https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/rss/507994/feed Look back on the best of SCMP coverage of the news-making events of the year. Read round-ups of top stories and review the events and milestones that made the news during the year from US-China relations, to Hong Kong politics, to the coronavirus pandemic and lifestyle topics such as health and wellness and K-pop. en https://assets-v2.i-scmp.com/production/static/img/icons/scmp-meta-1200x630.png https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg Fan Hou Fan Hou Subscribers: The Daily Pulse won’t be published on Thursday, January 1, New Year’s Day. We resume publication on Friday, January 2. Happy New Year! China-US relations will probably dominate the 2026 news agenda, especially with President Xi Jinping and President Donald Trump potentially having four in-person meetings during the year. Trade will be a key theme, as a one-year tariff truce is due to expire in November. China also starts its 15th five-year plan, with a focus on technology and... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/plus/article/3336643/scmp-plus-year-ahead-2026?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/plus/article/3336643/scmp-plus-year-ahead-2026?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 31 Dec 2025 08:27:44 +0000 James Marsh James Marsh In 2025, Asian cinema continues to make its mark around the world. Animated features from mainland China and Hong Kong, as well as Japan, have shattered box office records, while filmmakers and performers from across the region have been honoured at the world’s most prestigious film festivals. From established auteurs to promising newcomers, the region remains a thriving hotbed of rich and diverse commercial and artistic talent. Below are our picks of the 12 best films released this year across... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3337826/12-best-asian-films-2025-ranked-ne-zha-2-no-other-choice-and-kokuho?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3337826/12-best-asian-films-2025-ranked-ne-zha-2-no-other-choice-and-kokuho?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 30 Dec 2025 08:15:08 +0000 Haining Gao Haining Gao The US-China trade war dominated headlines this year. US President Donald Trump imposed tariffs on Chinese imports and used export controls in a bid to slow China’s technological advance. China responded with levies of its own and by exploiting its stranglehold on supplies of rare earth minerals, which are vital in modern electronics. The year ended with the two countries locked in an uneasy truce following a late October summit in South Korea between Trump and Chinese President Xi... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/plus/article/3334723/scmp-plus-year-review-2025-trade-war?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/plus/article/3334723/scmp-plus-year-review-2025-trade-war?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 30 Dec 2025 08:00:31 +0000 Agence France-Presse Agence France-Presse The sports world lost a number of familiar names in 2025. We have said goodbye to legends of football, boxing, horse racing, motorsport and more – most enjoyed a long life, but some were taken too soon. Footballers Diogo Jota and Denis Law, former heavyweight boxing champion George Foreman, the influential horse owner and breeder Aga Khan IV, and F1 legend Eddie Jordan were among those who died over the past 12 months. Each left a lasting legacy in their respective field and the Post has... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/sport/article/3338001/remembering-sports-stars-we-lost-2025-diogo-jota-dickie-bird-george-foreman?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/sport/article/3338001/remembering-sports-stars-we-lost-2025-diogo-jota-dickie-bird-george-foreman?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 29 Dec 2025 09:30:08 +0000 Raymond Ma Raymond Ma Efforts to boost domestic consumption amid global trade tensions and cutthroat price wars, known as neijuan (involution), were among the biggest themes affecting China’s economy in 2025. Policymakers also addressed the demographic crisis, as well as seeking to boost the private sector and build a unified national market. Hong Kong regained its global IPO crown and introduced a stablecoin regime. DeepSeek and Labubu maker Pop Mart were two of the year’s biggest corporate stories. January Official... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/plus/article/3333707/scmp-plus-year-review-2025-china-economy?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/plus/article/3333707/scmp-plus-year-review-2025-china-economy?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 29 Dec 2025 08:00:08 +0000 Pierce Conran Pierce Conran The year 2025 was another big one for Korean dramas, with a wide range of exciting new shows. While the industry may not have produced as many stand-outs as in previous years, the past 12 months still delivered emotional highs. Here is our pick of the top 15 Korean dramas of the year, from good to great. 