TODAY’S HIGHLIGHTS

The Straits Times

Asia mourns Pope’s death: ‘His humility brought many back to the fold of the Church’

In the Philippines, home to Asia’s largest Catholic population with 85 million, the bells of Manila Cathedral tolled on the...
Philippine Daily Inquirer

BTS’ J-Hope’s love for ‘halo-halo’ and Filipino cuisine creates buzz online after Manila show

The delectable spread came from Manam, a well-known Filipino restaurant for its comforting local dishes presented in both traditional and...
The Korea Herald

Why Korean music charts still matter for K-pop artists

A music critic warned that aiming too early for international success without local traction can backfire.
Asia News Network

From fact to fiction: Marga Ortigas on her journey from seasoned reporter to published author

Some people are born storytellers—be it through the spoken or written word. While most excel in one medium over the...
The Japan News

Baby capybaras prove to be popular at Shizuoka Zoo in Japan

The siblings were named “High” and “Ball,” apparently hinting at the name of the popular highball drink. Their sex is...
The Japan News

More foreign tourists flock to real-life anime sites across Japan

The trend has excited local residents with an expectation of regional development.
The Japan News

2025 Osaka-Kansai Expo opens, draws crowds; visitors flock to attractions

Under the theme of “Designing Future Society for Our Lives,” 158 countries and regions are participating in the expo, which...
Vientiane Times

Laos named most affordable travel destination for 2025

The report, based on research by Canadian financial platform HelloSafe, found that average daily travel expenses in Laos are just...
People
Asia mourns Pope’s death: ‘His humility brought many back to the fold of the Church’
In the Philippines, home to Asia’s largest Catholic population with 85 million, the bells of Manila Cathedral tolled on the afternoon of April 21 as news of the Pope’s passing spread.
Entertainment
BTS’ J-Hope’s love for ‘halo-halo’ and Filipino cuisine creates buzz online after Manila show
The delectable spread came from Manam, a well-known Filipino restaurant for its comforting local dishes presented in both traditional and contemporary fashions.
Entertainment
Why Korean music charts still matter for K-pop artists
A music critic warned that aiming too early for international success without local traction can backfire.
Lifestyle
From fact to fiction: Marga Ortigas on her journey from seasoned reporter to published author
Some people are born storytellers—be it through the spoken or written word. While most excel in one medium over the other, some are brilliant at both. Filipino author Marga Ortigas is one of those rare few.
Nature
Baby capybaras prove to be popular at Shizuoka Zoo in Japan
The siblings were named “High” and “Ball,” apparently hinting at the name of the popular highball drink. Their sex is not yet known.
Culture
More foreign tourists flock to real-life anime sites across Japan
The trend has excited local residents with an expectation of regional development.
Lifestyle
2025 Osaka-Kansai Expo opens, draws crowds; visitors flock to attractions
Under the theme of “Designing Future Society for Our Lives,” 158 countries and regions are participating in the expo, which is scheduled to last through Oct. 13.
Travel
Laos named most affordable travel destination for 2025
The report, based on research by Canadian financial platform HelloSafe, found that average daily travel expenses in Laos are just US$16, including accommodation, meals and transport.

MORE HEADLINES    

SPORTS & GAMES

China Daily

Beijing’s robot half-marathon puts innovations to the test

The marathon, despite some imperfect performances like an occasional stumble, proved that China's humanoid robots are moving from flashy laboratory...
The Phnom Penh Post

Cambodia’s football community deeply saddened by death of star defender Tes Sambath

Mr. Sambath, a former national player who was currently signed for Visakha FC, tragically lost his life on the night...
The Daily Star

Bangladesh outclassed by Nepal in series opener

The women in red and green were unable to contain Nepal, who collected several bonus points and dominated raids, scoring...
The Kathmandu Post

Nepal thrashes Hong Kong by 9 wickets to set up decider against Afghanistan in U-19 Qualifiers

Yuvraj Khatri stars again with the ball as Nepal make light work of 116-run target in Mulpani.
Kuensel

Bhutanese boxers dominate Four Nations Boxing Championship

All members of the 16-boxer-strong team, comprising eight women and eight men, bagged medals.
Viet Nam News

