The main Buddhist temple in the capital of South Korea on Monday inaugurated a ceremony to initiate child monks into the order for a weeks long training session in honor of the Buddha’s upcoming birthday on May 12.

Temple in South Korea initiates child monks ahead of Buddha’s birthday

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-holds-mass-rally-to-celebrate-kim-jong-uns-re-election-210230">North Korean leader Kim Jong Un</a> has supervised the test-firing of a new type of "tactical guided weapon," the country's state media reported on Thursday.

It said the "advantages" of the weapon were "the peculiar mode of guiding flight and the load of a powerful warhead".

The KCNA report did not provide further details about the weapon, but said Kim described its development as one "of very weighty significance in increasing the combat power of the People's Army".

KCNA added that Wednesday's test was "conducted in various modes of firing at different targets" and that Kim "guided the test-fire".

Thursday's announcement came the day after a US monitor, the Center for Strategic and International Studies, said activity had been detected at North Korea's main nuclear site.&nbsp;

It suggested Pyongyang may be reprocessing radioactive material into bomb fuel since the collapse of a February summit with Washington.

That meeting, the second between <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/kim-jong-un-open-to-third-summit-with-trump-210018">US President Donald Trump and Kim</a>, ended abruptly without agreement on Pyongyang's nuclear programme.

Since then, North Korea has said it is mulling options for its diplomacy with the US, and Kim said last week he was open to talks with Trump only if Washington came with the "proper attitude".

"Kim is trying to make a statement to the Trump administration that his military potential is growing by the day," said Center for the National Interest analyst Harry Kazianis.

"His regime is becoming frustrated with Washington's lack of flexibility in recent negotiations."

Last November, KCNA reported that Kim oversaw the testing of a "newly developed ultramodern tactical weapon" months after his first meeting with Trump.

It was the first official report of a weapons test by North Korea since it began negotiations with Washington over its nuclear and missile programme.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has supervised the test-firing of a new type of "tactical guided weapon," the country's state media reported on Thursday. It said the "advantages" of the weapon were "the peculiar mode of guiding flight and the load of a powerful warhead".

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has supervised the test-firing of a new type of "tactical guided weapon," the country's state media reported on Thursday. It said the "advantages" of the weapon were "the peculiar mode of guiding flight and the load of a powerful warhead". The KCNA report did not provide further details about the weapon, but said Kim described its development as one "of very weighty significance in increasing the combat power of the People's Army". KCNA added that Wednesday's test was "conducted in various modes of firing at different targets" and that Kim "guided the test-fire". Thursday's announcement came the day after a US monitor, the Center for Strategic and International Studies, said activity had been detected at North Korea's main nuclear site. It suggested Pyongyang may be reprocessing radioactive material into bomb fuel since the collapse of a February summit with Washington. That meeting, the second between US President Donald Trump and Kim, ended abruptly without agreement on Pyongyang's nuclear programme. Since then, North Korea has said it is mulling options for its diplomacy with the US, and Kim said last week he was open to talks with Trump only if Washington came with the "proper attitude". "Kim is trying to make a statement to the Trump administration that his military potential is growing by the day," said Center for the National Interest analyst Harry Kazianis. "His regime is becoming frustrated with Washington's lack of flexibility in recent negotiations." Last November, KCNA reported that Kim oversaw the testing of a "newly developed ultramodern tactical weapon" months after his first meeting with Trump. It was the first official report of a weapons test by North Korea since it began negotiations with Washington over its nuclear and missile programme.

North Korea's Kim oversees new 'guided weapon' test: State media

The South Korean president on Monday said now is the right time to call another summit with the leader of North Korea in the face of resuming the denuclearization dialogue.

It comes almost two months after the failed summit in Hanoi between the North's leader <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/opinions/donald-trump-kim-jong-un-summits-other-aim-was-to-sell-vietnam-model-to-north-korea-208086&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwiPj5Og9NHhAhVq8XMBHf6dAxsQFggFMAA&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw2UfV7sjwDNniPT8r2e9--a">Kim Jong-un</a> and the United States' President <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/world/kim-jong-un-is-open-to-third-trump-summit-north-korean-state-media-209985&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwiPj5Og9NHhAhVq8XMBHf6dAxsQFggIMAE&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw17eCbqjzpfM-hDXnjHsPpu">Donald Trump</a>.

“Now that we have affirmed our respective commitments, the stage is set for an inter-Korean summit,” Moon Jae-in said in a meeting with his officials, according to the excerpts of the meeting published by the presidential office.

“As soon as the DPRK becomes ready, I hope the two Koreas will be able to sit down together, regardless of venue and form, and hold detailed and substantive talks on how to achieve further progress that goes beyond the previous two summits between Chairman Kim and President Trump,” he added.

Moon urged his officials to begin preparations for a new summit, which would be the fourth meeting between the two leaders of North and South Korea in the past year.

The three previous meetings between Seoul and Pyongyang and Moon’s role as a mediator have played a fundamental part in the two historic summits between the US and North Korea.

On Monday, Moon also reviewed his meeting last week with Trump, where the US leader was in favour of fresh inter-Korean talks and also open to a trilateral summit in the future.

The failure to reach an agreement at the Trump-Kim summit in Hanoi in February revolved around the number of North Korean nuclear assets to be dismantled against the volume of sanctions that the US would alleviate as a corresponding measure.&nbsp;

Washington wanted the North to dismantle its missiles and chemical and biological weapons (in addition to nuclear weapons) programs before granting concessions, while Pyongyang called for the lifting of much of the sanctions in exchange for dismantling its Yongbyon nuclear facility, which the US considered insufficient.&nbsp;

Since then, Washington and Pyongyang have been firm on their respective positions, although each has expressed their willingness to keep the dialogue open to work out their differences gradually, including a possibility of organizing a new Trump-Kim summit.

The South Korean president on Monday said now is the right time to call another summit with the leader of North Korea in the face of resuming the denuclearization dialogue.

The South Korean president on Monday said now is the right time to call another summit with the leader of North Korea in the face of resuming the denuclearization dialogue. It comes almost two months after the failed summit in Hanoi between the North's leader Kim Jong-un and the United States' President Donald Trump. “Now that we have affirmed our respective commitments, the stage is set for an inter-Korean summit,” Moon Jae-in said in a meeting with his officials, according to the excerpts of the meeting published by the presidential office. “As soon as the DPRK becomes ready, I hope the two Koreas will be able to sit down together, regardless of venue and form, and hold detailed and substantive talks on how to achieve further progress that goes beyond the previous two summits between Chairman Kim and President Trump,” he added. Moon urged his officials to begin preparations for a new summit, which would be the fourth meeting between the two leaders of North and South Korea in the past year. The three previous meetings between Seoul and Pyongyang and Moon’s role as a mediator have played a fundamental part in the two historic summits between the US and North Korea. On Monday, Moon also reviewed his meeting last week with Trump, where the US leader was in favour of fresh inter-Korean talks and also open to a trilateral summit in the future. The failure to reach an agreement at the Trump-Kim summit in Hanoi in February revolved around the number of North Korean nuclear assets to be dismantled against the volume of sanctions that the US would alleviate as a corresponding measure. Washington wanted the North to dismantle its missiles and chemical and biological weapons (in addition to nuclear weapons) programs before granting concessions, while Pyongyang called for the lifting of much of the sanctions in exchange for dismantling its Yongbyon nuclear facility, which the US considered insufficient. Since then, Washington and Pyongyang have been firm on their respective positions, although each has expressed their willingness to keep the dialogue open to work out their differences gradually, including a possibility of organizing a new Trump-Kim summit.

Moon Jae-in ready for another North-South Korea summit with Kim Jong Un

South Korean President Moon Jae-in arrived for talks with US President Donald Trump on Thursday (April 11) hoping to help put denuclearization negotiations with North Korea back on track after a failed summit between the United States and North Korean leaders in February.

South Korean president meets Trump hoping to revive North Korea talks

South Korea is set to commemorate the fifth anniversary of the ferry disaster on Tuesday (April 16) which killed more than 300 people, most of them children.

South Korea to commemorate fifth anniversary of deadly ferry sinking

This segment of WION brings to you top stories of the morning from across the globe. Watch this video to get updated with the latest information.

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning, April 12th 2019

South Korean automaker Hyundai Motor Co and Chinese technology firm Tencent Holdings have signed a preliminary deal to develop software for driverless vehicles, South Korea's Maeil Business Newspaper reported on Saturday.

Both companies plan to conduct joint research and development on safety and security systems for self-driving cars, which Hyundai seeks to roll out commercially by 2030, the report, which cited unnamed industry sources, said.

The agreement was signed on the sidelines of a business forum held in Seoul on Thursday by the South Korean government and China's Guangdong province, it said.

Hyundai and Tencent did not offer any immediate comments on the report.

The two companies are also exploring ways to utilise Tencent's popular WeChat messaging app in developing China-targeted car models, the newspaper said.

Hyundai, the world's 5th largest automaker together with affiliate Kia Motors, has been fostering partnerships with self-driving tech and social media firms as it aims to introduce highly automated vehicles by 2020 and fully autonomous vehicles by 2030.

Hyundai Mobis, another affiliate of the carmaker, clinched an agreement last month with Russia's largest internet search engine Yandex to jointly develop control systems for driverless vehicles.

Shenzhen-based and Hong Kong-listed Tencent has also ventured into self-driving tech and had advertised to recruit engineers in Silicon Valley last year.

South Korean automaker Hyundai Motor Co and Chinese technology firm Tencent Holdings have signed a preliminary deal to develop software for driverless vehicles, South Korea's Maeil Business Newspaper reported on Saturday.

South Korean automaker Hyundai Motor Co and Chinese technology firm Tencent Holdings have signed a preliminary deal to develop software for driverless vehicles, South Korea's Maeil Business Newspaper reported on Saturday. Both companies plan to conduct joint research and development on safety and security systems for self-driving cars, which Hyundai seeks to roll out commercially by 2030, the report, which cited unnamed industry sources, said. The agreement was signed on the sidelines of a business forum held in Seoul on Thursday by the South Korean government and China's Guangdong province, it said. Hyundai and Tencent did not offer any immediate comments on the report. The two companies are also exploring ways to utilise Tencent's popular WeChat messaging app in developing China-targeted car models, the newspaper said. Hyundai, the world's 5th largest automaker together with affiliate Kia Motors, has been fostering partnerships with self-driving tech and social media firms as it aims to introduce highly automated vehicles by 2020 and fully autonomous vehicles by 2030. Hyundai Mobis, another affiliate of the carmaker, clinched an agreement last month with Russia's largest internet search engine Yandex to jointly develop control systems for driverless vehicles. Shenzhen-based and Hong Kong-listed Tencent has also ventured into self-driving tech and had advertised to recruit engineers in Silicon Valley last year.

Hyundai, Tencent to develop software for driverless cars: Report

Samsung Electronics on Friday released the Galaxy S10 5G, the world's first available smartphone with built-in fifth-generation communications technology, as South Korea seeks to build a lead in the transformative system.

On Wednesday the South became the first country to commercially launch nationwide 5G services, with three superfast networks going live offering data speeds that allow users to download entire movies in less than a second.&nbsp;

Hours later US giant Verizon began commercial services in Chicago and Minneapolis, after rival AT&amp;T made a 5G-based system available to selected users in parts of 12 cities in December.

South Korea's three mobile carriers -- SK Telecom, KT and LG Uplus -- held launch events across Seoul for the Galaxy S10, whose base version costs 1.39 million won ($1,200).

Interactive virtual-reality displays and robot demonstrations were on show to tout the capabilities of the latest iteration of mobile internet speed, and new users were excited about the possibilities, especially live streaming of sports games and university lectures.&nbsp;

"I watch a lot of videos often, movies and lectures," said buyer Shim Ji-hye, 38. "I hope faster speeds will help me manage my time better."

