China, Japan, Korea, and South East Asia: trade, technology, security, and the domestic politics that shape all three across the region’s largest economies.
Vintage Violence, directed by Eugene Kotlyarenko, launches with a vertical livestream of an urbex influencer exploring a deserted American house, immediately establishing a chaotic aesthetic. The story follows Carter, played by Cole Sprouse, who has just been released from prison after serving time for an accidental death, and he stumbles upon a crate of untouched 19th‑century Levi’s jeans. Izumi, portrayed by Kiko Mizuhara, watches the livestream from Tokyo, buys tokens, and texts Carter an invitation to Japan, promising a lucrative denim resale and a budding romance. Kotlyarenko weaves a fragmented narrative that splits into multiple timelines, introducing yakuza figures like Edoga, a denim‑obsessed nepo‑baby, and Ko, a prosthetic‑armed avenger who sprays enemies with a mix of fentanyl, ketamine, meth, and tirzepatide. The film’s humor relies on language jokes, such as Carter confusing “saiko” with “psycho,” and draws heavily on the visual style of Seijun Suzuki and the brutality of Takashi Miike. Critics note that while the characters lack sympathy, the frenetic camerawork, denim‑lined rooms, and over‑the‑top violence keep the audience engaged. Ultimately, the review finds the film too much, with its overstimulation and performative anti‑foreign sentiment undermining its potential for deeper storytelling.
During a preview of SBS Running Man episode 820, actress Ji Ye Eun addressed circulating rumors that she was pregnant before marriage. She stated she is not pregnant and has no immediate plans to start a family, adding that she and her fiancé, dancer Vata, will enjoy their newlywed life first. Ji highlighted Vata’s supportive nature, noting that he was a comforting presence while she recovered from thyroid cancer surgery. She said his kindness, even during disagreements, and his steadfast support during illness were decisive factors in her decision to marry. The couple announced their relationship in April and will formalize their marriage on Vata’s birthday, December 12. The announcement was met with a celebratory party by Running Man members.
True Fitness and True Yoga have entered provisional liquidation, leaving customers and employees in a state of shock. The Consumer Association of Singapore reports that losses exceeding $600,000 have been lodged by members regarding unused memberships and service packages. Many clients discovered the closure through mobile apps or shuttered storefronts, with some having recently purchased new training sessions.
Employees were reportedly briefed in sudden batches by liquidation representatives rather than company management. Staff members expressed frustration over the lack of human resources support and the uncertainty regarding their unpaid wages. While employees have been advised to file claims with the liquidator, they have been warned that there are no guarantees of full reimbursement.
The closure follows a trend of fitness operators struggling with rising rents, intense market competition, and high startup costs. Industry experts note that the difficulty of retaining clients in a saturated market often leads to cash flow instability. This collapse follows similar recent liquidations of other local gym brands, highlighting the financial volatility within the regional fitness sector.
Scientists from the University of Graz, Lincoln, Bristol, Beijing, and Tempe have used fossils from Inner Mongolia to recreate the chirps of nine Jurassic grasshopper species. The study, published in the journal PNAS, analyzed the wing‑ridge structures that produced stridulations, allowing researchers to estimate the pitch and rhythm of the insects' calls. By combining fossil morphology with AI‑assisted simulations, the team generated audio files that show frequencies ranging from low, cricket‑like tones to high, leafhopper‑like sounds. Remarkably, one species, Sigmaboilus peregrinus, produced ultrasonic calls between 20 and 22 kilohertz - well above human hearing and predating the first known bats. This finding challenges the idea that high‑frequency insect sounds evolved solely to evade bat predation and suggests alternative drivers such as predator avoidance or mating strategies. The reconstruction demonstrates that the Jurassic period had a far richer and more diverse acoustic landscape than previously understood. The work also marks the oldest known reproduction of animal sound, providing a new window into prehistoric ecosystems.