15. Melo Movie Lead cast: Choi Woo-shik, Park Bo-young, Lee Jun-young, Jeon So-nee Our Beloved Summer scribe Lee Na-eun proved that she was no one-hit wonder with her second series Melo Movie,... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/lifestyle/k-drama/k-drama/article/3337569/15-best-k-dramas-2025-ranked-melo-movie-when-life-gives-you-tangerines?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/lifestyle/k-drama/k-drama/article/3337569/15-best-k-dramas-2025-ranked-melo-movie-when-life-gives-you-tangerines?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 27 Dec 2025 23:15:07 +0000 Edmund Lee Edmund Lee There were, ultimately, no miracles for Hong Kong cinema in 2025. It was a regrettable year that began with reports of further cinema closures and ended in collective mourning after the Tai Po fire tragedy, which in turn pushed back the release of Avatar: Fire and Ash (now renamed Avatar 3) – previously earmarked as a saviour for cinema operators this Christmas. The forecast downturn in film investment has been keenly felt; even several “urban myth” titles – the label jokingly given to... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3337807/hong-kong-films-released-2025-ranked-worst-best?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3337807/hong-kong-films-released-2025-ranked-worst-best?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 26 Dec 2025 10:11:31 +0000 Reuters Reuters The perennial battle between adulation and scepticism summed up the year in athletics as fans were treated to some mind-blowing performances against the usual depressing backdrop of doping that left everyone unsure whether to clap or cry. On the positive side, the blip caused by Covid meant the sport held a third world championships in four years and the 20th edition in Tokyo delivered an almost constant stream of brilliant performances and incredible finishes, as well as delivering medals to 53... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/sport/other-sport/article/3337682/year-athletics-mondo-duplantis-shines-us-enjoy-stellar-year?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/sport/other-sport/article/3337682/year-athletics-mondo-duplantis-shines-us-enjoy-stellar-year?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 26 Dec 2025 02:00:11 +0000 Reuters Reuters South Africa started and finished ‌2025 as the world’s No 1-ranked side, and their extraordinary depth and monstrous scrum suggest they will be the team to beat at the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia. The Springboks retained the Rugby Championship title, inflicted a record test defeat on old foes New Zealand, completed comprehensive wins in France and Ireland, and racked up a record score against an ailing Wales side in Cardiff. It was not a perfect 12 months, however, with a second-half... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/sport/rugby/international-rugby/article/3337680/year-rugby-south-africa-dominate-france-win-six-nations-england-rise?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/sport/rugby/international-rugby/article/3337680/year-rugby-south-africa-dominate-france-win-six-nations-england-rise?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 25 Dec 2025 08:00:09 +0000 Reuters Reuters Rory McIlroy’s long-awaited Masters victory in April made him the first golfer in 25 years to join the sport’s most exclusive club, but Scottie Scheffler’s two-major haul in 2025 raised the possibility that the next career grand slam winner could be just around the corner. McIlroy, in his 11th attempt to complete the career grand slam, had to endure a topsy-turvy final round at Augusta National where he squandered a four-shot lead but then emerged from a crowded pack to prevail in a sudden-death... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/sport/golf/article/3337607/year-golf-rory-mcilroy-finally-joins-elite-club-scottie-scheffler-could-join-soon?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/sport/golf/article/3337607/year-golf-rory-mcilroy-finally-joins-elite-club-scottie-scheffler-could-join-soon?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 25 Dec 2025 04:00:08 +0000 Reuters Reuters A deafening roar at Twickenham capped a 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup that smashed attendance records, while India’s first Women’s Cricket World Cup triumph sparked nationwide celebrations. A’Ja Wilson delivered a jaw-dropping Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) season to redefine what dominance looks like and Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone raced to a sensational world title at a new distance in ‍the 400m. While the year was full of lasting images of women in sport that reshaped their... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/sport/article/3337585/year-womens-sport-englands-rugby-football-wins-wnba-grows-indias-cricket-victory?