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US lawmakers say they'll visit Taiwan before Trump's summit with China's Xi
A bipartisan group of senators has plans to visit Taiwan, Japan and South Korea
Business Lookahead: Gauging the war's impact
STORY: From a worrying drop in stocks to a surge in energy prices from the war in the Middle East to key data on jobs and trade, these are the stories to watch in business and finance in the coming week. ::Look Ahead::War impactThe first quarter is ending with financial markets at the mercy of geopolitics.The Iran war has wiped roughly $7 trillion off global stocks since it erupted.With oil prices up nearly 70% year to date, suddenly interest rates are heading up, rather than down, and energy-hungry AI does not look like such a slam-dunk anymore.Meanwhile, gold has plunged 16% after being nearly unstoppable since the start of 2025.We’ll see whether markets roll on or rollover as the second quarter begins.::Job growth in focusThe U.S. jobs report for March comes out Friday.It will offer a crucial view into the economy's health as investors gauge fallout from the energy price surge.Monthly payrolls are seen rising by 48,000, according to a Reuters poll. February's surprisingly weak report caught Wall Street off guard, showing nonfarm payrolls fell by 92,000 while the unemployment rate increased to 4.4%.Uncertainty over the Iran war is also clouding the economic forecasts for the Federal Reserve, with Wall Street pulling back on expectations for U.S. interest rate cuts this year as the oil price surge fuels concerns about rising inflation.Other U.S. data in the coming week includes retail sales for February and reports on manufacturing and services activity.::Chip checkSouth Korea releases its trade data for March on Wednesday.It will provide an early indicator of how the global economy is holding up in the face of the war and the resulting shock to energy prices. Korea's export-heavy economy is a bellwether for global trade and one of the first to report data from the previous month.Its manufacturing fortunes are of even greater interest than usual, not just because of its dependence on Middle Eastern energy imports, but also because its world-leading DRAM chips are of critical importance to the AI sector and currently in short supply too. ::Inflation assessmentAnd flash euro zone inflation for March is due on Tuesday. After long hovering around the 2% mark, higher energy prices are now expected to push headline inflation up, as they did in 2022. The question is, how large and sustained any jump in inflation might be.Early data is not painting a pretty picture. Private sector growth in the euro zone slowed sharply in March, with input costs rising to their highest in more than three years and supply chains being significantly disrupted.Money markets are now heavily pricing in a rate hike which was almost unthinkable before the Iran war.
South Korea’s Kakao Entertainment appoints JungHee Ko as Co-CEO alongside Joseph Chang in
Ko takes on an additional role as Chief Platform Officer, overseeing a newly created unit responsible for Kakao Entertainment’s platform services…
New Galaxy S26 update that brings AirDrop expands globally
Samsung has released a new software update for the Galaxy S26 series outside of South Korea. It brings AirDrop to the new phones.
Sonic Frontiers Definitive Edition rated in Korea
The Game Rating and Administration Committee of Korea has rated the unannounced Sonic Frontiers Definitive Edition.
Why the BTS Comeback Concert Was a ‘Disaster’ for Some Businesses
The turnout for the K-pop titans’ show was much lower than projected by officials, hitting the bottom line of some restaurants. Shares in the group’s management company also fell.
Samsung Brings AirDrop Support to Quick Share with Galaxy S26 Series
Samsung is introducing AirDrop support to the Galaxy S26 series, making it easier for users to share content between devices using Quick Share. The feature will begin rolling out from March 231, starting in Korea and expanding to more regions including Europe, Hong Kong, Japan, Latin America, North America, Southeast Asia, and Taiwan. AirDrop support […]
BTS fans take over central Seoul for K-pop kings' comeback
South Korean megastars BTS reunite Saturday for their first show in nearly four years, with an expected 260,000 fans taking over central Seoul for a K-pop extravaganza livestreamed to millions more wo...
A baby dinosaur hidden inside rock reveals a first-of-its-kind discovery at UT Austin
A baby dinosaur fossil hidden inside solid rock for nearly 100 million years is now rewriting South Korea’s fossil record. Revealed using advanced CT scans at the University of Texas at Austin, the…
Nine Winters Bakery is closing in Cambridge: 'I'm choosing my family'
In an Instagram post, owner Marissa Ferola addressed the closure and said the last day of service is at the end of the month.
They moved to South Korea for his job; 2 years later, he was laid off
Bart Schaneman and his family had a full life in Colorado — a two-story house, cars, and jobs. In his 40s, they decided to move to South Korea.
