 to counter North Korean drones. The plan has been included in the country's midterm defence blueprint for 2023-27.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A report by news agency Reuters on Wednesday said the defence ministry has earmarked funds for four projects aimed at bolstering South Korea's counter-drone capabilities, including an airborne laser to destroy drones and a jammer to neutralise smaller devices. The defence blueprint would also include a plan to add another drone unit to the army.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ| <a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/south-korean-president-lambasts-his-own-countrys-military-over-failure-to-destroy-north-korean-drones-547000">South Korean president lambasts his own country's military over failure to destroy North Korean drones</a></strong></p>

<p>Speaking to Reuters, a defence ministry official said the laser programme is in a testing phase and expected to begin deployment in 2027.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Wednesday's development comes two days after the South Korean military failed to shoot down five North Korean drones that crossed the shared border, the first such intrusion in five years. A report by news agency AFP said that all five drones appeared to have returned to North Korea despite a five-hour-long operation to hunt them down.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The South Korean military apologised for failing to shoot down the drones. "Yesterday (Monday), five enemy drones invaded South Korean airspace, and our military detected and tracked them, but we apologise for not being able to shoot them down," the Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) said in a statement on Tuesday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>At a cabinet meeting during the day, President Yoon Suk-yeol said Monday's incident showed the military's readiness was "greatly lacking".</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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South Korea's defence ministry said on Wednesday that it has plans to spend $441.26 million (560 billion won) until 2027 to counter North Korean drones. The plan has been included in the country's midterm defence blueprint for 2023-27.

South Korea's defence ministry said on Wednesday that it has plans to spend $441.26 million (560 billion won) until 2027 to counter North Korean drones. The plan has been included in the country's midterm defence blueprint for 2023-27. A report by news agency Reuters on Wednesday said the defence ministry has earmarked funds for four projects aimed at bolstering South Korea's counter-drone capabilities, including an airborne laser to destroy drones and a jammer to neutralise smaller devices. The defence blueprint would also include a plan to add another drone unit to the army. ALSO READ| South Korean president lambasts his own country's military over failure to destroy North Korean drones Speaking to Reuters, a defence ministry official said the laser programme is in a testing phase and expected to begin deployment in 2027. Wednesday's development comes two days after the South Korean military failed to shoot down five North Korean drones that crossed the shared border, the first such intrusion in five years. A report by news agency AFP said that all five drones appeared to have returned to North Korea despite a five-hour-long operation to hunt them down. The South Korean military apologised for failing to shoot down the drones. "Yesterday (Monday), five enemy drones invaded South Korean airspace, and our military detected and tracked them, but we apologise for not being able to shoot them down," the Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) said in a statement on Tuesday. At a cabinet meeting during the day, President Yoon Suk-yeol said Monday's incident showed the military's readiness was "greatly lacking". (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

South Korea plans to spend $441 million until 2027 to counter N.Korean drones

South Korean President Yoon Suk-Yeol on Tuesday called for a stronger air defense, a day after the country accused North Korea of flying drones across the rivals' tense border for the first time in five years.

WION Fineprint: South Korean President Yoon Suk-Yeol announces new drone unit

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un kicked off a key meeting of the ruling Workers' Party, state media reported on Tuesday (December 27), at a venue he has often used to announce major policy decisions marking the New Year.

North Korea's Kim kicks off key party meeting ahead of New Year

South Korean President has vowed to advance the creation of a military unit specializing in drones. Yoon Suk-yeol earlier criticised the military response to a border intrusion by North Korean drones.

Why has South Korea's Yoon vowed to create a military unit specializing in drones?

South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol said that he would advance the creation of a military unit specialising in drones. This can be seen as a military response to border intrusion by North Korean drones. Watch further to know more.