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/sport/article/3337585/year-womens-sport-englands-rugby-football-wins-wnba-grows-indias-cricket-victory?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 25 Dec 2025 02:00:09 +0000 Raymond Ma Raymond Ma Subscribers: The Daily Pulse won’t be published December 24-26. We resume publication on Monday, December 29. Merry Christmas! The US trade war and the rise of artificial intelligence start-ups were among the biggest topics affecting China in 2025. Policymakers also worked to boost domestic consumption and unveiled proposals for a new five-year plan. Other newsworthy events included a huge military parade in Beijing, the commissioning of China’s third aircraft carrier and a deadly housing estate... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/plus/article/3331922/scmp-plus-year-review-2025-china?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/plus/article/3331922/scmp-plus-year-review-2025-china?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 23 Dec 2025 08:00:08 +0000 Junjie Wang Junjie Wang Subscribers: The Daily Pulse won’t be published December 24-26. We resume publication on Monday, December 29. Merry Christmas! As 2025 comes to a close, SCMP Plus is looking back at the year’s highlights, starting with the 10 most read editions of Daily Pulse, our five-times-a-week briefing about the key China-related issue of the day. #10 US-China talks | Europe win on rare earths | Politburo (July 25) The gist: The US and China were readying for a third round of trade talks in Stockholm to... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/plus/article/3335772/10-most-read-daily-pulse-briefings-2025?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/plus/article/3335772/10-most-read-daily-pulse-briefings-2025?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 22 Dec 2025 09:00:10 +0000 Subscribers: The Daily Pulse won’t be published on New Year’s Day. We will resume publication on Thursday, January 2. In the meantime, we’ve prepared a look back at the biggest China stories of the year and developments to watch for over the next several months. The economy came into sharp focus in 2024, as markets looked to China’s leaders to boost growth amid an unrelenting decline in stock prices of Chinese companies, plunging foreign direct investment and a continued slump in the property... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/plus/article/3290330/scmp-plus-year-review?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/plus/article/3290330/scmp-plus-year-review?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 31 Dec 2024 09:00:09 +0000 One of our most popular travel stories of 2024 looked at how more trekkers are flocking to the Himalayas of Nepal, facilitated by companies out to make a quick buck. Mountaineers and guides, however, have voiced concerns about the safety risks that underprepared trekkers pose, and the growing amounts of waste left on mountain slopes. Readers were also shocked by the story in March of a Brazilian-Spanish influencer who was gang-raped in India while camping during a motorbike trip. Here’s the... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/lifestyle/travel-leisure/article/3292439/travel-stories-you-read-most-2024-about-horror-gang-rape-trains-china-and-more?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/lifestyle/travel-leisure/article/3292439/travel-stories-you-read-most-2024-about-horror-gang-rape-trains-china-and-more?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 30 Dec 2024 08:18:53 +0000 Over the past 12 months Hong Kong sport has delivered some memorable highs and, quite frankly, several unforgettable lows. From the Olympic Games in Paris, to the various in-house events and the questionable presence, or not, of one Argentinian football mega star, it has been an eventful 2024. So here is a look at our best and worst moments from the past year, starting with a golden couple of weeks in the French capital. King Cheung Given the success Hong Kong’s delegation enjoyed at the Summer... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/sport/hong-kong/article/3292709/paris-olympics-lionel-messi-fail-hong-kongs-best-and-worst-sporting-moments-2024?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/sport/hong-kong/article/3292709/paris-olympics-lionel-messi-fail-hong-kongs-best-and-worst-sporting-moments-2024?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 30 Dec 2024 03:38:47 +0000 The Post’s story about what Chinese people love to wear for the Lunar New Year resonated with readers keen to know why red clothes are in and black outfits are out. A story about Dolly Parton launching a make-up line which will include her Heaven’s Kiss lipstick collection – with each item named after one of her popular songs – was also a big hit. 1. What to wear for Lunar New Year? Chinese people believe wearing new clothes represents a fresh start and ushers in good fortune for the year ahead.... