In pics - Typhoon Hinnamnor ravaged parts of South Korea, three killed

Thousands of people have been evacuated in South Korea as Typhoon Hinnamnor made landfall in the southern part of the country on Tuesday (September 6). Authorities have said that heavy rain and strong wind will continue throughout the day.&nbsp;

The powerful&nbsp;typhoon left&nbsp;at least two people dead, 10 missing and thousands displaced, authorities said.

Typhoon Hinnamnor left thousands without power after it hit the country's southern island of Jeju overnight before making landfall near the port city of Busan.&nbsp;

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The landfall led to huge waves and heavy rain, that damaged the beachfront roads and shops. The authorities said that the typhoon was moving at a speed of 43 metres per second when it made landfall.&nbsp;

The Korea Meteorological Administration said that the typhoon left the Korean peninsula at about 7:10 am (local time) through waters off the southeastern city of Ulsan after landing on the coastal city of Geoje.&nbsp;

Typhoon Hinnamnor is one of the most powerful to hit the country in decades.&nbsp;The Weather Channel reported that the typhoon brought winds of more than 100mph.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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President Yoon Suk-yeol convened response meetings and urged officials to take precautions until the typhoon is completely gone, his spokesperson said.&nbsp;

The weather agency issued a warning against "very" high waves in the coastal areas. It said, "Heavy rains, strong winds and a storm surge are expected until Tuesday."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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Thousands of people have been evacuated in South Korea as Typhoon Hinnamnor made landfall in the southern part of the country on Tuesday (September 6). Authorities have said that heavy rain and strong wind will continue throughout the day.

Thousands of people have been evacuated in South Korea as Typhoon Hinnamnor made landfall in the southern part of the country on Tuesday (September 6). Authorities have said that heavy rain and strong wind will continue throughout the day. The powerful typhoon left at least two people dead, 10 missing and thousands displaced, authorities said. Typhoon Hinnamnor left thousands without power after it hit the country's southern island of Jeju overnight before making landfall near the port city of Busan. ALSO READ | One of two suspects in Canada mass stabbings found dead, other still at large The landfall led to huge waves and heavy rain, that damaged the beachfront roads and shops. The authorities said that the typhoon was moving at a speed of 43 metres per second when it made landfall. The Korea Meteorological Administration said that the typhoon left the Korean peninsula at about 7:10 am (local time) through waters off the southeastern city of Ulsan after landing on the coastal city of Geoje. Typhoon Hinnamnor is one of the most powerful to hit the country in decades. The Weather Channel reported that the typhoon brought winds of more than 100mph. ALSO READ | Russia postpones referendum in occupied Kherson region after Ukraine intensifies shelling President Yoon Suk-yeol convened response meetings and urged officials to take precautions until the typhoon is completely gone, his spokesperson said. The weather agency issued a warning against "very" high waves in the coastal areas. It said, "Heavy rains, strong winds and a storm surge are expected until Tuesday." (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.

Thousands evacuate as Typhoon Hinnamnor hits South Korea

Typhoon Hinnamnor spinning up quickly to category five strength in the Western Pacific ocean, has been making headlines. The latest weather report suggest that the Typhoon is likely to affect mainland China, Japan and the Korean peninsula.

WION Climate Tracker | South Korea, Japan prepares for Typhoon Hinnamnor; China issues yellow alert

Warnings are issued as South Korea is preparing for the most powerful storm in its history to make landfall early Tuesday. The weather agency in the country hinted that typhoon Hinnamnor could cause casualties.&nbsp;

The powerful typhoon is travelling at a speed of 24 km per hour. It is expected to make landfall southwest of the port city of Busan early on Tuesday (September 6). The experts have noted that the storm is to be even more destructive in South Korea than Typhoon Sarah in 1959.&nbsp;

A Bloomberg report mentioned that the oil refiners, chemical operations and the nation's oldest nuclear power plant started to take necessary precautions.&nbsp;

On Monday, strong winds and high waves pounded the port on South Korea's Jeju Island. Authorities in the country have raised the typhoon-alert level to its highest.&nbsp;

Han Sang Un, who is the chief forecaster at Korea Meteorological Administration, said, "We're now entering a phase where we have to minimize casualties." During a briefing on Monday Han also urged residents of southern coastal areas to remain indoors.&nbsp;

He added, "It's a massive typhoon with a 400-kilometre (248.5 miles) radius, which is big enough to cover Seoul to Busan. Most regions in Korea will experience intense rain and wind."&nbsp;

The administration noted that the typhoon is likely to impact Jeju at about 1 am (local time) Tuesday. It will hit the southern coastal cities at about 7 am (local time).&nbsp;

The Bloomberg report also further mentioned that the run rates of three reactors at the Kori Nuclear Power Plant were lowered to less than 30 per cent to prepare for the storm.&nbsp;

On the other hand, the liquefied natural gas traders said they expected delays to some shipments. Several other companies and industries took the necessary steps ahead of the typhoon's landfall. Some industries are to suspend production early Tuesday.&nbsp;

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Warnings are issued as South Korea is preparing for the most powerful storm in its history to make landfall early Tuesday. The weather agency in the country hinted that typhoon Hinnamnor could cause casualties.

Warnings are issued as South Korea is preparing for the most powerful storm in its history to make landfall early Tuesday. The weather agency in the country hinted that typhoon Hinnamnor could cause casualties. The powerful typhoon is travelling at a speed of 24 km per hour. It is expected to make landfall southwest of the port city of Busan early on Tuesday (September 6). The experts have noted that the storm is to be even more destructive in South Korea than Typhoon Sarah in 1959. A Bloomberg report mentioned that the oil refiners, chemical operations and the nation's oldest nuclear power plant started to take necessary precautions. On Monday, strong winds and high waves pounded the port on South Korea's Jeju Island. Authorities in the country have raised the typhoon-alert level to its highest. Han Sang Un, who is the chief forecaster at Korea Meteorological Administration, said, "We're now entering a phase where we have to minimize casualties." During a briefing on Monday Han also urged residents of southern coastal areas to remain indoors. He added, "It's a massive typhoon with a 400-kilometre (248.5 miles) radius, which is big enough to cover Seoul to Busan. Most regions in Korea will experience intense rain and wind." The administration noted that the typhoon is likely to impact Jeju at about 1 am (local time) Tuesday. It will hit the southern coastal cities at about 7 am (local time). The Bloomberg report also further mentioned that the run rates of three reactors at the Kori Nuclear Power Plant were lowered to less than 30 per cent to prepare for the storm. On the other hand, the liquefied natural gas traders said they expected delays to some shipments. Several other companies and industries took the necessary steps ahead of the typhoon's landfall. Some industries are to suspend production early Tuesday. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

South Korea braces for typhoon Hinnamnor, nuclear power plant and other industries prepare for storm

The South Korean government are considering conducting a public survey on whether BTS should do military service. Military service is compulsory for all South Korean males, but there have been calls to grant the members of the K-pop band exceptions. Molly Gambhir tells you more.

WION Fineprint | South Korea considers survey on BTS military service

South Korean actress Yoo Ju-eun has died by suicide at the age of 27, leaving behind an apparent suicide note calling her profession both a blessing and a curse. Molly Gambhir tells you how suicides are on the rise among the young in the country.

WION Fineprint | The dark side of South Korea's entertainment industry

Japan and South Korea are ending Covid curbs. Tokyo has announced it will ease border control from September 7. For South Korea, domestic travellers will no longer be required to test for Covid-19 before their departures.

Japan, South Korea ease Covid curbs

South Korea stated that it would cut annual government spending for the first time in more than a decade next year, as it strives to cut back on pandemic-era stimulus and help the central bank temper inflationary pressures.

