Our top story this lunchtime...
The country's ruling party, government and presidential office held their first policy coordination meeting of the year this morning -- discussing a range of pending issues from the upcoming Winter Olympics to last week's tragic hospital fire in Miyrang.
Kim Min-ji starts us off.
South Korea's ruling party, government and presidential office have vowed all out efforts for the successful hosting of the PyeongChang Winter Olympics.
This came during their first policy meeting of the year on Monday,... where they said the event will be an opportunity to raise Korea's national status and brand value as well as reduce geopolitical risks.
The ruling bloc called on the opposition to avoid causing political strife regarding North Korea's participation.

"It's foolish and regretful to use this prime opportunity to raise the country's status to trigger a political conflict. Now is the time to lay low and put down our respective interests -- and instead ask for the understanding of the people and cooperation from the opposition. Nobody can guarantee what will happen on the peninsula afterwards -- that is why we need more effort and sincerity. We believe the Olympics will not just bring economic benefits,... but will be a step towards protecting the peninsula from the threat of war."

And to further promote participation -- the government is also considering offering temporary visa waiver programs for Chinese visitors as well as Southeast Asia tour groups that have tickets for Olympic events.
In addition, drivers will be exempt from paying toll fees on eight highways near Olympic venues over the Lunar New Year holidays,... which fall between February 15th and 18th this year.

As for the hospital fire in Miyrang last week that killed 39 people,... the three sides promised to swiftly find the exact cause of fire,... as well as support the injured and the families of the bereaved.
They also agreed to step up safety inspections and take necessary measures to prevent further accidents.

"We will make sure there's no negligence in supporting the bereaved families... and in dealing with the aftermath of the disaster. From the cause of the fire and who is responsible... and to prevent this from happening again. We will be carrying out a full inspection of facilities,... and implement overall safety measures."

They also promised to cooperate so that the National Assembly can pass urgent bills related to people's livelihoods and safety during the February parliamentary session,... to ensure that people have peace of mind over the Lunar New holiday break.
Kim Min-ji, Arirang News.