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/lifestyle/fashion-beauty/article/3292322/fashion-and-beauty-stories-you-read-most-2024-about-lunar-new-year-hermes-and-more?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/lifestyle/fashion-beauty/article/3292322/fashion-and-beauty-stories-you-read-most-2024-about-lunar-new-year-hermes-and-more?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 29 Dec 2024 06:45:07 +0000 Among the most read Post stories about food and drinks this year was our report in July that, after almost 120 years in business, the Liu Ma Kee fermented tofu shop in Hong Kong’s Yau Ma Tei district was to shut following a public health alert over bacteria levels in a batch of its tofu. An opinion piece about why people in Hong Kong are eating dinner earlier also struck a chord with readers, as did a story on the five best Nepalese restaurants in Hong Kong. 1. Hong Kong fermented tofu shop... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/lifestyle/food-drink/article/3292168/food-and-drinks-stories-you-read-most-2024-about-noodles-whisky-closure-and-more?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/lifestyle/food-drink/article/3292168/food-and-drinks-stories-you-read-most-2024-about-noodles-whisky-closure-and-more?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 28 Dec 2024 05:15:08 +0000 As 2024 crawls to a close, we look back at some of the stories from the entertainment world that resonated with Post readers during the year. A profile on an actress who went from soft-porn to mainstream fame struck a chord, as did a feature that delved into Chinese martial arts in film. 1. Actress Shu Qi went from soft-porn to mainstream cinema star Shu Qi is the rarest of all exceptions in a conservative Chinese society: she was a soft-porn model who switched to film and established herself as... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3292158/entertainment-stories-you-read-most-2024-about-adult-film-stars-ip-man-movies-and-more?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3292158/entertainment-stories-you-read-most-2024-about-adult-film-stars-ip-man-movies-and-more?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 27 Dec 2024 07:15:08 +0000 As the year comes to an end, we look back at the arts stories that resonated most with Post readers. One that did was a deep dive into 1980 Cantonese song “The Bund”, while an opinion piece on a series of giant heart-shaped balloons by British fashion designer Anya Hindmarch, which popped up around Hong Kong in February, also struck a chord. 1. How Cantopop classic ‘The Bund’ took Hong Kong by storm With its assertive orchestral opening and diva Frances Yip Lai-yee’s commanding voice singing... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/lifestyle/arts-culture/article/3291541/arts-stories-you-read-most-2024-about-cantopop-classic-viral-city-project-and-more?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/lifestyle/arts-culture/article/3291541/arts-stories-you-read-most-2024-about-cantopop-classic-viral-city-project-and-more?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 26 Dec 2024 08:45:07 +0000 A Singaporean doctor who created a handheld device to fix a condition called glue ear – and won a Cartier Women’s Initiative award for the device, a world first – resonated with Post readers. Reviews for new phones such as Xiaomi’s Mix Fold 4 and Apple’s iPhone 16 Pro Max also caught the attention of tech-savvy readers. 1. Singaporean doctor’s ear surgery device a world first Singaporean doctor Lynne Lim is the chief executive officer of Nousq, a medical solutions company that developed Clikx,... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/lifestyle/gadgets/article/3291300/gadget-stories-you-read-most-2024-about-iphone-16-ear-surgery-device-and-more?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/lifestyle/gadgets/article/3291300/gadget-stories-you-read-most-2024-about-iphone-16-ear-surgery-device-and-more?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 25 Dec 2024 08:15:08 +0000 It was the best of times. It was the worst of times. Such was the unusually volatile nature of the Hong Kong film business in 2024 that both statements are certifiably correct when it comes to assessing the state of the city’s filmmaking industry. Right after we published our 2023 film ranking a year ago this week and sounded an optimistic note about the outlook for the industry, a harsh reality check arrived a few days later with the news that Hong Kong box office takings over the Christmas... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3292150/hong-kong-films-released-2024-ranked-worst-best-led-last-dance?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3292150/hong-kong-films-released-2024-ranked-worst-best-led-last-dance?