South Korean government announces first cut in 13 years

Under its new president Yoon Suk-yeol, South Korea has re-imagined the state's role in today’s changing geopolitical landscape as a&nbsp;global pivotal state. Global pivotal state is about focusing on issues beyond the Korean peninsula, moving beyond the subject of North Korea, and focusing on making a meaningful contribution with closer cooperation with its ally, the U.S. With a new president in Seoul, not only the role of South Korea is changing, but it is again becoming the standard fluctuating policy we see as administration changes from conservative to democrats. But this time, Japan’s role is becoming more critical in the South Korean strategical equation. Before elaborating on Japan’s vital importance, let me explain why the shift is leading to changing relations between South Korea and Japan.&nbsp;

Today South Korea is standing at a vital moment in history where it has to choose between its ally, the U.S, on the one hand, and its most&nbsp;significant&nbsp;economic partner China. This tough choice was in the making for quite some time, and it became evident during the former conservative president Park Geun-hye, as she called it the&nbsp;Asia’s Paradox. However, with recent global development like the COVID-19 pandemic, supply-chain resilience, and the Ukraine war, many states are feeling the pressure to adapt to the incoming uncertainty by making bets on the side they think will secure their strategic interests. This situation of Bipolarity in Northeast Asia gives rise to the importance of Japan for South Korea and the need for, if not better, but sustainable and consistent diplomatic and political relations. The&nbsp;developing geopolitical situation is akin to what South Korea faced before normalizing relations with the Socialist states of China and Russia in the region under former president Roh Tae-woo's administration.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imran-khans-pakistan-tehreek-i-insaf-in-trouble-following-more-audio-leaks-511118">Imran Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf in trouble following more audio leaks</a>

&nbsp;Japan and South Korean relation

&nbsp;Traditionally, South Korea's relations with Japan have been overshadowed by the colonial period under Imperial Japanese rule. As a postcolonial state that suffered under Japanese rule from 1910-1945, some issues remain in the&nbsp;mindscapes&nbsp;of Korean citizens and are routinely played by political parties domestically. The comfort women issue is one of the&nbsp;prominent&nbsp;subjects that kindle emotions among the citizenry in South Korea and even across the 38thParallel. They had some agreement between the states to settle the matter in&nbsp;1965,&nbsp;1998&nbsp;and&nbsp;2015. However, it remains a subject that is not considered settled because of the lack of inclusivity of women rights groups and victims in agreements concluded. Usually, the conservative administration had tried to improve relations with Japan in the recent decade under Park and Abe as the political heads. Under President Yoon and Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, the relationship seems to be going&nbsp;positively.

&nbsp;The change in perspective in Seoul toward Tokyo is not new and is usually seen when conservative administration comes to power. This is a pattern under conservative administrations as they work closely with the U.S. on security issues, mainly focusing on North Korean threats. Japan also shares with South Korea the&nbsp;threat&nbsp;of North Korean Nuclear and ballistic weapons, and as a vital security player in the region, it seems rational to work together.&nbsp;

However, the need for better and closer relations in the region is now going beyond North Korea as the common factor. South Korea and Japan are identifying many factors emerging in the region as a strategic threat. These developments have the potential to destabilize the peace and security as well as the prosperity of the region.&nbsp;&nbsp;The common perception is mainly driven by the redefinition of security in the world, where we see the technology being used as a&nbsp;tool&nbsp;in geopolitics and geo-economics by great powers, moving away from its traditional role as a neutral tool. I have figured out three areas that are critical issues where both the countries can cooperate strategically.

&nbsp;South Korea-Japan Cooperation

South Korea recognizes the changing power dynamics in the Indo-Pacific region and wants to be a part of an alliance that stands with the Rule of Law and FOIP. The expression of&nbsp;interest&nbsp;in being a part of Quad signals this particular intent of working closely with like-minded countries in the region. In addition, the emergence of AUKUS has restarted&nbsp;conversation&nbsp;on future South Korea nuclear collaboration. All of this means that the security environment will change drastically in the coming years, and ‘fence-sitting’ by states would become a difficult task to undertake when based on a volatile geopolitical landscape sandwiched between two great power competitions. Therefore, it becomes rational for South Korea to work closely with Japan on security threats facing the region ranging from North Korean nuclear weapons ensuring the rule of law, maritime security, and illegal fishing. The administration in the U.S. wants both the countries to work together to address the challenges of the region and beyond, as&nbsp;stated&nbsp;in the Indo-Pacific strategy.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-a-first-uk-foreign-secretary-liz-truss-plans-to-declare-china-an-official-threat-511048" hreflang="en">In a first, UK Foreign Secretary Liz Truss plans to declare China an official threat</a>

&nbsp;Apart from issues of conventional security, another subject that has captured the minds of&nbsp;policy-makers&nbsp;and&nbsp;government&nbsp;is the issue of supply-chain resilience. South Korea has benefited from the cheap manufacturing capacity provided by China for a long time, undermining the challenges it may face in an extreme case like that offered by Pandemic. The unreliable supply chains can influence countries' economies to the extent that they can directly affect domestic politics, as we saw in the case of the&nbsp;shortage&nbsp;of Urea in South Korea. Nonetheless, this issue becomes more vital when strategic sectors like&nbsp;semiconductors&nbsp;shipbuilding,&nbsp;emerging technologies&nbsp;like EV Battery come into the picture. South Korea and Japan share perspectives on the criticality of these sectors. They have worked with the U.S. and other states like Taiwan in the region to ensure robust and trustworthy supply chains. Recently South Korea also&nbsp;joined&nbsp;IPEF keeping this in mind.&nbsp;

&nbsp;Finally, South Korea and Japan are a few liberal democratic states in the Indo-Pacific region that respect the International Law and Freedom of Navigation on open seas and air. Being export-based economies, both the states have stakes in ensuring that normative frameworks of international liberal order stay intact, and having open seas are an essential part of it. South Korea has seen during the Korean War and subsequently during the cold war era how the interests of great powers have superseded the international rule-based order and interests of third countries. Therefore, any change in the international order that makes it vulnerable to manipulation by more countries is seen as a concern in South Korea. It mainly affects the small and middle powers that see rule-based international order as a common denominator for countries and relies on it for norm-influencing and influencing policies. Any jeopardizing of the order would make it meaningless and shrink the same for cooperation on issues of global concerns, mainly because the interests of a few will lead institutions to few.

In conclusion, South Korea and Japan are now in a situation where the options to cooperate go beyond just the threat of North Korea. The emerging world order is under threat from authoritarian forces like China in the Indo-Pacific, and it’s a matter of time when the state security will become entangled with new critical technologies. With high stakes in emerging technologies, both South Korea and Japan will have to work together to ensure safe and stable supply chains that are resilient and trustworthy. There remains an impending issue concerning Comfort women, which should be dealt with in a bi-partisan manner so that relations remain consistent and unaffected by external influence. With like-minded states cooperating in the Indo-Pacific region, a new phase of solid ties between South Korea and Japan will help in setting up a framework that keeps the process of checks and balances working, which now seems to be slowly being influenced by powerful states in the region.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

&nbsp;

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Under its new president Yoon Suk-yeol, South Korea has re-imagined the state's role in today’s changing geopolitical landscape as a global pivotal state. Global pivotal state is about focusing on issues beyond the Korean peninsula, moving beyond the subject of North Korea, and focusing on making a meaningful contribution with closer cooperation with its ally, the U.

