Who purchases gold at the mine from mining companies?

BigE

I noticed S.Korea bought 25 tons @ 1543 an ounce, though this was a month or so ago, I believe they got a little break on price. Who are the middle men? How do they ship?. How are they paid? In other words anyone know the details or good articles to read. Does a major buyer just call the mine and work a deal? Anyway, you get the gist of the question, lets discuss-------------------BigE