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 24 Dec 2024 10:14:21 +0000 Aidan Jones,Biman Mukherji,Maria Siow,Amy Sood,Kimberly Lim Aidan Jones,Biman Mukherji,Maria Siow,Amy Sood,Kimberly Lim A student revolution in Bangladesh. A stunning electoral rebuke for India’s once unassailable Narendra Modi. A rare corruption conviction in Singapore and political chaos in Japan and South Korea. Asia in 2024 was characterised by turbulence and surprises. Some developments were easier to predict. Asia’s tycoons grew richer even as ordinary people struggled under rising living costs. Scammers kept on hammering the Asian public, North Korea’s nuclear-armed leader Kim Jong-un continued provoking... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/week-asia/politics/article/3292087/revolution-elections-and-baby-hippo-was-year-asia?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/week-asia/politics/article/3292087/revolution-elections-and-baby-hippo-was-year-asia?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 24 Dec 2024 01:30:11 +0000 Pierce Conran Pierce Conran The year 2024 saw the Korean drama industry go back to basics, with traditional cable TV offerings largely outshining bigger-budget streaming productions. There were a few notable exceptions, however, including the return of the biggest K-drama of all time. Here is our pick of the best Korean dramas of 2024, ranked from good to great. 15. A Shop for Killers Lead cast: Lee Dong-wook, Kim Hye-joon Web novel adaptation A Shop for Killers opens with a bang, with a young woman (Kim Hye-joon)... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/lifestyle/k-pop/k-drama/article/3291296/15-best-k-dramas-2024-ranked-queen-tears-ltns-and-squid-game-season-2?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/lifestyle/k-pop/k-drama/article/3291296/15-best-k-dramas-2024-ranked-queen-tears-ltns-and-squid-game-season-2?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 20 Dec 2024 20:15:07 +0000 In a year when Hong Kong cinema made history in its own backyard, and prominent filmmakers were chased out of their home countries for daring to speak truth to power, 2024 has seen a bounty of incredible films that wield the capacity to educate and illuminate, as well as simply entertain. Below are our picks of the 12 best films released this year across Asia. 12. How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies A box office smash hit across Southeast Asia, this tear-jerking Thai blockbuster stars... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3291128/12-best-asian-films-2024-ranked-last-dance-all-we-imagine-light?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3291128/12-best-asian-films-2024-ranked-last-dance-all-we-imagine-light?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 18 Dec 2024 23:15:13 +0000 Each month, the Post recommends the best new restaurants to visit in Hong Kong. There has rarely been a month where we have listed fewer than a dozen noteworthy venues, such is the speed at which restaurants open in the city. While there have been plenty of losses and closures of beloved restaurants too, from humble char siu and egg specialists and noodle dai pai dong to those that quiet-quit us (like Écriture and Ramato), we are hopeful that a 2024 free of Covid-19 pandemic restrictions will... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/lifestyle/food-drink/article/3246954/10-best-restaurant-openings-hong-kong-2023-ranked-indian-and-french-fine-dining-food-court-and-more?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/lifestyle/food-drink/article/3246954/10-best-restaurant-openings-hong-kong-2023-ranked-indian-and-french-fine-dining-food-court-and-more?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 04 Jan 2024 04:45:13 +0000 Global Impact is a weekly curated newsletter featuring a news topic originating in China with a significant macro impact for our newsreaders around the world. Sign up now! The world in 2023 was more challenging, costlier and hotter than before. There were several major conflagrations: Russia was still embroiled in Ukraine nearly two years after invading its neighbour. Israel’s military operations claimed an estimated 20,000 lives as of December 22 in Gaza, 11 weeks after Hamas terrorists killed... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/economy/china-economy/article/3246936/global-impact-time-reflect-2023-mainland-china-hong-kong-and-rest-world-and-look-ahead-2024?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/economy/china-economy/article/3246936/global-impact-time-reflect-2023-mainland-china-hong-kong-and-rest-world-and-look-ahead-2024?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 02 Jan 2024 06:00:14 +0000 Hong Kong sought to return to a state of normality in 2023 after three years of Covid-19, with authorities aiming to restore the city’s pre-pandemic status as an economic and international hub. But even as the borders reopened and Hongkongers ventured outdoors unmasked, the city continued to face various public health challenges as well as enjoy some opportunities. The Post recaps some of the major health-related milestones in 2023. 