Seoul - Thousands of South Koreans took to the streets again Wednesday to protest the government's decision resume imports of US beef after a five-year ban.

A crackdown by riot police resulted in the arrests of 211 people, but did little to stem a spread of demonstrations that began after Seoul agreed to resume US beef imports this month.

During an April 18 meeting in Washington, the government accepted the US demand to reopen the South Korean beef market, which used to be one of top three markets for US ranchers.

The decision prompted angry protests because of lingering fears about mad-cow disease and opposition from Korean cattle farmers.

The deal allows initial imports of US beef from cattle younger than 30 months. Younger cows are believed to be at lower risk from mad cow disease.

It also calls for allowing imports from older stock after the US industry implements improved safety requirements.

The beef ban was a major stumbling block for ratification of the comprehensive free trade pact negotiated by the two countries. That agreement is still awaiting approval by South Korea's parliament and US Congress. (dpa)