DIPLOMATS could be on the verge of a breakthrough in negotiating an end to North Korea’s nuclear programme, it emerged yesterday.

RENEWING fears of a nuclear crisis in the region, North Korea yesterday said it will immediately reactivate a frozen nuclear programme the United States suspects was being used to develop weapons.

SOUTH KOREA'S president has overhauled his Cabinet, bringing on seven new ministers - including a female prime minister, an appointment that reflects a major departure from tradition in this male-dominated society.