1. Borders fully reopen On February 6, mainland China fully... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/news/hong-kong/health-environment/article/3246833/hong-kong-public-health-challenges-2023-lifting-covid-measures-rise-suicides-among-students?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/news/hong-kong/health-environment/article/3246833/hong-kong-public-health-challenges-2023-lifting-covid-measures-rise-suicides-among-students?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 01 Jan 2024 00:30:12 +0000 If you would like to see more of our reporting, please consider subscribing. A story looking at Chinese investors scrambling to sell overseas properties amid shaky economic conditions took centre stage at the top of a list of our economy stories in 2023. 1. Chinese investors scramble to sell overseas properties amid shaky economic conditions (He Huifeng – September 24, 2023) Soon after China decided to lift border controls in January, ending three years of zero-Covid measures, Stephen Yao... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/economy/china-economy/article/3246648/best-2023-chinese-investors-scrambling-sell-overseas-properties-tops-most-read-china-economy-stories?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/economy/china-economy/article/3246648/best-2023-chinese-investors-scrambling-sell-overseas-properties-tops-most-read-china-economy-stories?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 31 Dec 2023 16:00:09 +0000 From China’s long-awaited post-pandemic reopening to Taylor Swift’s snub of everywhere else in Southeast Asia but Singapore – and Malaysian business tycoon Robert Kuok’s 100th birthday – here are This Week in Asia’s highlights of the year, based on our best-read stories. Well-off Chinese ‘run’ for Southeast Asia As China finally began to dismantle its punishing zero-Covid regime of the previous three years, Chinese nationals with the means to do so were looking to escape the controls – and an... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/week-asia/article/3246787/year-asia-money-laundering-singapore-taylor-swifts-snubs-robert-kuok-100-and-other-highlights-2023?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/week-asia/article/3246787/year-asia-money-laundering-singapore-taylor-swifts-snubs-robert-kuok-100-and-other-highlights-2023?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 31 Dec 2023 10:30:16 +0000 The word of the year 2023, according to the Cambridge Dictionary, is “hallucinate”. Thanks to artificial intelligence, the verb has evolved beyond the traditional definition in which humans sense things that are not there (from the Latin alucinatus, “to stray in the mind”). Today’s hallucinations include a machine’s capacity to generate (or dare we say invent) false information. As an example, Cambridge Dictionary mentions two American lawyers at Levidow, Levidow & Oberman who were fined... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/magazines/post-magazine/long-reads/article/3246386/best-books-2023-twist-elon-musk-biography-and-prince-harrys-spare-hong-kong-poetry?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/magazines/post-magazine/long-reads/article/3246386/best-books-2023-twist-elon-musk-biography-and-prince-harrys-spare-hong-kong-poetry?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 31 Dec 2023 05:15:08 +0000 In 2023, Indonesia’s social media landscape mirrored its rich cultural tapestry, offering a vibrant mix of startling, controversial, and heartening narratives. From Bali’s tourist turmoil and TikTok blasphemy arrests to the inspiring journeys of the nation’s spirited youth, these are some of the tales that dominated the Indonesian internet, reflecting a year of intense emotion and spirited discourse Problems in paradise Bali was still in recovery mode for most of 2023, with many on the island... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/week-asia/article/3246788/indonesias-2023-social-media-roller-coaster-bad-behaviour-bali-blasphemy-and-rising-star?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/week-asia/article/3246788/indonesias-2023-social-media-roller-coaster-bad-behaviour-bali-blasphemy-and-rising-star?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 31 Dec 2023 04:00:15 +0000 Hong Kong started 2023 with news of a high-profile trial of 47 opposition politicians accused of subversion for being involved in an unofficial primary election and closed the year with another closely watched case, involving media tycoon Jimmy Lai Chee-ying, who is accused of sedition and collusion with foreign forces. For the first time, Hong Kong authorities announced a bounty of HK$1 million (US$128,000) each for the arrest of eight wanted opposition figures now settled overseas and accused... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/news/hong-kong/politics/article/3246768/hong-kong-politics-2023-major-trials-hk1-million-bounties-fugitives-and-election-record-low-turnout?