Under its new president Yoon Suk-yeol, South Korea has re-imagined the state's role in today’s changing geopolitical landscape as a global pivotal state. Global pivotal state is about focusing on issues beyond the Korean peninsula, moving beyond the subject of North Korea, and focusing on making a meaningful contribution with closer cooperation with its ally, the U.S. With a new president in Seoul, not only the role of South Korea is changing, but it is again becoming the standard fluctuating policy we see as administration changes from conservative to democrats. But this time, Japan’s role is becoming more critical in the South Korean strategical equation. Before elaborating on Japan’s vital importance, let me explain why the shift is leading to changing relations between South Korea and Japan. Today South Korea is standing at a vital moment in history where it has to choose between its ally, the U.S, on the one hand, and its most significant economic partner China. This tough choice was in the making for quite some time, and it became evident during the former conservative president Park Geun-hye, as she called it the Asia’s Paradox. However, with recent global development like the COVID-19 pandemic, supply-chain resilience, and the Ukraine war, many states are feeling the pressure to adapt to the incoming uncertainty by making bets on the side they think will secure their strategic interests. This situation of Bipolarity in Northeast Asia gives rise to the importance of Japan for South Korea and the need for, if not better, but sustainable and consistent diplomatic and political relations. The developing geopolitical situation is akin to what South Korea faced before normalizing relations with the Socialist states of China and Russia in the region under former president Roh Tae-woo's administration. Also read | Imran Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf in trouble following more audio leaks Japan and South Korean relation Traditionally, South Korea's relations with Japan have been overshadowed by the colonial period under Imperial Japanese rule. As a postcolonial state that suffered under Japanese rule from 1910-1945, some issues remain in the mindscapes of Korean citizens and are routinely played by political parties domestically. The comfort women issue is one of the prominent subjects that kindle emotions among the citizenry in South Korea and even across the 38thParallel. They had some agreement between the states to settle the matter in 1965, 1998 and 2015. However, it remains a subject that is not considered settled because of the lack of inclusivity of women rights groups and victims in agreements concluded. Usually, the conservative administration had tried to improve relations with Japan in the recent decade under Park and Abe as the political heads. Under President Yoon and Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, the relationship seems to be going positively. The change in perspective in Seoul toward Tokyo is not new and is usually seen when conservative administration comes to power. This is a pattern under conservative administrations as they work closely with the U.S. on security issues, mainly focusing on North Korean threats. Japan also shares with South Korea the threat of North Korean Nuclear and ballistic weapons, and as a vital security player in the region, it seems rational to work together. However, the need for better and closer relations in the region is now going beyond North Korea as the common factor. South Korea and Japan are identifying many factors emerging in the region as a strategic threat. These developments have the potential to destabilize the peace and security as well as the prosperity of the region. The common perception is mainly driven by the redefinition of security in the world, where we see the technology being used as a tool in geopolitics and geo-economics by great powers, moving away from its traditional role as a neutral tool. I have figured out three areas that are critical issues where both the countries can cooperate strategically. South Korea-Japan Cooperation South Korea recognizes the changing power dynamics in the Indo-Pacific region and wants to be a part of an alliance that stands with the Rule of Law and FOIP. The expression of interest in being a part of Quad signals this particular intent of working closely with like-minded countries in the region. In addition, the emergence of AUKUS has restarted conversation on future South Korea nuclear collaboration. All of this means that the security environment will change drastically in the coming years, and ‘fence-sitting’ by states would become a difficult task to undertake when based on a volatile geopolitical landscape sandwiched between two great power competitions. Therefore, it becomes rational for South Korea to work closely with Japan on security threats facing the region ranging from North Korean nuclear weapons ensuring the rule of law, maritime security, and illegal fishing. The administration in the U.S. wants both the countries to work together to address the challenges of the region and beyond, as stated in the Indo-Pacific strategy. Also read | In a first, UK Foreign Secretary Liz Truss plans to declare China an official threat Apart from issues of conventional security, another subject that has captured the minds of policy-makers and government is the issue of supply-chain resilience. South Korea has benefited from the cheap manufacturing capacity provided by China for a long time, undermining the challenges it may face in an extreme case like that offered by Pandemic. The unreliable supply chains can influence countries' economies to the extent that they can directly affect domestic politics, as we saw in the case of the shortage of Urea in South Korea. Nonetheless, this issue becomes more vital when strategic sectors like semiconductors shipbuilding, emerging technologies like EV Battery come into the picture. South Korea and Japan share perspectives on the criticality of these sectors. They have worked with the U.S. and other states like Taiwan in the region to ensure robust and trustworthy supply chains. Recently South Korea also joined IPEF keeping this in mind. Finally, South Korea and Japan are a few liberal democratic states in the Indo-Pacific region that respect the International Law and Freedom of Navigation on open seas and air. Being export-based economies, both the states have stakes in ensuring that normative frameworks of international liberal order stay intact, and having open seas are an essential part of it. South Korea has seen during the Korean War and subsequently during the cold war era how the interests of great powers have superseded the international rule-based order and interests of third countries. Therefore, any change in the international order that makes it vulnerable to manipulation by more countries is seen as a concern in South Korea. It mainly affects the small and middle powers that see rule-based international order as a common denominator for countries and relies on it for norm-influencing and influencing policies. Any jeopardizing of the order would make it meaningless and shrink the same for cooperation on issues of global concerns, mainly because the interests of a few will lead institutions to few. In conclusion, South Korea and Japan are now in a situation where the options to cooperate go beyond just the threat of North Korea. The emerging world order is under threat from authoritarian forces like China in the Indo-Pacific, and it’s a matter of time when the state security will become entangled with new critical technologies. With high stakes in emerging technologies, both South Korea and Japan will have to work together to ensure safe and stable supply chains that are resilient and trustworthy. There remains an impending issue concerning Comfort women, which should be dealt with in a bi-partisan manner so that relations remain consistent and unaffected by external influence. With like-minded states cooperating in the Indo-Pacific region, a new phase of solid ties between South Korea and Japan will help in setting up a framework that keeps the process of checks and balances working, which now seems to be slowly being influenced by powerful states in the region. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

South Korea and Japan relations: Moving beyond the horizon

South Korean actor Kang Tae Oh, who shot to fame with 'My First First Love' and 'Extraordinary Attorney Woo', &nbsp;received a heartwarming send-off from the cast and crew of 'Run On' on Friday. Taking to Instagram, the actor shared photos of the reunion along with heart and cry face emojis.&nbsp;

In the now-viral photos, the actor can be seen posing in a mirror selfie with Lim Siwan, Shin Se Kyung, Girls' Generation's Sooyoung and 'Run On's director and scriptwriter. One picture shows Kang Tae holding a board filled with adorable messages from the cast and crew of 'Run On'. Through the sweet notes, his well-wishers prayed for his safety and success ahead of his mandatory military service.&nbsp;

Some of the messages read, "Younghwa... the military.. keke", "Tae Oh~ If you go the army, we will definitely", and "Run On, Tae Oh, to the military (heart)". Take a look!

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For those unaware, military duty is mandatory for at least 18 months for all able-bodied men between the ages of 18 to 28 in South Korea. Several K-Pop idols and actors have served their time in the military during the peak of their careers.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-house-of-the-dragon-gets-season-2-nod-from-hbo-510550" hreflang="en">'House of the Dragon' gets season 2 nod from HBO</a>

According to reports, the South Korean actor will enlist in the military somewhere around fall this year. He is yet to reveal more details.

Kang Tae Oh has starred in several K-drama series. He recently grabbed headlines for playing Lee Jun-Ho in 'Extraordinary Attorney Woo'. It is available on Netflix.

South Korean actor Kang Tae Oh, who shot to fame with 'My First First Love' and 'Extraordinary Attorney Woo', received a heartwarming send-off from the cast and crew of 'Run On' on Friday.