South Korea to develop drone units to support country's defence

<p>In a major comment of flak about South Korea's ability to combat threats from North Korea, President Yoon Suk-Yeol said that Seoul's response on Monday against five North Korean drones showed a "substantial lack of military unpreparedness". President Yoon Suk-Yeol said that his administration would advance the creation of a military unit specialising in drones.</p>

<p>Five North Korean drones crossed into South Korea on Monday, following which Seoul scrambled fighter jets and attack helicopters. This was the first such intrusion since 2017, Reuters reported.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/seoul-deploys-jets-fires-warning-shots-following-incursion-by-north-korean-drones-546675">Seoul deploys jets, fires warning shots following incursion by North Korean drones</a></strong></p>

<p>On Monday, for about five hours, the North Korean drones flew over several South Korean cities including the capital Seoul. The South Korean defences fired warning shots but couldn't bring down any of Pyongyang's drones.</p>

<p>"The incident showed a substantial lack of our military’s preparedness and training for the past several years, and clearly confirmed the need for more intense readiness and training," Yoon is reported to have told a cabinet meeting.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-plus-how-did-north-korea-become-the-worlds-most-isolated-country-375342">Gravitas Plus: How did North Korea become the world's most isolated country?</a></strong></p>

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<p>Yoon blamed the unpreparedness for his predecessor’s "dangerous" North Korea policy, which relied on Pyongyang’s "good intentions" and a 2018 inter-Korean military pact banning hostile activities in the border areas.</p>

<p>"We have been planning to establish a drone unit to monitor and reconnoitre major North Korean military facilities, and will now expedite the plan as much as possible," he added, vowing to boost its surveillance and reconnaissance capability with cutting-edge stealthy drones.</p>

<p>The South Korean military said it chased one of the five drones over the greater Seoul area, but could not aggressively attack it because of concerns over civilian safety.</p>

<p>"We operated detecting, tracking, and shooting assets but there were areas where there might be civilian damage,” an official at the Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) told a briefing on Tuesday, December 27. “So there were difficulties in actually carrying out operations."</p>

<p>The incident was the latest airspace intrusion by unmanned aerial vehicles from North Korea.</p>

<p>In 2017, a North Korean drone that South Korean media said was on a spy mission crashed and was found on a mountain near the border. In 2014, a North Korean drone was discovered on a South Korean border island.</p>

<p>North Korean leader Kim Jong-un in past has publicly shown interest in drones. He also pledged at a meeting of the ruling Workers’ Party last year to develop new reconnaissance drones capable of flying up to 500 km (311 miles).</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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In a major comment of flak about South Korea's ability to combat threats from North Korea, President Yoon Suk-Yeol said that Seoul's response on Monday against five North Korean drones showed a "substantial lack of military unpreparedness".

In a major comment of flak about South Korea's ability to combat threats from North Korea, President Yoon Suk-Yeol said that Seoul's response on Monday against five North Korean drones showed a "substantial lack of military unpreparedness". President Yoon Suk-Yeol said that his administration would advance the creation of a military unit specialising in drones. Five North Korean drones crossed into South Korea on Monday, following which Seoul scrambled fighter jets and attack helicopters. This was the first such intrusion since 2017, Reuters reported. ALSO READ | Seoul deploys jets, fires warning shots following incursion by North Korean drones On Monday, for about five hours, the North Korean drones flew over several South Korean cities including the capital Seoul. The South Korean defences fired warning shots but couldn't bring down any of Pyongyang's drones. "The incident showed a substantial lack of our military’s preparedness and training for the past several years, and clearly confirmed the need for more intense readiness and training," Yoon is reported to have told a cabinet meeting. WATCH | Gravitas Plus: How did North Korea become the world's most isolated country? × Yoon blamed the unpreparedness for his predecessor’s "dangerous" North Korea policy, which relied on Pyongyang’s "good intentions" and a 2018 inter-Korean military pact banning hostile activities in the border areas. "We have been planning to establish a drone unit to monitor and reconnoitre major North Korean military facilities, and will now expedite the plan as much as possible," he added, vowing to boost its surveillance and reconnaissance capability with cutting-edge stealthy drones. The South Korean military said it chased one of the five drones over the greater Seoul area, but could not aggressively attack it because of concerns over civilian safety. "We operated detecting, tracking, and shooting assets but there were areas where there might be civilian damage,” an official at the Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) told a briefing on Tuesday, December 27. “So there were difficulties in actually carrying out operations." The incident was the latest airspace intrusion by unmanned aerial vehicles from North Korea. In 2017, a North Korean drone that South Korean media said was on a spy mission crashed and was found on a mountain near the border. In 2014, a North Korean drone was discovered on a South Korean border island. North Korean leader Kim Jong-un in past has publicly shown interest in drones. He also pledged at a meeting of the ruling Workers’ Party last year to develop new reconnaissance drones capable of flying up to 500 km (311 miles). (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 president lambasts his own country's military over failure to destroy North Korean drones

Jin, the oldest member of K-pop phenomenon BTS has started his military service in the South Korean military. This will be a 18 months of mandatory national service, complete with newly shaven head. Watch further to know more.

