ASEAN News

Singapore has once again emerged as the best performer in international education tests, scoring the highest marks in maths, science and reading among primary and secondary students. The city-state was followed by other Asian countries such as Hong Kong, Japan and South Korea, which also ranked among the top five in the latest Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study …

Japan is planning to introduce an electronic system for issuing arrest warrants in 2024, as part of its efforts to streamline the criminal justice process and enhance its transparency.  The system will allow judges to issue warrants online, without having to meet with police or prosecutors in person, and will also enable the public to access information on the warrants …

In a significant transition for K-pop sensation BTS, members V, RM, Jungkook, and Jimin are gearing up to fulfill their mandatory military service obligations in South Korea. The impending enlistment has sparked widespread interest, particularly as details emerge about the enlistment date and the specific units the members will join. Notably, the focus is on Kim Taehyung, popularly known as …

Navigating the global financial landscape, Swiss private equity giant Partners Group Holding AG reveals a cautious stance on its dealings in China amid escalating geopolitical tensions. Co-founder Urs Wietlisbach emphasizes the need for higher returns, reflecting increased risks. The firm, which hasn’t transacted in China for about two years, underscores the inevitability of conflict over Taiwan and anticipates potential sanctions. …

In a surprising twist of diplomatic theatrics, the leaders of China, Japan, and South Korea are tentatively treading towards a summit, possibly unveiling the spectacle next year. This unfolding drama, seeking to soothe regional jitters exacerbated by North Korea’s weapon posturing and an increasingly conspicuous U.S. military choreography, had its prologue in a clandestine meeting between Chinese President Xi Jinping …

In a real-life drama reminiscent of a Hollywood thriller, the plight of Chinese dissident Kwon Pyong takes center stage as South Korea grapples with a decision that could have profound political and humanitarian implications. The 35-year-old, charged with immigration violations, made a daring escape on a jet ski, seeking refuge from the oppressive regime in China. As the South Korean …

In a bid to offer Taylor Swift fans an extraordinary experience at her upcoming Singapore concert in March, Marina Bay Sands is gearing up to unveil three exclusive VIP packages, promising a seamless blend of luxury and entertainment. With prices kicking off at S$10,000, these packages, each named after one of Swift’s chart-topping hits, cater to fans yearning for an …

Amidst a cultural shift and heightened awareness of animal rights, South Korea’s ruling People Power Party is on the verge of introducing legislation to outlaw dog meat consumption. This landmark decision follows global criticism and a changing perspective within the nation, especially among the younger generation. Yu Eui-dong, the policy chief, stressed the need to resolve social conflicts surrounding dog …

Amid China’s deepening property crisis, economists are sounding alarms about the potential parallels with Japan’s lost decades. The specter of economic development “turning Japanese” looms large as China slid back into deflation in October, raising concerns about its economic trajectory for 2024 and beyond. The complexity of addressing this challenge is exacerbated by Beijing’s perception that time is on its …

In the heart of Tokyo, bathed in crisp sunshine after a stormy evening, Tadashi Yanai, Japan’s richest man and the visionary founder of the $73 billion apparel empire Uniqlo, stood in his wood-paneled office. His surroundings offered a panoramic view of the Sumida River, while art books lined the shelves. Among them, he singled out a historical photo book curated …