South Korean actor Kang Tae Oh, who shot to fame with 'My First First Love' and 'Extraordinary Attorney Woo', received a heartwarming send-off from the cast and crew of 'Run On' on Friday. Taking to Instagram, the actor shared photos of the reunion along with heart and cry face emojis. In the now-viral photos, the actor can be seen posing in a mirror selfie with Lim Siwan, Shin Se Kyung, Girls' Generation's Sooyoung and 'Run On's director and scriptwriter. One picture shows Kang Tae holding a board filled with adorable messages from the cast and crew of 'Run On'. Through the sweet notes, his well-wishers prayed for his safety and success ahead of his mandatory military service. Some of the messages read, "Younghwa... the military.. keke", "Tae Oh~ If you go the army, we will definitely", and "Run On, Tae Oh, to the military (heart)". Take a look! View this post on Instagram A post shared by 강태오 (@kto940620) For those unaware, military duty is mandatory for at least 18 months for all able-bodied men between the ages of 18 to 28 in South Korea. Several K-Pop idols and actors have served their time in the military during the peak of their careers. Also read: 'House of the Dragon' gets season 2 nod from HBO According to reports, the South Korean actor will enlist in the military somewhere around fall this year. He is yet to reveal more details. Kang Tae Oh has starred in several K-drama series. He recently grabbed headlines for playing Lee Jun-Ho in 'Extraordinary Attorney Woo'. It is available on Netflix.

Kang Tae Oh bids emotional adieu to 'Run On' cast before heading to military

South Korea has once again recorded the lowest fertility rate in the world, adding one more year to its years-long trend of declining births. The country's fertility rate which indicates the average number of children a woman will have in her lifetime fell to 0.81 in 2021.

South Korea breaks own record for lowest fertility rate, more deaths than births

South Korea's central bank raised its key interest rate by a quarter-percentage point on Thursday and significantly lifted inflation forecasts, signalling more policy tightening, which sent bond yields and the local currency higher.

South Korea delivers 0.25% rate hike

South Korea's total fertility rate hit a record low in 2021 as the number of childbirths continued to fall, data revealed on Wednesday, underscoring the country's gloomy demographic situation.

The country's total fertility rate -- the average number of children a woman bears in her lifetime -- came to 0.81 child in 2021, down from 0.84 the previous year, according to the data from Statistics Korea.

It was the lowest since the statistics agency began compiling related data in 1970. Last year also marked the fourth straight year that the number was below 1, reports Yonhap News Agency.

South Korea was the only country where the number of childbirths per women remained below 1 among the 38 member countries of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD).

As of 2020, the total fertility rate among the OECD nations averaged 1.59.

South Korea is grappling with a chronic fall in childbirths as many young people delay or give up on getting married and having babies amid an economic slowdown and high housing prices, coupled with changing social norms about marriages.

Last year, the number of newborns hit a record low of 260,600, down 11,800 from the previous year, the data showed.

The annual number of childbirths fell below 300,000 for the second straight year.

In the 1970s, the yearly number of childbirths stayed around 1 million, but it has been on a continued decline, with the tally falling below 400,000 for the first time in 2017.

The country's crude birthrate -- the number of births per 1,000 people -- also reached an all-time low of 5.1 in 2021, down from 5.3 the previous year.

The average age for women giving birth was 33.4 last year, up from 33.1 a year ago, the data showed.

The ratio of baby boys to every 100 newborn girls came to 105.1 last year, up from a record low of 104.8 the previous year.

In South Korea, the birth sex ratio remained high above 100 due to its traditional preference for male children. But it has been largely on a steady decline amid changing social norms.

South Korea reported the first natural fall in population in 2020, as the number of deaths outpaced that of newborns.

Experts voiced concerns the country may face an "age quake" starting in 2030-40, an earthquake-like demographic shock from a fall in population and rapid aging, if it does not tackle the issue in a timely manner.

South Korea's working-age population is expected to plunge 35 percent over the next 30 years due to the record low birthrate and rapid aging, according to an estimate by the government.

South Korea's total fertility rate hit a record low in 2021 as the number of childbirths continued to fall, data revealed on Wednesday, underscoring the country's gloomy demographic situation.

South Korea's total fertility rate hit a record low in 2021 as the number of childbirths continued to fall, data revealed on Wednesday, underscoring the country's gloomy demographic situation. The country's total fertility rate -- the average number of children a woman bears in her lifetime -- came to 0.81 child in 2021, down from 0.84 the previous year, according to the data from Statistics Korea. It was the lowest since the statistics agency began compiling related data in 1970. Last year also marked the fourth straight year that the number was below 1, reports Yonhap News Agency. South Korea was the only country where the number of childbirths per women remained below 1 among the 38 member countries of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). As of 2020, the total fertility rate among the OECD nations averaged 1.59. South Korea is grappling with a chronic fall in childbirths as many young people delay or give up on getting married and having babies amid an economic slowdown and high housing prices, coupled with changing social norms about marriages. Last year, the number of newborns hit a record low of 260,600, down 11,800 from the previous year, the data showed. The annual number of childbirths fell below 300,000 for the second straight year. In the 1970s, the yearly number of childbirths stayed around 1 million, but it has been on a continued decline, with the tally falling below 400,000 for the first time in 2017. The country's crude birthrate -- the number of births per 1,000 people -- also reached an all-time low of 5.1 in 2021, down from 5.3 the previous year. The average age for women giving birth was 33.4 last year, up from 33.1 a year ago, the data showed. The ratio of baby boys to every 100 newborn girls came to 105.1 last year, up from a record low of 104.8 the previous year. In South Korea, the birth sex ratio remained high above 100 due to its traditional preference for male children. But it has been largely on a steady decline amid changing social norms. South Korea reported the first natural fall in population in 2020, as the number of deaths outpaced that of newborns. Experts voiced concerns the country may face an "age quake" starting in 2030-40, an earthquake-like demographic shock from a fall in population and rapid aging, if it does not tackle the issue in a timely manner. South Korea's working-age population is expected to plunge 35 percent over the next 30 years due to the record low birthrate and rapid aging, according to an estimate by the government.

South Korea may face 'age quake' as fertility rate hits record low in 2021

From United Nations Special Envoy Noeleen Heyzer visiting a Rohingya refugee camp in Bangladesh to Anti-terror drill in South Korea, here are some impactful images from around the world on 23 August 2022.

World in Pictures: UN special envoy visits Rohingya refugee camp; Anti-terror drill in South Korea

After a hiatus of five years, allies USA and South Korea have begun their annual joint military drills, named Ulchi Freedom Shield in the region, much to the chagrin of 'notorious' neighbour North Korea.

After a hiatus of five years, allies USA and South Korea have begun their annual joint military drills, named Ulchi Freedom Shield in the region, much to the chagrin of 'notorious' neighbour North Korea. The military drill started on Monday (August 22) and is expected to carry on till September 1. The drill will see both sides carry out field exercises involving tens of thousands of troops, tanks, aircraft and warships. Both sides have stated that the 'defensive' exercise aims to coordinate a response, in case of an invasion from North Korea. The exercise has been broken down into two parts with the first segment simulating North Korean attacks on the capital city of Seoul as the combined forces attempt to protect the area. Meanwhile, the second segment is aimed at improving the counterattack operations against the enemy. North Korea describes the US-South Korea relationship and the exercise as a rehearsal for an invasion of its homeland. Due to Covid and several other reasons, particularly South Korea's insistence to mend the ties with North Korea, the exercise could not materialise in the last few years. North Korea is miffed with Washington and Seoul As reported by WION, in anticipation of the military exercise, North Korea fired two cruise missiles last week, ending a month-long lull in Pyongyang's record-breaking spate of weapons tests this year. Read More: North Korea fires two cruise missiles: South Korean defence ministry Moreover, the firing came in the backdrop of South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol extending an “audacious” economic assistance package to North Korea in exchange for denuclearisation. Reportedly, in a televised speech celebrating the end of Japan's colonisation of the Korean Peninsula, President Yoon Suk Yeol offered economic assistance to its troubled neighbour with the caveat that it abandon the nuclear weapons programme. "If North Korea halts its nuclear weapons development and genuinely commits to a process of denuclearization, the South will respond with huge economic rewards that would be provided in phases," said Yoon in the speech. However, soon, North Korea released a statement and rebuffed any chances of taking the deal. Kim Yo Jong, sister of leader Kim Jong Un termed the offer 'foolish' and stated that her country would never accept the offer. Read More: Kim Jong Un's sister rejects South Korea's economic assistance plan; will not give up nukes “I’m not sure that he knows his assumption ‘if the North took a measure for denuclearization’ was a wrong prerequisite. All cannot be bartered. Bitter contempt is what we will only show those spinning a pipedream to succeed in making us abandon our nukes if they pay more stakes.” said Kim Yo Jong (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

South Korea, US kick off military exercises, much to the chagrin of North Korea

Police in South Korean capital Seoul said on Monday (August 22) said that a woman who is believed to be related to two children whose remains were found in suitcases in New Zealand is in South Korea. The remains were found in suitcases in New Zealand last week. The children are believed to be between five and 10 years old at the time of their death.