K-Pop icon Jin joins military service at Yeoncheon Army Base

<p>A South Korean man died in Gujarat , Sunday evening after falling from a height of fifty feet during paragliding. PTI reported that the accident happened at a school ground in Visatpura village near Kadi town in Gujarat’s Mehsana district. The report added that the man crash-landed on the ground as his paraglider failed to open. The incident took place at 5:30 PM local time. The man, aged 50, was rushed to a local hospital in a semi-conscious state, where doctors later declared him dead. The police have informed the Korean embassy about the incident, and the process is underway to send the man’s mortal remains to South Korea.</p>

<h2><strong>Videos surface on the Internet</strong></h2>

<p>Some unverified videos related to the incident have emerged on social media, where the man can be seen losing control in mid-air. In another video, the man’s body can be seen lying in an unconscious state, surrounded by locals.</p>

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<h2><strong>How did the South Korean man die?</strong></h2>

<p>The man died reportedly during paragliding after the paraglider failed to open. The police said after the incident that the canopy failed to open properly, causing the accident. Doctors said that the man also suffered cardiac arrest due to the shock of falling. The police have registered a case of accidental death at Kadi police station and the victim’s friends in Vadodara have been informed about the incident.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/south-korea-bts-member-jins-first-military-picture-goes-viral-546525">South Korea: BTS member Jin’s first military picture goes viral</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>Why was the South Korean man visiting Gujarat?</strong></h2>

<p>According to Kadi police station inspector Nikunj Patel, the man was accompanied by a Korean friend who was visiting an acquaintance in Vadodara. Patel was quoted by PTI as saying, "The man was on a trip to Vadodara. He and his Korean friend were visiting their acquaintance, who is into paragliding, at Visatpura village near Kadi town. On Saturday evening, Shin and his Korean friend went paragliding."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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A South Korean man died in Gujarat , Sunday evening after falling from a height of fifty feet during paragliding. PTI reported that the accident happened at a school ground in Visatpura village near Kadi town in Gujarat’s Mehsana district.

A South Korean man died in Gujarat , Sunday evening after falling from a height of fifty feet during paragliding. PTI reported that the accident happened at a school ground in Visatpura village near Kadi town in Gujarat’s Mehsana district. The report added that the man crash-landed on the ground as his paraglider failed to open. The incident took place at 5:30 PM local time. The man, aged 50, was rushed to a local hospital in a semi-conscious state, where doctors later declared him dead. The police have informed the Korean embassy about the incident, and the process is underway to send the man’s mortal remains to South Korea. Videos surface on the Internet Some unverified videos related to the incident have emerged on social media, where the man can be seen losing control in mid-air. In another video, the man’s body can be seen lying in an unconscious state, surrounded by locals. × How did the South Korean man die? The man died reportedly during paragliding after the paraglider failed to open. The police said after the incident that the canopy failed to open properly, causing the accident. Doctors said that the man also suffered cardiac arrest due to the shock of falling. The police have registered a case of accidental death at Kadi police station and the victim’s friends in Vadodara have been informed about the incident. Also Read | South Korea: BTS member Jin’s first military picture goes viral Why was the South Korean man visiting Gujarat? According to Kadi police station inspector Nikunj Patel, the man was accompanied by a Korean friend who was visiting an acquaintance in Vadodara. Patel was quoted by PTI as saying, "The man was on a trip to Vadodara. He and his Korean friend were visiting their acquaintance, who is into paragliding, at Visatpura village near Kadi town. On Saturday evening, Shin and his Korean friend went paragliding." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Watch: Paragliding gone wrong! South Korean man falls to death in Gujarat after paraglider fails to open

Covid is back and it isn't just China where cases are rising but South Korea reported of 88,000 cases on Wednesday where health organisations says cases are also on rise in Japan and the US - there are fears of new winter wave.

WION Fineprint: Another Covid winter wave? As cases rise in China, South Korea, Japan and US

The South Korean military has said that North Korea has fired another ballistic missile towards the east coast. The water body where the missile was fired is also referred to as the Sea of Japan. The test comes days after North Korea tested a high thrust solid fuel engine.

