CORRECTED - UPDATE 1-US ITC bars Samsung from importing some LCD devices

* U.S. trade body backs import bar over four patents

* Sharp had filed complaint

(Corrects lead and paragraph two to show import bar is recommendation, not an order)

WASHINGTON, Nov 9 (Reuters) - Sharp Corp (6753.T), a major manufacturer of liquid crystal displays, has convinced a U.S. trade body to back an order that would stop its South Korean rival, Samsung Electronics Co Ltd (005930.KS), from importing the devices because of patent infringement.

The U.S. International Trade Commission ruled on Monday that Samsung infringed Sharp patents and should no longer sell infringing devices in the United States. LCDs are used for television screens and computer monitors.

The decision upholds a ruling by an ITC administrative law judge, who had found that Samsung infringed four patents and recommended that the commission issue a limited exclusion order barring the infringing technology from being imported into the United States.

The four patents improve picture quality. The patented technology improves the picture for viewers sitting on the side. It also improves the speed with which the screen can change the image, which is important for viewing sports.

Sharp, the world's fourth-largest LCD television maker, and market leader Samsung face cut-throat price competition and weak demand for bigger TVs with higher profit margins.

Sharp filed the complaint against Samsung with the ITC in March 2008.

Sharp had initially sued Samsung over liquid crystal display patent violations in 2007 in a Texas court, and Samsung promptly countersued in both Texas and in Delaware.

In June, the ITC ruled that Sharp had infringed one Samsung patent, and issued a limited exclusion order banning imports of some Sharp products into the United States.

Patent suits, appeals and settlements are often a long prelude to a cross-license agreement.

The case before the U.S. International Trade Commission is investigation No. 337-TA-631. (Reporting by Diane Bartz; Editing by Tim Dobbyn)