South Korea: Shorter showers, fewer car trips

South Korea has launched a nationwide energy-saving campaign urging citizens to cut back on everyday consumption — including taking shorter showers , cycling short distances and avoiding charging phones or electric vehicles at night.

President Lee Jae Myung framed the effort as a collective national test, invoking past crises when citizens rallied to support the economy. “We desperately need the cooperation from the people,” he said, calling on households to adopt a 12-step conservation plan.

Public agencies are also now required to limit official vehicle use to four days a week, with number plate-based restrictions determining which cars stay off the road. Officials have warned that similar curbs on private vehicles could follow if the crisis worsens.

Sri Lanka: Holidays on Wednesdays 

Sri Lanka has taken a more drastic step, declaring Wednesdays a holiday for public institutions to conserve fuel.

President Anura Kumara Dissanayake said the country must “prepare for the worst” as it braces for possible shortages. The measure effectively cuts commuting and government operations by one day each week.

Philippines: Air-conditioning limit to 24°C

In the Philippines, the government is targeting cooling — one of the largest sources of electricity demand in a tropical climate.

Public offices have been ordered to set air-conditioning units no lower than 24°C under a broader directive to cut energy use by at least 10%. Agencies are also being encouraged to adopt renewable energy where possible.

The measures are part of a wider effort to ensure stable electricity supply as global energy markets remain volatile.

Thailand: Take the stairs

Thailand’s approach combines austerity with behavioural nudges. Government workers have been told to work from home, avoid lifts and take the stairs , while air-conditioning is capped at 26–27°C.

Other steps include suspending overseas trips, reducing photocopier use and shifting meetings online. 

Across Asia, such measures underscore a common reality: the region’s economies remain tightly tied to distant energy routes. As supplies tighten, governments are not only adjusting policy — they are asking citizens to change how they live, one habit at a time.

The concert, spanning Gwanghwamun Square to City Hall, is projected to draw as many as 260,000 people . While only about 22,000 attendees hold tickets, large crowds are anticipated to gather in surrounding public areas, raising concerns over crowd control and emergency response.

To contain this mammoth crowd, authorities plan to deploy around 4,800 police officers alongside 3,400 city officials and support staff. Measures include managing pedestrian flow, reinforcing emergency services , and tightening counterterrorism monitoring. 

Beyond physical attendance, the event will also be streamed live to 190 countries, amplifying its global profile — and the pressure on organisers to ensure safety.

The heightened vigilance reflects lingering sensitivities in South Korea over large-scale crowd risks, with officials keen to avoid any repeat of past incidents, such as the 2022 Halloween tragedy in Seoul, where 159 people were killed. 

The performance coincides with the release of BTS’s new album, Arirang, on March 20 — their first in more than three years — and marks the group’s return to the stage as a complete unit following members’ military service commitments. 

A global tour is set to follow in April.

Around the venue, anticipation is mixed with uncertainty. Some local businesses are preparing for an influx of international fans, extending operating hours and adopting BTS-themed promotions.

Despite the festive mood surrounding BTS’s return, officials have made clear that the scale of the event demands caution. As Seoul prepares to host a global audience, the focus remains firmly on ensuring that the long-awaited comeback unfolds without incident.

‘Golden’ makes history for K-pop

The Netflix animated film “Kpop Demon Hunters” scored two major wins : Best Animated Feature Film and Best Original Song for the track “Golden.”

Released in 2025, the film follows a fictional K-pop girl group that uses music to fight supernatural enemies. Its soundtrack has generated global hits, with “Golden” becoming the first K-pop song to win an Academy Award.

Singer Ejae , who performs the track and voices the singing parts of the film’s lead character Rumi, spoke about the significance of the moment.

“Growing up, people made fun of me for liking K-pop,” she said during the acceptance speech. “But now everyone’s singing our song and all the Korean lyrics. I’m so proud.”

Director Maggie Kang also addressed the importance of representation when accepting the award for Best Animated Feature alongside Chris Appelhans and producer Michelle LM Wong.

“For those of you who look like me, I’m so sorry that it took so long to see us in a movie like this,” Kang said. “But it is here, and that means the next generations don’t have to go longing.”

“K-Pop Demon Hunters” had already won Golden Globe awards earlier in the season for both best animated feature and best original song.

Filipino-American breaks a century-long barrier

Filipino-American cinematographer Autumn Durald Arkapaw made Oscars history by becoming the first woman to win Best Cinematography.

Arkapaw won the award for her work on Ryan Coogler’s film “Sinners,” ending a nearly century-long male stronghold in the category.

She also became the first Filipino, the first Black woman and the first Asian woman to receive the prize.

Arkapaw , whose family roots trace to Masantol, Pampanga in the Philippines as well as the American South, had already been widely recognised during awards season for her work on the film.

“Sinners,” a vampire horror film that explores race relations, received 16 Oscar nominations. Among its producers is Zinzi Coogler, who became the first Filipino nominated for Best Picture.

Arkapaw also set technical milestones during production, becoming the first woman to shoot on both IMAX film and Ultra Panavision, and the only cinematographer to use IMAX film stock developed by Kodak specifically for the film.

Michael B. Jordan honours African roots

“Sinners” star Michael B. Jordan won the Best Actor award for his role in the film, marking his first Academy Award.

During his acceptance speech, Jordan thanked director Ryan Coogler and acknowledged the Black actors who paved the way before him, including Sidney Poitier, Denzel Washington and Halle Berry.

“I stand here because of the people who came before me,” he said.

Jordan also highlighted his family’s support, noting the global journey behind the moment.

“My dad came in from Ghana to be here,” he told the audience at the Dolby Theatre.

With the win, Jordan joins a small group of Black actors who have received the Best Actor Oscar, including Jamie Foxx, Will Smith, Forrest Whitaker, Poitier and Washington.

The victories across several categories underscored the growing influence of artists connected to the Global South at Hollywood’s biggest awards ceremony.

This shift reflects a broader change in listening habits. Where global hits were once dominated by English-language pop, audiences are increasingly embracing music from regional scenes across Latin America, Asia and other emerging markets.

Some of the fastest-growing genres are closely tied to non-English markets. Among music styles generating more than $100 million in Spotify royalties, the biggest gains came from Brazilian funk, which grew 36%, followed by K-pop (31%), Latin trap (29%), Latin urban (27%) and reggaeton (24%).

Over the past decade, Latin pop and Korean music have produced worldwide hits, mainly from boy groups such as BTS, and recently, from Puerto Rican star Bad Buny. But the new data indicate that the diversity of international sounds reaching mainstream listeners is continuing to expand.

Shift away from U.S.

Spotify’s report also highlights the widening geographic spread of successful artists. Eighty-five per cent of artists earning at least $100,000 annually on the platform are based outside the United States, reflecting the increasingly global nature of the streaming economy.

Streaming has helped accelerate this change by making music instantly accessible worldwide. Spotify said more than half of the royalties artists earn on the platform now come from listeners outside their home country, underscoring how international discovery is driving the industry.

Artists generating significant income are also emerging from a broader range of countries. In 2025, performers earning more than $500,000 on Spotify came from 75 countries, while artists making at least $10,000 annually represented more than 150 countries.

Streaming platforms argue that this global reach has helped expand the music business overall. Spotify said it paid more than $11 billion to the music industry in 2025, bringing total lifetime payouts from the platform to nearly $70 billion.

The company also highlighted the rise of a growing “middle class” of musicians. More than 13,800 artists earned at least $100,000 from Spotify last year, while over 1,500 generated more than $1 million.

But the widening mix of languages on the global charts may be the clearest sign of how listening is changing. As streaming connects audiences across borders, the world ’s biggest hits are increasingly coming from many more languages than ever before.