North Korea fires 'unidentified' ballistic missile, says South Korea military

BREAKING: South Korea military says North Korea fired unidentified ballistic missile

<p>North Korea fired two ballistic missiles towards the sea off the Korean Peninsula's east coast on Sunday, said Japan and South Korea, prompting “strong condemnation” to Pyongyang for escalating tensions.&nbsp;South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) said the two medium-range missiles flew about 500 kms (311 miles).<br />
<br />
North Korea fired an "unidentified ballistic missile" towards the sea off the Korean Peninsula's east coast on Sunday, claims the South Korean military.&nbsp;"North Korea's ballistic missiles were launched at steep angles and landed in the East Sea," said South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff.</p>

<p>"South Korean and the United States intelligence authorities are conducting a thorough analysis, factoring recent trends related to North Korea's missile development," he added.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;North Korea tests 'high-thrust solid-fuel motor'</strong></p>

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<p>The South Korean presidential office in a statement said that Seoul convened a National Security Council (NSC) meeting over the&nbsp;missile launch and "strongly condemned" Pyongyang for escalating tensions on the Korean Peninsula.</p>

<p>As per AFP, the Sunday launch follows North Korean testing of a "high-thrust solid-fuel motor", which the nation's state media described as a crucial test "for the development of another new-type strategic weapon system", which as per experts will allow for the quicker and more mobile launch of ballistic missiles.</p>

<p>Reuters reports that in the Sunday test, as per Japan's public broadcaster NHK, there was no damage and that the ballistic missile landed just outside the country's&nbsp;exclusive economic zone (EEZ).&nbsp;Japan’s vice defence minister Toshiro Ino said the missiles seemed to have landed outside Japan’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ).</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-kim-jong-un-oversees-high-thrust-solid-fuel-motor-test-at-satellite-launch-site-543532">North Korea: Kim Jong Un oversees 'high-thrust solid-fuel motor' test at satellite launch site</a></strong></p>

<p>2022 saw North Korea fire an unprecedented number of missiles, including the firing of its most advanced ICBM.</p>

<p>The high number of tests comes even as international sanctions on North Korea decry the nation's weapons programme.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-threats-from-china-north-korea-japan-set-to-radically-overhaul-defence-policy-542945">Amid threats from China &amp; North Korea, Japan to announce radical overhaul of defence policy</a></strong></p>

<p>In spite of the heavy sanctions, Pyongyang has reportedly built up an arsenal of liquid-fuelled intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs).</p>

<p>As per AFP, Kim has prioritised the development of solid-fuel engines for more advanced missiles, as the leader revealed his aim for Pyongyang to become an "irreversible" nuclear state, with the world's most powerful nuclear force.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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North Korea fired two ballistic missiles towards the sea off the Korean Peninsula's east coast on Sunday, said Japan and South Korea, prompting “strong condemnation” to Pyongyang for escalating tensions.

North Korea fired two ballistic missiles towards the sea off the Korean Peninsula's east coast on Sunday, said Japan and South Korea, prompting “strong condemnation” to Pyongyang for escalating tensions. South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) said the two medium-range missiles flew about 500 kms (311 miles). North Korea fired an "unidentified ballistic missile" towards the sea off the Korean Peninsula's east coast on Sunday, claims the South Korean military. "North Korea's ballistic missiles were launched at steep angles and landed in the East Sea," said South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff. "South Korean and the United States intelligence authorities are conducting a thorough analysis, factoring recent trends related to North Korea's missile development," he added. Watch | North Korea tests 'high-thrust solid-fuel motor' The South Korean presidential office in a statement said that Seoul convened a National Security Council (NSC) meeting over the missile launch and "strongly condemned" Pyongyang for escalating tensions on the Korean Peninsula. As per AFP, the Sunday launch follows North Korean testing of a "high-thrust solid-fuel motor", which the nation's state media described as a crucial test "for the development of another new-type strategic weapon system", which as per experts will allow for the quicker and more mobile launch of ballistic missiles. Reuters reports that in the Sunday test, as per Japan's public broadcaster NHK, there was no damage and that the ballistic missile landed just outside the country's exclusive economic zone (EEZ). Japan’s vice defence minister Toshiro Ino said the missiles seemed to have landed outside Japan’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ). Also read | North Korea: Kim Jong Un oversees 'high-thrust solid-fuel motor' test at satellite launch site 2022 saw North Korea fire an unprecedented number of missiles, including the firing of its most advanced ICBM. The high number of tests comes even as international sanctions on North Korea decry the nation's weapons programme. Also read | Amid threats from China & North Korea, Japan to announce radical overhaul of defence policy In spite of the heavy sanctions, Pyongyang has reportedly built up an arsenal of liquid-fuelled intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs). As per AFP, Kim has prioritised the development of solid-fuel engines for more advanced missiles, as the leader revealed his aim for Pyongyang to become an "irreversible" nuclear state, with the world's most powerful nuclear force. (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 fired two ballistic missile into the East sea: Japan and South Korea