Another user said he was most excited about virtual reality content -- which includes games and even "celebrity VR dating" apps according to the country's mobile carriers.&nbsp;

With 5G, said researcher Lee Sang-yoon, VR content "can be enjoyed in real time with no delay... I'll be able to enjoy it in better resolution and speed".

Before Friday's roll-out of the Samsung phone, the 5G service had been restricted to a handful of specially selected users in South Korea.&nbsp;

Rival manufacturer LG is due to launch its V50 ThinQ, another 5G phone, in the South later this month, while in the US, Verizon's network works with Lenovo's Moto Z3 smartphone fitted with a special accessory.

Commercialising 5G gives South Korea the chance to build around the technology, which is crucial for the future development of devices such as autonomous vehicles and the Internet of Things.

It is expected to bring about $565 billion in global economic benefits by 2034, according to the London-based Global System for Mobile Communications, an industry alliance.

The implications of the new technology have pitted Washington against Beijing -- whose firms dominate 5G technology -- in an increasingly bitter standoff.

The US has pressed its allies and major economies to avoid 5G solutions from Chinese-owned telecom giant Huawei, citing security risks that technological backdoors could give Beijing access to 5G-connected utilities and other components.

Chinese entities own a total of 3,400 5G patents -- more than a third of the total, according to data analysis firm IPlytics -- with 1,529 of those registered by Huawei.

South Korea comes next, with its companies holding 2,051 patents, while US firms have 1,368 together.

Neither KT nor SK Telecom use Huawei technology in their 5G networks, but it is a supplier to LG UPlus, the companies told AFP.

Samsung Electronics on Friday released the Galaxy S10 5G, the world's first available smartphone with built-in fifth-generation communications technology, as South Korea seeks to build a lead in the transformative system.

Samsung Electronics on Friday released the Galaxy S10 5G, the world's first available smartphone with built-in fifth-generation communications technology, as South Korea seeks to build a lead in the transformative system. On Wednesday the South became the first country to commercially launch nationwide 5G services, with three superfast networks going live offering data speeds that allow users to download entire movies in less than a second. Hours later US giant Verizon began commercial services in Chicago and Minneapolis, after rival AT&T made a 5G-based system available to selected users in parts of 12 cities in December. South Korea's three mobile carriers -- SK Telecom, KT and LG Uplus -- held launch events across Seoul for the Galaxy S10, whose base version costs 1.39 million won ($1,200). Interactive virtual-reality displays and robot demonstrations were on show to tout the capabilities of the latest iteration of mobile internet speed, and new users were excited about the possibilities, especially live streaming of sports games and university lectures. "I watch a lot of videos often, movies and lectures," said buyer Shim Ji-hye, 38. "I hope faster speeds will help me manage my time better." Another user said he was most excited about virtual reality content -- which includes games and even "celebrity VR dating" apps according to the country's mobile carriers. With 5G, said researcher Lee Sang-yoon, VR content "can be enjoyed in real time with no delay... I'll be able to enjoy it in better resolution and speed". Before Friday's roll-out of the Samsung phone, the 5G service had been restricted to a handful of specially selected users in South Korea. Rival manufacturer LG is due to launch its V50 ThinQ, another 5G phone, in the South later this month, while in the US, Verizon's network works with Lenovo's Moto Z3 smartphone fitted with a special accessory. Commercialising 5G gives South Korea the chance to build around the technology, which is crucial for the future development of devices such as autonomous vehicles and the Internet of Things. It is expected to bring about $565 billion in global economic benefits by 2034, according to the London-based Global System for Mobile Communications, an industry alliance. The implications of the new technology have pitted Washington against Beijing -- whose firms dominate 5G technology -- in an increasingly bitter standoff. The US has pressed its allies and major economies to avoid 5G solutions from Chinese-owned telecom giant Huawei, citing security risks that technological backdoors could give Beijing access to 5G-connected utilities and other components. Chinese entities own a total of 3,400 5G patents -- more than a third of the total, according to data analysis firm IPlytics -- with 1,529 of those registered by Huawei. South Korea comes next, with its companies holding 2,051 patents, while US firms have 1,368 together. Neither KT nor SK Telecom use Huawei technology in their 5G networks, but it is a supplier to LG UPlus, the companies told AFP.

World's first 5G phone released in South Korea

South Korea mobilised more than 15,000 firefighters and soldiers to help douse most of the wildfires that have killed one person and forced more than 4,000 to flee their homes, authorities said on Friday.

Thursday's fires broke out in the eastern province of Gangwon, razing about 1,297 acres and about 134 homes, seven warehouses and other structures, the government said in a statement.

Late on Friday, just 275 people remained in gymnasiums and schools, of more than 4,000 citizens who had been evacuated there. About 52 schools were closed.

The fire in two areas in Gangwon has been contained, the government said, while about 80 per cent of the fire in nearby Inje county was contained by Friday evening.

The cause of the fire was suspected to be sparks triggered by power lines, the government said, without elaborating.

President Moon Jae-in, who has ordered the use of all available resources to put out the fires, visited evacuation shelters and talked to victims.

About 872 fire trucks and 3,251 firefighters from all over the country worked to contain the wildfire, the National Fire Agency said.

The US military said it supplied two helicopters with specialised buckets to drop water.

Subsidies of about $3.5 million will fund the effort to rein in the fires and clear debris, while disaster relief funds of $220,000 will help accommodate evacuees and provide necessities, the interior ministry said.

South Korea mobilised more than 15,000 firefighters and soldiers to help douse most of the wildfires that have killed one person and forced more than 4,000 to flee their homes, authorities said on Friday.

South Korea mobilised more than 15,000 firefighters and soldiers to help douse most of the wildfires that have killed one person and forced more than 4,000 to flee their homes, authorities said on Friday. Thursday's fires broke out in the eastern province of Gangwon, razing about 1,297 acres and about 134 homes, seven warehouses and other structures, the government said in a statement. Late on Friday, just 275 people remained in gymnasiums and schools, of more than 4,000 citizens who had been evacuated there. About 52 schools were closed. The fire in two areas in Gangwon has been contained, the government said, while about 80 per cent of the fire in nearby Inje county was contained by Friday evening. The cause of the fire was suspected to be sparks triggered by power lines, the government said, without elaborating. President Moon Jae-in, who has ordered the use of all available resources to put out the fires, visited evacuation shelters and talked to victims. About 872 fire trucks and 3,251 firefighters from all over the country worked to contain the wildfire, the National Fire Agency said. The US military said it supplied two helicopters with specialised buckets to drop water. Subsidies of about $3.5 million will fund the effort to rein in the fires and clear debris, while disaster relief funds of $220,000 will help accommodate evacuees and provide necessities, the interior ministry said.

Firefighters contain most of South Korean wildfires; hundreds evacuated

India rose two spots in the latest FIFA rankings, but just missed the top 100.&nbsp;

India are now ranked 101st in the world and 18th in Asia.&nbsp;

Iran continued to top the Asian rankings; they are ranked 21st in the world, followed by Japan (26), South Korea (37), Australia (41) and Qatar (55).

Belgium remained top of the rankings with 1737 points, ahead of France (1734), Brazil (1676), England (1647) and Croatia (1621).&nbsp;

India have&nbsp;been in the top 100 before.

One reason for their poor ranking is the few international matches that they play — India for example has not played an international match since the last rankings on February 7 — the more you play, the higher you move up the rankings.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

India rose two spots in the latest FIFA rankings, but just missed the top 100. India are now ranked 101st in the world and 18th in Asia. Iran continued to top the Asian rankings; they are ranked 21st in the world, followed by Japan (26), South Korea (37), Australia (41) and Qatar (55).

India rose two spots in the latest FIFA rankings, but just missed the top 100. India are now ranked 101st in the world and 18th in Asia. Iran continued to top the Asian rankings; they are ranked 21st in the world, followed by Japan (26), South Korea (37), Australia (41) and Qatar (55). Belgium remained top of the rankings with 1737 points, ahead of France (1734), Brazil (1676), England (1647) and Croatia (1621). India have been in the top 100 before. One reason for their poor ranking is the few international matches that they play — India for example has not played an international match since the last rankings on February 7 — the more you play, the higher you move up the rankings.

FIFA rankings: India moves up two spots, just misses top 100

South Korea will be launching&nbsp;the world’s first fully-fledged 5G mobile networks on Friday, a transformational leap that already has superpowers sparring for control of innovation that could potentially change the day-to-day lives of billions of people.

The superfast communications heralded by fifth-generation wireless technology will ultimately underpin everything from toasters to telephones; from electric cars to power grids.

But while the South has won the race to be first to provide the user experience, that is only one part of a wider battle that has pitted the United States against China and ensnared giants including Huawei.

Hyper-wired South Korea has long had a reputation for technical prowess, and Seoul has made the 5G rollout a priority as it seeks to stimulate stuttering economic growth.

The system will bring smartphones near-instantaneous connectivity -- 20 times faster than the existing 4G -- allowing users to download entire movies in less than a second.

In the same way that 3G enabled widespread mobile web access and 4G made new applications work ranging from social media to Uber, 5G will herald a new level of connectivity, empowered by speed.

It is crucial for the future development of devices ranging from self-driving vehicles that send data traffic to one another in real time, industrial robots, drones and other elements of the Internet of Things.

That makes it a vital part of the infrastructure of tomorrow, and the 5G standard is expected to bring about $565 billion in global economic benefits by 2034, according to the London-based Global System for Mobile Communications, an industry alliance.

'One million devices'&nbsp;

But the implications have pitted Washington against Beijing in an increasingly bitter standoff.

The US has pressed its allies and major economies to avoid 5G solutions from Chinese-owned telecom giant Huawei, citing security risks that technological backdoors could give Beijing access to 5G-connected utilities and other components.

But Chinese firms dominate 5G technology.

Huawei, the global leader, has registered 1,529 5G patents, according to data analysis firm IPlytics.

Combined with manufacturers ZTE and Oppo, plus the China Academy of Telecommunications Technology, Chinese entities own a total of 3,400 patents, it says -- more than a third of the total. &nbsp;&nbsp;

South Korea comes next, with its companies holding 2,051 patents.

In contrast, US firms have 1,368 altogether, IPlytics said -- 29 fewer than Finland's Nokia alone.

All three of South Korea's mobile networks -- KT, SK Telecom and LG UPlus go live with their 5G services.

"5G's hyper speed can connect one million devices within a one square kilometre zone simultaneously," KT said in a report. &nbsp;

On the same day, Samsung Electronics will release the Galaxy S10 5G, the world's first available smartphone using the tech, with rival LG following with the V50s two weeks later.

Cost barrier&nbsp;

More than three million South Koreans will switch to 5G by the end of this year, predicted KT vice-president Lee Pil-Jae.

Until now, no mobile networks have offered nationwide 5G access. In the US, hotspots in a few selected cities have offered 5G speeds but over wifi only, while Qatari firm Ooredoo says it offers 5G services in and around Doha but does not have devices available to use them.

US network carrier Verizon will launch fifth-generation services for mobile users in Chicago and Minneapolis next week, with more than 30 cities due to follow this year.&nbsp;

Japan is also expected to roll out a limited deployment in 2019 before full services start in time for next year's Tokyo Olympics.&nbsp;

But the cost is likely to be a barrier for user uptake initially, analysts say: the cheapest version of the new Galaxy handset will be 1.39 million won ($1,200).

"While there are many cheap 4G smartphones under $300, Samsung's 5G phones are well over $1,000, which could be a major minus point for cost-savvy consumers," a KT representative told AFP.&nbsp;

None of South Korea's three network operators would say how much they have invested in 5G -- but Seoul's economy minister Hong Nam-ki put it at at least $2.6 billion this year alone.