During her time at KAIST, Ku also developed “Kooroll,” an eco-friendly hair roller, which later won recognition at the 2025 Korea Outstanding Patent Awards. The product was designed to reduce plastic use by around 80% compared with conventional hair rollers, highlighting her growing interest in combining technology with beauty innovation.

The invention has since evolved into a startup venture, with Ku involved in everything from product design to branding and the patent process. The foldable roller was designed to solve portability issues common with traditional rollers and reflects the actress’s expanding role as an entrepreneur.

Ku Hye-sun was born in Incheon, South Korea, in 1984 and rose to fame as a television actress before branching into directing, writing, music and visual arts.

She first gained widespread recognition through Korean television dramas such as "Hearts of Nineteen" in 2006 and the historical drama "The King and I" in 2007. However, her breakthrough role came in the hugely popular 2009 series "Boys Over Flowers" , where she played Geum Jan-di, a spirited student who becomes romantically involved with a wealthy heir.

The drama became a major hit across Asia and cemented Ku’s status as one of the most recognisable faces in the Korean entertainment industry.

She continued to build her career with roles in several well-known dramas, including "Take Care of Us, Captain" (2012), where she played an aspiring pilot, and "Angel Eyes" (2014), a romantic melodrama about two lovers reunited after years apart. She also starred in the medical fantasy drama "Blood" (2015) alongside actor Ahn Jae-hyun.

Beyond acting, Ku has established herself as a filmmaker. She made her directorial debut with the short film "The Madonna", which was screened at international film festivals and won awards for audience appreciation. She later directed her first feature film, "Magic" (2010), which was invited to the Jecheon International Music and Film Festival and the Tokyo International Film Festival.

In 2014, she wrote, directed and starred in the film "Daughter", a psychological drama addressing child abuse and family relationships. The film was screened at the Busan International Film Festival, further establishing her reputation as a creative force beyond acting.

More than 1,400 Filipinos across the Middle East have asked to be repatriated as conflict in the region intensifies, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said on Tuesday. Speaking at Malacañang, Marcos said 1,416 nationals had requested assistance, including 10 in Iran, 297 in Israel, 22 in Jordan, 231 in Bahrain and 856 in the United Arab Emirates, covering Dubai and Abu Dhabi. However, he said repatriation efforts were hampered by airport closures and airspace restrictions, with several facilities reportedly targeted in retaliatory strikes.

Marcos hosts South Korea’s Lee for talks on defence and trade

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Tuesday received South Korean President Lee Jae Myung in Malacañang for a two-day state visit focused on strengthening defence, maritime security and economic ties. The visit is the first by a South Korean leader since the Philippines–Republic of Korea free trade agreement took effect on December 31, 2024. The leaders held bilateral talks with senior cabinet officials and are set to witness the signing of agreements and issue a joint statement. Lee’s trip, marking 77 years of diplomatic relations, comes amid heightened Middle East tensions and follows his visit to Singapore.

Philippines says US-access sites not involved in Middle East conflict

Philippine defence officials said military facilities accessible to US forces under a bilateral pact are not involved in the escalating conflict between Washington, Israel and Iran, dismissing claims they could become targets. Arsenio Andolong, spokesman for the Department of National Defense, said some groups were exploiting the crisis to stoke “fear and apprehension” over sites covered by the 2014 Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA), which grants US forces rotational access to nine Philippine bases. He stressed the facilities remain Philippine-owned and are used for joint training, disaster response and national defence. “The Philippines is not a participant in the theatre of conflict,” Andolong said, adding there was no credible direct threat to EDCA locations.

Malaysian, Filipino killed in helicopter crash

A Malaysian national was killed and another injured when a Bell 505 helicopter carrying five people crashed in Pililla, Rizal province, east of Manila, on Tuesday morning. A Filipino passenger also died after the aircraft went down in a vacant lot at about 7.27am while en route from Manila to Quezon province. Malaysian Ambassador to the Philippines Datuk Abdul Malik Melvin Castelino said the deceased’s identity had been confirmed and next of kin informed. The embassy is providing consular assistance, while the injured Malaysian is receiving hospital treatment. The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines has launched an investigation.

Marcos weighs temporary fuel tax cut as oil nears $80

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said on Tuesday he is considering seeking congressional authority to temporarily reduce excise taxes on petroleum products if Dubai crude rises above $80 a barrel, as prices climb amid the Middle East conflict. Marcos described the plan as an emergency measure, not a permanent policy, to cushion consumers from sustained price shocks. House Speaker Faustino “Bojie” Dy III said lawmakers were open to studying possible amendments to grant the President such powers.

Video from the scene showed a bus carrying Yoon leaving the court complex as crowds waved U.S. and South Korean flags, chanting and beating drums. Some demonstrators held placards reading “Yoon is not guilty,” “There was no insurrection,” and “Martial law was justifiable.”

As of early February, at least 25 lawmakers had surpassed 100,000 subscribers, the threshold required to receive YouTube’s “silver play button.” It has become an unlikely status symbol in politics , in the country and a way to appeal to the grassroots.

Most of the lawmakers with silver play buttons are from liberal or left-leaning parties, though several conservatives have also built sizable audiences. Subscriber numbers appear to depend less on seniority and more on timing, messaging style and online engagement.

YouTube allows politicians to communicate unfiltered, respond quickly to controversies and mobilise younger voters who consume news primarily online. Lawmakers can livestream debates, post commentary and shape narratives without relying on mainstream broadcasters.

However, politicians have been cautioned that online popularity does not always reflect public support or voting .

Because scores are not curved, unexpected spikes in difficulty can significantly affect university admissions outcomes.

A ministry investigation found that 19 English questions were rewritten shortly before the exam, limiting time for proper difficulty assessment. Only 33% of English item writers were active teachers, below the cross-subject average, weakening alignment with classroom learning levels.

What will change

Under the overhaul, at least half of English test writers will be practicing teachers, screening of expertise will be tightened, and an integrated review committee will oversee difficulty calibration. 

Artificial intelligence tools will also be introduced to assist with passage generation and difficulty prediction, with pilot use planned for 2028.

Where South Korea lies in global English proficiency

The reforms come as South Korea’s English proficiency faces global comparison. 

According to the State University of New York’s (SUNY) South Korean arm, the country placed a lowly 49th in the  EF English Proficiency Index 2023. South Korea scored 525 — classified as “moderate proficiency” — down 13 spots from the previous year.

EF English Proficiency Index 2023 ranked the Netherlands first with a score of 661, followed by Singapore at 642, with other top performers concentrated in Northern Europe . 

Despite early exposure to English and widespread private education, only a minority of Korean learners attain strong conversational fluency, according to SUNY Korea’s analysis. 

“The reasons seem to stem from cultural and social differences, the significant differences between the two languages: Korean and English, and the Korean Educational System,” the university noted. 

With the planned overhaul of Suneung’s English section, officials hope the reforms will restore fairness and ensure the exam reflects realistic learning outcomes rather than magnifying systemic gaps.

The friendly rally came after Koizumi suggested the game on learning that Ahn plays table tennis regularly, turning a tightly choreographed diplomatic visit into a moment of informal rapport.

Koizumi proposed a simple challenge — to keep the ball in play for 10 exchanges — but the opening rally fell just short. A second attempt stretched longer, drawing smiles and encouragement from both sides.

After four short games, the impromptu contest ended in a 2-2 draw, with Koizumi praising Ahn’s technique and joking that he would need more practice.

The South Korean defence ministry later said the exchange reflected growing camaraderie between the two leaders, adding that the relaxed atmosphere carried over from their formal talks.

Productive talks

In a joint statement, the ministers agreed to resume bilateral search and rescue exercises between the two navies, reviving drills that have been suspended for nine years.