Laotian player sets historic milestone in V.League 1

Born in 2004, Damoth Thongkhamsavath is emerging as a standout player for Laos' national team and is eligible to compete...
The Star

Malaysian men’s double shuttlers cap hot run at Asian Championships with golden finish

They also ended Malaysia’s 18-year wait for the men’s doubles title in the Asian meet after Choong Tan Fook-Lee Wan...
The Daily Star

Purny Ayman: Bangladesh’s first female racer on an international circuit

Her inspiring journey blends passion, virtual training, and perseverance, breaking barriers for women in global racing culture.
Technology
Beijing’s robot half-marathon puts innovations to the test
The marathon, despite some imperfect performances like an occasional stumble, proved that China's humanoid robots are moving from flashy laboratory demos to real-world scenarios.
Accident
Cambodia’s football community deeply saddened by death of star defender Tes Sambath
Mr. Sambath, a former national player who was currently signed for Visakha FC, tragically lost his life on the night of April 20. He lost control of his motorcycle and fell into a stream and drowned.
Sports
Bangladesh outclassed by Nepal in series opener
The women in red and green were unable to contain Nepal, who collected several bonus points and dominated raids, scoring an additional 23 points in the second-half.
Sports
Nepal thrashes Hong Kong by 9 wickets to set up decider against Afghanistan in U-19 Qualifiers
Yuvraj Khatri stars again with the ball as Nepal make light work of 116-run target in Mulpani.
Sports
Bhutanese boxers dominate Four Nations Boxing Championship
All members of the 16-boxer-strong team, comprising eight women and eight men, bagged medals.
Sports
Laotian player sets historic milestone in V.League 1
Born in 2004, Damoth Thongkhamsavath is emerging as a standout player for Laos' national team and is eligible to compete in the upcoming 33rd SEA Games.
Sports
Malaysian men’s double shuttlers cap hot run at Asian Championships with golden finish
They also ended Malaysia’s 18-year wait for the men’s doubles title in the Asian meet after Choong Tan Fook-Lee Wan Wah last triumphed in 2007.
People
Purny Ayman: Bangladesh’s first female racer on an international circuit
Her inspiring journey blends passion, virtual training, and perseverance, breaking barriers for women in global racing culture.

WORK & LIFE

The Jakarta Post

Jakarta’s pet-friendly cafés: Serving more than just human food

Your pet isn’t just allowed—they’re celebrated. From dog-friendly gelato to cat-approved snacks, these cafés are embracing our four-legged companions.
The Japan News

University students fill key role in teaching Japanese to foreign children

Japan had about 3.76 million foreign residents at the end of last year, according to the Immigration Services Agency. That...
Kuensel

Bhutanese teen helps build satellite in Australia

Pema Tsho Sakhu, a 13-year-old Bhutanese student living in Perth, is helping develop a scientific payload that will soon be...
Dawn

Dermatologists on why brown people need to wear sunscreen too

For people with more melanin, skin takes longer to burn. But remember, just because it takes longer to burn does...
Viet Nam News

Young Vietnamese women increasingly freezing their eggs

The increasing awareness and accessibility of information regarding fertility have shifted societal perceptions. Women are now more comfortable discussing reproductive...
The Korea Herald

South Korea’s gender equality index falls to all-time low

Gender inequality shown to be worst in decision-making and care (i.e. domestic labor, child and elderly care).
The Kathmandu Post

The struggles of women traffic police officers in Nepal

Sarita Ghale shares how gender bias and toxic masculinity make law enforcement challenging for women officers.
The Korea Herald

‘2 out of 3 South Korean parents feel responsible for child’s success or failure’: survey