"If 5G is fully implemented," he said, "it will greatly improve people's lives".

South Korea will be launching the world’s first fully-fledged 5G mobile networks on Friday, a transformational leap that already has superpowers sparring for control of innovation that could potentially change the day-to-day lives of billions of people.

South Korea will be launching the world’s first fully-fledged 5G mobile networks on Friday, a transformational leap that already has superpowers sparring for control of innovation that could potentially change the day-to-day lives of billions of people. The superfast communications heralded by fifth-generation wireless technology will ultimately underpin everything from toasters to telephones; from electric cars to power grids. But while the South has won the race to be first to provide the user experience, that is only one part of a wider battle that has pitted the United States against China and ensnared giants including Huawei. Hyper-wired South Korea has long had a reputation for technical prowess, and Seoul has made the 5G rollout a priority as it seeks to stimulate stuttering economic growth. The system will bring smartphones near-instantaneous connectivity -- 20 times faster than the existing 4G -- allowing users to download entire movies in less than a second. In the same way that 3G enabled widespread mobile web access and 4G made new applications work ranging from social media to Uber, 5G will herald a new level of connectivity, empowered by speed. It is crucial for the future development of devices ranging from self-driving vehicles that send data traffic to one another in real time, industrial robots, drones and other elements of the Internet of Things. That makes it a vital part of the infrastructure of tomorrow, and the 5G standard is expected to bring about $565 billion in global economic benefits by 2034, according to the London-based Global System for Mobile Communications, an industry alliance. 'One million devices' But the implications have pitted Washington against Beijing in an increasingly bitter standoff. The US has pressed its allies and major economies to avoid 5G solutions from Chinese-owned telecom giant Huawei, citing security risks that technological backdoors could give Beijing access to 5G-connected utilities and other components. But Chinese firms dominate 5G technology. Huawei, the global leader, has registered 1,529 5G patents, according to data analysis firm IPlytics. Combined with manufacturers ZTE and Oppo, plus the China Academy of Telecommunications Technology, Chinese entities own a total of 3,400 patents, it says -- more than a third of the total. South Korea comes next, with its companies holding 2,051 patents. In contrast, US firms have 1,368 altogether, IPlytics said -- 29 fewer than Finland's Nokia alone. All three of South Korea's mobile networks -- KT, SK Telecom and LG UPlus go live with their 5G services. "5G's hyper speed can connect one million devices within a one square kilometre zone simultaneously," KT said in a report. On the same day, Samsung Electronics will release the Galaxy S10 5G, the world's first available smartphone using the tech, with rival LG following with the V50s two weeks later. Cost barrier More than three million South Koreans will switch to 5G by the end of this year, predicted KT vice-president Lee Pil-Jae. Until now, no mobile networks have offered nationwide 5G access. In the US, hotspots in a few selected cities have offered 5G speeds but over wifi only, while Qatari firm Ooredoo says it offers 5G services in and around Doha but does not have devices available to use them. US network carrier Verizon will launch fifth-generation services for mobile users in Chicago and Minneapolis next week, with more than 30 cities due to follow this year. Japan is also expected to roll out a limited deployment in 2019 before full services start in time for next year's Tokyo Olympics. But the cost is likely to be a barrier for user uptake initially, analysts say: the cheapest version of the new Galaxy handset will be 1.39 million won ($1,200). "While there are many cheap 4G smartphones under $300, Samsung's 5G phones are well over $1,000, which could be a major minus point for cost-savvy consumers," a KT representative told AFP. None of South Korea's three network operators would say how much they have invested in 5G -- but Seoul's economy minister Hong Nam-ki put it at at least $2.6 billion this year alone. "If 5G is fully implemented," he said, "it will greatly improve people's lives".

South Korea to launch world's first national 5G network

South Korean President Moon Jae-in will hold a meeting with the leaders of 10 Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) member countries in November this year, with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-drops-new-north-korea-sanctions-because-he-likes-kim-white-house-204999">North Korean leader Kim Jong-un</a> also possibly in attendance during the summit.

Making the announcement, South Korea's Presidential office said that the special South Korea-ASEAN summit will be held at Busan, located around 450 km from Seoul, on November 25 and 26.&nbsp;

The meeting will commemorate the 30th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between South Korea and ASEAN, Yonhap News Agency reported.&nbsp;

"As the largest international conference to be held in our country since the launch of the incumbent administration, the summit is expected to review the development of South Korea-ASEAN relations over the past 30 years and suggest a new vision for development in the next 30 years," Yoon Do-han, the senior secretary to the President for Public Relations, told reporters here on Monday.

Later, an official from the Presidential office said that the meeting may also involve Kim. The official said that some ASEAN nations have mulled extending an invitation to the North Korean leader.

The ASEAN comprises 10 countries -- Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam.

"The country will begin consultations with ASEAN countries based on such proposal, and depending on the outcome of their consultations, the country may invite Chairman Kim Jong-un," the official told reporters on condition of anonymity.

Moon has underlined the importance of ASEAN countries in its efforts to dismantle North Korea's nuclear weapons, saying that all 10 ASEAN member countries maintain diplomatic ties with Pyongyang.

Moon and Kim have met thrice, with their latest meeting held in Pyongyang in September last year. The North Korean leader has expressed keenness to visit South Korea for the fourth meeting with the South Korean President.&nbsp;

South Korean President Moon Jae-in will hold a meeting with the leaders of 10 Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) member countries in November this year, with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un also possibly in attendance during the summit.

South Korean President Moon Jae-in will hold a meeting with the leaders of 10 Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) member countries in November this year, with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un also possibly in attendance during the summit. Making the announcement, South Korea's Presidential office said that the special South Korea-ASEAN summit will be held at Busan, located around 450 km from Seoul, on November 25 and 26. The meeting will commemorate the 30th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between South Korea and ASEAN, Yonhap News Agency reported. "As the largest international conference to be held in our country since the launch of the incumbent administration, the summit is expected to review the development of South Korea-ASEAN relations over the past 30 years and suggest a new vision for development in the next 30 years," Yoon Do-han, the senior secretary to the President for Public Relations, told reporters here on Monday. Later, an official from the Presidential office said that the meeting may also involve Kim. The official said that some ASEAN nations have mulled extending an invitation to the North Korean leader. The ASEAN comprises 10 countries -- Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam. "The country will begin consultations with ASEAN countries based on such proposal, and depending on the outcome of their consultations, the country may invite Chairman Kim Jong-un," the official told reporters on condition of anonymity. Moon has underlined the importance of ASEAN countries in its efforts to dismantle North Korea's nuclear weapons, saying that all 10 ASEAN member countries maintain diplomatic ties with Pyongyang. Moon and Kim have met thrice, with their latest meeting held in Pyongyang in September last year. The North Korean leader has expressed keenness to visit South Korea for the fourth meeting with the South Korean President.

Kim Jong Un may be invited to South Korea-ASEAN summit in November

WION Gravitas: South Korea's spycam epidemic

North Korea reversed a decision to withdraw its staff from an inter-Korean liaison office by sending some back to work on Monday, South Korea said, in a turnaround that came after U.S. President Donald Trump opted not to impose extra sanctions on the North.

On Friday, North Korea had said it was quitting the office, just hours after the United States imposed the first new sanctions on the North since the second U.S.-North Korea summit broke down last month.

The liaison office in Kaesong, North Korea, was opened in September and had been one of the key developments made during the detente between North Korea and South Korea in the past year.

The withdrawal of North Korean staff had been seen as a setback for South Korean President Moon Jae-in's attempts to engage with Pyongyang.

However, Trump on Friday said he has decided against imposing new large-scale sanctions on North Korea, a move that experts said could be an effort to defuse tensions or signalling that the "maximum pressure" sanctions campaign on North Korea was not going to get any stronger.

"Some of North Korean staff members are working at the liaison office" on Monday, the South's Unification Ministry said in a statement.

The two sides held a consultation at the liaison office on Monday and will continue to operate the office as usual, after North Korean staff members told the South "we came to do our shift as usual today," the ministry added.

Some four or five North Korean officials came to work at the office on Monday, about half the usual level of staffing, and none of the more senior officials were among those who came to work, South Korea's Yonhap news agency reported.

A convoy of dozens of South Korean officials had left for the liaison office earlier on Monday in a bid to maintain fragile gains in relations with Pyongyang.

Analysts reckoned the continued presence of North Koreans at the liaison office probably reflected Pyongyang's satisfaction over Trump's decision to hold off on the imposition of more sanctions.

They said the threatened withdrawal of staff appeared to have been calculated to pressure South Korea into persuading the United States to soft-pedal on sanctions.

North Korea reversed a decision to withdraw its staff from an inter-Korean liaison office by sending some back to work on Monday, South Korea said, in a turnaround that came after U.

North Korea reversed a decision to withdraw its staff from an inter-Korean liaison office by sending some back to work on Monday, South Korea said, in a turnaround that came after U.S. President Donald Trump opted not to impose extra sanctions on the North. On Friday, North Korea had said it was quitting the office, just hours after the United States imposed the first new sanctions on the North since the second U.S.-North Korea summit broke down last month. The liaison office in Kaesong, North Korea, was opened in September and had been one of the key developments made during the detente between North Korea and South Korea in the past year. The withdrawal of North Korean staff had been seen as a setback for South Korean President Moon Jae-in's attempts to engage with Pyongyang. However, Trump on Friday said he has decided against imposing new large-scale sanctions on North Korea, a move that experts said could be an effort to defuse tensions or signalling that the "maximum pressure" sanctions campaign on North Korea was not going to get any stronger. "Some of North Korean staff members are working at the liaison office" on Monday, the South's Unification Ministry said in a statement. The two sides held a consultation at the liaison office on Monday and will continue to operate the office as usual, after North Korean staff members told the South "we came to do our shift as usual today," the ministry added. Some four or five North Korean officials came to work at the office on Monday, about half the usual level of staffing, and none of the more senior officials were among those who came to work, South Korea's Yonhap news agency reported. A convoy of dozens of South Korean officials had left for the liaison office earlier on Monday in a bid to maintain fragile gains in relations with Pyongyang. Analysts reckoned the continued presence of North Koreans at the liaison office probably reflected Pyongyang's satisfaction over Trump's decision to hold off on the imposition of more sanctions. They said the threatened withdrawal of staff appeared to have been calculated to pressure South Korea into persuading the United States to soft-pedal on sanctions.

North Korean officials return to liaison office after pullout

North Korea has pulled its staff out of an inter-Korean liaison office, Seoul said Friday, weeks after leader Kim Jong Un's summit with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-announces-first-new-north-korea-sanctions-since-failed-summit-204745">US President Donald Trump</a> ended without agreement.

The office in the Northern city of Kaesong was opened in September as the two Koreas knitted closer ties, but the South's vice unification minister Chun Hae-sung told reporters Pyongyang had "notified the South they are pulling out of the liaison office".

The decision had been taken "in accordance with an order from an upper command", he said, adding: "They said they didn't care whether we stayed at the liaison office or not."

The South's President Moon Jae-in was instrumental in brokering the talks process between the nuclear-armed, sanctions-hit North and the US, Seoul's key security ally.

Moon has long backed engagement with the North to bring it to the negotiating table, and has been pushing the carrot of inter-Korean development projects, among them an industrial zone also in Kaesong and cross-border tourism for Southerners.

But the failure by Kim and Trump to reach agreement in Hanoi last month on walking back Pyongyang's nuclear programme in exchange for relaxation of the measures against it has raised questions over the future of the process, despite both sides' expressed willingness to talk further.

In his New Year speech -- a key political event in the North -- Kim said without giving details that Pyongyang might see a "new way for defending the sovereignty of the country and the supreme interests of the state" if the US persisted with sanctions.

Seoul sought to keep the door open to more contact.