Forum on harnessing Artificial Intelligence for health equity
Register to this forumOver the past decade, artificial intelligence (AI) has significantly evolved in complexity, performance, and utility. Its integration across a wide range of industrial sectors has accelerated, with healthcare emerging as one of the most transformative sectors. In this sector, AI has enabled high-impact applications – from enhancing the speed and accuracy of disease diagnosis and supporting clinical decision-making, to strengthening public health initiatives such as disease surveillance and workforce optimization. Moreover, AI holds immense potential to empower individuals, enabling them to take greater control of their personal health and well-being. Yet the central question remains: Who benefits, who is at risk, and do these innovations close or widen health inequities? While the potential of AI-enabled applications is substantial, many countries have approached their adoption with caution. This hesitancy stems from concerns about risks and benefits, including model bias, data breaches, privacy violations, and the erosion of professional skills due to over-reliance on AI. Additional barriers include inadequate data infrastructure and a lack of robust evidence on the most effective forms and interfaces of AI to enhance service delivery and system performance. Moreover, the rapid rise of Generative AI has introduced a heightened urgency for the development of comprehensive governance and ethical frameworks. The Asian Development Bank (ADB) Health Practice Team and Digital Sector, in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Office for the Western Pacific, are convening the Forum on Harnessing AI for Health Equity on 25–26 March at ADB Headquarters. Senior health officials from 16 developing member countries (DMCs), alongside leading researchers, innovators, and policymakers from across Asia and the Pacific, will engage in discussions on how AI can be governed, financed, and scaled to deliver healthier lives for all. The forum is funded through the High-Level Technology Fund with support from the Government of Japan. Objectives The two-day forum aims to:Identify high-impact, evidence-based health AI use cases suitable for resource-constrained settings and map out a pipeline for potential supportIntroduce and validate the WHO's policy guidance on minimum necessary ecosystem for countries and institutions to self-assess readiness for AI adoptionObtain initial commitment from participating stakeholders to join a pilot regional initiative focused on data/model sharing for a priority health challengeEndorse a prioritized set of actionable policy recommendations focusing on governance, regulation, and sustainable financing necessary to scale high-impact health AI use cases in resource-constrained settings Target participants The forum will convene participants from 16 ADB DMCs including Bangladesh, Bhutan, Cambodia, Cook Islands, Fiji, Indonesia, Lao People's Democratic Republic, Mongolia, Nepal, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Uzbekistan, and Viet Nam. In addition, health system leaders and practitioners, private sector technologists, academic experts, representatives from civil society organizations, development partners, and philanthropic institutions engaged in AI for Health from Australia, the People’s Republic of China, Japan, Malaysia, New Zealand, Singapore, and the Republic of Korea will also be invited. SessionsDay 1 (25 March)Session 1: AI Use Cases for the Care Continuum: Improving Access and QualitySession 2: Adopting a risk-based approach for AI use case prioritizationSession 3: Establishing the Minimum Ecosystem for Implementation Risk ManagementSession 4: Future-Ready Health Workforce: Building Competency for Human-AI CollaborationDay 2 (26 March)Session 5: The Political Economy of AI in Health: Understanding Stakeholder Interests and their Impact on EquitySession 6: AI and Health Financing: Supporting Fair Coverage and ProtectionSession 7: AI Regulation and Oversight: Pathways for Different RealitiesSession 8: The Way Forward – Building Alliances and Regional Partnership How to registerThe forum will be held in a hybrid format. In-person attendance is by invitation only, while livestreaming of the forum will be available to the public. To register, please complete this form on or before 24 March 2026.Event organizers / partnersAsian Development Bank (ADB)WHO Regional Office for the Western Pacific High-Level Technology Fund (HLTF)ContactAkihito WatabeHealth Specialist, SD3-HSDawatabe@adb.org Jae Kyoun KimHealth Specialist, SD3-HSDjkkim@adb.org
Koreatown rideshare driver arrested for allegedly using $2M in COVID business loans for crypto investment
A rideshare driver from Los Angeles’ Koreatown neighborhood has been arrested for allegedly using more than $2 million in fraudulently obtained COVID-19 pandemic business loans to buy cryptocurrenc…
Here's Where Apple is Hosting More 50th Anniversary Events Following New York
After hosting a surprise Alicia Keys concert at its Grand Central store in New York last week, Apple is turning to Asia for more 50th-anniversary celebrations. So far, it has been discovered that there will be events held in China and South Korea. Apple's retail store at Taikoo Li in Chengdu, China is temporarily closed this Wednesday, March 18, according to the store's page.
Samsung to Discontinue Galaxy Z TriFold After Just Three Months
Samsung is set to discontinue the Galaxy Z TriFold globally after just three months on sale (via Bloomberg). The company will start by ceasing sales of the device in Korea, where it has been on sale since December. Samsung plans to discontinue the device in the United States once it clears its inventory. Samsung's website already lists the TriFold as "sold out," but customers are still able to buy the device at Samsung stores.
COVID origins, Jan. 6, flushed letters - Requesters seek Trump secrets
Hundreds of requests hit the National Archives in the seconds and minutes after Trump's library opened Jan. 20, 2026.
Looks like Samsung doesn’t want to sell the Galaxy Z TriFold anymore
Samsung is reportedly going to stop selling the Galaxy Z TriFold, at least in its home market of South Korea.
World Baseball Classic live updates: Quarterfinals begin with Dominican Republic blowing out Korea, USA vs. Canada on Friday night
World Baseball Classic live updates: Quarterfinals kick off with Dominican Republic vs. Korea, USA vs. Canada on Friday night
Politics meets football as China, Taiwan face off at Asian Cup
China and Taiwan will clash this week in a politically tinged Women's Asian Cup quarter-final while Australia hope that a bumper home crowd can help drag them through against a dangerous North Korea.
World Baseball Classic news, live updates: Team USA beats Mexico; South Korea, Dominican Republic, Venezuela reach quarterfinals
World Baseball Classic news, live updates: Mexico faces U.S.; South Korea reaches quarterfinals on tiebreaker
World Baseball Classic news, live updates: Mexico to face U.S. after routing Brazil; Australia takes on South Korea
World Baseball Classic 2026: Team USA stomps Great Britain, Chinese Taipei wins a thriller vs. Korea
World Baseball Classic news, live updates: Shohei Ohtani homers again as Japan beats Korea; Team USA cruises vs. Brazil
World Baseball Classic news, live updates: Shohei Ohtani homers again as Japan leads Korea; Team USA cruises vs. Brazil
World Baseball Classic live scores today: Ohtani, Japan vs. Korea on March 7
Keep up on the latest World Baseball Classic action including scores and highlights.
IU and Byeon Woo-seok as royal couple? Kakao Entertainment bets big on 'Perfect Crown'
Kakao Entertainment is betting big on romance this spring, unveiling a lineup of K-dramas designed to deliver “pink-tinted excitement” to global vi...
IU and Byeon Woo-seok as a royal couple? Kakao Entertainment bets on romance wave with 'Boyfriend on Demand' and 'Perfect Crown'
Kakao Entertainment is betting big on romance this spring, unveiling a lineup of K-dramas designed to deliver “pink-tinted excitement” to global vi...