The researchers noted that those generally regarded as socially successful were more likely to link themselves to their children’s' success.
Lifestyle
Jakarta’s pet-friendly cafés: Serving more than just human food
Your pet isn’t just allowed—they’re celebrated. From dog-friendly gelato to cat-approved snacks, these cafés are embracing our four-legged companions.
Education
University students fill key role in teaching Japanese to foreign children
Japan had about 3.76 million foreign residents at the end of last year, according to the Immigration Services Agency. That number is up by about 1.64 million over the past 10 years, with the government accepting more foreign workers to try to remedy a labour shortage.
Space
Bhutanese teen helps build satellite in Australia
Pema Tsho Sakhu, a 13-year-old Bhutanese student living in Perth, is helping develop a scientific payload that will soon be launched into Earth’s orbit aboard a CubeSat, a miniature satellite, typically shaped like a cube, measuring 10cm on all sides.
Lifestyle
Dermatologists on why brown people need to wear sunscreen too
For people with more melanin, skin takes longer to burn. But remember, just because it takes longer to burn does not mean it will not burn.
Health
Young Vietnamese women increasingly freezing their eggs
The increasing awareness and accessibility of information regarding fertility have shifted societal perceptions. Women are now more comfortable discussing reproductive health and exploring options for preserving their fertility.
Society
South Korea’s gender equality index falls to all-time low
Gender inequality shown to be worst in decision-making and care (i.e. domestic labor, child and elderly care).
Nepal
The struggles of women traffic police officers in Nepal
Sarita Ghale shares how gender bias and toxic masculinity make law enforcement challenging for women officers.
Society
‘2 out of 3 South Korean parents feel responsible for child’s success or failure’: survey
The researchers noted that those generally regarded as socially successful were more likely to link themselves to their children’s' success.

SOCIAL MEDIA

The Straits Times

Virtual romance, real money: Why some Singaporeans spend 4 figures for love in ‘Deepspace’

In the game, players adopt the female lead’s perspective in its sci-fi fantasy story, and can battle monsters and go...
The Korea Herald

ChatGPT hits 1.2m daily users in Korea amid Ghibli-style AI-generated image trend

The AI chatbot recorded a record 1,252,925 daily active users in South Korea on Thursday, a sharp increase from 799,571...
The Statesman

Ghibli style cricket? Cricketers and fans jump on the AI bandwagon

Cricketers like Sachin Tendulkar and Rinku Kumar are joining the AI-generated Ghibli art trend, with fans creating animated versions of...
Dawn

The AI Studio Ghibli trend is an insult to art and artists

Artists spend years refining their artistic expression and skill, only for all that work to be appropriated by a single...
The Korea Herald

Ajeo-chic? How middle-age became cool in the eyes of South Korean youth

Typically used for middle-aged men, often married with children, the Korean term carries a connotation of being outdated and uncool...
The Star

Malaysian comedian ‘Uncle Roger’ shares his engagement photos on social media

His fiancee, Sabrina, in her post said that the photoshoot took place while "running around" the markets in Taipei, Taiwan.
The Straits Times

“Tinder of aeroplanes” makes inroads in Asia, hopes to get travellers to fill idle time on flights

Wingle, a third-party in-flight messaging app, allows users to talk to one another without an internet connection.
The Jakarta Post

Indonesian trans-influencer sentenced to two years in prison for saying Jesus should cut his hair

Amnesty International described Ratu Thalisa's conviction as a "shocking attack" on her freedom of expression.
Artificial Intelligence
Virtual romance, real money: Why some Singaporeans spend 4 figures for love in ‘Deepspace’
In the game, players adopt the female lead’s perspective in its sci-fi fantasy story, and can battle monsters and go on dates with any of the five virtual eligible bachelors who are designed with 3D character modelling.
Society
ChatGPT hits 1.2m daily users in Korea amid Ghibli-style AI-generated image trend
The AI chatbot recorded a record 1,252,925 daily active users in South Korea on Thursday, a sharp increase from 799,571 on March 1.
Artificial Intelligence
Ghibli style cricket? Cricketers and fans jump on the AI bandwagon
Cricketers like Sachin Tendulkar and Rinku Kumar are joining the AI-generated Ghibli art trend, with fans creating animated versions of their favorite players in the iconic style.
Artificial Intelligence
The AI Studio Ghibli trend is an insult to art and artists
Artists spend years refining their artistic expression and skill, only for all that work to be appropriated by a single prompt on an AI tool.
Lifestyle
Ajeo-chic? How middle-age became cool in the eyes of South Korean youth
Typically used for middle-aged men, often married with children, the Korean term carries a connotation of being outdated and uncool — essentially the opposite of an eligible bachelor.
Entertainment
Malaysian comedian ‘Uncle Roger’ shares his engagement photos on social media
His fiancee, Sabrina, in her post said that the photoshoot took place while "running around" the markets in Taipei, Taiwan.
Aviation
“Tinder of aeroplanes” makes inroads in Asia, hopes to get travellers to fill idle time on flights
Wingle, a third-party in-flight messaging app, allows users to talk to one another without an internet connection.
Court and Crime
Indonesian trans-influencer sentenced to two years in prison for saying Jesus should cut his hair
Amnesty International described Ratu Thalisa's conviction as a "shocking attack" on her freedom of expression.