"We regret the North's decision," Chun said. "Though North Korea has pulled out, we will continue to work at the liaison office as usual."

North Korea has pulled its staff out of an inter-Korean liaison office, Seoul said Friday, weeks after leader Kim Jong Un's summit with US President Donald Trump ended without agreement.

North Korea has pulled its staff out of an inter-Korean liaison office, Seoul said Friday, weeks after leader Kim Jong Un's summit with US President Donald Trump ended without agreement. The office in the Northern city of Kaesong was opened in September as the two Koreas knitted closer ties, but the South's vice unification minister Chun Hae-sung told reporters Pyongyang had "notified the South they are pulling out of the liaison office". The decision had been taken "in accordance with an order from an upper command", he said, adding: "They said they didn't care whether we stayed at the liaison office or not." The South's President Moon Jae-in was instrumental in brokering the talks process between the nuclear-armed, sanctions-hit North and the US, Seoul's key security ally. Moon has long backed engagement with the North to bring it to the negotiating table, and has been pushing the carrot of inter-Korean development projects, among them an industrial zone also in Kaesong and cross-border tourism for Southerners. But the failure by Kim and Trump to reach agreement in Hanoi last month on walking back Pyongyang's nuclear programme in exchange for relaxation of the measures against it has raised questions over the future of the process, despite both sides' expressed willingness to talk further. In his New Year speech -- a key political event in the North -- Kim said without giving details that Pyongyang might see a "new way for defending the sovereignty of the country and the supreme interests of the state" if the US persisted with sanctions. Seoul sought to keep the door open to more contact. "We regret the North's decision," Chun said. "Though North Korea has pulled out, we will continue to work at the liaison office as usual."

North Korea has pulled out of inter-Korean liaison office: South Korea

Two South Korean men arrested for illegal filming motel guests

South Korean police have arrested two men for using illegal spy cameras at motels to film and livestream videos of about 1,600 guests, raking in roughly 7 million won ($6,200) over the past three months, police said on Wednesday.

Illicit filming has surged with growing use of mobile devices and South Korea's pop music industry is reeling from a scandal over singer and television celebrity Jung Joon-young, accused of having shared videos he took secretly during sex.

Police said the men, and two others, posed as customers to secretly install the cameras, obtained online from overseas, in 42 rooms at 30 places around the country since last August.

The footage from the cameras, hidden in television boxes, sockets and hair dryer holders, was broadcast live on a website, police added.

"It was the first case we caught where videos were broadcast live online," they said in a statement.

More than 6,600 cases of illicit filming were reported to police last year, or about a fifth of all sexual abuse cases investigated, up from 3.6 percent in 2008, prosecutors have said.

Last year, tens of thousands of women took to the streets of Seoul, the capital, to protest against the practice and other sexual violence, and demanded stricter punishment.

The law was amended last November to toughen penalties not only for illegal filming but also distributing images without consent, which could bring jail terms of up to five years or fines of up to 30 million won.

The K-pop scandal also involved Lee Seung-hyun, a member of boy band BIGBANG who is better known by his stage name, Seungri. The 28-year-old is suspected of paying for prostitutes for foreign businessmen to drum up investment in his business.

Seungri has denied wrongdoing.

On Thursday, a Seoul court reviewed an arrest warrant for Jung. In a statement, he admitted all the charges against him. &nbsp; 
&nbsp;

South Korean police have arrested two men for using illegal spy cameras at motels to film and livestream videos of about 1,600 guests, raking in roughly 7 million won ($6,200) over the past three months, police said on Wednesday.

South Korean police have arrested two men for using illegal spy cameras at motels to film and livestream videos of about 1,600 guests, raking in roughly 7 million won ($6,200) over the past three months, police said on Wednesday. Illicit filming has surged with growing use of mobile devices and South Korea's pop music industry is reeling from a scandal over singer and television celebrity Jung Joon-young, accused of having shared videos he took secretly during sex. Police said the men, and two others, posed as customers to secretly install the cameras, obtained online from overseas, in 42 rooms at 30 places around the country since last August. The footage from the cameras, hidden in television boxes, sockets and hair dryer holders, was broadcast live on a website, police added. "It was the first case we caught where videos were broadcast live online," they said in a statement. More than 6,600 cases of illicit filming were reported to police last year, or about a fifth of all sexual abuse cases investigated, up from 3.6 percent in 2008, prosecutors have said. Last year, tens of thousands of women took to the streets of Seoul, the capital, to protest against the practice and other sexual violence, and demanded stricter punishment. The law was amended last November to toughen penalties not only for illegal filming but also distributing images without consent, which could bring jail terms of up to five years or fines of up to 30 million won. The K-pop scandal also involved Lee Seung-hyun, a member of boy band BIGBANG who is better known by his stage name, Seungri. The 28-year-old is suspected of paying for prostitutes for foreign businessmen to drum up investment in his business. Seungri has denied wrongdoing. On Thursday, a Seoul court reviewed an arrest warrant for Jung. In a statement, he admitted all the charges against him.

South Korea arrests two for spy cameras that live-streamed 1,600 motel guests

How do South Koreans fight pollution? With pork

South Korea tackles 'SMOMBIE' Apocalypse

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korea-is-closely-monitoring-north-korea-for-missile-launch-military-202538">South Korea</a>n president's approval rating dropped to its lowest level since he came to power, according to a poll published on Thursday, that indicated a growing scepticism concerning his commitment towards North Korea's denuclearization following the failed Hanoi summit between Pyongyang and Washington.

According to a Realmeter survey of 1,510 people, that was conducted earlier this week, Moon Jae-in had only 45 per cent support.

This is the lowest rating recorded since Moon took office in May 2017.

The figure is 1.3 percentage points down from the previous week's results and is said to be the third consecutive week in which his ratings have shown a decline.

Realmeter, a South Korean firm, indicated that the fall in President Moon's rating was because of doubts among the South Korean public regarding North Korea's intentions and Seoul's insistent policy of inter-Korean engagement.

Moon has been a key mediator in bringing Pyongyang to begin negotiations with Washington to try to agree to a disarmament pact.

However, the Hanoi summit held in February between North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and US President Donald Trump ended without any agreements and brought out the differences between the two countries in coming to an agreement over the denuclearization process.

Moon said that "meaningful progress" was made during the Feb.27-28 summit in the Vietnamese capital which finished earlier than planned on the second day.

Last week, some satellite images showed activity at the missile facilities of the North Korean regime, indicating the possibility that the country could be preparing for the carrying out of new weapons tests and pressurizing Washington to resume dialogue as soon as possible.

Meanwhile, the main opposition Liberty Korea Party recorded an increase in its popularity by 1.9 percentage points in comparison with the records of the previous week and marked an approval rating of 32.3 per cent.

However, the support for the ruling Democratic Party remained unchanged at 37.2 per cent.

The poll results show the lowest gap between the two parties - with 4.9 percentage points - since Moon took charge.

The South Korean president's approval rating dropped to its lowest level since he came to power, according to a poll published on Thursday, that indicated a growing scepticism concerning his commitment towards North Korea's denuclearization following the failed Hanoi summit between Pyongyang and Washington.

The South Korean president's approval rating dropped to its lowest level since he came to power, according to a poll published on Thursday, that indicated a growing scepticism concerning his commitment towards North Korea's denuclearization following the failed Hanoi summit between Pyongyang and Washington. According to a Realmeter survey of 1,510 people, that was conducted earlier this week, Moon Jae-in had only 45 per cent support. This is the lowest rating recorded since Moon took office in May 2017. The figure is 1.3 percentage points down from the previous week's results and is said to be the third consecutive week in which his ratings have shown a decline. Realmeter, a South Korean firm, indicated that the fall in President Moon's rating was because of doubts among the South Korean public regarding North Korea's intentions and Seoul's insistent policy of inter-Korean engagement. Moon has been a key mediator in bringing Pyongyang to begin negotiations with Washington to try to agree to a disarmament pact. However, the Hanoi summit held in February between North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and US President Donald Trump ended without any agreements and brought out the differences between the two countries in coming to an agreement over the denuclearization process. Moon said that "meaningful progress" was made during the Feb.27-28 summit in the Vietnamese capital which finished earlier than planned on the second day. Last week, some satellite images showed activity at the missile facilities of the North Korean regime, indicating the possibility that the country could be preparing for the carrying out of new weapons tests and pressurizing Washington to resume dialogue as soon as possible. Meanwhile, the main opposition Liberty Korea Party recorded an increase in its popularity by 1.9 percentage points in comparison with the records of the previous week and marked an approval rating of 32.3 per cent. However, the support for the ruling Democratic Party remained unchanged at 37.2 per cent. The poll results show the lowest gap between the two parties - with 4.9 percentage points - since Moon took charge.

South Korea President Moon Jae-in's approval rating drops to lowest level after Hanoi summit

South Korea will seek to hold talks, including summits, with <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/will-be-very-very-disappointed-says-trump-over-reports-of-north-korea-rebuilding-rocket-site-201648">North Korea </a>this year to strengthen ties and revive the dialogue between Pyongyang and Washington on <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-opposes-incremental-denuclearisation-of-north-korea-envoy-202676">denuclearisation</a>, Seoul's unification ministry said Tuesday.

The plan comes after the Hanoi summit last month between <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trump-ready-to-meet-kim-jong-un-again-for-denuclearisation-talks-white-house-202451">United States President Donald Trump</a> and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, which abruptly ended without a denuclearisation deal and no further plans for the sides to meet.

"In close coordination with the US, (we) will push for inter-Korean talks to help the US and North Korea meet again and reach an agreement on denuclearisation and corresponding measures," said the Ministry of Unification in a policy direction report for 2019 published on Tuesday.&nbsp;

The ministry, in charge of managing relations with the North, added that it will continue to work towards "close communications between the leaders of the South and the North" to strengthen ties and establish peace on the peninsula.&nbsp;

Seoul and Washington are technically at war with Pyongyang since the 1950s.

After February’s Hanoi summit ended without an agreement, Seoul has showed willingness to mediate to break the blockade in the denuclearization talks.

Last year, South Korean President Moon Jae-in and Kim held three summits that were key for making it possible for Trump and the North Korean leader to meet.

Although Washington and Pyongyang give different versions of what happened at the Hanoi negotiating table, the disagreement revolved around the number of assets of the North Korean nuclear program to be dismantled and the volume of international sanctions on Pyongyang that would be alleviated as a "corresponding measure.”

US National Security Adviser John Bolton, who was with Trump in Hanoi, said on March 11 that Washington demanded the elimination of chemical and biological weapons and the North Korean ballistic missile program at the summit, in addition to the dismantling of atomic assets.

Seoul’s unification ministry also said it would take steps for economic cooperation between North and South Korea, particularly in relation to the Kaesong industrial park and tours of Mt Kumgang.

South Korea will seek to hold talks, including summits, with North Korea this year to strengthen ties and revive the dialogue between Pyongyang and Washington on denuclearisation, Seoul's unification ministry said Tuesday.