The Galaxy S26 Ultra leads Samsung's new flagship family to its first big sales achievement
Despite rising prices, the Galaxy S26 lineup has so far managed to outsell the S25 trio in South Korea.
World Baseball Classic news, live updates: Australia begins pool play 2-0; Korea routs Czechia
World Baseball Classic news, live updates: Australia tops Chinese Taipei in first pool game; Korea routs Czechia
Korean startup wrtn is on track to pass $100M in annual recurring revenue, riding a loneliness epidemic-fueled boom in AI entertainment
Chief product officer Dong-jae Lee uses the analogy of a dungeon master for a tabletop RPG: the AI constructs a narrative in response to user choices.
What the Extraordinary Market Volatility in Asia Says About Energy and A.I.
Stocks in South Korea and Taiwan, the center of global chip making, plunged on fears about energy prices. Their recovery shows the bullishness over artificial intelligence.
Markets in Asia Plummet as Energy Fears Offset A.I. Optimism
Stocks in Asia sank on Wednesday, led by sharp declines in South Korea, as the war in Iran raised concerns about spiraling energy costs.
YG Entertainment confirms BIGBANG's 20th anniversary comeback tour
BIGBANG will embark on a global tour later this year to celebrate their 20th anniversary of debut, the head producer of the group's agency said Wed...
Spirits, survival shows and saju: Korea's unlikely shamanism entertainment boom
Kim Ji-eun, 35, starts her morning with a ritual — asking ChatGPT for her daily fortune. “I used to visit a fortune teller for the New Year or when...
South Korea's Juristocracy Moment Reflects a Deeper Political Divide
In South Korea, deep ideological polarization turns courts into arbiters of power, making judicial rulings a key driver of political legitimacy.
Steam Deck OLED prices go up in Japan, Korea, and Taiwan from March 6
Steam Deck OLED price increases KOMODO has announced a Steam Deck OLED price increase for Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan. The company cites higher
New Galaxy S25 update expands worldwide following S26 debut
The Galaxy S25 February 2026 update debuted in Korea and is now rolling out widely in multiple regions, including Asia and Europe.
AI is making waves everywhere, except where you’d expect it most. Two giant tech companies are working to change that
AI is starting to change the way people work, find information and even form social relationships. Yet very little has changed about the devices people often use to access AI: smartphones.
PRET for impact: Advancing pandemic preparedness in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea
IN THE SPOTLIGHT PRET for impact: Advancing pandemic preparedness in the Democratic People’s Republic of KoreaThe Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPR Korea) is making significant progress in strengthening pandemic preparedness, with dedicated support from the WHO South‑East Asia Regional Office (SEARO) and the Pandemic Influenza Preparedness (PIP) Partnership Contribution (PC).Aligned with the WHO Global Influenza Strategy and the Pandemic Influenza Preparedness (PIP) Framework Partnership Contribution High‑Level Implementation Plan III (2024–2030), the country is strengthening its capacity to prepare for and respond to influenza and other respiratory threats. In early 2025, a core team from the Ministry of Public Health of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) participated in a two‑day virtual workshop, which included a mini‑simulation exercise. The workshop was organized by WHO SEARO in collaboration with the Preparedness and Resilience for Emerging Threats (PRET) Secretariat at WHO headquarters and the WHO Country Office for the DPRK. Read more A REGIONAL CONSULTATION GUIDES WHO SEARO IN DEVELOPING A ROADMAP FOR IMPLEMENTING THE PREPPAREDNESS AND RESILIENCE FOR EMERGING THREATS (PRET) INITIATIVE BASED RESPIRATORY PATHOGEN PANDEMIC PREPAREDNESSInfluenza and other respiratory pathogens with pandemic potential continue to pose major public health risks globally. To strengthen regional preparedness and response, Member States of the WHO South‑East Asia Region (SEAR) convened in Colombo, Sri Lanka, to review and provide input on the draft Roadmap and Action Framework for Broad Respiratory Pathogen Pandemic Planning (2026–2031). Supported through the Pandemic Influenza Preparedness (PIP) Partnership Contribution (PC) funds, the proposed roadmap aims to advance robust, integrated preparedness and response capacities for influenza and other respiratory threats across SEAR. This work is aligned with the Preparedness and Resilience for Emerging Threats (PRET) initiative and the SEAR Strategic Roadmap on Health Security and Health System Resilience for Emergencies Read moreSRI LANKA’S USE OF ANTIVIRALS TO REDUCE THE SEASONAL INFLUENZA BURDEN Sri Lanka is strengthening its influenza response by placing greater emphasis on rapid testing, timely treatment, and integration with maternal health services. With support from WHO, the country is building a stronger evidence base on the burden of influenza and the value of vaccination, advancing a holistic approach to protect vulnerable populations and enhance pandemic preparedness. To reduce hospitalizations and deaths from seasonal influenza, Sri Lanka is taking proactive steps to expand access to rapid diagnostic testing and ensure prompt initiation of treatment. National clinical guidelines recommend the use of oseltamivir for individuals at high risk of complications, helping prevent severe illness and shorten the duration of infection. This strategy not only saves lives but also supports local pharmaceutical production, contributing to a reliable supply of antivirals for both seasonal outbreaks and future pandemics.Read moreBHUTAN BOOSTS PANDEMIC INFLUENZA READINESS WITH PANDEMIC INFLUENZA PREPAREDNESS FRAMEWORK PARTNERSHIP CONTRIBUTION SUPPORTED TRAINING AND SIMULATIONSOriginally developed in 2012, the National Influenza Pandemic Preparedness and Response Plan (NIPPRP) has long served as Bhutan’s central framework for managing influenza threats. In 2024, the plan underwent a comprehensive update to reflect evolving global and regional guidance, lessons learned from the COVID‑19 pandemic, and new capacities developed under the PIP Framework. The revised NIPPRP is now more clearly aligned with Bhutan’s broader emergency and disaster risk management structures, ensuring a coordinated, whole‑of‑government approach to pandemic response. As part of efforts to strengthen national pandemic