CULTURE

The Straits Times

Asia mourns Pope’s death: ‘His humility brought many back to the fold of the Church’

In the Philippines, home to Asia’s largest Catholic population with 85 million, the bells of Manila Cathedral tolled on the...
Borneo Bulletin

A showcase of Brunei’s rich indigenous heritage

The Murut Cultural Night featured performances from the Lun Bawang Murut Brunei Association, as well as cultural groups from the...
The Kathmandu Post

Nepal’s Sindoor Jatra festival celebrated with colour and chariot processions

The festival, part of the Bisket Jatra, marks the Nepali New Year and the arrival of spring with vermilion powder,...
The Star

In this Penang church, women are now included in traditional Catholic ritual

The “Washing of the Feet” during Holy Week has traditionally only involved men. However, at George Town's Church of the...
Viet Nam News

The art of herbal healing in Hanoi’s old quarter

Tucked away in a street, the scent of healing herbs lingers and centuries-old traditions endure. Alongside common remedies, it’s the...
Philippine Daily Inquirer

Here’s a variety of holy things you can do every day this Holy Week in the Philippines

So even if I did fail my Lenten sacrifices of alcohol, chocolate, and coffee, these movies did help me reflect...
The Daily Star

New year, new festivals in Dhaka

City dwellers are out and about, attending various programmes organised to usher in the Bangla new year.
Philippine Daily Inquirer

Why are the statues in Philippine churches covered during Lent?

It is often said that veiling is a form of fasting for the eyes, allowing church-goers to focus solely on...
People
Asia mourns Pope’s death: ‘His humility brought many back to the fold of the Church’
In the Philippines, home to Asia’s largest Catholic population with 85 million, the bells of Manila Cathedral tolled on the afternoon of April 21 as news of the Pope’s passing spread.
Culture
A showcase of Brunei’s rich indigenous heritage
The Murut Cultural Night featured performances from the Lun Bawang Murut Brunei Association, as well as cultural groups from the Lun Dayeh Sabah, Lun Bawang Sarawak, and Persatuan Tagel Okolod Sarawak, all contributing to a night filled with colour, music and unity.
Culture
Nepal’s Sindoor Jatra festival celebrated with colour and chariot processions
The festival, part of the Bisket Jatra, marks the Nepali New Year and the arrival of spring with vermilion powder, music, and devotion.
Culture
In this Penang church, women are now included in traditional Catholic ritual
The “Washing of the Feet” during Holy Week has traditionally only involved men. However, at George Town's Church of the Assumption, women are now included, symbolising change in the servitude.
Heritage
The art of herbal healing in Hanoi’s old quarter
Tucked away in a street, the scent of healing herbs lingers and centuries-old traditions endure. Alongside common remedies, it’s the family-kept formulas that have shaped each shop’s reputation. Step into this blend of ancient and modern to feel the heartbeat of Vietnam’s herbal healing art.
Culture
Here’s a variety of holy things you can do every day this Holy Week in the Philippines
So even if I did fail my Lenten sacrifices of alcohol, chocolate, and coffee, these movies did help me reflect on the value of faith. And if you’re spending Holy Week in Manila, here are some day-by-day activities you can still do to get into the Holy Week spirit.
Culture
New year, new festivals in Dhaka
City dwellers are out and about, attending various programmes organised to usher in the Bangla new year.
Culture
Why are the statues in Philippine churches covered during Lent?
It is often said that veiling is a form of fasting for the eyes, allowing church-goers to focus solely on Christ’s passion, the center of Holy Week.

