SEOUL – South Korea has reported 950 new coronavirus cases, its largest daily increase since the emergence of the pandemic, as fears grow about overwhelmed hospitals in the greater capital area.
The decision to lift travel restrictions came after New Zealand went 28 days without a local case.
Germany had sought an open meeting but Russia and China, both neighbors of North Korea, objected.
Seven council members -- Germany, Belgium, Dominican Republic, Estonia, France, United Kingdom and United States -- joined by Japan said in the statement that North Korea was putting nuclear power and military might over its people.
North Korea sealed its border with China, its biggest trading partner and aid benefactor, as the coronavirus started spreading in January.