They also committed to deepening defence cooperation through regular ministerial talks and annual reciprocal visits, as security concerns in the region continue to mount.

The meeting marked Ahn’s first official visit to Japan since taking office, and comes amid a broader thaw in relations between the two neighbours after years of friction rooted in historical disputes.

In their joint statement, the ministers reaffirmed support for the “complete denuclearisation of the Korean Peninsula” and underscored the importance of close coordination with the United States .

While North Korea was not named directly, Seoul later said the talks included agreement to strengthen bilateral and trilateral cooperation to address Pyongyang’s advancing nuclear and missile capabilities.

The use of the phrase “ denuclearisation of the Korean Peninsula ” echoed language favoured in past diplomatic efforts, as South Korea seeks to keep channels open to the North despite stalled dialogue.

The ping-pong match follows other recent displays of what officials have described as “soft diplomacy” between Tokyo and Seoul, including a joint drum performance by the two countries’ leaders earlier this month.

“Around 1 million young people want to buy tickets, but there are only 150,000 available,” she said.

While seemingly innocuous, the appeal has sparked debate within the K-pop industry. 

Some insiders noted that the request should have been directed to Hybe, BTS’ management company, rather than the South Korean president. One official noted that world tours are carefully planned based on market research, venue availability and artist schedules, leaving little room for last-minute additions.

BTS has previously added extra shows in cities such as Tampa, Stanford and Las Vegas in response to strong ticket demand, and additional dates in Japan and the Middle East are expected. 

Ticket sales probed

The controversy coincides with frustration among Mexican fans, many of whom failed to secure tickets during the initial global sale. 

The Mexican consumer watchdog has opened an investigation into Ticketmaster and is probing resale platforms such as StubHub and Viagogo for “abusive and disloyal practices.” 

Original tickets ranged from roughly 1,800 to 17,800 pesos ($100–$1,030), while resale prices soared to as much as 92,100 pesos ($5,300).

Why is K-pop big in Mexico?

Mexico is one of the world’s most passionate K-pop markets , with over 14 million fans on Spotify alone. Streaming of Korean pop music has grown more than 500% in five years, and fandom culture thrives through social media, fan art, themed events and community initiatives.

“K-Pop artists connect with fans by being real and speaking openly about their feelings, which really resonates with young listeners in Mexico,” said Alejandro Grageda, head of music at Spotify Mexico. 

“They also promote an optimistic vision of the world—something that inspires fans to dream, believe in something better, and build strong, supportive communities together,” Grageda added. 

The survey, conducted in October, questioned about 13,000 people worldwide.

What’s behind the rise?

Cultural content emerged as the single biggest driver of that rise. 

Nearly half of respondents cited Korean pop culture — including K-pop, dramas and films — as the main factor shaping their positive view of the country, far ahead of economic performance or political influence. The impact was strongest among younger audiences, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region.

Favourability was highest in the Middle East and parts of Asia, led by the United Arab Emirates, Egypt and the Philippines. The UK also recorded one of the largest year-on-year gains, becoming the only European country to score above the global average, the culture ministry said.

The findings reflect the expanding reach of Korea’s cultural exports, which now shape how millions encounter the country for the first time — largely through video platforms and social media . Global stars such as BTS, Blackpink, footballer Son Heung-min and actor Lee Min-ho were named as among the figures most associated with Korea’s positive image.

Korea’s president, Lee Jae Myung, trailed these cultural stars.

In August 2025, another Korean cultural export made global headlines when the animated film “K-Pop Demon Hunters” became Netflix’s top-grossing film , racking up more than 236 million views at the time. 

The film’s namesake soundtrack also claimed four simultaneous spots in the Top 10 of the Billboard Hot 100.

Culture over politics

For Korea,  its international perceptions has now broadened beyond security tensions on the peninsula or idol culture alone, with growing interest in its economy, society and political system. 

At the same time, the survey noted a gap between how Korea is viewed abroad and how Koreans see their own country, as well as lingering concerns about social inclusiveness.

Still, the message from abroad was clear: Korea’s cultural soft power has become one of the most effective image-building tools in the world — turning music, drama and film into a global calling card that continues to reshape how the country is seen.

They include the total amount charged, pick-up and drop-off times, late-night and out-of-district surcharges, and clear instructions on how to report suspected violations.

For city officials, the change was aimed at closing a key information gap for overseas visitors, who are often unable to verify charges because traditional taxi receipts are printed only in Korean. As a result, foreign passengers are seen as more vulnerable to inflated fares and unlawful practices.

Private ride-hailing platforms, including Kakao Mobility and Tada, have also been asked to introduce English fare breakdowns to ensure greater transparency across the sector.

Nearly 500 complaints

According to city data, 487 complaints of alleged overcharging were filed by foreign passengers between June and December 2025 after the launch of a QR-based reporting system. ed.

The city has paired the new receipts with a broader public awareness drive, installing complaint-guidance stickers inside around 71,000 taxis and placing banners and posters at 78 taxi ranks near major tourist areas, as well as in 11 districts popular with foreign visitors, including Myeong-dong, Hongdae and Itaewon.

Yeo Jang-kwon, head of the city’s Transportation Bureau, said the measures were designed to deter illegal practices and reassure visitors. 

Taxi drivers in Seoul have been notorious for grifting foreign cab hailers.

Last September, a Japanese television crew posing as tourists was charged 45,000 won ($30) for a trip from Myeong-dong to Hongdae — nearly four times the standard fare. 

The driver was later fined after a city investigation, and the incident fuelled public criticism and prompted tougher enforcement against unfair treatment of foreign travellers.

Their criticism centres on a section of the plan that seeks to enable the use of copyrighted material for AI training without legal uncertainty, potentially through amendments to existing law or the introduction of a new AI-specific statute.

Creators say the proposal favours commercial AI developers and shifts the burden of enforcement onto individual rights holders.

They also warned that references to opt-out mechanisms would offer little real protection, as most creators lack the resources or technical capacity to deploy machine-readable safeguards.

“This is a declaration that the government is abandoning the sustainability of Korea’s cultural industry,” the groups said.

Newsmen also concerned

Sixteen organisations signed the statement, representing writers, screenwriters, performers, musicians, choreographers, visual artists, independent producers and the broadcasting sector.

The intervention follows concerns similar to those raised by newspaper publishers, who argue that copyright is rooted in the right to grant or refuse permission in advance, not after the fact.

The dispute comes as the Lee Jae Myung administration accelerates efforts to position South Korea as a global AI leader, with the Presidential Council on National Artificial Intelligence Strategy coordinating policy across government and industry.

The draft Korea AI Action Plan, released in December, sets out 98 measures spanning infrastructure investment, AI semiconductor development, talent training and regulatory reform.

Among them are proposals to revise laws governing personal data and copyrighted works to facilitate AI training, a move officials say is necessary to support innovation and competitiveness.

Public consultation on the draft plan closed earlier this month, and the council has indicated it will hold further discussions on the copyright issue.

Takaichi, who used to play in a heavy metal band, arranged the drumming event after Lee mentioned at last year’s APEC summit that he wanted to learn how to play the drums.

It is considered the world’s first because, despite the earlier adoption of the European Union ’s AI Act, most of its rules will not apply until 2027. The US, meanwhile, remains deadlocked over federal AI legislation. 

The goal? To place South Korea among the world’s top three AI powers, alongside the US and China. By acting early, officials argue, Korea can help shape global norms on AI safety, transparency and ethics while rules elsewhere remain unsettled.

Innovation first

At the core of the law is an “innovation-first” approach. Companies are free to develop and deploy AI systems without prior government approval, a sharp contrast to more precautionary regulatory models. The government has also committed to supporting the sector through funding, infrastructure and workforce training.