preparedness, Bhutan conducted three national‑level training sessions followed by simulation exercises on influenza pandemic preparedness and response at five sentinel hospitals between April and May 2025, with support from the PIP Partnership Contribution (PC). These activities brought together more than 140 health professionals and key partners from across the country, with a focus on operationalizing the updated NIPPRP and enhancing readiness at key frontline facilities. Read moreSTRENGTHENING INFLUENZA SURVEILLANCE: WHO BRINGS TOGETHER INFLUENZA EXPERTS FROM SOUTH-EAST ASIA AND WESTERN PACIFIC REGIONSThe World Health Organization (WHO) convened the 18th Bi‑regional Meeting of National Influenza Centres (NICs) and Influenza Surveillance for the WHO South‑East Asia and Western Pacific Regions from 9–11 September 2025. Hosted by the WHO South‑East Asia Regional Office (SEARO), the meeting brought together representatives from Member States, Territories, and Areas across both regions, alongside experts from the WHO Collaborating Centres for Reference and Research on Influenza in Australia and Japan, the WHO Collaborating Centre for Studies on the Ecology of Influenza in Animals in the United States, quadripartite partners (WOAH and FAO), and other technical counterparts. The consultation provided a platform to review progress, share experiences, and outline priorities for strengthening influenza and respiratory pathogen surveillance across the two WHO regions.Read moreNETWORKS AND TECHNICAL PARTNERSHIPSSTRENGTHENING PANDEMIC READINES: SOUTH-EAST ASIA ADVANCES UNITY STUDIES UNDER THE PANDEMIC INFLUENZA PREPAREDNESS INITIATIVEThe WHO Global Influenza Surveillance and Response System (GISRS) Investigations & Studies initiative, also known as Unity Studies, provides a standardized, globally coordinated framework to support these efforts. Originally developed for influenza and adapted during COVID-19, Unity Studies enable countries to conduct rapid, nationally led investigations and studies to assess transmissibility, severity, susceptibility, and intervention effectiveness. To better prepare for future influenza pandemics, WHO has recently launched a network of sites which will be ready to conduct these investigations and studies rapidly in the event of a pandemic, or epidemic of an emerging or re-emerging respiratory pathogen. The WHO South-East Asia Region now hosts six sites of WHO GISRS Unity Studies across the five countries including Sri Lanka, strengthening regional capacity for early pandemic investigations. From 13–16 July 2025 in Colombo, the Global Public Health Summit offered an opportunity to advance this agenda. Read moreSTRENGTHENING PANDEMIC PREPAREDNESS THROUGH UNITY STUDIES: REAL-WORLD APPLICATIONS FROM INDIA IN WHO’S SOUTH-EAST ASIA REGION As countries continue to strengthen their pandemic preparedness through investments in resilient health systems during the interpandemic period, the World Health Organization’s (WHO) Global Influenza Surveillance and Response System (GISRS) Investigations & Studies Global Initiative, Global Initiative, commonly known as Unity Studies, remains a vital framework for respiratory pathogen pandemic preparedness. These standardized epidemiological protocols enable countries to rapidly generate high‑quality data on transmissibility, infection severity, population immunity, and the effectiveness of public health interventions. To highlight how Unity Studies protocols are being adapted and applied in national settings, WHO Headquarters, together with WHO Regional Offices, including the WHO South‑East Asia Regional Office (SEARO), hosted a global webinar. The session showcased case studies from India and the United Kingdom (UK), demonstrating innovative approaches to respiratory virus surveillance and pandemic readiness. Read moreSTRENGTHENING REGIONAL INFLUENZA SURVEILLANCE AND PREPAREDNESS: WHO SEARO HOSTS HIGH-LEVEL WEBINAR AMID RISING H5 THREATS In response to the increasing detection of avian influenza A(H5) cases in humans globally and within the WHO South‑East Asia Region, the WHO Regional Office for South‑East Asia (SEARO) convened a regional webinar on 25 July 2025 to review preparedness mechanisms, strengthen surveillance pathways, and promote timely reporting of unusual respiratory events. The virtual session brought together more than 50 participants from Ministries of Health, National Influenza Centres (NICs), National IHR Focal Points (NFPs), WHO Headquarters, WHO Country Offices across the Region, and WHO Collaborating Centres (CCs) for influenza. The webinar provided an opportunity to share situational updates, discuss surveillance gaps, and reinforce coordination mechanisms critical for early detection and rapid response to avian influenza threats. Read moreOther Key PIP Updates (July-December 2025)MEMBER STATES:Bangladesh drafted and conducted a series of Core Group Meetings in 2025 to review and update the National Pandemic Preparedness and Response Plan for Respiratory Pathogens. In addition, the country carried out Rapid Response Team (RRT) trainings on seasonal and avian influenza and other re‑emerging infectious diseases. Bangladesh also updated its epidemiological data‑training programme for physicians at sentinel surveillance sites, using a revised epidemiological data‑collection tool.Bhutan revised and updated its National Influenza Pandemic Preparedness and Response Plan (NIPPRP) in 2025 and developed a national Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for influenza outbreak management. DPR Korea conducted a nationwide simulation exercise in July 2025 to support the update of its National Influenza Pandemic Preparedness Plan (2019). This followed a PRET‑based virtual orientation and mini‑simulation exercise held in May 2025 by SEARO and the WHO PRET Secretariat. The comprehensive exercise, conducted across central and provincial levels, assessed strengths and gaps in pandemic influenza preparedness and response. The feedback gathered has been incorporated into the revised draft plan to address identified weaknesses and strengthen overall readiness.India conducted a targeted nationwide online re‑orientation training on review and updates to the influenza portal for all State Surveillance Officers (SSOs) and relevant officials using the Integrated Health Information Platform (IHIP). The training emphasized correct marking and reporting of influenza samples as “unsubtypable” or “not subtyped” where applicable, to ensure accurate national surveillance.Maldives conducted simulation exercises in