By Kim Minji 

The New York Times on July 14 in New York said it will move part of its Hong Kong office to Seoul next year.

The decision comes amid a national security law recently passed by China that has fueled uncertainty over Hong Kong's status as a journalism hub in Asia, especially over issues such as securing work permits for staff.

To reduce such uncertainty due to the law, the U.S. daily will move its digital news team, accounting for roughly a third of its Hong Kong staff, to Seoul.

"Korea proved attractive, among other reasons, for its friendliness to foreign business, independent press, and its central role in several major Asian news stories," The Times said in explaining why it chose Seoul over other Asian candidates like Bangkok, Singapore and Tokyo.

The print production team for the daily's International Edition and staff for advertising and marketing are expected to stay in Hong Kong.

The Times operates digital news around the clock via its headquarters in New York and offices in London and Hong Kong.

"Hong Kong has served as the Asian hub for English-language media thanks to its openness to foreign companies, proximity to mainland China and rich tradition of freedom of the press," the daily said.

kimmj7725@korea.kr