Some media reports suggest that the woman is the children's mother.

The bodies were discovered after an unsuspecting family bought a trailer-load of items -- including the suitcases -- at an auction for abandoned goods.

Police in New Zealand said that the bodies of the children were likely in storage for several years. This may cause complications during the investigation.

Police in South Korea said Monday that a woman of Korean descent, who is believed to be related to the children, is currently in South Korea.

"We confirm that she is in South Korea, and that she is a New Zealand national of Korean descent," an official at the Korean National Police Agency told AFP.

She arrived in the South in 2018 and had no record of leaving the country since that year, he added.

"New Zealand police are leading this investigation and we intend to cooperate at their request," the official added.

Police have been checking hours of CCTV footage, but key moments could have already been erased due to the delay between when the victims died and the discovery of the bodies.

Forensic experts have examined the storage unit and property where the suitcases were taken.

(With inputs from agencies)

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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Police in South Korean capital Seoul said on Monday (August 22) said that a woman who is believed to be related to two children whose remains were found in suitcases in New Zealand is in South Korea.

Police in South Korean capital Seoul said on Monday (August 22) said that a woman who is believed to be related to two children whose remains were found in suitcases in New Zealand is in South Korea. The remains were found in suitcases in New Zealand last week. The children are believed to be between five and 10 years old at the time of their death. Some media reports suggest that the woman is the children's mother. The bodies were discovered after an unsuspecting family bought a trailer-load of items -- including the suitcases -- at an auction for abandoned goods. Police in New Zealand said that the bodies of the children were likely in storage for several years. This may cause complications during the investigation. Police in South Korea said Monday that a woman of Korean descent, who is believed to be related to the children, is currently in South Korea. "We confirm that she is in South Korea, and that she is a New Zealand national of Korean descent," an official at the Korean National Police Agency told AFP. She arrived in the South in 2018 and had no record of leaving the country since that year, he added. "New Zealand police are leading this investigation and we intend to cooperate at their request," the official added. Police have been checking hours of CCTV footage, but key moments could have already been erased due to the delay between when the victims died and the discovery of the bodies. Forensic experts have examined the storage unit and property where the suitcases were taken. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Relative of children found dead in New Zealand found in South Korea 

North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un's sister Kim Yo-Jong says that the country will never accept South Korea's offer of economic benefits. She also accused Seoul for recycling past proposals which Pyongyang had already rejected.

North Korea: No-one barters their destiny for corn cake; rejects disarmament-for-aid deal

Days after South Korea extended an “audacious” economic assistance package to North Korea in exchange for denuclearisation, it has received a message, albeit one that is not too courteous. Reportedly, Kim Yo Jong, sister of leader Kim Jong Un termed the offer 'foolish' and stated that her country would never accept the offer.&nbsp;

Referring to South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, Kim Yo Jong added, “I’m not sure that he knows his assumption ‘if the North took a measure for denuclearization’ was a wrong prerequisite. All cannot be bartered. Bitter contempt is what we will only show those spinning a pipedream to succeed in making us abandon our nukes if they pay more stakes.”

Read More:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-slams-un-chief-over-biased-support-for-the-norths-denuclearisation-506635">North Korea slams UN chief over 'biased' support for its denuclearisation</a>

Will not sit face-to-face with him:&nbsp;Kim Yo Jong

The statements were published in the Friday edition of North Korea’s official Rodong Sinmun newspaper. In the commentary, Kim Yo Jong stressed that her country had no intentions to give away its nuclear weapons and ballistic missiles program.&nbsp;

"Though he may knock at the door with what large plan in the future as his "bold plan" does not work, we make it clear that we will not sit face to face with him," she added.&nbsp;

The powerful North Korean leader, second only to her brother Kim Jong Un, also questioned the sincerity of South Korea and its call to improve bilateral ties.

She stated that Seoul continues to engage in military exercises with the US whilst failing to stop its civilian activists from flying anti-Pyongyang propaganda leaflets and other “dirty wastes” across their border, according to AP.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sister-says-kim-jong-un-was-seriously-ill-during-covid-outbreak-blames-south-korea-505943">Sister says Kim Jong Un was seriously ill during covid outbreak, blames South Korea</a>

What did South Korea say?

As reported by WION, in a televised speech celebrating the end of Japan's colonisation of the Korean Peninsula, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, earlier this week, offered economic assistance with the caveat that its neighbour abandon the nuclear weapons program.&nbsp;

Under the scheme, South Korea was offering large-scale aid in food and health care. Correspondingly, it also promised to modernise the airports, seaports and electricity generation methods in the country.&nbsp;

"If North Korea halts its nuclear weapons development and genuinely commits to a process of denuclearization, the South will respond with huge economic rewards that would be provided in phases," said Yoon in the speech.

Yoon's statement came a few hours after North Korea fired two cruise missiles ending a month-long lull in Pyongyang's record-breaking spate of weapons tests this year. However, turns out, the olive branch has been refused, that too for the umpteenth time.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Read More:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-fires-two-cruise-missiles-seoul-defence-ministry-507766">&nbsp;North Korea fires two cruise missiles: South Korean defence ministry</a>

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

<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>

&nbsp;

Days after South Korea extended an “audacious” economic assistance package to North Korea in exchange for denuclearisation, it has received a message, albeit one that is not too courteous.

Days after South Korea extended an “audacious” economic assistance package to North Korea in exchange for denuclearisation, it has received a message, albeit one that is not too courteous. Reportedly, Kim Yo Jong, sister of leader Kim Jong Un termed the offer 'foolish' and stated that her country would never accept the offer. Referring to South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, Kim Yo Jong added, “I’m not sure that he knows his assumption ‘if the North took a measure for denuclearization’ was a wrong prerequisite. All cannot be bartered. Bitter contempt is what we will only show those spinning a pipedream to succeed in making us abandon our nukes if they pay more stakes.” Read More: North Korea slams UN chief over 'biased' support for its denuclearisation Will not sit face-to-face with him: Kim Yo Jong The statements were published in the Friday edition of North Korea’s official Rodong Sinmun newspaper. In the commentary, Kim Yo Jong stressed that her country had no intentions to give away its nuclear weapons and ballistic missiles program. "Though he may knock at the door with what large plan in the future as his "bold plan" does not work, we make it clear that we will not sit face to face with him," she added. The powerful North Korean leader, second only to her brother Kim Jong Un, also questioned the sincerity of South Korea and its call to improve bilateral ties. She stated that Seoul continues to engage in military exercises with the US whilst failing to stop its civilian activists from flying anti-Pyongyang propaganda leaflets and other “dirty wastes” across their border, according to AP. Also read: Sister says Kim Jong Un was seriously ill during covid outbreak, blames South Korea What did South Korea say? As reported by WION, in a televised speech celebrating the end of Japan's colonisation of the Korean Peninsula, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, earlier this week, offered economic assistance with the caveat that its neighbour abandon the nuclear weapons program. Under the scheme, South Korea was offering large-scale aid in food and health care. Correspondingly, it also promised to modernise the airports, seaports and electricity generation methods in the country. "If North Korea halts its nuclear weapons development and genuinely commits to a process of denuclearization, the South will respond with huge economic rewards that would be provided in phases," said Yoon in the speech. Yoon's statement came a few hours after North Korea fired two cruise missiles ending a month-long lull in Pyongyang's record-breaking spate of weapons tests this year. However, turns out, the olive branch has been refused, that too for the umpteenth time. Read More: North Korea fires two cruise missiles: South Korean defence ministry (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Kim Jong Un's sister rejects South Korea's economic assistance plan; will not give up nukes

North Korea is continuing its missile testing spree. Earlier today, they fired two cruise missiles towards the sea off West Coast. Pyongyang has conducted record-breaking weapons tests this year.