three atolls based on its existing National Pandemic Preparedness and Response Plan (NPPRP). The country plans to conduct similar exercises in three additional atolls after updating the NPPRP in 2026. In addition, Maldives conducted training on FluID and FluMart as part of a broader data‑management training package for Ministry of Health and Health Protection Agency officials, aimed at improving routine reporting to WHO platforms and the DHIS2 system.In Myanmar, technical support was provided to the National Influenza Centre (NIC) through dedicated human‑resource support (January–December 2025) to sustain data management and laboratory detection capacity for influenza and other emerging and re‑emerging respiratory viruses. This support also included strengthening genomic sequencing capacity.Nepal conducted a consultative workshop on the National Pandemic Preparedness and Response Plan (NPPRP) in July 2025. The workshop engaged key stakeholders from multiple sectors to review lessons from past pandemic responses, assess current mechanisms, and gather critical inputs for strengthening national preparedness. Key recommendations included revising the 2019 NPPRP and developing an updated Influenza Pandemic Preparedness Plan aligned with emerging risks, national priorities, and relevant international frameworks. Nepal also held a two day workshop dedicated to advancing the National Action Plan for Genomic Surveillance, aimed at reinforcing the country’s capacities for early detection and monitoring of emerging respiratory pathogens.Sri Lanka received the final report from WHO on the feasibility assessment for conducting an Influenza Burden of Disease (BoD) study in the country. The assessment, conducted from 28 April to 9 May 2025, included a desk review of existing data sources, document review, visits to sentinel surveillance sites, and key informant interviews. The study identified critical data sources required for a future BoD assessment, as well as their availability and quality. Officials from the Epidemiology Unit, the National Influenza Centre (NIC), and SARI/ILI sentinel hospitals across the country participated in the assessment.Timor Leste conducted on‑the‑job training and monitoring activities at two sentinel surveillance sites to strengthen surveillance and laboratory capacity for the detection of SARI, ILI, ARI, and other respiratory infections. REGIONAL OFFICE:SEARO conducted a Member States Consultation on the first draft of the Regional Roadmap and Strategic Action Framework for implementing WHO’s PRET‑based broad respiratory pathogen pandemic planning for 2026–2031. The consultation took place on 29–30 October 2025 during the final two days of the Regional PIP PC Annual Review and PRET Meeting in Colombo, Sri Lanka. Participants included representatives from Member States, WHO Country Offices, WHO SEARO, WHO Headquarters, partner agencies, and invited multidisciplinary technical experts. They reviewed the draft and provided detailed feedback, which has since been incorporated into a revised version. The consultation helped shape a shared regional vision for robust, PRET‑aligned pandemic preparedness, building on country‑level progress, addressing existing gaps and challenges, and aligning with global and regional health security frameworks. The publication is planned for release during the SEAR regional committee in 2026.SEARO documented the evolution of the National Influenza Pandemic Preparedness Planning process in the Region, tracing its development from its origins as a planning tool for responding to avian influenza outbreaks in 2006, through the experiences of the 2009 and 2019 pandemics, to the current status. The document outlines the way forward for respiratory pathogen pandemic planning across all 10 SEAR countries, aligning future national plans with WHO’s PRET Framework for broad respiratory pathogen pandemic preparedness.The Infectious Hazard Management (IHM) Unit has drafted the WHO South‑East Asia Regional Guidance on Influenza Prevention and Control, aligned with the Global Influenza Strategy and other regional initiatives. The draft is currently under review. Although this technical product was developed in response to a request from the Ministry of Public Health of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (MoPH‑DPRK), SEARO is finalizing it for use not only in DPRK but also across all Member States in the Region.The Immunization and Vaccine Development (IVD) Unit, in collaboration with WHE/SEARO, completed a regional landscape analysis on key barriers, challenges, and opportunities for the introduction of seasonal influenza vaccination in WHO South‑East Asia Regional (SEAR) countries.Additionally, the Immunization and Vaccine Development (IVD) Unit has completed a regional landscape analysis of influenza vaccine procurement systems across the WHO South‑East Asia Region (SEAR).KEY MEETINGS AND PUBLICATIONSMEETINGS:Six-month progress review of the implementation of the PIP-PC workplans in SEAR, focusing on Outputs 1 and 2 for the period January to June 2025, and held virtually across three sessions on 4, 8, and 10 July 2025. Read moreAnnual Regional Meeting (Hybrid) on Pandemic Influenza Preparedness (PIP) Partnership Contribution (PC) and WHO’s Preparedness and Resilience for Emerging Threats (PRET) Implementation in SEAR in Colombo, Sri Lanka, 27 to 30 October 2025. Read more18th Bi-regional Meeting (Virtual) of National Influenza Centres (NICs) and influenza surveillance in WHO South-East Asia and Western Pacific Regions from 9 to 11 September 2025. Read morePUBLICATIONSImplications of influenza A virus surveillance in Southeast Asian Region countries: a scoping review of approaches for the surveillance of swine influenza viruses at human-swine interfaces. Read moreAnnual South-East Asia regional meeting on operational planning for implementation of global influenza strategy and preparedness for respiratory viruses in 2025 Report on annual review meeting of implementation of pandemic influenza preparedness (PIP) partnership Contribution (PC) Fund in South-East Asia Region and the simulation exercise on PRET Status of influenza in who south-East Asia Region
AMD Seemingly Stops Driver Updates for Ryzen Z1 Extreme Processor
AMD has reportedly stopped driver updates for its Ryzen Z1 Extreme APU solution for handheld consoles, according to the latest Lenovo Korea update. This means that only after 2 and a half years, AMD is pulling support for its SoC, leaving many enthusiasts in a difficult spot. Confirmation from multi...