South Korea will seek to hold talks, including summits, with North Korea this year to strengthen ties and revive the dialogue between Pyongyang and Washington on denuclearisation, Seoul's unification ministry said Tuesday. The plan comes after the Hanoi summit last month between United States President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, which abruptly ended without a denuclearisation deal and no further plans for the sides to meet. "In close coordination with the US, (we) will push for inter-Korean talks to help the US and North Korea meet again and reach an agreement on denuclearisation and corresponding measures," said the Ministry of Unification in a policy direction report for 2019 published on Tuesday. The ministry, in charge of managing relations with the North, added that it will continue to work towards "close communications between the leaders of the South and the North" to strengthen ties and establish peace on the peninsula. Seoul and Washington are technically at war with Pyongyang since the 1950s. After February’s Hanoi summit ended without an agreement, Seoul has showed willingness to mediate to break the blockade in the denuclearization talks. Last year, South Korean President Moon Jae-in and Kim held three summits that were key for making it possible for Trump and the North Korean leader to meet. Although Washington and Pyongyang give different versions of what happened at the Hanoi negotiating table, the disagreement revolved around the number of assets of the North Korean nuclear program to be dismantled and the volume of international sanctions on Pyongyang that would be alleviated as a "corresponding measure.” US National Security Adviser John Bolton, who was with Trump in Hanoi, said on March 11 that Washington demanded the elimination of chemical and biological weapons and the North Korean ballistic missile program at the summit, in addition to the dismantling of atomic assets. Seoul’s unification ministry also said it would take steps for economic cooperation between North and South Korea, particularly in relation to the Kaesong industrial park and tours of Mt Kumgang.

Seoul to seek meetings with Pyongyang to revive dialogue with Washington

South Korea's military said Monday it was closely monitoring North Korean facilities after a series of satellite images triggered an international alarm that Pyongyang might be preparing a long-range missile or space launch.

Analysis indicates increased activity at two key sites -- the Samundong missile research facility and the Sohae rocket-testing facility. Any launch could send stuttering talks on denuclearisation into disarray.

South Korea is "closely tracking and looking into all activity for possible scenarios including a missile launch" across the border, in close coordination with the US, said Kim Joon-rak, spokesman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

Satellite images of Samundong taken on February 22 showed cars and trucks at the site, as well as rail cars and cranes at a yard, US news outlet NPR reported.

"When you put all that together, that's really what it looks like when the North Koreans are in the process of building a rocket," Jeffrey Lewis, a researcher at the Middlebury Institute of International Studies at Monterey, was quoted as saying.

Located on the outskirts of Pyongyang, the Samundong facility was built in 2012 to support development of long-range missiles and space-launch vehicles.

As well as developing the Hawsong-15 ICBM, which analysts agree is capable of reaching the whole US mainland, Samundong constructed the long-range rockets that were then transported and successfully launched from the Sohae satellite launch station in 2012 and 2016.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un agreed last year to shutter the Sohae site at a summit with the South's President Moon Jae-in in Pyongyang.

Satellite pictures in August suggested workers were dismantling an engine test stand at the facility.

But the Washington-based Center for Strategic and International Studies suggested last week rebuilding was progressing quickly at the facility.

A moving structure that had been used to carry vehicles to a launch pad on rails has been restored, said respected research website 38 North project.

It added the work had started before last month's failed meeting on denuclearisation between Kim and US President Donald Trump.

John Bolton, President Donald Trump's national security adviser, said Sunday the US sees "exactly what they are doing" in regard to possible missile or rocket launch moves by the nuclear-armed state.

"We see it unblinkingly, and we don't have any illusions about what those are," he warned, adding his boss would be "pretty disappointed" if a nuclear-armed state conducted a new missile test.

North Korea has been banned by the UN security council from carrying out space launches, as some of its technology was similar to that used for intercontinental ballistic missiles, or ICBMs.

Since the collapse of the Hanoi summit, Trump has been cautious in his forecasts, continuing to suggest a deal remains possible.

Trump said Kim promised he would carry out no more missile or nuclear testing, adding, "I take him at his word."&nbsp;

South Korea's military said Monday it was closely monitoring North Korean facilities after a series of satellite images triggered an international alarm that Pyongyang might be preparing a long-range missile or space launch.

South Korea's military said Monday it was closely monitoring North Korean facilities after a series of satellite images triggered an international alarm that Pyongyang might be preparing a long-range missile or space launch. Analysis indicates increased activity at two key sites -- the Samundong missile research facility and the Sohae rocket-testing facility. Any launch could send stuttering talks on denuclearisation into disarray. South Korea is "closely tracking and looking into all activity for possible scenarios including a missile launch" across the border, in close coordination with the US, said Kim Joon-rak, spokesman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. Satellite images of Samundong taken on February 22 showed cars and trucks at the site, as well as rail cars and cranes at a yard, US news outlet NPR reported. "When you put all that together, that's really what it looks like when the North Koreans are in the process of building a rocket," Jeffrey Lewis, a researcher at the Middlebury Institute of International Studies at Monterey, was quoted as saying. Located on the outskirts of Pyongyang, the Samundong facility was built in 2012 to support development of long-range missiles and space-launch vehicles. As well as developing the Hawsong-15 ICBM, which analysts agree is capable of reaching the whole US mainland, Samundong constructed the long-range rockets that were then transported and successfully launched from the Sohae satellite launch station in 2012 and 2016. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un agreed last year to shutter the Sohae site at a summit with the South's President Moon Jae-in in Pyongyang. Satellite pictures in August suggested workers were dismantling an engine test stand at the facility. But the Washington-based Center for Strategic and International Studies suggested last week rebuilding was progressing quickly at the facility. A moving structure that had been used to carry vehicles to a launch pad on rails has been restored, said respected research website 38 North project. It added the work had started before last month's failed meeting on denuclearisation between Kim and US President Donald Trump. John Bolton, President Donald Trump's national security adviser, said Sunday the US sees "exactly what they are doing" in regard to possible missile or rocket launch moves by the nuclear-armed state. "We see it unblinkingly, and we don't have any illusions about what those are," he warned, adding his boss would be "pretty disappointed" if a nuclear-armed state conducted a new missile test. North Korea has been banned by the UN security council from carrying out space launches, as some of its technology was similar to that used for intercontinental ballistic missiles, or ICBMs. Since the collapse of the Hanoi summit, Trump has been cautious in his forecasts, continuing to suggest a deal remains possible. Trump said Kim promised he would carry out no more missile or nuclear testing, adding, "I take him at his word."

South Korea is closely monitoring North Korea for 'missile launch': Military

Washington's North Korea envoy Stephen Biegun was to meet Wednesday with officials from Japan and South Korea to discuss the outcome of the Hanoi summit last week, amid new evidence that Pyongyang is rebuilding a rocket launch site.

Biegun was to meet separately in Washington with Lee Do-hoon, Seoul's chief nuclear envoy, and Japan's Kenji Kanasugi, with a three-way meeting also expected, according to the US State Department.

Their talks take place after US President Donald Trump abruptly cut short the February 27-28 summit in Vietnam with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un amid fundamental differences between the two sides over dismantling North Korea's nuclear weapons program.

The summit, their second in under a year, broke up without even a joint statement, and each sought to blame the other's intransigence for the deadlock.

Both sides pledged to continue talking, but no new meetings have been scheduled.

State Department Spokesman Robert Palladino declined Tuesday to say whether contacts between Washington and Pyongyang have resumed since the summit.

On Monday, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said he hopes to be able to send a team to Pyongyang in "the next couple weeks," while acknowledging there had been no commitment from Pyongyang on resuming talks.&nbsp;

The US, Japan and South Korea were confronted with a fresh challenge when new photographs released Tuesday appeared to show that Pyongyang may be pursuing the "rapid rebuilding" of a long-range rocket site at Sohae, after having pulled back nuclear-related activity.

The Washington-based Center for Strategic and International Studies said the renewed activity, recorded two days after the summit, may "demonstrate resolve in the face of US rejection" of the North's request for an easing of sanctions.

The site, dormant since August 2018, "has been used in the past for satellite launches, which use ICBM technology banned under UN Security Council resolutions," CSIS said.

The State Department declined to address the reports Wednesday.

Washington's North Korea envoy Stephen Biegun was to meet Wednesday with officials from Japan and South Korea to discuss the outcome of the Hanoi summit last week, amid new evidence that Pyongyang is rebuilding a rocket launch site.

Washington's North Korea envoy Stephen Biegun was to meet Wednesday with officials from Japan and South Korea to discuss the outcome of the Hanoi summit last week, amid new evidence that Pyongyang is rebuilding a rocket launch site. Biegun was to meet separately in Washington with Lee Do-hoon, Seoul's chief nuclear envoy, and Japan's Kenji Kanasugi, with a three-way meeting also expected, according to the US State Department. Their talks take place after US President Donald Trump abruptly cut short the February 27-28 summit in Vietnam with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un amid fundamental differences between the two sides over dismantling North Korea's nuclear weapons program. The summit, their second in under a year, broke up without even a joint statement, and each sought to blame the other's intransigence for the deadlock. Both sides pledged to continue talking, but no new meetings have been scheduled. State Department Spokesman Robert Palladino declined Tuesday to say whether contacts between Washington and Pyongyang have resumed since the summit. On Monday, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said he hopes to be able to send a team to Pyongyang in "the next couple weeks," while acknowledging there had been no commitment from Pyongyang on resuming talks. The US, Japan and South Korea were confronted with a fresh challenge when new photographs released Tuesday appeared to show that Pyongyang may be pursuing the "rapid rebuilding" of a long-range rocket site at Sohae, after having pulled back nuclear-related activity. The Washington-based Center for Strategic and International Studies said the renewed activity, recorded two days after the summit, may "demonstrate resolve in the face of US rejection" of the North's request for an easing of sanctions. The site, dormant since August 2018, "has been used in the past for satellite launches, which use ICBM technology banned under UN Security Council resolutions," CSIS said. The State Department declined to address the reports Wednesday.

US, North Korea envoy in talks after Pyongyang rocket site work revealed

A former president of South Korea, sentenced to 15 years of imprisonment for corruption, was released on bail on Wednesday, the Yonhap news agency had reported.

In October last year, the Central District Court in Seoul had found Lee Myung-bak, who served as president between 2008 and 2013, guilty of bribery and embezzlement, among other charges, and had sentenced him to 15 years in jail and a fine of 13 billion won ($11.5 million).

Lee, 77, who has been in prison since March 22 last year, had appealed the decision.

The Seoul High Court has now approved Lee's bail petition made on January 29 on grounds of his deteriorating health, among other reasons.

The court set 1 billion won ($886,130) as the bail amount and ordered him to stay only at his registered residence and limit his contacts to his immediate family members and legal representatives, conditions that Lee accepted.

The former president will also need judicial approval for his visits to the hospital and will have to present a record of his daily activities.

In October, the Central District Court had ruled that there was evidence that Lee was the de facto owner of auto parts manufacturer DAS, which is headed by his brother and has been the focus of several of the charges against him.

It found him guilty of abusing his presidential powers to embezzle funds for personal and political gains.

A three-judge bench had ruled that misappropriation of 24 billion won was proved in court, while also finding Lee guilty of accepting $5.85 million from Samsung to pardon the prison term faced by the conglomerate's head, Lee Kun-hee, for tax fraud.

Lee claims his trial is a case of political retaliation by the government, led by current president Moon Jae-in, who was a close friend of the late president and Lee's predecessor Roh Moo-hyun, who committed suicide in 2009 while under investigation for corruption.

Lee became the fourth former president of the country to be sentenced to prison, after Chun Doo-hwan, who was the leader of the last military junta until 1987, Roh Tae-woo and Park Geun-hye.

Park is serving a 25-year sentence for corruption following her conviction last year.

A former president of South Korea, sentenced to 15 years of imprisonment for corruption, was released on bail on Wednesday, the Yonhap news agency had reported. In October last year, the Central District Court in Seoul had found Lee Myung-bak, who served as president between 2008 and 2013, guilty of bribery and embezzlement, among other charges, and had sentenced him to 15 years in jail and a fine of 13 billion won ($11.