However, freedom comes with new obligations. 

The law introduces the concept of “high-impact AI” — systems used in sensitive areas such as healthcare, energy, hiring and critical infrastructure. Firms developing these systems must carry out risk assessments, monitor performance and report safety measures to regulators.

One of the most closely watched provisions targets transparency. AI-generated images, videos and audio will need to be clearly labelled and watermarked, including with machine-readable markers designed to combat deepfakes and disinformation.

Despite its ambition, the framework has unsettled parts of the tech industry. 

Key definitions, including what qualifies as high-impact AI, remain vague. Detailed enforcement rules are still being drafted and will be issued through executive decrees led by the Ministry of Science and ICT.

Rattled market

While the law has yet to take effect, the uncertainty is already having an impact. 

Some companies have delayed product launches, while many startups say they are unsure how — or whether — the rules apply to their systems. Industry surveys suggest most firms have yet to begin formal compliance preparations.

Critics warn that moving first does not guarantee credibility. Without clearer guidance, they argue, the law risks confusing developers or becoming more symbolic than substantive.

The government acknowledges the rollout will be imperfect. Penalties of up to 30 million won ($20,800) will be suspended during the first year, a buffer officials say is meant to help companies adapt rather than punish them.

For now, South Korea is pressing ahead. Whether its early leap sets a global standard or exposes the risks of regulating too soon will become clearer once the law is tested in the real world.

Over the same period, the student population has declined sharply, dropping from 9.9 million in 1980 to just 5.07 million this year. The scale of that fall has forced education authorities to consolidate schools, particularly in areas where enrolment has slipped below sustainable levels.

Primary schools account for the overwhelming majority of closures, with more than 3,600 shutting their doors permanently. By comparison, fewer than 300 middle schools and just 70 high schools have closed.

Jin said the figures point to a growing gap between school closures and follow-up planning. 

“As student numbers continue to decline, closures are inevitable,” she said. “But the government must move beyond simply shutting schools and develop a long-term strategy to repurpose them as assets that can still serve local communities.”

The pace of closures has accelerated in recent years. Since 2020 alone, 158 schools have closed, and a further 107 are expected to follow within the next five years as smaller age cohorts move through the system.

South Korea’s record-low birthrate sits at the centre of the problem. With the total fertility rate remaining below 0.8 — the lowest in the world — the country is producing far fewer children than needed to sustain existing school networks, particularly outside the capital region.

North Jeolla and South Jeolla provinces recorded the highest numbers of recent closures, followed by Gyeonggi and South Chungcheong, suggesting that population decline is reshaping regional education faster than urban centres.

Long-term projections indicate that the contraction is far from over. The Korean Educational Development Institute estimates that the number of students will fall to around 4.25 million by 2029, a loss of more than 800,000 pupils in just six years.

At the same time, questions are mounting over what becomes of closed school sites. Of the more than 4,000 schools that have shut, 376 remain unused, with many left idle for over a decade and some abandoned for more than 30 years.

The dealer later told the customer that the logo, weighing just under one don, was worth more than 700,000 won — a sum that far exceeded expectations for a discarded household appliance part.

The video quickly gained traction online, surpassing one million views within days and prompting viewers to scour homes, storage rooms and scrap piles for similar logos. Social media users shared stories of elderly relatives’ old air conditioners and lamented throwing away metal badges years earlier.

The online buzz intensified when a second customer appeared in a follow-up video, bringing in another Whisen logo after seeing the original post. That logo, in better condition, got an even higher valuation.

As interest surged, media reports began to clarify the origins of the gold-plated find. South Korean newspapers reported that the gold logos were not standard fittings but appeared only on specific limited-edition LG models.

According to industry records, LG — then operating as Lucky-Goldstar — produced around 10,000 special-edition Whisen air conditioners in 2005, each fitted with a pure gold logo to mark the company’s dominance in the domestic market.

The concept was revived in 2008 with a small batch of models featuring gold nameplates engraved with an artist’s signature, further blurring the line between appliance and collectible.

At the time, gold prices were a fraction of today’s levels, making the inclusion of precious metal more symbolic than financially significant. Two decades later, soaring gold prices have transformed those logos into unexpected assets.

The episode has underscored how forgotten promotional gimmicks can gain new value with time — and how, in this case, an old air conditioner quietly became a long-term investment without its owner ever knowing.

Particularly striking was the rate of higher-order multiple births involving three or more babies. South Korea recorded 0.67 such births per 1,000 deliveries, the highest among all countries in the database and roughly three times the global norm, underscoring the scale of the phenomenon.

While multiple births have increased internationally since the 1980s, the report found that South Korea’s rise has been steeper and more persistent. Researchers linked this trend largely to delayed childbearing.

The average age of women giving birth rose from 32.2 in 2015 to 33.7 in 2024, while mothers of multiples were older still, averaging 35.3 years. The growing use of assisted reproductive technologies has also played a role, as more couples seek fertility treatment later in life.

Medical experts have long classified multifetal pregnancies as high-risk. Compared with single pregnancies, they are associated with higher rates of complications such as preeclampsia and gestational diabetes for mothers, as well as low birth weight and premature delivery for infants.

South Korea’s government has rolled out a range of policies to counter the country’s record-low fertility rate, which fell to 0.72 in 2023 before edging up to around 0.75. However, the study found that most measures focus on financial and medical support after birth, rather than preventing high-risk pregnancies in the first place.

Current guidelines for medically assisted reproduction still allow for the transfer of multiple embryos, a practice that increases the likelihood of twins or triplets. By contrast, countries including the United Kingdom, Australia and Japan have sharply reduced multiple-birth rates by recommending single embryo transfers and by actively informing patients of the associated risks.

The report also pointed to a distinctive social factor in South Korea, describing a growing tendency towards what it termed “convenience-oriented childbirth,” where couples aim to have two children through a single pregnancy in response to economic pressures and time constraints.

Researchers warned that South Korea’s exceptionally high multiple-birth rate is unlikely to fall without policy change. They urged the government to treat the issue as an extension of childcare and maternal health policy, calling for measures that prioritise health before and during pregnancy, alongside reforms designed to reduce the incidence of multifetal births.

He said the government should consider whether public insurance should reflect this change, describing hair loss treatment as a “matter of survival” for sections of the younger generation.

Health Minister Jeong Eun-kyeong, responding to a question during the briefing, said national health insurance already covers hair loss linked to medical conditions . She said hereditary hair loss was excluded because it is not considered symptomatic or life-threatening.

Lee challenged that position, questioning whether hereditary baldness should be excluded solely because it is not defined as a disease under current standards.

He said that while hair loss treatment had previously been categorised as cosmetic, it was increasingly regarded as necessary for everyday life, pushing back against the view that it fell outside the scope of essential healthcare.

Jeong maintained that hereditary hair loss did not meet the criteria for coverage, reiterating that it does not pose a direct threat to health or survival.

Lee suggested that if coverage were expanded, limits could be placed on the number of claims allowed per beneficiary to reduce the financial impact on the state-run insurance system.

He said a similar approach could be applied to other conditions, such as obesity, noting that South Korea already covers surgical stomach reduction under national health insurance and implying drug treatments could also be considered.

Lee added that social exclusion among younger people was growing, saying many no longer felt they were beneficiaries of government-funded medical support when they needed it.

Last winter, doctors diagnosed the man with primary biliary cirrhosis and warned that without a liver transplant, he was unlikely to survive beyond a year. His parents sold their home to help cover medical costs, while his wife remained at his side as his primary carer.

Tests later showed that the wife was an almost perfect donor match, with compatibility exceeding 95%. But when asked to undergo surgery, she refused, telling doctors and relatives that she suffered from a severe fear of needles and surgical procedures.