North Korea fires two cruise missiles towards sea off its West Coast

The United States and South Korea will begin their biggest combined military training in years next week in the face of an increasingly aggressive North Korea, which has been ramping up weapons tests and threats of nuclear conflict against Seoul and Washington, the South's military said Tuesday.&nbsp;

The allies' summertime drills, which will take place from Aug. 22 to Sept. 1 in South Korea under the name of Ulchi Freedom Shield, will include field exercises involving aircraft, warships, tanks and potentially tens of thousands of troops.

The drills underscore Washington and Seoul's commitment to restore large-scale training after they cancelled some of their regular drills and downsized others to computer simulations in recent years to create space for diplomacy with Pyongyang and because of COVID-19 concerns.&nbsp;

The U.S. Department of Defense also said the U.S., South Korean and Japanese navies took part in missile warning and ballistic missile search and tracking exercises off the coast of Hawaii from Aug. 8 to 14, which it said was aimed at furthering trilateral cooperation in face of North Korean challenges.&nbsp;

While the United States and South Korea describe their exercises as defensive, Ulchi Freedom Shield will almost surely draw an angry reaction from North Korea, which describes all allied trainings as invasion rehearsals and has used them to justify its nuclear weapons and missiles development.&nbsp;

Before they were shelved or downsized, the U.S. And South Korea held major joint exercises every spring and summer in South Korea. The spring ones had been highlighted by live-fire drills involving a broad range of land, air and sea assets and usually involved around 10,000 American and 200,000 Korean troops.&nbsp;

Tens of thousands of allied troops had participated in the summertime drills, which had mainly consisted of computer simulations to hone joint decision making and planning, although South Korea's military has emphasized the revival of large-scale field training this time.&nbsp;

Officials at Seoul's Defense Ministry and its Joint Chiefs of Staff did not comment on the number of U.S. And South Korean troops that would be participating in Ulchi Freedom Guardian Shield.&nbsp;

The drills, which will kick off along with a four-day South Korean civil defense training program led by government employees, will reportedly include exercises simulating joint attacks, frontline reinforcements of arms and fuel, and removals of weapons of mass destruction.&nbsp;

The allies will also train for drone attacks and other new warfare developments shown during Russia's war on Ukraine and practice joint military-civilian responses to attacks on seaports, airports and major industrial facilities like semiconductor factories.&nbsp;

"The biggest meaning of (Ulchi Freedom Shield) is that it normalizes the South Korea-U.S. Combined exercises and field training, (contributing) to the rebuilding of the South Korea-U.S. Alliance and the combined defense posture,"&nbsp;Moon Hong-sik, a Defense Ministry spokesperson, said during a briefing. 
Some experts say North Korea may use the drills as an excuse to stir up tensions.&nbsp;

The North has already warned of a "deadly" retaliation against South Korea over its COVID-19 outbreak it dubiously claims was caused by anti-Pyongyang propaganda leaflets and other objects flown across the border by balloons launched by southern activists. There are concerns that the North Korean threat, issued last week by the powerful sister of leader Kim Jong Un, portends a provocation, which may include a nuclear or major missile test or even border skirmishes.&nbsp;

In an interview with Associated Press Television last month, Choe Jin, deputy director of a think tank run by Pyongyang's Foreign Ministry, said the United States and South Korea would face "unprecedented" security challenges if they don't drop their hostile military pressure campaign against the North, including joint military drills.&nbsp;

Kim Jun-rak, spokesperson of South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff, said the South Korean and U.S. Militaries were maintaining a close watch on North Korean military activities and facilities.&nbsp;

Animosity has built up on the Korean Peninsula since U.S.-North Korea nuclear negotiations derailed in early 2019 over exchanging the release of crippling U.S.-led sanctions against the North and the North's disarmament steps.&nbsp;

Kim Jong Un has since declared to bolster his nuclear deterrent in face of "gangster-like"&nbsp;U.S. Pressure and halted all cooperation with the South. Exploiting a division in the U.N. Security Council over Russia's war on Ukraine, North Korea has dialed up weapons testing to a record pace this year, conducting more than 30 ballistic launches. They have included the country's first demonstrations of intercontinental ballistic missile technology since 2017 and further tests of tactical systems designed to be armed with small battlefield nukes.&nbsp;

Kim has punctuated his testing binge with repeated warnings that the North would proactively use its nuclear weapons in conflicts with South Korea and the United States, which experts say indicate an escalatory nuclear doctrine that could cause greater concerns for its neighbours.&nbsp;

South Korea and U.S. Officials say North Korea is also gearing up for its first nuclear test since September 2017, when it claimed to have developed a thermonuclear warhead to fit on its ICBMs

The United States and South Korea will begin their biggest combined military training in years next week in the face of an increasingly aggressive North Korea, which has been ramping up weapons tests and threats of nuclear conflict against Seoul and Washington, the South's military said Tuesday.

The United States and South Korea will begin their biggest combined military training in years next week in the face of an increasingly aggressive North Korea, which has been ramping up weapons tests and threats of nuclear conflict against Seoul and Washington, the South's military said Tuesday. The allies' summertime drills, which will take place from Aug. 22 to Sept. 1 in South Korea under the name of Ulchi Freedom Shield, will include field exercises involving aircraft, warships, tanks and potentially tens of thousands of troops. The drills underscore Washington and Seoul's commitment to restore large-scale training after they cancelled some of their regular drills and downsized others to computer simulations in recent years to create space for diplomacy with Pyongyang and because of COVID-19 concerns. The U.S. Department of Defense also said the U.S., South Korean and Japanese navies took part in missile warning and ballistic missile search and tracking exercises off the coast of Hawaii from Aug. 8 to 14, which it said was aimed at furthering trilateral cooperation in face of North Korean challenges. While the United States and South Korea describe their exercises as defensive, Ulchi Freedom Shield will almost surely draw an angry reaction from North Korea, which describes all allied trainings as invasion rehearsals and has used them to justify its nuclear weapons and missiles development. Before they were shelved or downsized, the U.S. And South Korea held major joint exercises every spring and summer in South Korea. The spring ones had been highlighted by live-fire drills involving a broad range of land, air and sea assets and usually involved around 10,000 American and 200,000 Korean troops. Tens of thousands of allied troops had participated in the summertime drills, which had mainly consisted of computer simulations to hone joint decision making and planning, although South Korea's military has emphasized the revival of large-scale field training this time. Officials at Seoul's Defense Ministry and its Joint Chiefs of Staff did not comment on the number of U.S. And South Korean troops that would be participating in Ulchi Freedom Guardian Shield. The drills, which will kick off along with a four-day South Korean civil defense training program led by government employees, will reportedly include exercises simulating joint attacks, frontline reinforcements of arms and fuel, and removals of weapons of mass destruction. The allies will also train for drone attacks and other new warfare developments shown during Russia's war on Ukraine and practice joint military-civilian responses to attacks on seaports, airports and major industrial facilities like semiconductor factories. "The biggest meaning of (Ulchi Freedom Shield) is that it normalizes the South Korea-U.S. Combined exercises and field training, (contributing) to the rebuilding of the South Korea-U.S. Alliance and the combined defense posture," Moon Hong-sik, a Defense Ministry spokesperson, said during a briefing. Some experts say North Korea may use the drills as an excuse to stir up tensions. The North has already warned of a "deadly" retaliation against South Korea over its COVID-19 outbreak it dubiously claims was caused by anti-Pyongyang propaganda leaflets and other objects flown across the border by balloons launched by southern activists. There are concerns that the North Korean threat, issued last week by the powerful sister of leader Kim Jong Un, portends a provocation, which may include a nuclear or major missile test or even border skirmishes. In an interview with Associated Press Television last month, Choe Jin, deputy director of a think tank run by Pyongyang's Foreign Ministry, said the United States and South Korea would face "unprecedented" security challenges if they don't drop their hostile military pressure campaign against the North, including joint military drills. Kim Jun-rak, spokesperson of South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff, said the South Korean and U.S. Militaries were maintaining a close watch on North Korean military activities and facilities. Animosity has built up on the Korean Peninsula since U.S.-North Korea nuclear negotiations derailed in early 2019 over exchanging the release of crippling U.S.-led sanctions against the North and the North's disarmament steps. Kim Jong Un has since declared to bolster his nuclear deterrent in face of "gangster-like" U.S. Pressure and halted all cooperation with the South. Exploiting a division in the U.N. Security Council over Russia's war on Ukraine, North Korea has dialed up weapons testing to a record pace this year, conducting more than 30 ballistic launches. They have included the country's first demonstrations of intercontinental ballistic missile technology since 2017 and further tests of tactical systems designed to be armed with small battlefield nukes. Kim has punctuated his testing binge with repeated warnings that the North would proactively use its nuclear weapons in conflicts with South Korea and the United States, which experts say indicate an escalatory nuclear doctrine that could cause greater concerns for its neighbours. South Korea and U.S. Officials say North Korea is also gearing up for its first nuclear test since September 2017, when it claimed to have developed a thermonuclear warhead to fit on its ICBMs