A former president of South Korea, sentenced to 15 years of imprisonment for corruption, was released on bail on Wednesday, the Yonhap news agency had reported. In October last year, the Central District Court in Seoul had found Lee Myung-bak, who served as president between 2008 and 2013, guilty of bribery and embezzlement, among other charges, and had sentenced him to 15 years in jail and a fine of 13 billion won ($11.5 million). Lee, 77, who has been in prison since March 22 last year, had appealed the decision. The Seoul High Court has now approved Lee's bail petition made on January 29 on grounds of his deteriorating health, among other reasons. The court set 1 billion won ($886,130) as the bail amount and ordered him to stay only at his registered residence and limit his contacts to his immediate family members and legal representatives, conditions that Lee accepted. The former president will also need judicial approval for his visits to the hospital and will have to present a record of his daily activities. In October, the Central District Court had ruled that there was evidence that Lee was the de facto owner of auto parts manufacturer DAS, which is headed by his brother and has been the focus of several of the charges against him. It found him guilty of abusing his presidential powers to embezzle funds for personal and political gains. A three-judge bench had ruled that misappropriation of 24 billion won was proved in court, while also finding Lee guilty of accepting $5.85 million from Samsung to pardon the prison term faced by the conglomerate's head, Lee Kun-hee, for tax fraud. Lee claims his trial is a case of political retaliation by the government, led by current president Moon Jae-in, who was a close friend of the late president and Lee's predecessor Roh Moo-hyun, who committed suicide in 2009 while under investigation for corruption. Lee became the fourth former president of the country to be sentenced to prison, after Chun Doo-hwan, who was the leader of the last military junta until 1987, Roh Tae-woo and Park Geun-hye. Park is serving a 25-year sentence for corruption following her conviction last year.

Former South Korean president Lee Myung-bak gets bail in corruption case

By Sojin Lim

The summit talks between North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, and US President&nbsp;Donald Trump, began in a climate of surprise and expectation in Singapore in June 2018. They have now ended (for the time being) in disappointment in Hanoi, Vietnam, with Trump walking out.

The US president said: “It was all about the sanctions. They wanted the sanctions lifted in their entirety and we couldn’t do that … Sometimes you have to walk and this was one of those times.”

But is this the full story? Time will tell.

Either way, when Kim and Trump first met last year in Singapore, it was viewed as a victory for Kim’s gesture politics and a ray of hope for stability in the region. But as the latest round of talks ends prematurely without agreement, it seems Vietnam, the host, is the only winner – thanks to the summit drawing attention to the recent success of that country’s impressive economic development.

But while the US, North Korea and Vietnam have been dominating headlines, where has South Korea – the other principal stakeholder – been? So far, it seems to have been conspicuously absent. Is this because South Korea was not a part of the armistice agreement (between North Korea, the US, China and the UN) that halted the Korean War? Or is it because South Korea ultimately wouldn’t benefit from any North Korea-US agreement?

Certainly, South Korea is an immediate victim of the failed Hanoi summit. As soon as Trump abandoned the talks, the South Korean stock market fell dramatically. If Kim now resumes missile tests, South Korea would be the nation most at threat.

Indeed, even if Trump agrees eventually to lift the sanctions on North Korea, it would likely be South Korea that would have to provide most of the financial support to North Korea. The only immediate benefit for South Korea, if future negotiations between Kim and Trump go well, would be a diminished threat of war.

Not all doom and gloom

But South Korea could also benefit economically – at least in the long term – in a post-sanction environment. It could, for example, reopen the joint Kaesong Industrial Complex, which would benefit some small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in South Korea. South Korea could also expect a rising employment rate, due to more business opportunities with North Korea and beyond, and market expansion through the Inter-Korean Cooperation Fund (IKCF). The IKCF was established in 1990 under the Inter-Korean Cooperation Fund Act to promote mutual understanding and socio-economic cooperation between the Koreas. Anticipating lifting of sanctions, South Korea increased its IKCF budget to $890.7m in 2019, a 15 per cent increase in 2018.

With sanctions lifted, South Korea could also expect increased trade and tourism profits by linking railways between the two Koreas. Indeed, one of the main reasons why Kim took the train from North Korea to Vietnam was to send a message to South Korea: if South Korea pushes for an end to sanctions, it could run its railways through the north and connect with trade routes in China, Russia and Vietnam.

But these benefits rely on one key caveat: they will only happen if either North Korea or the US gives way to the other. And until that happens, this chicken-or-egg dilemma will worsen relations between the two Koreas.

Will he or won’t he?

It seems unlikely that Kim will surrender his nuclear programme. As the second summit was staged, on February 27, news broke of another well-known nuclear state, Pakistan, reportedly shooting down Indian military aircraft over Kashmir. The Pakistani prime minister, Imran Khan, immediately called a meeting of Pakistan’s National Command Authority and ordered a no-fly zone over the country, later commenting that given “the weapons they (India) have and we have, can we afford a miscalculation?”

The two events may seem unconnected, but it is highly likely that this has reaffirmed to Kim why he needs nuclear weapons. Remaining a de facto nuclear state is key to Kim ensuring his regime’s survival. Nuclear capability is certainly not something he will readily concede.

It is also doubtful whether Trump truly wants to pay too much attention to North Korea’s denuclearisation and economic development. It’s more likely that Trump is using his summits with Kim to strengthen his own domestic standing. Trump announced he was shelving an earlier second summit last year so he could focus on the mid-term elections – a ploy, perhaps, to attract more votes. And it’s perfectly possible now that he’s using the Hanoi summit to distract people from his ongoing scandals at home. Again, on the day Trump met Kim, Trump’s former lawyer, Michael Cohen, was giving highly critical testimony to Congress about his dealings with Trump.

And so South Korean president Moon Jae-in seems stuck between North Korea and the US – neither of whom seem entirely committed to their summit’s success. Meanwhile, Moon will face growing domestic criticism from conservatives at home over his growing IKCF budget – and the ongoing lack of results. There is still hope for the Korean peninsula, but it is dwindling. And if Moon is to survive, and South Korea is to benefit, he will have to find novel ways of getting Kim and Trump back to the negotiating table. It will be no easy task.

(Sojin Lim is Senior Lecturer, Deputy Director of the International Institute of Korean Studies, University of Central Lancashire)

(This article was originally published on the Conversation. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/north-korea-us-summit-what-its-failure-means-for-the-peninsulas-future-112634">original article)</a>

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

&nbsp;

By Sojin Lim The summit talks between North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, and US President Donald Trump, began in a climate of surprise and expectation in Singapore in June 2018.

By Sojin Lim The summit talks between North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, and US President Donald Trump, began in a climate of surprise and expectation in Singapore in June 2018. They have now ended (for the time being) in disappointment in Hanoi, Vietnam, with Trump walking out. The US president said: “It was all about the sanctions. They wanted the sanctions lifted in their entirety and we couldn’t do that … Sometimes you have to walk and this was one of those times.” But is this the full story? Time will tell. Either way, when Kim and Trump first met last year in Singapore, it was viewed as a victory for Kim’s gesture politics and a ray of hope for stability in the region. But as the latest round of talks ends prematurely without agreement, it seems Vietnam, the host, is the only winner – thanks to the summit drawing attention to the recent success of that country’s impressive economic development. But while the US, North Korea and Vietnam have been dominating headlines, where has South Korea – the other principal stakeholder – been? So far, it seems to have been conspicuously absent. Is this because South Korea was not a part of the armistice agreement (between North Korea, the US, China and the UN) that halted the Korean War? Or is it because South Korea ultimately wouldn’t benefit from any North Korea-US agreement? Certainly, South Korea is an immediate victim of the failed Hanoi summit. As soon as Trump abandoned the talks, the South Korean stock market fell dramatically. If Kim now resumes missile tests, South Korea would be the nation most at threat. Indeed, even if Trump agrees eventually to lift the sanctions on North Korea, it would likely be South Korea that would have to provide most of the financial support to North Korea. The only immediate benefit for South Korea, if future negotiations between Kim and Trump go well, would be a diminished threat of war. Not all doom and gloom But South Korea could also benefit economically – at least in the long term – in a post-sanction environment. It could, for example, reopen the joint Kaesong Industrial Complex, which would benefit some small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in South Korea. South Korea could also expect a rising employment rate, due to more business opportunities with North Korea and beyond, and market expansion through the Inter-Korean Cooperation Fund (IKCF). The IKCF was established in 1990 under the Inter-Korean Cooperation Fund Act to promote mutual understanding and socio-economic cooperation between the Koreas. Anticipating lifting of sanctions, South Korea increased its IKCF budget to $890.7m in 2019, a 15 per cent increase in 2018. With sanctions lifted, South Korea could also expect increased trade and tourism profits by linking railways between the two Koreas. Indeed, one of the main reasons why Kim took the train from North Korea to Vietnam was to send a message to South Korea: if South Korea pushes for an end to sanctions, it could run its railways through the north and connect with trade routes in China, Russia and Vietnam. But these benefits rely on one key caveat: they will only happen if either North Korea or the US gives way to the other. And until that happens, this chicken-or-egg dilemma will worsen relations between the two Koreas. Will he or won’t he? It seems unlikely that Kim will surrender his nuclear programme. As the second summit was staged, on February 27, news broke of another well-known nuclear state, Pakistan, reportedly shooting down Indian military aircraft over Kashmir. The Pakistani prime minister, Imran Khan, immediately called a meeting of Pakistan’s National Command Authority and ordered a no-fly zone over the country, later commenting that given “the weapons they (India) have and we have, can we afford a miscalculation?” The two events may seem unconnected, but it is highly likely that this has reaffirmed to Kim why he needs nuclear weapons. Remaining a de facto nuclear state is key to Kim ensuring his regime’s survival. Nuclear capability is certainly not something he will readily concede. It is also doubtful whether Trump truly wants to pay too much attention to North Korea’s denuclearisation and economic development. It’s more likely that Trump is using his summits with Kim to strengthen his own domestic standing. Trump announced he was shelving an earlier second summit last year so he could focus on the mid-term elections – a ploy, perhaps, to attract more votes. And it’s perfectly possible now that he’s using the Hanoi summit to distract people from his ongoing scandals at home. Again, on the day Trump met Kim, Trump’s former lawyer, Michael Cohen, was giving highly critical testimony to Congress about his dealings with Trump. And so South Korean president Moon Jae-in seems stuck between North Korea and the US – neither of whom seem entirely committed to their summit’s success. Meanwhile, Moon will face growing domestic criticism from conservatives at home over his growing IKCF budget – and the ongoing lack of results. There is still hope for the Korean peninsula, but it is dwindling. And if Moon is to survive, and South Korea is to benefit, he will have to find novel ways of getting Kim and Trump back to the negotiating table. It will be no easy task. (Sojin Lim is Senior Lecturer, Deputy Director of the International Institute of Korean Studies, University of Central Lancashire) (This article was originally published on the Conversation. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

What does the failure of North Korea-US summit mean for Korean peninsula

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said on Thursday he fully backed <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-deal-with-kim-thwarted-by-north-korean-sanction-demands-200231">US President Donald Trump`s decision</a> to end his summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un without an agreement.&nbsp;

"I fully support President Trump`s decision not to make the easy choice," Abe said following a telephone call with Trump.

"I am determined that I must meet Chairman Kim next," he added, reiterating his desire to have a summit with the North Korean leader.

Abe said Trump, at his meeting with Kim in Vietnam, had raised the issue of Japanese citizens abducted by North Koreans agents.&nbsp;

Abe has said Japan would not normalise diplomatic ties with Pyongyang or provide economic assistance until North Korea gave a full accounting of all those taken and return any abductees who are still alive.&nbsp;

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said on Thursday he fully backed US President Donald Trump`s decision to end his summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un without an agreement.

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said on Thursday he fully backed US President Donald Trump`s decision to end his summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un without an agreement. "I fully support President Trump`s decision not to make the easy choice," Abe said following a telephone call with Trump. "I am determined that I must meet Chairman Kim next," he added, reiterating his desire to have a summit with the North Korean leader. Abe said Trump, at his meeting with Kim in Vietnam, had raised the issue of Japanese citizens abducted by North Koreans agents. Abe has said Japan would not normalise diplomatic ties with Pyongyang or provide economic assistance until North Korea gave a full accounting of all those taken and return any abductees who are still alive.