ENTERTAINMENT & ARTS

The Korea Herald

Oscar winning South Korean actress Youn Yuh-jung owns it: ‘I’ve been in this job too long’

The 78-year-old actress and her co-star Han Gi-chan have just endured a four-hour marathon of back-to-back interviews in English when...
The Statesman

Come Fall in Love: Bollywood hit DDLJ Musical title track drops before UK release

Inspired by the iconic 1995 blockbuster ‘Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge’, the musical is set to open at the Manchester Opera...
Philippine Daily Inquirer

BTS’ J-Hope’s love for ‘halo-halo’ and Filipino cuisine creates buzz online after Manila show

The delectable spread came from Manam, a well-known Filipino restaurant for its comforting local dishes presented in both traditional and...
The Korea Herald

First Korean lesbian dating reality show to stream on Wavve

“ToGetHer" follows participants searching for romantic connections through various activities, such as going on dates and writing letters to one...
The Korea Herald

Why Korean music charts still matter for K-pop artists

A music critic warned that aiming too early for international success without local traction can backfire.
The Statesman

India returns to Cannes Film Festival with Neeraj Ghayawan’s Homebound

This year, India’s Homebound by Neeraj Ghaywan will be part of the 12-day Festival’s Un Certain Regard – the second...
The Phnom Penh Post

Colours of the Khmer Soul on display in Phnom Penh … and Paris

From the timeless halls of Raffles Hotel Le Royal to the contemporary art space of the French capital’s Epidemick Gallery...
Philippine Daily Inquirer

Are ‘micro dramas’ television’s next big thing?

By 2027, it is estimated that the industry’s market size will grow to a staggering $14 billion.
Entertainment
Oscar winning South Korean actress Youn Yuh-jung owns it: ‘I’ve been in this job too long’
The 78-year-old actress and her co-star Han Gi-chan have just endured a four-hour marathon of back-to-back interviews in English when we connect over Zoom for our conversation about "The Wedding Banquet," director Andrew Ahn's remake of Ang Lee's 1993 classic.
Entertainment
Come Fall in Love: Bollywood hit DDLJ Musical title track drops before UK release
Inspired by the iconic 1995 blockbuster ‘Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge’, the musical is set to open at the Manchester Opera House on May 29, 2025, and will run until June 21.
Entertainment
BTS’ J-Hope’s love for ‘halo-halo’ and Filipino cuisine creates buzz online after Manila show
The delectable spread came from Manam, a well-known Filipino restaurant for its comforting local dishes presented in both traditional and contemporary fashions.
Entertainment
First Korean lesbian dating reality show to stream on Wavve
“ToGetHer" follows participants searching for romantic connections through various activities, such as going on dates and writing letters to one another, while living together in a shared house called the ToGetHerHouse on Jeju Island.
Entertainment
Why Korean music charts still matter for K-pop artists
A music critic warned that aiming too early for international success without local traction can backfire.
Arts
India returns to Cannes Film Festival with Neeraj Ghayawan’s Homebound
This year, India’s Homebound by Neeraj Ghaywan will be part of the 12-day Festival’s Un Certain Regard – the second most prestigious category after Competition. Ghaywan’s debut feature, Masaan, was also selected for the Un Certain Regard category in 2015, and it won the Special Prize.
Arts
Colours of the Khmer Soul on display in Phnom Penh … and Paris
From the timeless halls of Raffles Hotel Le Royal to the contemporary art space of the French capital’s Epidemick Gallery France, Sary invites audiences to feel—really feel—the heartbeat of Cambodia.
Entertainment
Are ‘micro dramas’ television’s next big thing?
By 2027, it is estimated that the industry’s market size will grow to a staggering $14 billion.

ASIAN FLAVOURS

The Star

Touring Malaysia for the best of local cuisine

From nasi lemak ayam rendang and beef satay to Sarawak laksa and chicken briyani, diners will embark on a gastronomic...
The Star

In Malaysia’s Ayer Kuning, a little coffeeshop is a bustling haven during by-election

The quaint Xin Aun Nong Yong coffee­shop on Tapah Road has been serving Malays, Chinese, Indians and people from other...
The Korea Herald

Brewing heritage: How Korea’s traditional alcohol is finding new life

Hands-on brewing classes and diverse flavor profiles are drawing younger generations into Korea’s centuries-old drinking traditions.
The Japan News

Authentic Chinese eateries increasing near Kyoto University; students flock for taste of home

Called “gachi chuka," with “gachi” meaning “serious” or “for real” in casual Japanese while “chuka” means China, these restaurants are...
The Star

5 reasons to get excited for Kuala Lumpur Cocktail Week 2025

Organised by a group of local industry leaders and stakeholders with the objective of highlighting the art of cocktails and...
The Nation

The many flavours of Thailand’s iconic Songkran streets

These Songkran streets do more than provide a space for fun and water fights — they serve as cultural landmarks...
The Straits Times

Of bak chor mee and ballot boxes: Can Singapore’s politicians win hearts with hawker food?

