SOUTH KOREA IGNORES THE IDIOTS

South Korean President Roh Moo-hyun, defying a large weekend protest in the streets of Seoul, yesterday signaled that he would respond positively to the Bush administration's request and send combat troops to Iraq.

Although Mr. Roh did not specifically refer to Iraq in remarks to senior U.S. military officers ahead of the 50th anniversary of the U.S.-South Korea military alliance, he said his country would contribute to international stability as an expression of gratitude for five decades of U.S. assistance.

"The South Korean people are well aware of getting consistent help in the past 50 years," he said. "South Korea will be able to repay for the big help by contributing to world peace."