Japanese PM Abe says fully backs Trump over North Korea no deal

Sales at Kim Chang-bae's hardware shop in South Korea rise every year thanks to Camp Humphreys, an enormous US military base he is frightened will close in the wake of the summit between <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/north-koreas-kim-sets-off-by-train-to-vietnam-for-summit-with-trump-report-199156">Kim Jong Un</a> and <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-rules-out-reducing-us-troops-from-south-korea-199062">Donald Trump</a>.

More than 28,000 US troops are stationed in the South to guard against nuclear-armed North Korea, part of a Seoul-Washington security alliance in place since the Korean war ended with an armistice instead of a peace treaty.

But with talks between the North Korean and US leaders in Hanoi just days away, speculation is building that the pair could agree to a treaty in return for denuclearisation measures from Pyongyang -- and that the withdrawal of US troops might follow.

For South Koreans dependent on US troops to make a living -- like Kim Chang-bae -- that is a worrisome prospect.

"Without the presence of US soldiers, many businesses, including mine, will lose their main source of income," said Kim, who sells bolts and screwdrivers to Americans stationed at Camp Humphreys, 60 kilometres south of Seoul.

"It's a nightmare scenario."

Camp Humphreys, in the city of Pyeongtaek, is the US' largest overseas military base, stretching across 14.7 square kilometres to accommodate 32,000 people -- soldiers and their families.&nbsp;

The camp -- home to almost all of the US troops in South Korea -- boasts a fleet of Blackhawk and Apache helicopters, a bowling alley, an 18-hole golf course, multiple schools, churches and cinemas.

Hundreds of restaurants and shops ranging from nail salons to tattoo parlours have set up around the base, which is in the final stages of an expansion project that will see its capacity rise to 43,000 people by 2022.

"It does worry me that they could leave the country," said Choi Eun-hee, who has run a Turkish restaurant just a few steps from Camp Humphreys for a decade. "At least 80 per cent of our customers are US soldiers".

'We go together'&nbsp;

Choi, 43, attended a rally last month, where dozens from the community demanded US troops remain.&nbsp;

When AFP visited, banners reading "Anti-Americans, Get Out" and "We Go Together" were strung up among a cluster of American and South Korean flags.

Shop owner Kim, 57, who is head of the local merchants' association representing 230 business owners, said Americans in uniform had become a "hallmark of the city's character".&nbsp;

If the war were to be officially declared over at the Hanoi summit -- the second between Trump and Kim after the two met in Singapore last year -- and a peace treaty subsequently signed, Pyongyang could raise objections over the presence of US troops in the South, analysts say.

South Korean president Moon Jae-in has tried to quell concerns, saying in January that the North Korean leader had told him the end of war declaration had "nothing to do" with US forces in the South.

"Kim Jong Un understands that the issue is entirely up to the decision of South Korea and the US," Moon said.&nbsp;

But Seoul has "no reasons to believe" Kim Jong Un's quoted assurance at face value, Kim Sung-han, professor of international relations at Korea University, told AFP.

"North Korea is expected to say the US military presence in the South poses a serious threat to its security... It could claim true peace is only possible when US troops are out of here."&nbsp;

Trump factor

Even if a peace treaty is not secured in Hanoi, there is no guarantee US troops will remain with a highly unpredictable president at the helm who has flip-flopped on the issue of their long-term stay.

Trump said on Friday that reducing US forces in the South "was not one of the things on the table" at the summit -- but he has repeatedly complained about the expense of keeping them there.&nbsp;

Seoul agreed earlier this month to hike its payment for maintaining the troops on its soil, but since the new deal is only valid for one year, the two sides may soon have to return to the negotiating table.&nbsp;

Song Wol-sook, 46, who runs a nail salon, said US withdrawal would leave South Koreans feeling isolated and alone in their own city, with a bleak future. &nbsp; &nbsp;

"It will leave pretty much every business here in ruins, including mine."

Sales at Kim Chang-bae's hardware shop in South Korea rise every year thanks to Camp Humphreys, an enormous US military base he is frightened will close in the wake of the summit between Kim Jong Un and Donald Trump.

Sales at Kim Chang-bae's hardware shop in South Korea rise every year thanks to Camp Humphreys, an enormous US military base he is frightened will close in the wake of the summit between Kim Jong Un and Donald Trump. More than 28,000 US troops are stationed in the South to guard against nuclear-armed North Korea, part of a Seoul-Washington security alliance in place since the Korean war ended with an armistice instead of a peace treaty. But with talks between the North Korean and US leaders in Hanoi just days away, speculation is building that the pair could agree to a treaty in return for denuclearisation measures from Pyongyang -- and that the withdrawal of US troops might follow. For South Koreans dependent on US troops to make a living -- like Kim Chang-bae -- that is a worrisome prospect. "Without the presence of US soldiers, many businesses, including mine, will lose their main source of income," said Kim, who sells bolts and screwdrivers to Americans stationed at Camp Humphreys, 60 kilometres south of Seoul. "It's a nightmare scenario." Camp Humphreys, in the city of Pyeongtaek, is the US' largest overseas military base, stretching across 14.7 square kilometres to accommodate 32,000 people -- soldiers and their families. The camp -- home to almost all of the US troops in South Korea -- boasts a fleet of Blackhawk and Apache helicopters, a bowling alley, an 18-hole golf course, multiple schools, churches and cinemas. Hundreds of restaurants and shops ranging from nail salons to tattoo parlours have set up around the base, which is in the final stages of an expansion project that will see its capacity rise to 43,000 people by 2022. "It does worry me that they could leave the country," said Choi Eun-hee, who has run a Turkish restaurant just a few steps from Camp Humphreys for a decade. "At least 80 per cent of our customers are US soldiers". 'We go together' Choi, 43, attended a rally last month, where dozens from the community demanded US troops remain. When AFP visited, banners reading "Anti-Americans, Get Out" and "We Go Together" were strung up among a cluster of American and South Korean flags. Shop owner Kim, 57, who is head of the local merchants' association representing 230 business owners, said Americans in uniform had become a "hallmark of the city's character". If the war were to be officially declared over at the Hanoi summit -- the second between Trump and Kim after the two met in Singapore last year -- and a peace treaty subsequently signed, Pyongyang could raise objections over the presence of US troops in the South, analysts say. South Korean president Moon Jae-in has tried to quell concerns, saying in January that the North Korean leader had told him the end of war declaration had "nothing to do" with US forces in the South. "Kim Jong Un understands that the issue is entirely up to the decision of South Korea and the US," Moon said. But Seoul has "no reasons to believe" Kim Jong Un's quoted assurance at face value, Kim Sung-han, professor of international relations at Korea University, told AFP. "North Korea is expected to say the US military presence in the South poses a serious threat to its security... It could claim true peace is only possible when US troops are out of here." Trump factor Even if a peace treaty is not secured in Hanoi, there is no guarantee US troops will remain with a highly unpredictable president at the helm who has flip-flopped on the issue of their long-term stay. Trump said on Friday that reducing US forces in the South "was not one of the things on the table" at the summit -- but he has repeatedly complained about the expense of keeping them there. Seoul agreed earlier this month to hike its payment for maintaining the troops on its soil, but since the new deal is only valid for one year, the two sides may soon have to return to the negotiating table. Song Wol-sook, 46, who runs a nail salon, said US withdrawal would leave South Koreans feeling isolated and alone in their own city, with a bleak future. "It will leave pretty much every business here in ruins, including mine."

South Koreans fearful of 'nightmare' US troop withdrawal

President Donald Trump on Friday ruled out reducing US forces from South Korea as part of a deal in his upcoming summit with North Korea.

"No, it's not. That is not one of the things on the table," Trump said when asked if he would consider pulling some of the 28,500 troops from South Korea.

Trump, answering questions as he met at the White House with a senior Chinese official, said that he would not reveal his bargaining cards ahead of next week's summit in Hanoi.

Pressed on what he would offer, Trump quipped: "Everything is on the table."

Trump again hailed his relations with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, whom he met in June in Singapore in the first-ever summit between the two adversaries.

The US leader will face pressure to produce more concrete results when they meet over two days at their second summit.

The businessman turned president has long mused about withdrawing US troops from allies, seeing them as an expense shouldered by the United States by countries that are often commercial competitors.

Heightening speculation that troops could be on the table, the United States and South Korea have been struggling to finalize a new arrangement on how much Seoul will pay for the US military presence, with the Trump administration pressing for more.

North Korea has never formally ended the 1950-53 war with its neighbor and officially is seeking reunification with the South.

But any bid to remove US troops would face strong pushback from the US Congress and Japan, whose conservative government is deeply wary of North Korea's intentions.

And South Korean President Moon Jae-in has shown little interest in booting out US troops, in contrast with some of his predecessors who shared his left-of-center ideology. 
&nbsp;

President Donald Trump on Friday ruled out reducing US forces from South Korea as part of a deal in his upcoming summit with North Korea. "No, it's not. That is not one of the things on the table," Trump said when asked if he would consider pulling some of the 28,500 troops from South Korea.

President Donald Trump on Friday ruled out reducing US forces from South Korea as part of a deal in his upcoming summit with North Korea. "No, it's not. That is not one of the things on the table," Trump said when asked if he would consider pulling some of the 28,500 troops from South Korea. Trump, answering questions as he met at the White House with a senior Chinese official, said that he would not reveal his bargaining cards ahead of next week's summit in Hanoi. Pressed on what he would offer, Trump quipped: "Everything is on the table." Trump again hailed his relations with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, whom he met in June in Singapore in the first-ever summit between the two adversaries. The US leader will face pressure to produce more concrete results when they meet over two days at their second summit. The businessman turned president has long mused about withdrawing US troops from allies, seeing them as an expense shouldered by the United States by countries that are often commercial competitors. Heightening speculation that troops could be on the table, the United States and South Korea have been struggling to finalize a new arrangement on how much Seoul will pay for the US military presence, with the Trump administration pressing for more. North Korea has never formally ended the 1950-53 war with its neighbor and officially is seeking reunification with the South. But any bid to remove US troops would face strong pushback from the US Congress and Japan, whose conservative government is deeply wary of North Korea's intentions. And South Korean President Moon Jae-in has shown little interest in booting out US troops, in contrast with some of his predecessors who shared his left-of-center ideology.

Trump rules out reducing US troops from South Korea

Time has come for world to unite in fight against terrorism: PM Modi in South Korea

Prime Minister&nbsp;Modi will be conferred Seoul Peace Prize on the second day of his visit to South Korea.

The prize, which was&nbsp;announced by the Seoul Peace Prize Cultural Foundation in October last year in recognition of his dedicated service to international cooperation, global growth, and human development, will be given to PM Modi on Friday afternoon at a brief ceremony.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/day-1-of-modis-south-korea-visit-cultural-connect-dominates-agenda-pm-meets-indian-community-business-leaders-198789">India and South Korea</a> are also likely to sign a few MoUs during the summit between PM Modi and South Korean President Moon Jae-in at the Blue House, which is the Korean Presidential Office.

This is the Prime Minister’s second visit to the Republic of Korea after his state visit in May 2015. Before embarking on the visit the Prime Minister described South Korea as a valued friend with which India shares special strategic partnership initiatives such as ‘Make in India,’ ‘Start-Up India’ and ‘Clean India’.

PM Modi on Thursday gifted a ‘Bodhi' tree sapling to Mayor of Gimhae Heo Seong gon as a mark of close ties between India and South Korea.