The refusal caused a rift within the family, with he husband accusing her of wanting him to die and dismissing her caregiving, while his parents pressed her to reconsider. He later claimed to have uncovered evidence that she had previously undergone surgery and routine blood tests without difficulty.

A suitable liver from a brain-dead donor was eventually found, and the husband survived after a successful transplant. 

When confronted afterwards, the wife admitted that her claimed phobia was an excuse, saying she feared surgical risks and worried that their children would be left without a mother if something went wrong.

The husband subsequently filed for divorce, arguing that her refusal amounted to abandonment and a failure of marital duty. The case went to court, where judges rejected his claim.

In its ruling, the court said organ donation was a matter of personal bodily autonomy and could not be forced, even between spouses. It also found that the husband’s coercion and verbal abuse had undermined the marriage.

The couple later agreed to divorce, with the wife retaining custody of their children. According to local media , she also continued to provide financial support for the husband’s recovery, as the case sparked widespread online debate, much of it in defence of her decision.

The special prosecutor’s office argues she has “placed herself above the law” and undermined public trust in the justice system. Kim’s legal team denies all wrongdoing, insisting she acted as an ordinary investor in the stock case and that the gifts were ceremonial congratulatory items and not bribery.

Kim said in her final court statement that she had been “wronged in many ways” but apologised for causing public concern.

The trial is only one part of a wide investigation involving allegations of political interference, bribery and influence-peddling. She is also awaiting trial on accusations linked to the alleged unlawful recruitment of Unification Church members into the ruling party and other ongoing probes.

A final verdict is expected in January 2026.

They were hit by a car while crossing a junction near Seoul’s Dongdaemun district. The mother died, and the daughter suffered major injuries.

The two had just started a three-day “mother-daughter trip” in South Korea. 

Police arrested the driver, a man in his 30s who told officers, “I don’t know how I was driving,” after being apprehended. 

Investigators said he had consumed several bottles of shochu, a traditional Japanese hard liquor, and could not recall his actions at the time of the crash.

A similar incident took place on October 25 in Seoul’s Gangnam district, where a Canadian man was fatally struck by a drunk driver. 

In both cases, the drivers’ blood alcohol levels exceeded the limit at which a licence would be cancelled.

Official data shows more than 11,000 drunk-driving accidents occurred in the country in 2024. 

Analysts say lighter sentencing practices may be one reason why such incidents remain high.

South Korean law allows for heavy penalties, including long prison terms, for deadly drunk-driving cases. However, sentencing guidelines are far lower in practice, and suspended sentences are common. The rate of repeat offences is also high.

What to know:

Why it matters:

What they said:

“We agreed that these investments would accelerate South Korea’s ability to strengthen its conventional deterrence and defence against North Korea,” Hegseth said. “We also agreed to demonstrate the ability to maintain and repair US warships here in Korea.”

Reaffirming Washington’s commitment to Seoul, he added, “We are focused on standing by our allies here and ensuring the threat of the DPRK is not a threat to the Republic of Korea. We face a dangerous security environment , but our alliance is stronger than ever — 72 years strong.”

South Korea has long sought to pursue a nuclear-powered submarine project, but progress has stalled as Seoul awaited U.S. reactor fuel supply and approval for propulsion technology transfer.

Tariffs , immigration policies and lingering tensions with Washington are all expected to be brought to the table when Asian leaders engage with Trump on this trip. Here’s what you need to know about it. 

Malaysia 

Trump’s first stop will be at the ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur from October 26 to 27. There, he will meet the 10 leaders from the regional bloc, which is set to expand this year with the accession of the fledgling democracy, Timor Leste. 

Topics expected to be brought up include trade and US tariffs, regional security and defence partnerships, and the Gaza War, which Trump recently helped bring to a ceasefire using a 20-point peace plan between Israel and Hamas agreed to.

Though he arrives at the summit with a fortified credibility as a peacemaker, he also hovers with the image of a stingy negotiator. Tariffs on ASEAN countries stand between 10% to 40%, and trade tensions around the region recently flared up when Washington slapped a 100% tariff on China, a major export market for Southeast Asian countries. 

As well, host country Malaysia’s decision to extend an invitation to Trump may be rooted in trade realities: the United States is now Malaysia’s largest export market, overtaking China. Bilateral trade has nearly doubled over the past decade, reaching $78.3 billion in 2022.

ASEAN had invited Xi to the summit, but he is expected to skip the event and attend the APEC Summit in South Korea instead.

Japan

Trump will stop in Tokyo early next week to meet Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, Japan’s first female leader.

Talks will centre on trade and investment. Washington is demanding up to $550 billion in Japanese investments in the US, but Tokyo has so far pledged only a small share as direct capital. 

Trump is also expected to press Japan to cut imports of Russian liquefied natural gas, a sensitive issue for energy-dependent Tokyo.

Despite a July deal lowering tariffs on Japanese cars, manufacturers say the new 15% rate remains too high, while tariffs of 50% on steel still stand. The two leaders are also expected to discuss regional security and coordination on China ahead of the APEC summit.

South Korea

Trump’s final stop will be Gyeongju, South Korea, for the APEC Summit from October 31 to November 1 — where he is expected to meet Chinese leader Xi Jinping for the first time since returning to office.

Trade will dominate the agenda. Both leaders face pressure to cool tensions before new U.S. tariffs of up to 100% on Chinese exports take effect. Trump has said he hopes for a “deal on everything,” though Beijing has not yet confirmed the meeting.

South Korean President Lee Jae Myung will seek to finalise a $350 billion investment deal with Washington, delayed by disagreements over financing terms. The talks come amid lingering anger in Seoul over a US immigration raid last month that detained 300 South Korean nationals at a battery plant in Georgia.

North Korea’s latest missile test, launched days before Trump’s arrival, is expected to add urgency to discussions. While Trump has hinted at wanting to meet Kim Jong-un again, no such encounter is planned.

The missile warning data is being shared in real time between the three allies as part of a growing regional security cooperation effort amid Pyongyang’s continued weapons testing.

“South Korea announced that North Korea had launched a ballistic missile, so I changed my plans to go out and have just received a report on the situation. Japan, the United States, and South Korea are working closely together, including sharing missile warning data in real time, to ensure a thorough response. The government is aware of this latest launch,” she told the press.

This is first diplomatic test after assuming office only a day prior.

Organisers said that ADEX 2025 drew a record 600 companies from 35 countries, all showcasing advanced defence systems, drones , and aerospace technologies. 

The biennial exhibition ran its public days from October 17 to 19, featuring aerial displays and static aircraft exhibits. Business-to-business meetings, indoor exhibitions, and conferences will continue from October 20 to 24 in Goyang, Gyeonggi Province.

The annual APEC forum will take place at the end of October. South Korea will host the summit for the second time, having done so in 2005.

The Foreign Ministry confirmed that it is still unable to verify the whereabouts of those 80 people and is comparing its records with police data to ensure accuracy. A team led by the second vice-foreign minister is being sent to Cambodia this week to coordinate search and rescue efforts with local authorities.

The disappearances mark a sharp escalation in cases involving South Koreans in Cambodia. Parliamentary data shows that only a handful of incidents were recorded in 2023, but the number surged tenfold in 2024 and grew even further this year. 

Lawmakers say the majority of victims were misled by online job postings offering unusually high salaries, only to be coerced into fraudulent work after arrival.

Many victims are believed to have been taken to compounds run by organised criminal groups. Once inside, they are forced to run online scams targeting foreign victims, sometimes including fellow South Koreans. Those who refuse to cooperate are often subjected to violence , confinement, or extortion, according to officials familiar with the cases.