US, South Korea to begin expanded military drills next week

Co-founder of Microsoft Corp. and philanthropist Bill Gates called on South Korea to expand aid and take a more active role in global health, collaborating with his foundation to enhance the battle against diseases.

"This is a crisis moment for global health. This is also a fantastic time for our foundation to strengthen partnership with <meta charset="utf-8" /><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-and-kim-jong-un-exchange-letters-talk-of-expanding-bilateral-ties-to-counter-hostile-military-forces-507093">Korea</a>, providing great ideas for new tools and more resources to help those in need," Gates said in a speech at the National Assembly.

Gates landed in South Korea after midnight on Monday to sign a contract and discuss their joint efforts to combat infectious illnesses, increase health equity, and secure global health.

Gates asserted that Korea "is positioned to be a leader in this endeavour" and cited its backing of multilateral global health programmes like a $200 million donation to the COVAX vaccine-sharing programme.

Gates also emphasised the nation's strengths in the production of vaccines, diagnostics, research and development, and diagnostics.

Prior to the address, he met with Kim Jin-pyo, Speaker of the South Korean National Assembly, and other MPs. They mostly discussed ways to increase health cooperation and specifics on what he believes should be a larger role for South Korea.

During the discussions, Gates demanded more financing for organisations that support impoverished countries' health conditions and prevent pandemics, and he questioned if South Korea would be able to increase its overseas donation to 1.3% of GDP.

Increased help was widely agreed upon, according to South Korean MPs, who also pledged to "take a leading role in responding to global pandemics by boosting its participation in CEPI funds starting next year." A foundation called the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations collaborates with public, business, nonprofit, and civil society organisations to create vaccinations to stave off future pandemics.

On Tuesday, Gates will also meet with President Yoon Suk-yeol.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH |&nbsp;South Korea's foreign labour crunch, older workers back in factories

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/south-koreas-foreign-labour-crunch-older-workers-back-in-factories-507304/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe>

Co-founder of Microsoft Corp. and philanthropist Bill Gates called on South Korea to expand aid and take a more active role in global health, collaborating with his foundation to enhance the battle against diseases.

Co-founder of Microsoft Corp. and philanthropist Bill Gates called on South Korea to expand aid and take a more active role in global health, collaborating with his foundation to enhance the battle against diseases. "This is a crisis moment for global health. This is also a fantastic time for our foundation to strengthen partnership with Korea, providing great ideas for new tools and more resources to help those in need," Gates said in a speech at the National Assembly. Gates landed in South Korea after midnight on Monday to sign a contract and discuss their joint efforts to combat infectious illnesses, increase health equity, and secure global health. Gates asserted that Korea "is positioned to be a leader in this endeavour" and cited its backing of multilateral global health programmes like a $200 million donation to the COVAX vaccine-sharing programme. Gates also emphasised the nation's strengths in the production of vaccines, diagnostics, research and development, and diagnostics. Prior to the address, he met with Kim Jin-pyo, Speaker of the South Korean National Assembly, and other MPs. They mostly discussed ways to increase health cooperation and specifics on what he believes should be a larger role for South Korea. During the discussions, Gates demanded more financing for organisations that support impoverished countries' health conditions and prevent pandemics, and he questioned if South Korea would be able to increase its overseas donation to 1.3% of GDP. Increased help was widely agreed upon, according to South Korean MPs, who also pledged to "take a leading role in responding to global pandemics by boosting its participation in CEPI funds starting next year." A foundation called the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations collaborates with public, business, nonprofit, and civil society organisations to create vaccinations to stave off future pandemics. On Tuesday, Gates will also meet with President Yoon Suk-yeol. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH | South Korea's foreign labour crunch, older workers back in factories

Bill Gates calls on South Korea to expand its support for global health

To help overcome a national economic crisis, South Korea's President Yoon Suk-yeol pardoned Samsung Electronics Vice Chairman Jay Y Lee. The pardon is largely symbolic with Lee already out on parole after serving 18 months in jail.

South Korean president Yoon pardons Samsung's Lee

Samsung heir Lee Jae-Yong has been granted a special presidential pardon. South Korea wants the billionaire's help to revive the country's economy. Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Samsung heir gets out of jail to "save economy"

The death toll from South Korea's record-breaking rains and flooding has risen to 11 and left hundreds displaced. Authorities are planning to phase out underground and semi-underground houses.

WION Climate Tracker: Historic rains cause severe floods in South Korea

South Korea's President Yoon Suk-yeol pardoned Samsung Electronics Vice Chairman Jay Y. Lee on Friday, with South Korea's Justice Ministry saying the business leader was needed to help overcome a "national economic crisis".

South Korean President pardons Samsung leader Lee

Billionaire Lee Jae-yong, the heir and de facto leader of the Samsung group, was granted a presidential pardon Friday, on the occasion of next week's Liberation Day anniversary.

Lee was among 1,692 prisoners with terminal illnesses and those ending their terms to be pardoned by President Yoon Suk-yeol on Friday.

However, Lee’s reprieve raised the eyebrows of many as he was convicted of bribery and embezzlement in January last year.

His release is the latest example of South Korea's long tradition of freeing business leaders convicted of corruption on economic grounds.

Justice Minister Han Dong-hoon said that the 54-year-old was reinstated to give him a chance to "contribute to overcoming the economic crisis" of the country.

According to Forbes, Lee is the 278th-richest person in the world, with a net worth of $7.9 billion.

In August 2021, Lee was released on parole after serving 18 months in jail, just over half of his original sentence.

But Friday's pardon has lifted a post-prison employment restriction that had been set for five years, and it will allow him to fully return to work.

"Due to the global economic crisis, the dynamism and vitality of the national economy have deteriorated, and the economic slump is feared to be prolonged," the Justice Ministry said in a statement.

The Liberation Day anniversary marks Japan's 1945 World War II surrender, which liberated Korea from decades of colonial rule. The event is celebrated every year with the pardon of hundreds of prisoners.