Is it a casual update or calculated strategy?
Philippine Daily Inquirer

The ‘offbeat’ chefs keeping nostalgic and regional Filipino food in tune with the times

At Don Baldosano and Angelo Comsti’s modern Filipino bistro that just opened at Ayala Triangle Gardens, each bite from their...
Food
Touring Malaysia for the best of local cuisine
From nasi lemak ayam rendang and beef satay to Sarawak laksa and chicken briyani, diners will embark on a gastronomic journey that connects them to the roots of the nation’s most beloved dishes.
Food
In Malaysia’s Ayer Kuning, a little coffeeshop is a bustling haven during by-election
The quaint Xin Aun Nong Yong coffee­shop on Tapah Road has been serving Malays, Chinese, Indians and people from other backgrounds for the past 90 years and will continue to do so after all the bigwigs and politicians leave after the by-election.
Culture
Brewing heritage: How Korea’s traditional alcohol is finding new life
Hands-on brewing classes and diverse flavor profiles are drawing younger generations into Korea’s centuries-old drinking traditions.
Food
Authentic Chinese eateries increasing near Kyoto University; students flock for taste of home
Called “gachi chuka," with “gachi” meaning “serious” or “for real” in casual Japanese while “chuka” means China, these restaurants are frequented by many foreign exchange students at the university.
Culture
5 reasons to get excited for Kuala Lumpur Cocktail Week 2025
Organised by a group of local industry leaders and stakeholders with the objective of highlighting the art of cocktails and promoting the city’s growing cocktail scene, this year’s KLCW promises an even more exciting schedule of events and guest shifts for cocktail lovers.
Culture
The many flavours of Thailand’s iconic Songkran streets
These Songkran streets do more than provide a space for fun and water fights — they serve as cultural landmarks celebrating Thailand’s rich heritage, regional specialities and strong community ties.
Food
Of bak chor mee and ballot boxes: Can Singapore’s politicians win hearts with hawker food?
Is it a casual update or calculated strategy?
Food
The ‘offbeat’ chefs keeping nostalgic and regional Filipino food in tune with the times
At Don Baldosano and Angelo Comsti’s modern Filipino bistro that just opened at Ayala Triangle Gardens, each bite from their menu covers the nuances of reading and tasting and everything in between.

BOOKS

Asia News Network

From fact to fiction: Marga Ortigas on her journey from seasoned reporter to published author

Some people are born storytellers—be it through the spoken or written word. While most excel in one medium over the...
The Korea Herald

Recent Korean books on unconventional families share wisdom of living without marrying

More Koreans than ever are living alone — and choosing to stay that way.
The Kathmandu Post

Unraveling postmodernism in Nepali writing

Novelist Govinda Raj Bhattarai discusses his literary journey and the qualities of a good translation.
The Korea Herald

Japanese translator of South Korean Nobel Laureate Han Kang’s ‘We Do Not Part’ receives award

Saito Mariko won the Research and Translation category at the 76th Yomiuri Literary Awards, marking the first time a single...
The Japan News

Japan’s one-person publishers create unique books

The term “hitori shuppansha” (one-person publisher) refers to one person who edits and launches a book that they feel only...
The Statesman

Purvodaya literary festival 2025 to celebrate eastern India’s stories and culture

With over 200,000 attendees expected, the festival will feature a dynamic lineup of events, including panel discussions on literature, culture,...
Philippine Daily Inquirer

Jam Melchor’s new book on Philippine cuisine essential reading for Filipinos

Chef Jam Melchor turns a new page with “Kayumanggi” to get more people to explore, celebrate, and acknowledge Filipino food....
The Korea Herald

