SEOUL, May 13 (Reuters) - The second of three South Korean expert panels recommended approval on Monday for Moderna's coronavirus vaccine, based on its safety and efficacy in Phase 3 trials in the United States, the drug safety ministry said.

After the pharmaceutical panel's backing, the next step is review by a third panel, before the ministry makes a final approval decision. (Reporting by Hyonhee Shin; Editing by Clarence Fernandez)