Japan says approved export to South Korea after strict examination

Japan has granted approval for exports of some high-tech material to South Korea for the first time since tighter export curbs were imposed last month, the government's chief spokesman said on Thursday.

"After a strict examination, the Ministry of Economy Trade and Industry determined that there was no national security concern over this first case and so approved the export application," Yoshihide Suga told a regular briefing. He said the industry minister would give greater details at a briefing later on Thursday.