The issue drew national outrage after the death of a young South Korean student in Cambodia, who investigators say was kidnapped and tortured before he died. His case has fuelled demands for stronger government protection and more decisive action against criminal operations abroad.

President Lee Jae Myung has ordered urgent measures to safeguard citizens, describing the situation as deeply distressing and warning that the number of victims is “not small.” He told ministers that the government must act quickly to reunite families and prevent further incidents.

South Korean authorities say they are also seeking the release of about 60 nationals currently detained by Cambodian police and are believed to have been forced to participate in illegal schemes run by larger criminal networks.

In response, the Foreign Ministry is tightening travel restrictions to parts of Cambodia known for scam activity. Officials are also considering raising the country’s travel warning and urging job seekers to be wary of overseas offers that appear unusually generous.

The crisis comes amid a regional surge in online fraud operations, many of them based in Cambodia, Laos and Myanmar. Thousands of people from across Asia have been trafficked into such compounds, where they are compelled to work under harsh conditions .

The underlying story involves tradition, changing attitudes, public health, and activist pressure.

Historically, dog meat has been consumed in certain cultures as a source of protein, in ritual contexts, or out of necessity. Today, it persists in Cambodia, China, parts of Northeastern India, Indonesia, Ghana, Laos, Nigeria, South Korea, Switzerland, and Vietnam.

China is often cited as the largest consumer. Although precise numbers are elusive, some estimates place dog slaughter in the tens of millions annually.

In response to global outrage and local activism, cities such as Shenzhen and Zhuhai banned dog (and cat) meat trading in 2020, and China’s Ministry of Agriculture has since reclassified dogs as companion animals rather than livestock.

Vietnam is another notable example—with millions of dogs reportedly processed annually for consumption, often under conditions that raise serious animal welfare and safety concerns.

In South Korea, a long-standing cultural practice is in the process of fading. In January 2024, the Korean National Assembly unanimously passed legislation to ban dog meat production and sale by 2027, giving farmers and traders a transition window.

In Indonesia, although Muslim dietary laws generally regard dog meat as forbidden (haram), it remains in use among certain ethnic groups and regions. Welfare groups estimate that over 1 million dogs per year may be slaughtered in Indonesia for consumption. On Bali alone, 60,000 to 70,000 dogs are reportedly killed annually.

Ghana is among the African nations where dog meat consumption has cultural and ritual significance. Ethnic groups such as the Tallensi, Akyims, Kokis, and Yaakuma have long histories of consuming dog meat.

However, the global momentum appears to be shifting. International pressure, rising awareness of animal welfare, health risks (such as parasites, bacterial infections, and contamination), and changing generational attitudes are all contributing to a decline in the practice.

His remarks follow a March 2025 report by South Korea’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission, which concluded the state facilitated irregular adoptions, including falsifying records to portray children as orphans and switching identities.

The adoption program began after the 1950 - 53 Korean War as part of efforts to ease social and economic pressures, including the stigma surrounding children of U.S. soldiers and unmarried mothers in a society focused on ethnic homogeneity.

According to government data, more than 140,000 children were sent abroad between 1955 and 1999, mostly to the United States and Europe. Adoptions continue today, with around 100 South Korean children still sent overseas each year.

South Korea ratified the Hague Adoption Convention in July 2025, an international treaty that took effect this week, establishing safeguards to prevent abuses in cross-border adoptions. Advocacy groups welcomed the step but warned that thousands of adoptees abroad, particularly in the United States, remain at risk of deportation due to incomplete citizenship paperwork.

“Adoptees endured anxiety, pain, and confusion when separated from their families and homeland,” Lee said, adding that his government would work to strengthen protections and support reunification efforts.

The apology is the first by a sitting president to explicitly acknowledge state responsibility for malpractice in international adoptions, marking a significant moment for South Korea and the global adoptee community.

Researchers said the glue could withstand more than 400 pounds of force, with a shear strength of about 0.5 MPa and compressive strength near 10 MPa, making it a potential alternative to implants and surgery.

Lin Xianfeng, associate chief orthopedic surgeon at Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital and the project’s lead researcher, said the team took inspiration from oysters, whose natural glue allows them to cling to bridge pylons underwater. 

Bone 02 has been tested on more than 150 patients, according to local media Zhejiang Online.

In South Korea, scientists reported a similar breakthrough in bone-repair technology, re-engineering a standard arts-and-crafts glue gun to deliver a specialized bone-healing compound. 

The team at Sungkyunkwan University developed an “in situ printing system” that loads the gun with hydroxyapatite. a mineral found in human bones. and polycaprolactone, a biocompatible plastic with a low melting point.

Researchers said the handheld device offered greater surgical precision and allowed procedures to be completed more quickly. In tests on rabbits with severe leg fractures, the method produced fewer infections, faster operations and better bone regrowth. 

Findings of the South Korean study can be viewed on the online technologies journal Device .

Developments like these could transform one of the most common surgical needs worldwide. An estimated 6.8 million people break a bone each year, many of which are resolved through traditional surgical (metal and rod implants) and non-surgical (casts, splints or braces) methods.

The scheme was to be branded Ang Agraryong Tulay para sa Bagong Bayanihan ng mga Magsasaka — the PBBM Bridges — a nod to President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.

The project was first rejected in February 2024, when South Korea’s Ministry of Economy and Finance warned it was prone to corruption and had a “low probability of success,” according to an investigation by South Korean news outlet Hankyoreh 21 .

Sharing the investigative report, President Lee Jae-myung said on social media that he had “ordered an immediate halt to the proceedings,” adding it was fortunate the project had not commenced. 

“There is significant meaning in preventing the unnecessary waste of 700 billion Korean won in taxpayer money and preemptively blocking risks that could lead to poor management and corruption,” he added.

South Korea’s Ministry of Economy and Finance formally informed Manila in April 2024 that it would not support the scheme, but the plan was later resurrected after pressure from People Power Party lawmaker Kweon Seong-dong on then-finance minister Choi Sang-mok, the investigation found.

Following a request for reconsideration, the Export-Import Bank of Korea commissioned a new feasibility study in October 2024 that pared the programme back from 350 bridges to 70 and cut the budget to about $80–100 million. 

Even so, South Korean officials concluded the project remained difficult to manage and vulnerable to graft because of the challenge of overseeing dozens of separate construction sites.

Responding to backlash following President Lee’s post, the Philippine Department of Finance said “no such loan exists,” adding it was committed to “full transparency and accountability” with bilateral partners.

These developments unfold against corruption scandals rocking both countries — South Korea has been shaken by allegations involving former first lady Kim Keon-hee, while the Philippines faces scrutiny over anomalous flood-control projects allegedly tied to dozens of lawmakers.

South Korea spans about 100,222 km² and has around 51.2 million people (2025), ranking as the world’s 29th‑most‑populous country. Ireland covers roughly 69,947 km² and has 5.34 million residents.

These figures mean the Korean Peninsula is about 40 % larger than Ireland and supports nearly ten times more people. South Korea’s population density approaches 510 people per square kilometre, whereas Ireland’s is about 76 per km² when calculated from official data.

The physical landscapes also differ. South Korea is mountainous, with only 30 % lowland, and has more than 3,000 islands scattered along its coasts. Ireland, by contrast, features a central plain rimmed by low mountains and a rugged western coastline dotted with cliffs and bays.

The River Shannon, at 386 km, is its longest river. Thus, while the outline fits, the Korean Peninsula extends farther south and contains more varied terrain.

These demographic and geographic contrasts underpin large economic disparities. South Korea has transformed from post‑ war poverty to become a highly developed export powerhouse. Its nominal GDP of US$1.87 trillion makes it the fourth‑largest economy in Asia and 13th‑largest globally.

