South Korea sends delegates to US

The South Korean government is sending delegates to the US for talks on a controversial beef deal that has triggered weeks of protests.



The envoys are to meet US officials to discuss changes to the April deal, under which South Korea agreed to resume US beef imports.



Protesters said the move does not protect them from mad cow disease, despite assurances to the contrary.



President Lee Myung-bak\'s popularity has reportedly plummeted over the issue.



Last week, the ruling party suffered a heavy defeat in its first electoral test since Mr. Lee took office - in sharp contrast to its election victory late last year.



Some reports have suggested that a Cabinet reshuffle could be imminent.