North Korea might test a nuclear weapon in the coming days, South Korean Prime Minister Han Duck-soo told the Sky News in an interview. However, the South Korea PM did not provide any further details about when that might happen.

North Korea planning to test a nuclear weapon, will respond suitably: South Korean PM

<p>BTS star Jin starts his mandatory South Korean military duty on Tuesday, the band's first member to enlist since a hiatus announcement this year left fans heartbroken over the K-pop juggernaut's uncertain future.</p>

<p>The septet is widely considered the country's biggest-ever cultural phenomenon -- selling out stadiums around the world and dominating the charts while raking in billions and building a global legion of fans known as ARMYs.</p>

<p>But all able-bodied men in South Korea must serve at least 18 months in the military, and while there was a years-long debate about whether BTS deserved an exemption, they confirmed in October that all members will enlist.</p>

<p>Jin -- whose full name is Kim Seok-jin -- will begin five weeks of training on Tuesday, the military said.</p>

<p>Yonhap news agency reported the star is expected to be deployed to a "frontline" unit near the border with North Korea, with which South Korea remains technically at war.</p>

<p>"We ask you to keep your heart-warming words of support and farewell in your hearts," BTS's label Big Hit Music told fans last week, urging them to stay away from the families-only entrance ceremony.</p>


BTS star Jin starts his mandatory South Korean military duty on Tuesday, the band's first member to enlist since a hiatus announcement this year left fans heartbroken over the K-pop juggernaut's uncertain future.

BTS star Jin starts his mandatory South Korean military duty on Tuesday, the band's first member to enlist since a hiatus announcement this year left fans heartbroken over the K-pop juggernaut's uncertain future. The septet is widely considered the country's biggest-ever cultural phenomenon -- selling out stadiums around the world and dominating the charts while raking in billions and building a global legion of fans known as ARMYs. But all able-bodied men in South Korea must serve at least 18 months in the military, and while there was a years-long debate about whether BTS deserved an exemption, they confirmed in October that all members will enlist. Jin -- whose full name is Kim Seok-jin -- will begin five weeks of training on Tuesday, the military said. Yonhap news agency reported the star is expected to be deployed to a "frontline" unit near the border with North Korea, with which South Korea remains technically at war. "We ask you to keep your heart-warming words of support and farewell in your hearts," BTS's label Big Hit Music told fans last week, urging them to stay away from the families-only entrance ceremony.

Jin from BTS begins military service, marking end of an era

South Korea, Japan and the United States are set to coordinate sanctions and close gaps in the international sanctions against North Korea. Watch this video to know more.

South Korea, U.S. and Japan to coordinate sanctions on North Korea

<p>Two dogs - gifted by North Korea's supreme leader Kim Jong Un to South Korea four years back - have now ended up in a zoo in Gwangju after a dispute over who should finance the caring of the canines, a report by the Associated Press said Monday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Last Friday, Gomi and Songgang - the two white Pungsan hunting dogs, were moved to the zoo run by a local government&nbsp;after a temporary stay at a veterinary hospital in Daeju, according to zoo officials.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-lac-intrusion-attempt-set-to-rock-indian-parliament-542512">After India's intervention shunned PLA, Beijing calls situation 'stable'</a></p>

<p>The canines were gifted by Kim Jong Un to then-South Korean President Moon Jae-in in 2018 following their summit talks in North Korea's capital city of Pyongyang. During his tenure as President, Moon Jae-in raised Gomi and Songgang at the presidential residence.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, he gave up the canines in November citing a lack of financial support from his successor President Yoon Suk Yeol. Moon's office accused the current South Korean government of refusing to cover the cost of the dogs' food and veterinary care.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Denying the accusation, President Yoon's office said it never prevented Moon Jae-in from keeping the dogs, and discussions regarding providing financial support were still ongoing, the Associated Press further reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Monday, Gwangju's mayor Kang Gijung said the two canines were a symbol of peace "and South-North Korean reconciliation and cooperation."</p>

