All Asia Pacific
Protests, then a pandemic: Can Hong Kong tourism hang on?Hong Kong’s response to the pandemic, and its economic hardships, includes a H.K.$120 billion stimulus package with a cash handout for every resident.
Hong Kongers fear drastic law marks ‘before’ and ‘after’Hong Kong’s new national security law, imposed by Beijing to bypass the local legislature, severely undermines its autonomy and freedom, critics warn.
First LookIn Hong Kong, arrests begin a day after passing new security lawNine demonstrators have been arrested under the new national security law passed by China's central government on Tuesday. Police say they possessed flags and other items calling for Hong Kong independence.
First LookChina just passed the Hong Kong security law. What happens now?Hong Kong faces an uncertain future after China's President Xi Jinping passed the Hong Kong national security law that sparked massive protests last year. The international community responded with concern over the erosion of democratic values caused by China.
Behind deadly clash with India, a pattern of Chinese assertivenessChinese and Indian soldiers fought Monday along the disputed border in the Galwan Valley. Beijing is increasingly pressing its territorial claims.
First LookIn controversial move, China passes Hong Kong security law draftChina's legislature passed a draft on Thursday of the national security law that spurred massive protests in Hong Kong last year. This latest step has been openly criticized by the G-7.
First LookWhy did North Korea just blow up inter-Korea liaison office?On Tuesday, North Korea demolished an inter-Korean liaison office building opened in 2018 to facilitate communication. North Korea's latest act of "symbolic" anger raises tensions and puts pressure on Washington and Seoul amid deadlocked nuclear diplomacy.
First LookManila court convicts Philippines' top journalist in libel caseJournalist Maria Ressa, an outspoken critic of Philippines' President Rodrigo Duterte, was sentenced to up to six years in jail in a libel case on Monday. Charges and allegations against Ms. Ressa are being viewed as a major setback to press freedom.
First LookVirus outbreak in Beijing: a cautionary tale of reopeningA new coronavirus outbreak in a wholesale food market in Beijing serves as a warning for other countries. China postponed reopening some schools Monday.
How China’s heavy steps in Hong Kong reverberate in TaiwanA resounding majority in Taiwan oppose a “one country, two systems” formula for relations with China, à la Hong Kong. But how do they walk that path?
First LookWhy the cold shoulder? N Korea goes incommunicado with S Korea.North Korea cut off all communication channels with its neighbor on Tuesday. It's a tactic used by Kim Jong Un's government to escalate pressure on South Korea for its failure to persuade the United States to ease sanctions, experts say.
First LookHong Kong marks anniversary of pro-democracy movementJune 9, 2019 was the start of the longest-lasting, pro-democracy movement in Hong Kong since 1997. Hundreds marched on its anniversary to protest what they see as an expanding influence and reach of Beijing.
First LookWhy China’s business elite are sending masks to AfricaChina's wealthiest are gaining attention as global humanitarian donors after companies and individuals gave millions of dollars in medical supplies, food, and cash to countries worldwide. It's a diplomatic win for Beijing, say analysts.
First LookHong Kong passes anthem law on Tiananmen anniversaryOn the 31st anniversary of Beijing's Tiananmen crackdown on the student-led pro-democracy movement, Hong Kong legislature approved a law that makes it illegal to insult or abuse the Chinese national anthem.
First LookFacing restrictions, Hong Kongers look to 'Plan B': UK passportsFor the first time since 1990, Hong Kong police rejected an application to hold a Tiananmen Square vigil. Feeling the pressure from Beijing's increased reach and presence, Hong Kong residents are rushing to apply for British passports.
First LookNew security laws blur line between Hong Kong and mainland ChinaThe territory's pro-Beijing government says new laws on security and the national anthem will not infringe on Hong Kong's freedoms. Japan and other democracies criticized the move. The Trump administration said it no longer regards Hong Kong as autonomous.
First LookNormal life is returning to South Korea, but is it too soon?As COVID-19 cases in South Korea wane, the world watches to see whether relaxed social distancing rules will bring progress or vulnerability to a second wave of the virus. A mini outbreak linked to nightclubs in Seoul has raised concerns about lifting lockdowns.
For US-China groups, the adversary is COVID-19 – not a countryChina-U.S. relations have chilled amid COVID-19. As governments bicker, many people are trying to boost life-saving cooperation.
First LookHong Kong legislature erupts over pro-Beijing chairOn Monday, clashes broke out in the Hong Kong legislature after a pro-Beijing lawmaker was elected as chair. The new chair could help passage of a law that criminalizes abuse of the Chinese national anthem.
First LookEven with one year delay, 2021 Tokyo Olympics won't be the sameThere are more questions than answers for the 2021 Summer Olympics. What will be cut? Will there be fans? What about ticket refunds? How will athletes travel to Tokyo? Where will they stay?