New book reveals North Korean leader Kim’s birthplace for first time, based on interviews with relatives

Born in Pyongyang, Kim Jong-un was annointed heir to father at 8 years old, say aunt and uncle.
Lifestyle
From fact to fiction: Marga Ortigas on her journey from seasoned reporter to published author
Some people are born storytellers—be it through the spoken or written word. While most excel in one medium over the other, some are brilliant at both. Filipino author Marga Ortigas is one of those rare few.
Society
Recent Korean books on unconventional families share wisdom of living without marrying
More Koreans than ever are living alone — and choosing to stay that way.
Arts
Unraveling postmodernism in Nepali writing
Novelist Govinda Raj Bhattarai discusses his literary journey and the qualities of a good translation.
Lifestyle
Japanese translator of South Korean Nobel Laureate Han Kang’s ‘We Do Not Part’ receives award
Saito Mariko won the Research and Translation category at the 76th Yomiuri Literary Awards, marking the first time a single translated work by a Korean author has won in the category.
Lifestyle
Japan’s one-person publishers create unique books
The term “hitori shuppansha” (one-person publisher) refers to one person who edits and launches a book that they feel only they can present to the world, even if only with a small number of copies.
Lifestyle
Purvodaya literary festival 2025 to celebrate eastern India’s stories and culture
With over 200,000 attendees expected, the festival will feature a dynamic lineup of events, including panel discussions on literature, culture, and contemporary issues and more.
Food
Jam Melchor’s new book on Philippine cuisine essential reading for Filipinos
Chef Jam Melchor turns a new page with “Kayumanggi” to get more people to explore, celebrate, and acknowledge Filipino food. If there is one word that best describes chef Jam Melchor’s new book, it would be essential. And not just because you could get it for free.
People
New book reveals North Korean leader Kim’s birthplace for first time, based on interviews with relatives
Born in Pyongyang, Kim Jong-un was annointed heir to father at 8 years old, say aunt and uncle.

TRAVEL & TOURISM

China Daily

Fujian’s ancient wonders

From ancient philosophers, sea-faring explorers and tranquil tea ceremonies, this episode brings the past into the present with a modern-day...
The Jakarta Post

Two more Indonesian geoparks get UNESCO recognition

The inclusion of Kebumen and Meratus brings the number of Indonesian geoparks in the UNESCO list of global geoparks to...
China Daily

South-East Asian tourists delight in Mingshui Ancient Town’s spring beauty

The event included activities such as flower arranging and hanfu (traditional Han Chinese clothing) experience, providing a complete and immersive...
The Japan News

More foreign tourists flock to real-life anime sites across Japan

The trend has excited local residents with an expectation of regional development.
The Japan News

2025 Osaka-Kansai Expo opens, draws crowds; visitors flock to attractions

Under the theme of “Designing Future Society for Our Lives,” 158 countries and regions are participating in the expo, which...
The Nation

Splash spots unveiled! Where to celebrate Songkran 2025 in Phuket

From serene merit-making ceremonies to vibrant parades and DJ-fueled water zones, here's a roundup of the must-visit Songkran events and...
The Star

Going all out to promote Visit Malaysia 2026

The Malayan sun bears and mascots of the VM2026 campaign will be fronting the country’s focus on key markets from...
Vientiane Times