Ireland’s economy is smaller in absolute terms but ranks among the richest in Europe; its GDP per capita is about €79,300, roughly 111 % above the EU average, and the country accounts for about 3 % of the European Union ’s total GDP. Low corporate taxes and an English‑speaking workforce have attracted multinational tech and pharmaceutical firms.

Culturally, the countries diverge as well. South Korea’s capital, Seoul, anchors a metropolitan area of more than 10 million people, and over 81 % of the population lives in urban areas.

The nation faces demographic challenges such as an ageing population and low fertility. Ireland is less urbanised, with more than 40 % of residents living in rural areas and immigration helping to sustain growth. Its history of emigration has given way to a more multicultural society.

Festival-goers and tourists can be seen covered in dirt, unwinding in mud-based activities. 

Established in 1998 to promote local mud cosmetics, the festival has grown into a major international tourism event, blending recreation, wellness, and cultural performance.

“It's just so relaxing, being in the mud, and it feels so good on your skin, especially during the whole weather ,” one tourist said.

Large crowds gather to experience the mud and other attractions, including K-pop concerts, fireworks, parades, beach parties, and night markets.

A closer look at the regional fertility map, compiled by The World in Maps from KOSTAT data, reveals significant disparities across the country:

This regional divide highlights the significant disparity between urban and rural reproductive patterns, which are influenced by economic pressures, housing costs, and lifestyle factors that discourage childbearing in densely populated cities.

Experts at KOSTAT attribute the continued decline to multiple interlinked factors:

Despite extensive government efforts—ranging from cash incentives to expanded childcare support—the impact on fertility rates has been negligible. According to KOSTAT’s analysis, policy measures have not kept pace with the root structural challenges that deter young people from starting families.

The government’s latest initiatives, including increased parental leave and housing subsidies, have yet to reverse the downward trend. Analysts warn that without more fundamental reforms—such as improving gender equality, addressing youth unemployment, and rethinking housing policy—the country’s demographic crisis will deepen.

National implications

The implications of South Korea’s record-low fertility rate are profound. With an ageing population and shrinking workforce , the country faces a looming demographic cliff that threatens to strain its pension system, healthcare infrastructure, and overall economic productivity.

Demographers warn that without urgent action, South Korea’s population could begin to contract significantly by the 2030s, placing the country’s long-term economic competitiveness at risk.

In 2010, the smartphone industry was a tapestry of innovation hubs:

At the time, Nokia was the undisputed leader, commanding over a third of global smartphone sales, while BlackBerry dominated business users.

Fast forward to 2025, and China is now home to seven of the world ’s top 10 smartphone makers , including Shenzhen 's Huawei, Honor, Realme, Transsion, Dongguan 's Oppo and Vivo and Beijing 's Xiaomi and Lenovo.

This reflects China’s ascendance as both a manufacturing powerhouse and an innovation hub, supported by robust supply chains, government investment, and a vast domestic market.

Amidst China’s rise, South Korea’s Samsung remains a global leader, headquartered in Suwon. While LG exited the smartphone market in 2021, Samsung’s Galaxy line continues to dominate flagship sales worldwide.

In sharp contrast to the dynamic 2010 map, by 2025, only Apple in Cupertino represents the US on the global smartphone stage. The decline of BlackBerry, Motorola, and other American brands highlights a shift in the global tech power balance.

Experts point to several key factors:

Meanwhile, European and North American brands struggled with slower innovation cycles, higher labour costs, and in some cases, failed pivots to new technologies.

The five-week crackdown, which ran from late February to March, involved police from Singapore, Hong Kong, Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, and Thailand.

Officers raided 269 l ocations and seized hundreds of electronic devices, including computers, mobile phones, and storage drives. Investigators also found child abuse materials created using artificial intelligence.

In Singapore, 21 men aged between 23 and 61 were arrested for various crimes, including possessing and sharing child abuse materials, sexual assault, and threatening to leak intimate images.

Police said one 43-year-old man paid a young girl over several years to livestream sexual acts, while another 24-year-old man exchanged intimate photos with a victim and later threatened to release them online.

Both victims were from outside Singapore.

Authorities say the arrests highlight the growing threat of online child exploitation.

"These crimes cross borders, and we will continue working with international partners to bring offenders to justice," Singapore police said in a statement .

Police warn that anyone caught with child abuse materials could face up to five years in jail, while those distributing such content could get up to seven years. Both crimes also carry heavy fines or caning in some jurisdictions.

The operation is one of the biggest of its kind in Asia, and police say investigations are ongoing.

The agreement was reportedly reached during high-level trade talks held in Beijing, where officials from the three countries gathered to discuss the escalating trade tensions with the United States .

The trilateral meeting comes amid growing concerns over Washington’s protectionist trade measures that have targeted sectors ranging from semiconductors to electric vehicles and key industrial components.

According to Reuters, citing a post from Yuyuan Tantian — a social media account affiliated with China Central Television — the three nations agreed that unilateral tariffs imposed by the United States are damaging to the global trade system and regional economic stability.

While diplomatic relations among China, Japan, and South Korea have often been strained due to historical and territorial disputes, shared economic interests appear to be driving increased collaboration.

The report highlights that Japan and South Korea are seeking to import semiconductor raw materials from China, while China is also looking to purchase advanced chip products from both Japan and South Korea. This growing interdependence in the technology sector has raised the stakes for all three countries in light of U.S. trade restrictions.

Analysts say the cooperation marks a strategic shift in how East Asia may approach future trade frictions with the U.S., especially as the global economy faces uncertainty.

Although no specific countermeasures were announced, the joint statement from the trilateral meeting emphasized the importance of resisting protectionism and preserving multilateral trade norms. The three nations also expressed interest in accelerating talks on a long-stalled China-Japan-South Korea Free Trade Agreement (CJK FTA).

According to the latest rankings from the World Population Review, five countries stand out for having the most robust, effective, and high-performing education systems globally.

These rankings take into account factors such as literacy rates, academic achievement, accessibility, teacher-to-student ratios, and overall educational outcomes.

South Korea

South Korea is frequently ranked among the top countries in education, and for good reason. The country has built a reputation for academic rigour, high student performance, and an intense cultural focus on education. According to World Population Review metrics—South Korea stands out, particularly in areas such as mathematics, science, and literacy.

Denmark

Denmark's education system is renowned for its student-centred approach, emphasizing autonomy, self-directed learning, and collaboration. Danish schools prioritise social and emotional learning, recognising the importance of emotional intelligence in academic and personal success. The country's commitment to sustainability and environmental education also sets it apart, with many schools like Dania Academy incorporating eco-friendly practices and green technologies into their curricula.

Netherlands

The Netherlands boasts a highly regarded education system, with a strong focus on innovation, entrepreneurship, and vocational training. Dutch schools prioritise practical skills and hands-on learning, with many students participating in apprenticeships and work-based learning programmes. The country's commitment to internationalization and language education also sets it apart, with many students fluent in multiple languages and prepared for success in a globalised economy.

Nextrade will offer extended trading hours from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. local time, surpassing KRX's 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. schedule. This 12-hour window includes pre-market sessions from 8:00 a.m. to 8:50 a.m. and after-hours trading from 3:40 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., providing investors with greater flexibility. ​

A consortium of 34 securities and technology firms has established Nextrade, with 29 brokerage houses ready to participate from the first day. The platform aims to capture a 10% market share within three years, introducing competition to South Korea's stock trading landscape. ​

A solar sail is a large, thin sheet that captures energy from the sun’s photons—tiny particles of light.

The sun's energy pushes the sail, just as the wind pushes a sailboat forward, allowing a spacecraft to move through space.

This means a spacecraft can keep travelling for long periods without carrying fuel or relying on engines.

The new solar sail, developed by KARI, is 10 metres wide and made of an extremely lightweight material.