<p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-oldest-known-pair-of-jeans-in-the-world-fetches-114000-in-auction-542705">Oldest known pair of jeans in the world fetches $114,000 in auction</a></p>

<p>"We will raise them well like we cultivate a seed for peace,” Gjung added, according to his office.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Gomi and Songgang have six offsprings, all of them born after they came to South Korea. Byeol, one of the offspring, has been raised at the Gwangju zoo since 2019 and the remaining five are in other zoos and a public facility in South Korea.</p>

<p>Officials from the Gwangju zoo have said that they will try to raise Byeol and her parents together, though they are currently kept separately as they don't recognise each other.&nbsp;</p>

<p>(With inputs from the Associated Press)</p>

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Two dogs - gifted by North Korea's supreme leader Kim Jong Un to South Korea four years back - have now ended up in a zoo in Gwangju after a dispute over who should finance the caring of the canines, a report by the Associated Press said Monday.

Two dogs - gifted by North Korea's supreme leader Kim Jong Un to South Korea four years back - have now ended up in a zoo in Gwangju after a dispute over who should finance the caring of the canines, a report by the Associated Press said Monday. Last Friday, Gomi and Songgang - the two white Pungsan hunting dogs, were moved to the zoo run by a local government after a temporary stay at a veterinary hospital in Daeju, according to zoo officials. Also read | After India's intervention shunned PLA, Beijing calls situation 'stable' The canines were gifted by Kim Jong Un to then-South Korean President Moon Jae-in in 2018 following their summit talks in North Korea's capital city of Pyongyang. During his tenure as President, Moon Jae-in raised Gomi and Songgang at the presidential residence. However, he gave up the canines in November citing a lack of financial support from his successor President Yoon Suk Yeol. Moon's office accused the current South Korean government of refusing to cover the cost of the dogs' food and veterinary care. Denying the accusation, President Yoon's office said it never prevented Moon Jae-in from keeping the dogs, and discussions regarding providing financial support were still ongoing, the Associated Press further reported. On Monday, Gwangju's mayor Kang Gijung said the two canines were a symbol of peace "and South-North Korean reconciliation and cooperation." Also read | Oldest known pair of jeans in the world fetches $114,000 in auction "We will raise them well like we cultivate a seed for peace,” Gjung added, according to his office. Gomi and Songgang have six offsprings, all of them born after they came to South Korea. Byeol, one of the offspring, has been raised at the Gwangju zoo since 2019 and the remaining five are in other zoos and a public facility in South Korea. Officials from the Gwangju zoo have said that they will try to raise Byeol and her parents together, though they are currently kept separately as they don't recognise each other. (With inputs from the Associated Press)

Two dogs gifted by Kim Jong Un to South Korea end up in zoo. Here's why

<p>K-pop boy band BTS bid farewell to their band member Jin as he officially joined the army on December 13.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Jin's fellow bandmates joined Jin on his way to enlist in the army and posed for photos with him. They even checked out his new buzz cut, which Jin debuted a day earlier on social media.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
The two images were shared on the band's social media pages with the caption, "Our hyung!! Come back safely!! Love you."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="ko">우리 형 !! 잘 다녀와요!! 💜러뷰💜 <a href="https://t.co/ZP6yryv2qe">pic.twitter.com/ZP6yryv2qe</a></p>
— 방탄소년단 (@BTS_twt) <a href="https://twitter.com/BTS_twt/status/1602568503458156544?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 13, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>According to reports, Jin will join the 5th Infantry Division recruit training centre in Yeoncheon County of Gyeonggi Province of South Korea.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Bandmate J-Hope also took to Instagram to write Jin a personal message, sharing photos of them together. J-Hope wrote, “Hyung, be healthy and happy!!! I love you!!!” and added photos of the feast Jin had prepared for them.</p>

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<p>Just a day before his enlisting, Jin took to Weverse to share his new buzz cut. BigHit Music, the agency that manages the band,&nbsp;previously requested that fans refrain from visiting the training center on the day of his enlistment for safety purposes.</p>


K-pop boy band BTS bid farewell to their band member Jin as he officially joined the army on December 13. Jin's fellow bandmates joined Jin on his way to enlist in the army and posed for photos with him.