Blindness may no longer be irreversible. A discovery in South Korea just changed the science. - Futura-Sciences
More than 300 million people worldwide live with retinal diseases that medicine cannot yet reverse. Conditions like retinitis pigmentosa and macular degeneration destroy the photoreceptor cells that make sight possible, and once those cells die, they don’t come back, at least not in mammals. The reason puzzled researchers for decades,...
Global Leaders and Businesses Pore Over Fallout of More US Tariff Swoons
SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — South Korean trade officials scrambled Saturday to assess the impact of a U.S. Supreme Court ruling to invalidate some Trump administration tariffs, as business and governments around the world pored over the possible fallout from moves in Washington on the global economy.
Lenovo reportedly ends driver updates for Legion Go based on Ryzen Z1 Extreme
Lenovo Korea support reply suggests no more Legion Go driver updates, warns against using Legion Go S BIOS and drivers A Lenovo Korea support response
Dueling Protests at South Korean Ex-Leader’s Sentencing Highlight Political Rift
As a judge reprimanded former President Yoon Suk Yeol for amplifying political tribalism, demonstrators from warring camps blared slogans outside the courtroom.
Ousted Korean President Yoon Sentenced to Life Over Martial Law
Former South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol was found guilty of leading an insurrection and sentenced to life in prison over his 2024 martial law declaration that shocked the nation and triggered the country’s most severe political crisis in decades.
Democracy, Politics And The Challenges Of Authoritarianism In South Korea
In Korea as in the United States, we need to investigate and understand what works and what does not.
Mental health drives early discharges in S. Korea military
Proportion of S. Korean conscripts deemed eligible for active duty has risen, but thousands of service members continue to leave the military early
Iran seeks to get out of FATF blacklist amid domestic political divisions
North Korea and Myanmar are other two countries on global financial blacklist as Tehran promises countermeasures.
Festival International releases lineup for 40th anniversary year in Lafayette
The special anniversary lineup includes bands from Peru, South Korea, Scotland, Mali, Sudan, and a lot more.
Winter Olympics 2026: Chloe Kim stunned in halfpipe final
South Korea's Gaon Choi stomped her final run to end Kim's Olympic reign.
Here's when the Samsung Galaxy Z TriFold may be back in stock
A new rumor from Korea sheds some light on what we can expect. Samsung's first dual-folding device, the Galaxy Z TriFold, sold out in minutes in both Korea...
South Korean scientists create life-saving spray to stop bleeding...
Scientists have developed a new, lifesaving spray that stops heavy bleeding in one second. The spray was developed for use on the battlefield, but it is also to be used in civilian hospital emergency...
L3Harris begins militarizing Bombardier business jets for South Korean AEW&C order
“We have already received two aircraft to begin mission system integration work, demonstrating both program momentum and the maturity of the AERIS solution,” L3Harris's Jason Whitford told Breaking Defense.
CEPI and Korea discuss future of AI-driven international health cooperation
Seminar held at Korea's National Assembly to discuss the link between AI and health ODA.
International science cooperation must go on, say research leaders
Science leaders in Europe and Canada say international cooperation must go on amid geopolitical turmoil. At the same time, Europe and like-minded countries should continue to enhance and diversify international partnerships, a Science|Business conference hears. Hugh Brady, president of Imperial College London, told delegates that Europe’s response to the current geopolitical climate should be to “diversify in terms of research partnerships and build resilience and scale into our own system.”A first priority should be for the EU to sort out the scope of the upcoming European Competitiveness Fund and ensure that, together with the next iteration of Horizon Europe, it can drive the development and scale up of new technologies. The EU and the countries associated to the Horizon Europe programme represent “the world's most successful research innovation ecosystem,” Brady said. In order to mitigate the negative effects of shifting geopolitics, the EU together with the UK, Switzerland, Canada, South Korea and others should talk about “building resilience” and address their own “regional needs,” he added. Responding to TrumpUnder Donald Trump’s leadership, the US government has slashed science budgets and shut down international research programmes. Nearly 8,000 grants at the National Institutes of Health and the National Science Foundation have been frozen or terminated. Courts have overturned most of these cancellations, but the disruption caused remains significant. While Europe may persuade a few thousand disgruntled scientists to move across the ocean to work on topics that have been de-funded in the US, it’s unclear what should happen next with transatlantic scientific cooperation more broadly.“Now is the time for us to show [US researchers] our support as much as we can,” Brady said.The European Research Council (ERC), the EU’s basic science funder, has seen a surge in applicants from the US. According its latest data, US-based researchers submitted 347 proposals to the last three big funding rounds, up from 158 in the previous set of calls. The European Commission has also launched a €22.5 million pilot call in 2025 for the Marie Skłodowska Curie Actions, the EU’s researcher training scheme. It plans to extend this support with a €51.25 million call in 2027 as part of the Choose Europe initiative, which is intended to make the continent a more attractive place to pursue a career in research. Related articlesData corner: US researchers are choosing EuropeEU-India deal highlights growing alignment on technology policyMeanwhile, in the private non-profit sector, the Volkswagen Foundation is experimenting with a new type of grant that would allow US researchers to split their time between the US and Germany. While these schemes are useful, Europe should not bet on an exodus of scientists from the US. “The idea that we might all see them flocking over to Europe is naïve and counterproductive,” said Maria Leptin, president of the ERC, also speaking at the Science|Business conference on February 5. “We need research in the US to be as healthy as possible. I really admire those who are staying there with a will to fight and an optimism that the world will turn into a better place again,” Leptin said. Preserving dataDespite political disruption, academics have found ways to continue cooperating and sharing research data. Leslie Weir, president of the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions and Canada’s national librarian, said the US cuts have raised concerns about research data security, after ideologically sensitive databases were limited or deleted by the Trump administration. But international organisations teamed up to ensure that the data is not lost. “It's interesting to see that researchers and libraries across North America are collaborating to make sure that data at risk is duplicated elsewhere outside [the US],” Weir said.