Nintendo’s upcoming Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time remake is slated for a rumored release on November 12, 2026, according to a Twitter/X leak. The leak, posted by GameVerse, lists the remake alongside other Nintendo projects such as Switch Sports Resort and Metroid: Ravenous. Nintendo confirmed that a dedicated Nintendo Direct will air on September 8, 2026, where the company is expected to disclose the official release date and additional details. The remake’s teaser, which shows Link waking up in his own bed, was the only official footage released earlier this year. If the rumored date holds, the game would launch a week before GTA VI, potentially capturing a sizable share of the holiday‑season market. Fans have expressed excitement over the prospect of a modern remake of the classic 1998 title, hoping for updated graphics and gameplay. The Nintendo Direct will also cover other Zelda projects, offering a broader look at the franchise’s future. Until the Direct, the November 12 date remains unconfirmed, and some titles on the leak lack official validation. Players are encouraged to tune in to the Direct for confirmation and further insights into the remake’s features. The announcement underscores Nintendo’s strategy of staggering releases to maximize visibility during peak gaming periods.
In central Java, a group of former song‑bird hunters has abandoned the trade and now works to restore the Menoreh Hills habitat. The Menoreh Hills, a karst UNESCO biosphere reserve, once suffered severe declines of the Javan blue flycatcher as hunters raided nests for lucrative markets. Recent IUCN assessments show that captive populations outnumber wild birds by at least tenfold, with fewer than 1,000 individuals left in low‑lying forests. After the hunters stopped, local authorities banned the practice, and residents began planting fruit trees, nectar‑rich flowers and sorghum to attract and support nesting birds. Community‑led mapping of bird corridors and springs has identified critical watering sites, and a grassroots organization now records sightings to guide conservation planning. Conservationists such as Tegar Cahaya Putra and Arif Rudiyanto from Kanopi Indonesia Foundation collaborate with landowners to prevent clear‑cutting and protect nesting grounds. The combined efforts have already led to a modest rise in blue flycatcher sightings, giving hope that the species can recover before climate change and habitat loss worsen.
Mark Lee, the former SM Entertainment artist, announced his solo comeback with the release of his single "My Friend" slated for September 10 at 1 p.m. KST. The announcement came from his agency on September 2, accompanied by a music‑video teaser that showcases a picturesque, cinematic backdrop. The teaser hints at a vibrant, upbeat track that marks Lee’s return to the music scene after his departure from the label. Fans are encouraged to watch the teaser online and anticipate the full release later this month.
ENHYPEN wrapped up a flawless week of music‑show victories by taking the top spot on SBS’s Inkigayo with 4,815 points for “Bloody Paradise.” The win marked the group’s fifth consecutive trophy, following triumphs on Show Champion, M Countdown, Music Bank, and Music Core earlier that week. The competition for first place featured ATEEZ’s “Bad” and RESCENE’s “Love Attack,” but ENHYPEN’s score edged out the rivals. In addition to the main performance, the show showcased acts from NCT 127, NEXZ, Alpha Drive One, Hearts2Hearts, and several other K‑pop acts. The episode highlighted a variety of tracks, including NCT 127’s “Blingy,” NEXZ’s “Appetite,” and Hearts2Hearts’ “15‑Love.” The full performance and encore were made available for viewers to watch online.
Delta Air Lines and United Airlines have announced that they will resume regular flights to Israel starting in September, marking a significant step toward normalising travel after the disruptions caused by the October 7 attacks and subsequent conflicts. The decision follows a series of cancellations and pauses by major carriers, and the airlines have stated that their return is based on updated risk assessments and insurance coverage. The resumption is expected to bring a boost to the Israeli tourism sector, providing a much-needed influx of foreign currency and signalling to the international community that Israeli skies are safe. In addition to economic benefits, the flights are seen as a gesture of solidarity, with each departure representing a bridge rebuilt between Israel and the wider world. The move is also expected to increase competition in the domestic market, potentially easing the dominance of local carriers and lowering fares for Israeli travelers. While the airlines have expressed confidence in the stability of the region, they acknowledge that future disruptions could still occur, and they are monitoring the situation closely. The announcement has been welcomed by many Israelis who have long been unable to travel abroad with ease, and it is viewed by some as a symbolic victory for the country’s resilience. The impact of the renewed service will be closely watched by industry analysts and travelers alike as it unfolds in the coming months.