K-pop boy band BTS bid farewell to their band member Jin as he officially joined the army on December 13. Jin's fellow bandmates joined Jin on his way to enlist in the army and posed for photos with him. They even checked out his new buzz cut, which Jin debuted a day earlier on social media. The two images were shared on the band's social media pages with the caption, "Our hyung!! Come back safely!! Love you." 우리 형 !! 잘 다녀와요!! 💜러뷰💜 pic.twitter.com/ZP6yryv2qe — 방탄소년단 (@BTS_twt) December 13, 2022 × According to reports, Jin will join the 5th Infantry Division recruit training centre in Yeoncheon County of Gyeonggi Province of South Korea. Bandmate J-Hope also took to Instagram to write Jin a personal message, sharing photos of them together. J-Hope wrote, “Hyung, be healthy and happy!!! I love you!!!” and added photos of the feast Jin had prepared for them. View this post on Instagram A post shared by jhope (@uarmyhope) × Just a day before his enlisting, Jin took to Weverse to share his new buzz cut. BigHit Music, the agency that manages the band, previously requested that fans refrain from visiting the training center on the day of his enlistment for safety purposes.

BTS gives a sweet send-off as Jin joins the army

<p>Do Kwon, the failed cryptocurrency boss who engineered the $40 billion (£32.7 billion) collapse of the terraUSD and Luna tokens, is allegedly hiding in Serbia, according to South Korean officials. Prosecutors for Seoul's Southern District said they will work in tandem&nbsp;with Serbia to get him into&nbsp;custody. After the tokens collapse&nbsp;in May,&nbsp;Kwon, 31, was charged with fraud and violations of capital markets legislation. Interpol issued a global arrest order for him in September.</p>

<p>The next month, South Korean authorities said that he had left Singapore, where the headquarters of his firm Terraform were located, and had flown through Dubai to an unidentified nation, as reported by BBC.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Interpol "Red Notice" is a notice to all law enforcement agencies throughout the world to find and temporarily detain a suspect pending extradition, surrender, or other legal action.</p>

<p>Despite not having an extradition agreement, Serbia and South Korea have previously complied with demands made under the European Convention on Extradition.</p>

<p><strong>Also WATCH |&nbsp;Crypto fugitive Do Kwon is in Serbia, says South Korean intelligence department</strong></p>

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<p>Despite earlier denying that he is hiding, Mr. Kwon has not disclosed his location.</p>

<p>"I am not 'on the run' or anything similar - for any government agency that has shown interest to communicate, we are in full cooperation and we don't have anything to hide," he tweeted in September.</p>

<p>In relation with the alleged stablecoin Terra and its sibling token Luna, prosecutors have also filed arrest warrants for five more individuals. These individuals have not been identified. Stablecoins are intended to have a largely constant price and are typically anchored to a physical good or currency; nonetheless, Terra's value plummeted amid this year's general cryptocurrency slump.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:</strong></p>

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Do Kwon, the failed cryptocurrency boss who engineered the $40 billion (£32.7 billion) collapse of the terraUSD and Luna tokens, is allegedly hiding in Serbia, according to South Korean officials.

Do Kwon, the failed cryptocurrency boss who engineered the $40 billion (£32.7 billion) collapse of the terraUSD and Luna tokens, is allegedly hiding in Serbia, according to South Korean officials. Prosecutors for Seoul's Southern District said they will work in tandem with Serbia to get him into custody. After the tokens collapse in May, Kwon, 31, was charged with fraud and violations of capital markets legislation. Interpol issued a global arrest order for him in September. The next month, South Korean authorities said that he had left Singapore, where the headquarters of his firm Terraform were located, and had flown through Dubai to an unidentified nation, as reported by BBC. The Interpol "Red Notice" is a notice to all law enforcement agencies throughout the world to find and temporarily detain a suspect pending extradition, surrender, or other legal action. Despite not having an extradition agreement, Serbia and South Korea have previously complied with demands made under the European Convention on Extradition. Also WATCH | Crypto fugitive Do Kwon is in Serbia, says South Korean intelligence department Despite earlier denying that he is hiding, Mr. Kwon has not disclosed his location. "I am not 'on the run' or anything similar - for any government agency that has shown interest to communicate, we are in full cooperation and we don't have anything to hide," he tweeted in September. In relation with the alleged stablecoin Terra and its sibling token Luna, prosecutors have also filed arrest warrants for five more individuals. These individuals have not been identified. Stablecoins are intended to have a largely constant price and are typically anchored to a physical good or currency; nonetheless, Terra's value plummeted amid this year's general cryptocurrency slump. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