Spokesperson of Ministry of External Affairs Raveesh Kumar took to Twitter to inform: “Mayor of #Gimhae Heo Seong gon called on PM @narendramodi in #Seoul. PM gifted a Bodhi tree sapling as a mark of close ties between our two countries.” “Gimhae and Ayodhya have sister-city relationship,” Kumar added.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Reinforcing the historical &amp; civilizational linkages between India &amp; Korea. 
 
Mayor of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Gimhae?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Gimhae</a> Heo Seong gon called on PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Seoul?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Seoul</a>. PM gifted a Bodhi tree sapling as a mark of close ties between our two countries. Gimhae and Ayodhya have sister-city relationship. <a href="https://t.co/ES2XBwH7Tx">pic.twitter.com/ES2XBwH7Tx</a>
— Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/1098507258038603781?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 21, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

He also unveiled a bust of Mahatma Gandhi at Yonsei University in Seoul. The President of the Republic of Korea Moon Jae-in, First Lady of the Republic of Korea, Kim Jung-sook, and former Secretary General of the United Nations, Ban Ki-moon, were present on the occasion.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-aims-to-be-among-worlds-top-3-economies-in-next-15-years-modi-address-indian-diaspora-in-seoul-198783">Speaking on the occasion</a>, the prime&nbsp;minister described it as an honour to unveil the bust of Bapu at Yonsei University. “This becomes even more special because we are doing so at a time when we mark the 150th birth anniversary of Bapu,” the Prime Minister said.

“Through his lifestyle, Bapu showed what living in harmony with nature is, and how one can minimise one’s carbon footprint. He also showed that it is important to leave a clean and green planet for the future generations,” the Prime Minister said.

He also addressed ‘India-ROK Business Symposium’ where he said that “India today, a country of 1.25 billion people, is going through a great transition. It is changing from an agriculture-dominated economy to an economy led by industry and services; an economy that is closed to one that is globally inter-linked; an economy that is known for its red tape, to one known for its red carpet.”

“India has emerged as a land of opportunities. While we work for realizing the ‘Indian Dream’, we seek like-minded partners. And, among them, we see South Korea is truly a natural partner. India-Korea Business relations have come a long way in the past decade, and especially closer in the last few years,” he said.

“India is among top 10 trade partners of Korea and India is the 6th largest export destination for Korean goods. Our trade volume has reached 21.5 billion US dollars for the calendar year 2018. The negotiations to upgrade the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement have been fast-tracked to achieve the bilateral trade target of 50 billion US dollars by 2030,” he added.

Prime Minister Modi reached Seoul early on Thursday morning on a two-day visit aimed at strengthening the special strategic partnership between South Korea and Indian and boosting bilateral trade and cultural ties.

Prime Minister Modi will be conferred Seoul Peace Prize on the second day of his visit to South Korea. The prize, which was announced by the Seoul Peace Prize Cultural Foundation in October last year in recognition of his dedicated service to international cooperation, global growth, and human development, will be given to PM Modi on Friday afternoon at a brief ceremony.

Prime Minister Modi will be conferred Seoul Peace Prize on the second day of his visit to South Korea. The prize, which was announced by the Seoul Peace Prize Cultural Foundation in October last year in recognition of his dedicated service to international cooperation, global growth, and human development, will be given to PM Modi on Friday afternoon at a brief ceremony. India and South Korea are also likely to sign a few MoUs during the summit between PM Modi and South Korean President Moon Jae-in at the Blue House, which is the Korean Presidential Office. This is the Prime Minister’s second visit to the Republic of Korea after his state visit in May 2015. Before embarking on the visit the Prime Minister described South Korea as a valued friend with which India shares special strategic partnership initiatives such as ‘Make in India,’ ‘Start-Up India’ and ‘Clean India’. PM Modi on Thursday gifted a ‘Bodhi' tree sapling to Mayor of Gimhae Heo Seong gon as a mark of close ties between India and South Korea. Spokesperson of Ministry of External Affairs Raveesh Kumar took to Twitter to inform: “Mayor of #Gimhae Heo Seong gon called on PM @narendramodi in #Seoul. PM gifted a Bodhi tree sapling as a mark of close ties between our two countries.” “Gimhae and Ayodhya have sister-city relationship,” Kumar added. Reinforcing the historical & civilizational linkages between India & Korea. Mayor of #Gimhae Heo Seong gon called on PM @narendramodi in #Seoul. PM gifted a Bodhi tree sapling as a mark of close ties between our two countries. Gimhae and Ayodhya have sister-city relationship. pic.twitter.com/ES2XBwH7Tx — Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) February 21, 2019 × He also unveiled a bust of Mahatma Gandhi at Yonsei University in Seoul. The President of the Republic of Korea Moon Jae-in, First Lady of the Republic of Korea, Kim Jung-sook, and former Secretary General of the United Nations, Ban Ki-moon, were present on the occasion. Speaking on the occasion, the prime minister described it as an honour to unveil the bust of Bapu at Yonsei University. “This becomes even more special because we are doing so at a time when we mark the 150th birth anniversary of Bapu,” the Prime Minister said. “Through his lifestyle, Bapu showed what living in harmony with nature is, and how one can minimise one’s carbon footprint. He also showed that it is important to leave a clean and green planet for the future generations,” the Prime Minister said. He also addressed ‘India-ROK Business Symposium’ where he said that “India today, a country of 1.25 billion people, is going through a great transition. It is changing from an agriculture-dominated economy to an economy led by industry and services; an economy that is closed to one that is globally inter-linked; an economy that is known for its red tape, to one known for its red carpet.” “India has emerged as a land of opportunities. While we work for realizing the ‘Indian Dream’, we seek like-minded partners. And, among them, we see South Korea is truly a natural partner. India-Korea Business relations have come a long way in the past decade, and especially closer in the last few years,” he said. “India is among top 10 trade partners of Korea and India is the 6th largest export destination for Korean goods. Our trade volume has reached 21.5 billion US dollars for the calendar year 2018. The negotiations to upgrade the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement have been fast-tracked to achieve the bilateral trade target of 50 billion US dollars by 2030,” he added. Prime Minister Modi reached Seoul early on Thursday morning on a two-day visit aimed at strengthening the special strategic partnership between South Korea and Indian and boosting bilateral trade and cultural ties.

PM Modi to receive Seoul Peace Prize in South Korea today

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday called on the world to speak in one voice on the issue of terror and thanked South Korean President Moon Jae-in for his country's support.

While standing alongside President Moon PM Modi said, "I thank President Moon for his support. On counter terror, we will increase cooperation. The world has to move beyond just talks now."

President Moon condemned the Pulwama terror attack. India's Home Ministry and South Korea's national police signed an MoU on "Transnational crimes and police cooperation" to act tough on terror.&nbsp;

PM Modi emphasised economic cooperation and stated, "the South Korean model is the best for India"

India is among the top 10 trade partners of South Korea and the 6th largest export destination for Korean goods. The trade volume between the two nations reached 21.5 billion dollars for the calendar year 2018 with both aiming to achieve&nbsp;$50 billion trade by 2030. Both sides have also fast-tracked the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA).

The Prime Minister further said, "India's Act East and Korea's new southern policy is strengthening and giving depth to the strategic partnership between the two countries".&nbsp;

PM Modi reiterated India's policy on the inclusivity and centrality of the Indo-Pacific and the ASEAN. The MoUs between India and South Korea were signed in the field of trade and industry, startup, communication.

The Prime Minister started his day by paying his respects at the National Cemetery in Seoul.&nbsp;

On day one, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-to-receive-seoul-peace-prize-in-south-korea-today-198843">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> addressed South Korean business leaders, unveiled a bust of Mahatma Gandhi at the Seoul Campus of the Yonsei University and interacted with the Indian community in the country.

Addressing the Indian community in the evening, a permanent fixture in his agenda overseas, he talked about economic reforms brought about by his government and how Goods and Service Tax (GST) united the country economically. He said, "India is the brightest spot for investment in the world".

At the Seoul Campus of the Yonsei University the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-is-a-land-of-opportunities-pm-modi-in-south-korea-198728">Prime Minister</a>, in the presence of the South Korean President, unveiled a bust of Mahatma Gandhi. Established in 1885, it is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the country.

Speaking at the unveiling event the PM said, "the father of the nation Mahatma Gandhi can show the way in dealing with issues like climate change and terror."&nbsp;

PM Modi also addressed&nbsp;South Korean business leaders at the India-Korea Business Symposium and launched the India-Korea Startup Hub.

The Prime Minister also gifted a sapling of holy Bodhi tree to the people of Kimhae through the mayor of Kimhae Heo Seong Gon. Kimhae city has a historic connect with India, it is believed that Princess Suriratna of Ayodhya had gone there in 48 CE and married Korean King Suro and started a dynasty. Princess Suriratna is known as Heo Hwang-ok in South Korea.&nbsp;

The First Lady of South Korea, Kim Jung-Sook, visited Ayodhya in November 2018 to participate in the ground-breaking ceremony of the Queen Suriratna Memorial in the city. Gimhae and Ayodhya have a sister-city relationship.

PM Modi had visited South Korea in May 2015 while South Korean president Moon Jae-in visited&nbsp;India in July 2018.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday called on the world to speak in one voice on the issue of terror and thanked South Korean President Moon Jae-in for his country's support.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday called on the world to speak in one voice on the issue of terror and thanked South Korean President Moon Jae-in for his country's support. While standing alongside President Moon PM Modi said, "I thank President Moon for his support. On counter terror, we will increase cooperation. The world has to move beyond just talks now." President Moon condemned the Pulwama terror attack. India's Home Ministry and South Korea's national police signed an MoU on "Transnational crimes and police cooperation" to act tough on terror. PM Modi emphasised economic cooperation and stated, "the South Korean model is the best for India" India is among the top 10 trade partners of South Korea and the 6th largest export destination for Korean goods. The trade volume between the two nations reached 21.5 billion dollars for the calendar year 2018 with both aiming to achieve $50 billion trade by 2030. Both sides have also fast-tracked the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). The Prime Minister further said, "India's Act East and Korea's new southern policy is strengthening and giving depth to the strategic partnership between the two countries". PM Modi reiterated India's policy on the inclusivity and centrality of the Indo-Pacific and the ASEAN. The MoUs between India and South Korea were signed in the field of trade and industry, startup, communication. The Prime Minister started his day by paying his respects at the National Cemetery in Seoul. On day one, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed South Korean business leaders, unveiled a bust of Mahatma Gandhi at the Seoul Campus of the Yonsei University and interacted with the Indian community in the country. Addressing the Indian community in the evening, a permanent fixture in his agenda overseas, he talked about economic reforms brought about by his government and how Goods and Service Tax (GST) united the country economically. He said, "India is the brightest spot for investment in the world". At the Seoul Campus of the Yonsei University the Prime Minister, in the presence of the South Korean President, unveiled a bust of Mahatma Gandhi. Established in 1885, it is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the country. Speaking at the unveiling event the PM said, "the father of the nation Mahatma Gandhi can show the way in dealing with issues like climate change and terror." PM Modi also addressed South Korean business leaders at the India-Korea Business Symposium and launched the India-Korea Startup Hub. The Prime Minister also gifted a sapling of holy Bodhi tree to the people of Kimhae through the mayor of Kimhae Heo Seong Gon. Kimhae city has a historic connect with India, it is believed that Princess Suriratna of Ayodhya had gone there in 48 CE and married Korean King Suro and started a dynasty. Princess Suriratna is known as Heo Hwang-ok in South Korea. The First Lady of South Korea, Kim Jung-Sook, visited Ayodhya in November 2018 to participate in the ground-breaking ceremony of the Queen Suriratna Memorial in the city. Gimhae and Ayodhya have a sister-city relationship. PM Modi had visited South Korea in May 2015 while South Korean president Moon Jae-in visited India in July 2018.

World has to move beyond talks on terror: PM Modi in South Korea

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