How MAGA-Inspired Politics Are Reshaping Japan and South Korea
A culture war playbook honed by American conservatives is finding new life in East Asia
Mexico Buy Now Pay Later Business and Investment Report 2026: A $13.85 Billion Market by 2031 from $3.98 Billion in 2025 Featuring Kueski, Mercado Pago, Aplazo, Nelo, and Atrato
The BNPL market in Mexico and South Korea offers robust growth prospects. Key opportunities lie in diverse retail and e-commerce sectors, driven by consumer trends and innovative business models. Understanding consumer behavior and leveraging a variety of distribution channels remain critical for market expansion. Mexican Buy Now Pay Later Market Mexican Buy Now Pay Later Market Dublin, Feb. 04, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Mexico Buy Now Pay Later Business and Investment Opportunities Databook
The Dwarf (1978) and the Politics of Knowledge in Cold War South Korea
The Dwarf (1978) and the Politics of Knowledge in Cold War South Korea SpeakerHeeJin Lee University of PittsburghTuesday • February 3 • 4 p.m. UCI Humanities Gateway 1010
University Of Science And Technology, Korea Offers Fully Funded Scholarships
Study In South Korea: Students planning to pursue higher education in South Korea can apply for the UST Scholarship 2026.
Trump hikes tariffs to 25% on South Korean imports
U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer discusses President Donald Trump’s decision to raise tariffs on South Korea and a trade agreement between India and the EU on ‘Kudlow.’
North Korea launches short-range ballistic missiles into sea, show of force ahead of political meetings
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un's regime tests ballistic missiles as tensions rise in the region ahead of a massive political party gathering.
ZOTAC Korea warns of steep RTX 5090 and RTX 5060 price hikes, says some models may be unavailable for a while
ZOTAC Korea warns RTX 5090 and RTX 5060 prices are set to jump ZOTAC Korea has published a new notice on its official TagTag Mall account, warning that
The Republic of Korea–WHO country cooperation strategy 2026–2030
The Republic of Korea–WHO Country Cooperation Strategy 2026–2030 encapsulates our collective commitment to advance health and well-being for all. Rooted in mutual respect and collaboration, this country cooperation strategy (CCS) aligns with the shared regional vision of Weaving Health for Families, Communities and Societies in the Western Pacific Region (2025−2029), emphasizing the interconnectedness of our efforts.
Apple's OLED MacBook Pro Launch Moves Closer With Panel Production
Development of Apple's rumored OLED MacBook Pro took another forward step this month when the next-generation production line responsible for manufacturing its displays commenced operation. Samsung Display is expected to make the panels for Apple's MacBook Pro, and has invested heavily in an 8.6-generation OLED production line located at its Asan campus in South Korea.
Apple's Foldable iPhone Rumored to Be Built With Liquid Metal and Improved Titanium
Apple is planning to use advanced liquid metal and improved titanium alloys for its first foldable iPhone, according to new supply-chain information. According to the Korean Naver user known as "yeux1122," citing a material company source, the hinge used in Apple's first foldable iPhone will be made from liquid metal, an "amorphous" material Apple has been exploring for over 15 years.
Lee Byung-hun didn’t plan for global domination (but it happened anyway)
The South Korean star of “Squid Game” and “KPop Demon Hunters” returns to the big screen in “No Other Choice,” with one eye on the Oscars.
Japan’s new PM Takaichi eyes parliament dissolution for snap polls: Report
Country's first female prime minister hopes a bigger majority will help her implement her political and fiscal agenda.
BoA Parts Ways With SM Entertainment After 25 Years
Singer BoA is concluding her 25-year journey with her agency SM Entertainment. On January 12, SM Entertainment issued an official statement announcing, “After extensive and in-depth discussions with BoA, we have agreed to conclude our 25-year partnership as of December 31, 2025.” Read the full statement below: Hello, this is SM Entertainment. First, we would like to express our sincere gratitude to Jumping BoA (BoA's official fan club) and everyone who has always loved and supported artist BoA. After extensive and in-depth discussions with BoA, we have agreed to conclude our 25-year journey together as of December 31, 2025. Debuting in 2000 at the age of 13, BoA has, now past the 25th anniversary of her debut, been beloved by global music fans as an “icon of global expansion” who pioneered the Korean Wave across Asia and as the “Star of Asia,” and she has become a role model for countless junior artists driving the K-pop boom. As a trailblazer and pioneer, BoA’s journey has shone thanks to her relentless effort and passion, leaving brilliant achievements and unparalleled records. From her extraordinary debut that wrote a new chapter in Korean popular music history to her present growth as a No.1 artist and producer, we remember every moment, and it has been a true honor for our company to walk alongside her every step of the way. For 25 years, BoA has been, without question, the pride, joy, and symbol of SM. Although our exclusive contract is coming to an end, we will continue to support BoA as she fully demonstrates her capabilities in the new activities and challenges ahead, and we hope she will shine even brighter as the “Star of Asia.” We ask for your continued love and support for BoA as she embarks on this new chapter. We also support the future of Kwon BoA the person, beyond the artist, and sincerely wish her happiness. Thank you. The agency also released a tribute video commemorating BoA's 25-year long journey with SM. Watch the full video below: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wjLQFtT3dCk Following the announcement, BoA took to her Instagram to share her feelings as below: Having given and received without holding back, I leave without regrets.I’m grateful for the time we shared and will continue to support the ever-shining SM Entertainment. Thank you. https://www.instagram.com/p/DTZxmAeEk6f/?img_index=1 Wishing BoA all the best on her new journey! Source (1)
BoA concludes 25 years with SM Entertainment, chooses not to renew contract
Singer BoA will not be renewing her contract with SM Entertainment, the agency said Monday.