South Korea claims crypto-fugitive Do Kwon is in Serbia, two months after Interpol issued a 'red notice'

<p>BTS member Jin, also known as Kim Seok Jin is all set for his mandatory military service. &nbsp;Before joining the South Korean army, the singer debuted his new buzz cut on social media much to the delight of his fans.<br />
<br />
Jin shared photographs of himself on the Weverse fan group wearing his most recent outfit in accordance with military regulations. He opted for a buzz cut and was dressed simply in a black T-shirt.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
The singer had revealed in November that he would be enlisted into the army on December 13. Accirding to reports, Jin will be at the recruit training facility in Yeoncheon, Gyeonggi-do, where he will undergo a five-week training. He will be assigned to the army's front-line unit once his training is complete.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">221211 Jin on Weverse<br />
<br />
🐹 ㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋ Even cuter than I thought<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TheAstronaut?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TheAstronaut</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Jin?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Jin</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%EB%B0%A9%ED%83%84%EC%86%8C%EB%85%84%EB%8B%A8%EC%A7%84?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#방탄소년단진</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/BTS_twt?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BTS_twt</a> <a href="https://t.co/Uedp99Qh1D">pic.twitter.com/Uedp99Qh1D</a></p>
— All for Jin (@jinnieslamp) <a href="https://twitter.com/jinnieslamp/status/1601926740380524545?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 11, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>Jin will be in military service for about 18 months and his other bandmates RM, Suga, J-Hope, Jimin, V, and Jungkook will follow him eventually. The band&nbsp;won't meet again until 2025 - until they all complete&nbsp;their required military service.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
BTS's management company BigHit Music issued a statement regarding Jin's military duty. The statement read, "Jin will fulfill his required time with the military by enlisting in the army. Please note that we will not be holding any kind of official event on the day of his recruitment."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The entrance ceremony is a time to be observed by military personnel and their families only. In order to prevent any issues that might occur from crowding, we ask fans to please refrain from visiting the site. Instead, we ask you to keep your heartwarming words of support and farewell in your hearts. We ask for your continued love and support for Jin until he finishes his military service and comes back. Our company will also strive to provide every support he needs during this time," it ended.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Just before joining the military services, Jin also made his debut as a solo artist in October and released the song 'The Astronaut'.&nbsp;</p>


BTS member Jin, also known as Kim Seok Jin is all set for his mandatory military service. Before joining the South Korean army, the singer debuted his new buzz cut on social media much to the delight of his fans.

BTS member Jin, also known as Kim Seok Jin is all set for his mandatory military service. Before joining the South Korean army, the singer debuted his new buzz cut on social media much to the delight of his fans. Jin shared photographs of himself on the Weverse fan group wearing his most recent outfit in accordance with military regulations. He opted for a buzz cut and was dressed simply in a black T-shirt. The singer had revealed in November that he would be enlisted into the army on December 13. Accirding to reports, Jin will be at the recruit training facility in Yeoncheon, Gyeonggi-do, where he will undergo a five-week training. He will be assigned to the army's front-line unit once his training is complete. 221211 Jin on Weverse 🐹 ㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋ Even cuter than I thought#TheAstronaut #Jin #방탄소년단진 @BTS_twt pic.twitter.com/Uedp99Qh1D — All for Jin (@jinnieslamp) December 11, 2022 × Jin will be in military service for about 18 months and his other bandmates RM, Suga, J-Hope, Jimin, V, and Jungkook will follow him eventually. The band won't meet again until 2025 - until they all complete their required military service. BTS's management company BigHit Music issued a statement regarding Jin's military duty. The statement read, "Jin will fulfill his required time with the military by enlisting in the army. Please note that we will not be holding any kind of official event on the day of his recruitment." "The entrance ceremony is a time to be observed by military personnel and their families only. In order to prevent any issues that might occur from crowding, we ask fans to please refrain from visiting the site. Instead, we ask you to keep your heartwarming words of support and farewell in your hearts. We ask for your continued love and support for Jin until he finishes his military service and comes back. Our company will also strive to provide every support he needs during this time," it ended. Just before joining the military services, Jin also made his debut as a solo artist in October and released the song 'The Astronaut'.

BTS' Jin joins military service, debuts his buzz cut look on social media

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