Amira Al Dosari, a 53‑year‑old entrepreneur from Abu Dhabi, has developed a line of soft‑serve ice cream that uses the UAE’s national crop, the date, as its primary sweetener. After years of experimentation that saw several machines break, she perfected a recipe that relies on the natural sugars and fiber of kholas dates, eliminating the need for added refined sugar and artificial colorants. The dates’ fibrous matrix slows sugar absorption, which researchers say can help lower circulating blood‑sugar levels, making the dessert a potentially healthier option for children and adults alike. Al Dosari’s shop, Ice Station, located near Zayed Port, now offers 448 distinct flavors, many of which incorporate roasted date pits as a coffee‑like topping and date‑palm fronds to add bitterness and antioxidants. Her daughter, Ghalia Al Mazrouei, a sustainability consultant, helped source and process the entire date plant, ensuring the product remains safe and appealing. The venture reflects a broader trend of turning traditional crops into innovative, health‑focused foods in the Gulf region. Al Dosari’s work demonstrates how local agriculture can be leveraged to create new, nutritious culinary experiences.
Dubai’s scorching summer heat forces skateboarders to limit outdoor sessions to about ten minutes, making indoor practice essential. Goodter, a local skatepark that began construction three years ago, opened after 17 months of work on the first day of the war. Inside, riders can now skate for up to eight hours without breathing difficulties. The new facility offers a much-needed safe space for the local skateboarding community amid ongoing conflict.
Singapore's EcoFriend Awards this year honored 14 innovators for breakthroughs in sustainable technology, including cellulose‑based batteries and upcycled soybean pulp. The cellulose batteries, made from paper‑derived material, can cut carbon emissions by up to 90% compared to lithium batteries, though they face performance challenges. Eugene Chow explained that the goal is not to produce the most powerful battery, but the most sustainable one for everyday products, such as powering real‑time parcel tracking labels. Meanwhile, a researcher has turned discarded soybean pulp into food items like sliced cheese and creamy soups, and as a bio‑stimulant it can boost vegetable yields by up to 50%, according to trials led by Dr. Hang. The awards, which received more than 500 entries for the first time in a decade, reflect growing interest in environmental sustainability across Singapore's private, public, and non‑government sectors. Singapore is also preparing its first national adaptation plan for climate challenges, slated for release in 2026.
Singapore's newly crowned Asian netball champions are looking to build on their success at the Asian Championships in Hong Kong. The team received a hero's welcome at Changi Airport after retaining its crown and fifth Asian title overall. They aim to improve on their 15th place finish at the last World Cup and challenge themselves against the best teams. With a confidence boost from their recent win, they will look to compete with top teams and potentially finish in the top 10. The team will also compete at the Sea Games in Malaysia, where they will face regional rivals and aim for a win. After a short break, they will return to training to prepare for the World Cup.
Fields Medalist Martin Hyer praises China's advancements in basic science, citing increased government support and a growing number of young Chinese researchers. Hyer attributes the progress to the Chinese government's long-term commitment to science and technology, providing stability and resources for researchers.
Researchers have extracted and analyzed over 75,000 genetic markers from human remains in Tamil Nadu, revealing deep genetic connections between ancient Tamil settlements and present-day South Asian populations. The study provides new insights into the Sangam era civilization and its people.
A powerful earthquake struck eastern Indonesia, causing widespread damage and killing dozens. Rescue efforts are underway, but challenges in the affected region have hindered the response. The region is prone to seismic activity due to its location on the Pacific Ring of Fire.
Singapore has opened a new multi-sports facility called The Bricks, which includes a dedicated BMX racing track. The facility, located in Brickland Tengah, will serve as a training ground for Team Singapore's BMX riders. This development aims to provide local athletes with a world-class space to train and potentially host international competitions, such as the Southeast Asian Games in 2029.
Japanese badminton player Akane Yamaguchi secured her second consecutive BWF World Championship title with a dominant performance, defeating her opponents in the final match.
Artists in Kyoto continue to honor the city's rich painting tradition, blending modern styles with traditional techniques. In an effort to preserve and promote Japanese art, some artists are turning to manga and other forms of storytelling. This approach allows a new generation of viewers to appreciate the beauty and significance of traditional Japanese painting.