What’s next for Lee?

Lee is the vice-chairman of Samsung Electronics, the world's biggest smartphone maker. The conglomerate's overall turnover is equivalent to about one-fifth of South Korea's gross domestic product.

The pardon will allow Lee to work without restrictions. According to South Korean law, if a person is convicted of embezzlement or breach of trust worth more than 500 million Korean won ($384,101), that person cannot work for a company related to the crime for five years even after the prison sentence ends.

But he is completely free of his legal troubles. He still faces a separate trial over accusations of accounting fraud regarding a merger of two Samsung firms in 2015.

Eleven executives from Samsung, including Lee, were indicted in 2020 on charges including illegal transactions, stock manipulation, and perjury. The&nbsp;case is still pending.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Billionaire Lee Jae-yong, the heir and de facto leader of the Samsung group, was granted a presidential pardon Friday, on the occasion of next week's Liberation Day anniversary.

Billionaire Lee Jae-yong, the heir and de facto leader of the Samsung group, was granted a presidential pardon Friday, on the occasion of next week's Liberation Day anniversary. Lee was among 1,692 prisoners with terminal illnesses and those ending their terms to be pardoned by President Yoon Suk-yeol on Friday. However, Lee’s reprieve raised the eyebrows of many as he was convicted of bribery and embezzlement in January last year. His release is the latest example of South Korea's long tradition of freeing business leaders convicted of corruption on economic grounds. Justice Minister Han Dong-hoon said that the 54-year-old was reinstated to give him a chance to "contribute to overcoming the economic crisis" of the country. According to Forbes, Lee is the 278th-richest person in the world, with a net worth of $7.9 billion. In August 2021, Lee was released on parole after serving 18 months in jail, just over half of his original sentence. But Friday's pardon has lifted a post-prison employment restriction that had been set for five years, and it will allow him to fully return to work. "Due to the global economic crisis, the dynamism and vitality of the national economy have deteriorated, and the economic slump is feared to be prolonged," the Justice Ministry said in a statement. The Liberation Day anniversary marks Japan's 1945 World War II surrender, which liberated Korea from decades of colonial rule. The event is celebrated every year with the pardon of hundreds of prisoners. What’s next for Lee? Lee is the vice-chairman of Samsung Electronics, the world's biggest smartphone maker. The conglomerate's overall turnover is equivalent to about one-fifth of South Korea's gross domestic product. The pardon will allow Lee to work without restrictions. According to South Korean law, if a person is convicted of embezzlement or breach of trust worth more than 500 million Korean won ($384,101), that person cannot work for a company related to the crime for five years even after the prison sentence ends. But he is completely free of his legal troubles. He still faces a separate trial over accusations of accounting fraud regarding a merger of two Samsung firms in 2015. Eleven executives from Samsung, including Lee, were indicted in 2020 on charges including illegal transactions, stock manipulation, and perjury. The case is still pending. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Samsung boss Lee, convicted for corruption, given pardon to ‘revive’ South Korea’s economy

Torrential rains in South Korea have broken a record of 115 years, leaving homes in some parts of the capital completely inundated. The heavy rainfall has knocked out power lines and has also caused landslides.

South Korea: Waterlogging continues in parts of Seoul, at least 10 dead, hundreds displaced

Despite claims by Kim Jong-un’s sister that the Supreme Leader was one of those infected with Covid-19, North Korea has declared a "shining success" in its fight against the virus.

State-run media reported on Thursday that Kim asked for the relaxation of preventive measures while referring to the official death toll of 74 as a "exceptional miracle in the history of the entire health community."

In its account of the meeting on Wednesday, the state news agency KCNA quoted Kim as saying that "the victory achieved by our people is a historic event that once again shows the world the greatness of our state, the indomitable tenacity of our people, and the beautiful national customs we are proud of."

His powerful sister, Kim Yo-jong, attributed the pandemic to propaganda leaflets activists from South Korea had sent across the border in balloons, and she threatened "deadly" vengeance if Seoul failed to stop them. 
 
Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-claims-all-fever-patients-in-the-country-have-recovered-503819">COVID-19: North Korea claims all fever patients in the country have fully recovered</a>

Additionally, she implied that her brother had caught the virus by claiming that he was one of the tens of millions of North Koreans who had had a "fever."

"Even though he was seriously ill with a high fever, he could not lie down for a moment thinking about the people he had to take care of until the end of the anti-epidemic war, she said. 
 
Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/not-covid-or-monkeypox-north-korea-reports-outbreak-of-unidentified-disease-heres-what-we-know-so-far-489241">Not Covid or monkeypox, North Korea reports outbreak of unidentified disease: Here's what we know so far</a>

North Korea asserted that it had not identified a single case of Covid-19 during the first two years of the pandemic, despite having a weak healthcare system that was ill-equipped to handle a significant outbreak.

With a population of 26 million, it has reported roughly 4.8 million cases of "fever" since May of this year, but has only identified a small percentage of those cases as Covid, presumably to avoid causing public panic and due to a scarcity of testing kits.

Experts have questioned North Korea's official claims of zero new cases since July 29 and its low death toll. The nation has one of the worst healthcare systems in the world, with underfunded hospitals, limited intensive care units, and no vaccines or treatment options for Covid-19.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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Despite claims by Kim Jong-un’s sister that the Supreme Leader was one of those infected with Covid-19, North Korea has declared a "shining success" in its fight against the virus.

Despite claims by Kim Jong-un’s sister that the Supreme Leader was one of those infected with Covid-19, North Korea has declared a "shining success" in its fight against the virus. State-run media reported on Thursday that Kim asked for the relaxation of preventive measures while referring to the official death toll of 74 as a "exceptional miracle in the history of the entire health community." In its account of the meeting on Wednesday, the state news agency KCNA quoted Kim as saying that "the victory achieved by our people is a historic event that once again shows the world the greatness of our state, the indomitable tenacity of our people, and the beautiful national customs we are proud of." His powerful sister, Kim Yo-jong, attributed the pandemic to propaganda leaflets activists from South Korea had sent across the border in balloons, and she threatened "deadly" vengeance if Seoul failed to stop them. Also read | COVID-19: North Korea claims all fever patients in the country have fully recovered Additionally, she implied that her brother had caught the virus by claiming that he was one of the tens of millions of North Koreans who had had a "fever." "Even though he was seriously ill with a high fever, he could not lie down for a moment thinking about the people he had to take care of until the end of the anti-epidemic war, she said. Also Read | Not Covid or monkeypox, North Korea reports outbreak of unidentified disease: Here's what we know so far North Korea asserted that it had not identified a single case of Covid-19 during the first two years of the pandemic, despite having a weak healthcare system that was ill-equipped to handle a significant outbreak. With a population of 26 million, it has reported roughly 4.8 million cases of "fever" since May of this year, but has only identified a small percentage of those cases as Covid, presumably to avoid causing public panic and due to a scarcity of testing kits. Experts have questioned North Korea's official claims of zero new cases since July 29 and its low death toll. The nation has one of the worst healthcare systems in the world, with underfunded hospitals, limited intensive care units, and no vaccines or treatment options for Covid-19. (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.

Sister says Kim Jong Un was seriously ill during covid outbreak, blames South Korea

Record rainfall has flooded homes, roads, subway stations in the South Korean capital Seoul this week. At least 9 people have lost their lives, there is forecast of more rainfall.

WION Climate Tracker | Seoul battered by record-breaking rain; hundreds evacuated

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

Gravitas Global Headlines: Donald Trump's Florida home raided | South Korea floods

North Korea is destroying the 'symbol of peace' between the two divided Koreas in Mount Kumgang. Molly Gambhir tells you why Pyongyang is turning the last sign of peace into ruins.

WION Fineprint: North Korea blows up tourist resort for South Koreans

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