Disney finalizes tie-up with Webtoon Entertainment, takes 2% stake
The Walt Disney Company has finalized its strategic partnership with Webtoon Entertainment in a deal expected to accelerate the global expansion of Korean webto
LIVE: 40th Golden Disc Awards kick off with red carpet at 5 p.m.
Korea's longest-running annual K-pop awards show returns this evening at the Taipei Dome in Taiwan with a star-studded lineup featuring Jennie, Stray Kids, IVE, Enhyphen and Le Sserafim. Join us here for live updates from 4 p.m.
Return of BTS, BigBang to lift Korean entertainment giants’ profit above $700 mn
South Korea’s big four entertainment companies are poised to post combined operating profit topping 1 trillion won ($700 million) this year, as the count
Weekend reads: Evaluating the benefits of open science, a misconduct investigation in Korea, and what we lose in outsourcing reviews to AI
Happy 2026! We’re excited to bring you the first Weekend Reads of the new year. The week at Retraction Watch featured: The BMJ retracts clinical trial for ‘severe’ discrepancies in rand…
Kim’s daughter promotes her status as heir in North Korea
SEOUL, South Korea — The teenage daughter of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un made her first known visit to a sacred family mausoleum, a step that experts say bolstered
FNC Entertainment Stock Rises With CNBLUE Single, Stacked January Releases
K-pop agency FNC Entertainment saw its shares rise as Korean rock band CNBLUE releases new single "Still, a Flower" and the agency has a strong schedule of new music.
How rumors turn into lasting stigma for Korean celebrities
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Korea building national AI-ready health data infrastructure
The government will also fund hospital-based verification programs so AI tools can be tested and validated at scale before clinical rollout.
How did curling become a Winter Olympics sensation? Inside the sports' unique history
More than 2.3 million people — or one of every 18 Canadians — participate in the sport of curling. A look at how the quirky sport became an Olympic star.
I visit South Korea almost every year. Seoul is great, but I recommend visiting these 4 lesser-known cities instead.
I was born in South Korea and have gone back to visit every year. Skip Seoul to see some of my favorite lesser-known cities, like Suwon and Incheon.
Samsung Developing 'Wide Fold' With iPhone Fold-Like Design Ahead of Apple's 2026 Launch
Samsung is working on a new foldable smartphone that's wider and shorter than the models that it's released before, according to Korean news site ETNews. The "Wide Fold" will compete with Apple's iPhone Fold that's set to launch in September 2026. Samsung's existing Galaxy Z Fold7 display is 6.5 inches when closed, and 8 inches when open, with a 21:9 aspect ratio when folded and a 20:18 aspect ratio when open. Samsung has used a similar size for its prior Z Fold devices.
Amazon's chief security officer says the tech giant blocked over 1,800 suspected North Korean agents from applying for jobs
Stephen Schmidt said AI and machine-learning roles have been increasingly targeted by fraudsters due to high demand.
Apple Clings to Samsung as RAM Prices Soar
Apple is significantly increasing its reliance on Samsung for iPhone memory as component prices surge, according to The Korea Economic Daily. Apple is said to be expanding the share of iPhone memory it sources from Samsung due to rapidly rising memory prices. The shift is expected to result in Samsung supplying roughly 60% to 70% of the low-power DRAM used in the iPhone 17, compared with a more even split with SK Hynix in previous generations, with Micron also participating as a smaller supplier.
Coupang faces possible business suspension after massive data breach
The government is signaling that it may suspend Coupang’s operations following a massive customer data breach affecting 33.7 million users of the U...
Korean Entertainment Pioneer Lee Soo-Man Wants Korea To Become “A Nation Of Producers”
SM Entertainment founder Lee Soo-man talks to Deadline about his new music label, A2O Entertainment, and embracing AI and technology.
‘Matter of survival’: South Korean president urges public health cover for hair loss
Medical professionals and some in conservative circles feel argument of Lee Jae Myung may be a bit thin
Report: Apple Developing 24-Inch OLED iMac With 600 Nits Brightness
Apple is working on a 24-inch iMac featuring an OLED display, with the aim of completing development as early as 2027, claims a new report out of Korea. According to The Elec, Apple has sent requests for information to Samsung Display and LG Display regarding development of a 24-inch OLED panel for the iMac. Current 24-inch iMacs use a 4.5K Retina display, which is an LCD panel with LED backlighting. The specs apparently being discussed include 600 nits of brightness and a pixel density of 218 PPI.
Korea’s long-term strategy for 2D materials: fundamental science is the secret of success
An interview with Moon-Ho Jo, director of the IBS Center for Van der Waals Quantum Solids in Korea
South Korea women’s national team: 2025 recap
South Korea’s women added to the trophy cabinet twice in 2025, but underwhelming results in several international friendlies leave Shin Sangwoo and his squad with a point to prove at next year’s A...
More South Korean actors seek Hollywood dream after global success of Korean entertainment
The global success of “Parasite,” “Minari” and “Squid Game” has opened Hollywood’s doors to South Korean actors, but for those without major agency backing, navigating the American industry remains a challenge.
More South Korean actors seek Hollywood dream after global success of Korean entertainment
The global success of “Parasite,” “Minari” and “Squid Game” has opened Hollywood’s doors to South Korean actors, but for those without major agency backing, navigating the American industry remains a challenge
South Korea indicts ex-leader Yoon over power plot provoking North
Jailed former president accused of a plot to provoke military aggression from North to help consolidate his rule.
New Galaxy S23 update makes it more secure
Samsung has released a software update to the Galaxy S23 series in Korea. It offers the December 2025 security patch.
Samsung Is in Talks With AMD to Supply 2nm Chips, Potentially for EPYC Venice CPUs, as the Foundry Emerges as a Serious TSMC Challenger
Samsung is now in talks with AMD to supply its SF2 (2nm) process for next-gen CPUs, as the Korean giant aims for a massive foundry comeback.