Women in Afghanistan face severe restrictions under the Taliban regime, with many banned from education and workplaces. Despite their intelligence and ambition, girls are being denied opportunities to pursue their dreams.
Mudassir Sheikha and his co-founder invested $100,000 of their own money into Careem, a startup that would eventually become one of the defining stories of the Middle East. The company's early days were marked by manual bookings and a basic website. Seven years later, Uber agreed to buy Careem in a landmark deal.
Kazakhstan's oil pipeline, a symbol of the country's prosperity, is under threat from Russia's war in Ukraine. This has led Kazakhstan to reconsider its dependence on oil and explore alternative industries, such as manufacturing. The country aims to increase domestic production and reduce its reliance on foreign imports.
Temujin, a noble prince, is born in Mongolia and later becomes the great leader Genghis Khan. After a life of poverty, he forms alliances and builds a powerful army to reclaim his lost legacy. Temujin's determination and strategic thinking lead him to unite the Mongol tribes and create a vast empire.
A group of people visit the Satoyama Museum in Japan, where they learn about the local culture and way of life. They see traditional houses, stone walls, and a water boat used for washing vegetables. The group also goes fishing and enjoys a meal together, highlighting the importance of preserving nature and traditional ways of life.
Five years after regaining power, the Taliban's rule in Afghanistan is marked by relative security but widespread poverty. The economy is struggling, and the country remains isolated from the international community due to its ban on women's education and human rights abuses.
Malaysia's Pakistan Harapan coalition is under pressure after two recent election setbacks. The coalition, led by Prime Minister Anoa Ibrahim, faces internal debates and a shifting political landscape ahead of the next general election.
Careem's co-founder Mudassir Sheikha recounts the company's humble beginnings, from a $100,000 investment to a $3.1 billion acquisition by Uber. The ride-hailing service faced numerous challenges, including a lack of funding, talent, and infrastructure in the Middle East.
In Kyoto, Japan, a rich tradition of confectionery has been passed down for centuries. Artisans continue to innovate while respecting the past, blending new sensibilities with traditional techniques. The focus on seasonal ingredients and unique flavor combinations has made Kyoto confectionery a beloved part of Japanese culture.
Asia's investment landscape is being driven by the AI boom, with South Korea's stock market surging in the first half of 2026. However, this has led to higher volatility. In contrast, India's broader market is driven by various sectors. Meanwhile, a study of UPI transactions reveals that Gen Z's monthly spending is dominated by bills and subscriptions, with groceries and financial services also taking a significant share. India's inflation rate rose to 4.45% in July, with food inflation climbing to 5.52%.
China conducted a low-key naval exercise with Indonesia near Taiwan, sparking fury from Taipei. The exercise was described as routine, but the location is sensitive due to China's increased maritime patrols in the region. Taiwan sees the exercise as a propaganda win for China, which is trying to encircle the island.
Singapore's Defence Minister Chan Chun Sing emphasized the importance of mastering emerging technologies to maintain the country's edge in defense innovation. He highlighted the need for future military leaders to develop new operational concepts and care for personnel. Two scholarship recipients, Felicia Tan and Fabius Tan, shared their interests in AI and quantum technology for defense applications.
Tachikawa, a Tokyo suburb, was once a thriving aviation hub, home to a major airfield and aircraft factories. During World War II, the area was heavily damaged, but after the war, it was rebuilt and repurposed. Today, the town proudly preserves its aviation history, showcasing vintage aircraft and sharing stories of its wartime past.
Protests at Jantar Mantar in Delhi and Jharkhand's Ranchi have been compared, with the latter being seen as more peaceful and student-led. The main difference lies in the target of the protests, with Delhi's being against the BJP government and Ranchi's against the local JMM Congress alliance government.
North Korea launched a ballistic missile into the sea off the east coast of the Korean Peninsula, sparking a strong protest from Japan. The launch comes ahead of joint military drills between South Korea and the US. South Korea has urged Pyongyang to stop violating UN resolutions.