Celebrating Lao new year 2568: a joyful start to the Year of the Snake

This year, the new year is symbolised by the snake, the Zodiac sign representing wisdom, adaptability, and renewal.
Culture
Fujian’s ancient wonders
From ancient philosophers, sea-faring explorers and tranquil tea ceremonies, this episode brings the past into the present with a modern-day wonder — AI technology.
Heritage
Two more Indonesian geoparks get UNESCO recognition
The inclusion of Kebumen and Meratus brings the number of Indonesian geoparks in the UNESCO list of global geoparks to 12.
Lifestyle
South-East Asian tourists delight in Mingshui Ancient Town’s spring beauty
The event included activities such as flower arranging and hanfu (traditional Han Chinese clothing) experience, providing a complete and immersive experience of Shandong's romantic spring ambiance.
Culture
More foreign tourists flock to real-life anime sites across Japan
The trend has excited local residents with an expectation of regional development.
Lifestyle
2025 Osaka-Kansai Expo opens, draws crowds; visitors flock to attractions
Under the theme of “Designing Future Society for Our Lives,” 158 countries and regions are participating in the expo, which is scheduled to last through Oct. 13.
Entertainment
Splash spots unveiled! Where to celebrate Songkran 2025 in Phuket
From serene merit-making ceremonies to vibrant parades and DJ-fueled water zones, here's a roundup of the must-visit Songkran events and splash zones around the island.
Lifestyle
Going all out to promote Visit Malaysia 2026
The Malayan sun bears and mascots of the VM2026 campaign will be fronting the country’s focus on key markets from Vietnam to the United Kingdom. Expanded air connectivity will position Russia, France and the United Kingdom as essential target markets.
Culture
Celebrating Lao new year 2568: a joyful start to the Year of the Snake
This year, the new year is symbolised by the snake, the Zodiac sign representing wisdom, adaptability, and renewal.

NATURE

The Japan News

Nemophila: Sea of blue flowers flows seamlessly into blue spring sky in Japan’s Ibaraki

According to the park, the flowers will stay at their peak until early May.
The Straits Times

Love is in the air: Giant panda enclosure in Singapore Zoo to close for breeding season

Beloved giant pandas Kai Kai and Jia Jia are getting some space for a bit of romance this breeding season.
Philippine Daily Inquirer

3-month-old Philippine eaglet ‘Riley’ dies

The Philippine Eagle Foundation noted that a necropsy is being conducted to determine the cause of the eaglet’s death.
The Japan News

Baby capybaras prove to be popular at Shizuoka Zoo in Japan

The siblings were named “High” and “Ball,” apparently hinting at the name of the popular highball drink. Their sex is...
The Straits Times

What Singapore’s breeding programmes mean for conservation of Southeast Asia’s biodiversity

Such breeding efforts are key in ensuring that species threatened with extinction do not disappear off the face of the...
Go Go Mongolia

New Cretaceous mammal fossil discovered for the first time in Mongolia

A paleontological analysis of the animal’s teeth shows that it was a small, mouse-like herbivore that chewed its food, though...
The Kathmandu Post

Nepal’s forests echo with summer migratory birds’ calls

Birds travel thousands of miles to Nepal, mainly to breed. Asian koel flies 6,000 miles from Sub-Saharan Africa.
The Phnom Penh Post

A view from the top of Cambodia’s “Areng’s Paradise”

Tourists can hike to the top of the mountain to admire the lush, beautiful scenery, accompanied by panoramic views of...
Nature
Nemophila: Sea of blue flowers flows seamlessly into blue spring sky in Japan’s Ibaraki
According to the park, the flowers will stay at their peak until early May.
Lifestyle
Love is in the air: Giant panda enclosure in Singapore Zoo to close for breeding season
Beloved giant pandas Kai Kai and Jia Jia are getting some space for a bit of romance this breeding season.
Nature
3-month-old Philippine eaglet ‘Riley’ dies
The Philippine Eagle Foundation noted that a necropsy is being conducted to determine the cause of the eaglet’s death.
Nature
Baby capybaras prove to be popular at Shizuoka Zoo in Japan
The siblings were named “High” and “Ball,” apparently hinting at the name of the popular highball drink. Their sex is not yet known.
Nature
What Singapore’s breeding programmes mean for conservation of Southeast Asia’s biodiversity
Such breeding efforts are key in ensuring that species threatened with extinction do not disappear off the face of the earth.
Science
New Cretaceous mammal fossil discovered for the first time in Mongolia
A paleontological analysis of the animal’s teeth shows that it was a small, mouse-like herbivore that chewed its food, though some relatives in the same family were carnivorous or insectivorous.
Climate Watch
Nepal’s forests echo with summer migratory birds’ calls
Birds travel thousands of miles to Nepal, mainly to breed. Asian koel flies 6,000 miles from Sub-Saharan Africa.
Nature
A view from the top of Cambodia’s “Areng’s Paradise”
Tourists can hike to the top of the mountain to admire the lush, beautiful scenery, accompanied by panoramic views of the surrounding greenery and the restful sounds of nature, in this untouched paradise.

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