All Asia Pacific
‘Hostage diplomacy’ spat between China and Canada hits homeChina’s arrests of two Canadians, which followed the arrest of a Huawei executive in Vancouver, have some people rethinking their dealings in China.
First LookDuterte to deliver state of the nation address amid protestsProtesters criticized Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte before his his state of the nation address Monday. Mr. Duterte's violent anti-drug campaign has caused international alarm, but he remains popular in opinion polls and in the Philippine Congress.
What Hong Kong’s man without a mask wants you to knowOn July 1, as Hong Kong’s young protesters stormed the legislature, Brian Leung became a face of the movement’s most controversial action yet.
First LookJapanese anime studio hit by deadly suspected arson attackA fire at Kyoto Animation, a popular Japanese anime studio, has left 33 dead and 36 injured, some critically. Anime fans around the world have expressed support for the company and anger for the suspected attack.
First LookAs Japan, South Korea spar over trade, US plays peacemakerThe U.S. has sent a top diplomat to ease tensions between Japan and South Korea. The two nations, whose economies are closely linked, have sparred over trade restrictions and colonial-era reparations.
First LookHong Kong protests find new purpose and momentumProtests against a controversial extradition bill began over a month ago. Now, demonstrations have ballooned to address how Hong Kong is governed.
Japan’s conundrum: It needs foreign workers. It doesn’t want immigrants.Japan's shrinking, graying population needs foreign workers. But immigration is a tough sell – and stopgap measures can leave migrants vulnerable.
Hong Kong protests: Is anyone in charge?Hong Kong protesters’ lack of official leaders may protect them, but it also creates challenges – including, perhaps, for their movement’s future.
A visit to Korea’s DMZ: Fast food, a pirate ship – and a bit of hopeDonald Trump and Kim Jong Un’s handshake at Korea’s Demilitarized Zone was a blend of the absurd and solemn – but so is day-to-day reality at the DMZ.
China is ramping up its media abroad – and not just in ChineseBeijing is intensifying efforts to shape its image abroad – and not just for Chinese-speaking audiences.
On July 4, memories of a veteran who sought to bridge differencesA trip to Seoul reminded the author of his editor, a Korean War veteran-turned-governor who believed independence can coexist with a desire to unite.
FocusWhen a city of canals floods, what happens to waterway shantytowns?Big cities like Bangkok are moving whole slums to mitigate effects of flooding and climate change – after gaining trust of residents.
First LookHong Kong protests could empower Taiwanese leaderRecent protests in Hong Kong have likely bolstered Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen's bid for reelection next year. Firmly opposed to accommodation with the mainland, Ms. Tsai now has more ammunition against her more moderate opponents.
Trump and Kim, Trump and Xi – what really mattered at G-20?Donald Trump’s talks with Xi Jinping and Kim Jong Un stole headlines after the G-20 summit. But the weekend also showcased a growing global divide.
First LookJapan returns to commercial whaling after three decadesJapanese whalers brought home their first catch in 31 years. But the industry's return comes amid slowing demand for the meat and changing views on conservation.
First LookHong Kong protests escalate near anniversary of handoverTens of thousands of protestors marched for withdrawal of an extradition bill and for Hong Kong's leader, Carrie Lam, to resign. Protestors are also demanding inquiry into police actions during a June 12 protest.
For South Korean youth, peacemaking is secondary to job growthPresident Moon Jae-in was elected two years ago as an economic reformer. But a slowdown in job creation has soured young voters on their prospects.
First LookAustralian media demands press freedom after raidsRecent police raids have prompted Australian media organizations to unite in demanding legal reforms to bolster press freedom. Journalists seek what they view to be a healthier balance between national security and press freedom.
In N. Korea nuclear talks, what about human rights?As U.S. and South Korean officials seek to persuade North Korea to halt its nuclear weapons program, the issue of human rights remains largely in the background.
For Hong Kong’s leader, pressure isn’t just from protestersHong Kong protesters are increasingly frustrated with Chief Executive Carrie Lam’s handling of a controversial bill. But so is Beijing, analysts say.