Japan's H3 rocket has achieved a second consecutive successful launch, carrying the Michibiki No. 7 positioning satellite into space. The satellite is part of Japan's Quasi-Zenith Satellite System, providing location information for smartphones and vehicle navigation. Initial launch plans were delayed due to weather conditions. This launch marks a significant milestone for Japan's space agency.
Singapore has introduced a blood test tool that estimates a person's biological age. The tool, which was validated across the US and UK populations, provides insights into potential health risks and encourages people to take proactive steps for better health. With Singaporeans living longer, but not necessarily healthier, the focus is shifting from disease treatment to prevention. The tool highlights the importance of healthy habits, such as regular exercise, a plant-based diet, and sufficient sleep, in maintaining good health. The government plans to invest in research and development to strengthen partnerships between researchers, clinicians, and companies to improve people's lives.
Fans of Japanese author Higashino Keigo have been paying their respects in South Korea following his death at 68. The best-selling writer's passing has been met with sadness from readers who have been inspired by his works. Higashino's novels have been widely popular in South Korea, spawning film and TV adaptations. His translator credits him with making mystery fiction more accessible to a wider audience. Readers have been sharing their love for the author's works, which have been described as vast and all-embracing, with a remarkable variety of themes and storylines.
China's efforts to control the South China Sea may be nearing a critical point as it seeks to complete the Iron Triangle, a strategic grouping of island chains. Analysts argue that China needs to link the Paracels, Spratleys, and Scarborough Shoal to achieve its goals. Recent skirmishes between China and the Philippines at Scarborough Shoal have raised tensions and tested America's commitment to its Asian allies.
A survey of Singaporean students reveals they feel unprepared for the demands of the job market due to the rapid development of AI. Students are expected to have advanced technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and soft skills. Universities are being called upon to strengthen fundamentals and provide more industry projects and collaboration opportunities.
A 17-year-old man in Sendai, Japan, has formed a connection with a kitten. The man, Kotaro, was observed interacting with the kitten, showcasing a gentle personality. The encounter took place in a workshop that resembles a science laboratory.
Indian weightlifter Mirabai Chanu has spoken about her emotional Commonwealth Games medal win, revealing the struggles she faced in the four years leading up to the event. Despite injuries and family problems, Chanu persevered and was overcome with emotion when her national flag was raised and the national anthem played during the medal ceremony.
Typhoon Dolphin has brought strong winds and heavy rain to eastern China, forcing evacuations and flight cancellations. Authorities are preparing for potential flooding and landslides in the region. The storm previously hit northern Taiwan and Japan, causing damage in some areas.
The Hundred Flowers Awards, China's most prestigious public-voted film awards, have returned to Beijing. This year's edition features outdoor screenings, a film-themed fair, and industry expert interactions. The event aims to bring cinema into everyday life and promote diverse arts and ideas.
Russian main battle tanks are significantly lighter than their US counterparts due to design differences. The Russian tanks' lower profile and automatic ammunition loading system contribute to their reduced weight, allowing them to operate effectively in Eurasia's infrastructure-constrained environment.
Singapore marked its 65th birthday with a grand celebration at the National Stadium, featuring fireworks and a lively atmosphere. The event brought together the nation to commemorate the country's independence. The celebration included music, color, and a sense of unity among the people.
Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Pakistan have signed a landmark joint defence agreement in Mecca, creating a collective defence mechanism among the three countries. The pact has raised questions about its purpose and potential implications for regional security. Analysts suggest that the agreement may be part of a broader effort to create a regional balance, with Iran contained but not isolated.
Orbitworks, a new space company based in Abu Dhabi, is preparing to launch its first satellite. The launch marks a significant milestone in the UAE's push to build its own space technology. Orbitworks aims to become one of the top 10 companies in earth observation and satellite manufacturing within the next decade. The company's first satellite is being readied for launch, with a planned AI-enabled earth observation constellation, Altair, to follow.
A program in Hiroshima offers free medical checkups to atomic bomb survivors, providing reassurance and support as they age. The mobile clinics, staffed by doctors and nurses, offer a convenient and caring service to those who have lived with anxieties over their health for decades.