It is bigger than the solar sail NASA introduced in 2023 and is made of a special film coated with aluminium.

The entire deployment system is compact, allowing the sail to be folded into a small space and then expanded when needed.

This technology is not just useful for space exploration. Scientists say it could also help clean up space debris, a growing problem in Earth's orbit.

Unused satellites and broken spacecraft parts clutter space, and a solar sail could help remove them.

KARI President Lee Sang-cheol said the team will continue working on new ways to use this technology. According to him, this could strengthen South Korea’s ability to explore deep space and contribute to future space missions.

Yoon’s lawyers criticized the indictment, calling it the “worst choice” made by the prosecution, while the opposition party welcomed the decision. The charges stem from Yoon’s attempt to impose martial law, which aimed to curb political and parliamentary activities and control the media.

His decree sparked widespread political unrest in the country, a key U.S. ally and the fourth-largest economy in Asia. In the aftermath, the prime minister was impeached and suspended, and several senior military officials were indicted.

Yoon’s defence team argued that the martial law declaration was intended as a response to a national crisis caused by the opposition, labelling it a “desperate plea” to the public.

"(The) President's declaration of emergency martial law was a desperate plea to the public over a national crisis caused by the opposition getting out of control," Yoon's lawyers said in a statement .

Prosecutors, however, have charged him with leading an insurrection, a crime that can carry life imprisonment or the death penalty, though executions have not been carried out in South Korea in decades.

Insurrection is one of the few offences for which a president does not have immunity.

Yoon, a former prosecutor, was arrested on January 15 after a standoff between his security detail and arresting officers, making him the first sitting South Korean president to be detained. Although a court denied prosecutors' request to extend his detention over the weekend, they are seeking to keep him in custody as they continue their investigation.

The top court is also reviewing Yoon’s impeachment, with a final ruling expected within 180 days on whether he will be removed from office or reinstated. If Yoon is ousted, a presidential election would be held within 60 days.

Yoon’s martial law decree, which he rescinded after about six hours when lawmakers rejected it, led to dramatic scenes in parliament. Soldiers armed with rifles and night-vision equipment entered the parliamentary building after windows were smashed, adding to the tension in an already volatile political environment.

Speaking to reporters, Yoon Kab-keun, spokesperson for Yoon’s legal team, stated, “The evidence submitted to us, and the president, who came out in person, also gave a greeting and answered questions to the judge. He told me that there are still many things that are regrettable about the fairness and neutrality issues.”

He added that Yoon’s team would thoroughly explain what they described as “deficiencies” in the constitutional reform process during the trial. “The poor part of the constitutional reform process will also be fully explained during the trial, and I think that some misunderstandings in that part will now be resolved,” he said.

During the session, Yoon denied allegations that he ordered military commanders to forcibly remove lawmakers from parliament on December 3, the night martial law was declared. Military commanders had previously claimed that Yoon issued the directive after lawmakers entered the parliament building by climbing fences and breaking barricades to overturn his martial law declaration.

“I am a person who has lived with a firm belief in liberal democracy,” Yoon said in his opening remarks, rejecting accusations that he masterminded an insurrection.

Under South Korean law, insurrection is a grave offence punishable by life imprisonment or even the death penalty. Yoon’s legal team has consistently denied such charges.

The impeachment decision lies in the hands of the Constitutional Court’s eight-member bench, with Yoon’s removal requiring at least six votes in favour of the motion. If upheld, a presidential election must be held within 60 days to choose his successor.

The tragedy—South Korea’s deadliest aviation disaster—occurred on December 29, claiming 179 lives and leaving only two survivors, both crew members seated in the tail section.

What Pakistan is really like - not what you think

Ever been to Pakistan? Or maybe just heard about the South Asian country? Though the country is depicted in many ways in the mainstream media, Forbes 30 under 30 award winner and Pakistani filmmaker and creative director Bushra Sultan gave some perspective about what the people of Pakistan are really like. Read more here .

Indian village that changed its name to honour Jimmy Carter pays tribute

Thousands of miles from Washington, where the funeral of Jimmy Carter is set for next week, an Indian village named after the former U.S. president fondly remembers his visit almost 50 years ago, paying tribute. Read more here .

South Koreans protest near impeached president's residence after court orders his arrest

South Korea has been gripped by political turmoil following the impeachment and subsequent arrest warrant issued for President Yoon Suk Yeol. Read more here .

Africa

Africa's top 10 'Most Wanted' criminals on Interpol's Red List

Interpol has released a list of Africa's most wanted criminals on its Red Notice, highlighting individuals sought for serious crimes across the continent. While countries like Algeria, Morocco, and Egypt have multiple entries, others, including Benin and Botswana, have no records of wanted persons. Here’s the first part of Africa’s list compiled by GSW. Read more here .

Senegal announces end to foreign military presence by 2025

Senegal's President, Bassirou Diomaye Faye, has announced that all foreign military forces will leave the country by 2025. Speaking during his New Year’s speech, the president said the move forms part of Senegal's efforts to gain greater control over its own security and international relations. Read more here .

Ivory Coast president says French forces to withdraw

Ivory Coast President Alassane Ouattara said on Tuesday that French forces would withdraw from the West African nation, continuing the former colonial power's military exit from the region. Read more here .

Latin America

Hundreds of migrants rush to Mexico City over deportation fears

Hundreds of migrants from Chiapas are heading to Mexico City to apply for a Customs and Border Protection (CBP) One appointment for legal entry into the U.S. This comes amid concerns of potential deportation.  Read more here .

Brazil-Cuba heritage on full display as Lagos Island comes alive during Fanti Carnival

Lagos Island was filled with colour and energy as the historic Fanti Carnival lit up the streets before dawn, celebrating its unique blend of Nigerian, Brazilian, and Cuban heritage. Rooted in 19th-century traditions brought by returnees from Brazil and Cuba, the carnival showcased vibrant costumes, music, and cultural performances, highlighting its deep historical and cultural significance for the people of Lagos. Read more here :

Venezuela’s Supreme Court fines TikTok $10m over deadly viral challenges

Venezuela's highest court has imposed a $10 million fine on TikTok over viral challenges that authorities say led to the deaths of three adolescents from chemical substance poisoning. Read more here .

On December 31, 2024, the Seoul Western District Court issued warrants to detain President Yoon and search his office and residence. This unprecedented move marks the first time a sitting South Korean president has faced such legal action.

The court's decision was based on allegations that Yoon's actions amounted to rebellion, a charge that carries severe penalties under South Korean law.

President Yoon Suk Yeol, who was impeached by the National Assembly on December 14, 2024, faced allegations of rebellion following his controversial declaration of martial law earlier in the month.

The declaration saw the deployment of hundreds of troops and police officers to the National Assembly on December 3.

Like many others, the family is struggling to come to terms with the sudden and devastating loss. The passenger, a young professional returning from a business trip in Bangkok, was among the 181 people on board the ill-fated flight.

The Jeju Air flight, a Boeing 737-800, was attempting to land at Muan International Airport when it veered off the runway and crashed into a wall before bursting into flames. Initial reports suggest that a bird strike and poor weather conditions may have contributed to the accident.

The crash has left only two survivors, both crew members, who were pulled from the wreckage and are currently receiving medical treatment.

The ill-fated flight, 7C2216, was arriving from Bangkok, Thailand, carrying 175 passengers and six crew members. The incident occurred shortly after 9 a.m. local time (0000 GMT) as the aircraft attempted to land at the southern airport, the South Korean transport ministry confirmed. 

Two crew members were rescued from the wreckage, while officials indicated that the remaining passengers and crew are presumed dead. 

This is the deadliest air accident ever on South Korean soil and the worst involving a South Korean airline in nearly three decades.