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/news/hong-kong/politics/article/3246768/hong-kong-politics-2023-major-trials-hk1-million-bounties-fugitives-and-election-record-low-turnout?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 31 Dec 2023 00:30:09 +0000 From the plight of Abul Bajandar, known as “tree man”, to a look at the life of Hong Kong fashion designer Barney Cheng, a reminder of eight of the most-read long features published in the South China Morning Post’s Post Magazine in 2023. 1. More turmoil for ‘tree man’ After his story went global, Bangladeshi man Abul Bajandar, known as “tree man”, was able to get treatment for the warts that left his hands deformed, allowing him to hold his daughter for the first time. Then the warts grew back... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/magazines/post-magazine/short-reads/article/3246607/most-read-2023-chinas-release-american-cia-spy-life-hong-kong-fashion-designer-who-dressed-michelle?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/magazines/post-magazine/short-reads/article/3246607/most-read-2023-chinas-release-american-cia-spy-life-hong-kong-fashion-designer-who-dressed-michelle?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 29 Dec 2023 10:15:08 +0000 While Singapore may be a small country, its capacity for online drama is surprisingly huge. From a comedian cancelled over an offensive joke to TikTok’s Singaporean CEO getting crowned a ‘zaddy’, here are some of the most hotly discussed topics to have swept Singaporean social media in 2023. Comedian Jocelyn Chia enrages Malaysians After a notorious 89-second clip of a joke about MH370, the Malaysia Airlines flight carrying 239 people that went missing in 2014, went viral, Singapore-raised comic... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/week-asia/article/3246649/singapores-biggest-social-media-stories-2023-jocelyn-chias-mh370-joke-girl-math?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/week-asia/article/3246649/singapores-biggest-social-media-stories-2023-jocelyn-chias-mh370-joke-girl-math?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 29 Dec 2023 09:30:11 +0000 Sometimes what makes dishes memorable is the context in which we ate them, not just our objective appraisal of their taste, temperature, texture or appearance. I began 2023 in Hong Kong with a chilly sunrise hike at Cape Collinson, where doubling back on ourselves in the darkness – guided only by our headlamps – happened with a frequency I was not proud of. But when the first rays of sunlight broke through the hazy sky, the sense of accomplishment was only trumped by the smugness of having... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/lifestyle/food-drink/article/3246413/best-food-2023-my-favourite-dishes-year-sushi-hong-kong-street-food-noodles-thailand-and-very?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/lifestyle/food-drink/article/3246413/best-food-2023-my-favourite-dishes-year-sushi-hong-kong-street-food-noodles-thailand-and-very?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 29 Dec 2023 04:15:07 +0000 To the casual consumer, 2023 may appear to have been a typical year for mobile phones. There was a new iPhone, a new Samsung foldable, and the usual Chinese handset roll-outs. But for those who follow mobile phone developments closely, it was an exciting year that saw significantly improved zoom cameras on multiple devices, the first signs of generative AI on handsets, and the end of Samsung’s near monopoly on foldable phones in the West. I have tested every single flagship smartphone released... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/lifestyle/gadgets/article/3246457/ranked-top-5-smartphones-2023-iphone-15-pro-max-and-google-pixel-8-pro-two-foldable-phones-and-best?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/lifestyle/gadgets/article/3246457/ranked-top-5-smartphones-2023-iphone-15-pro-max-and-google-pixel-8-pro-two-foldable-phones-and-best?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 28 Dec 2023 10:15:07 +0000 From a tour of the Chinese city of Shenzhen, a popular day-trip destination for Hong Kong people, to a look at things travellers don’t get told by tourism boards, we look back at our most popular travel and leisure stories of 2023. 1. Morbid art gets star treatment In May, we looked at how an Alien special effects designer’s works are the star of two Swiss medieval towns that offer an unlikely mix of idyllic backdrops and morbid art. H. R. Giger was born in the Swiss city of Chur, where his... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/lifestyle/travel-leisure/article/3246495/most-read-2023-airbnb-crackdown-penang-swiss-towns-morbid-art-alien-movie-effects-designer-7-world?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/lifestyle/travel-leisure/article/3246495/most-read-2023-airbnb-crackdown-penang-swiss-towns-morbid-art-alien-movie-effects-designer-7-world?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 28 Dec 2023 08:17:08 +0000 As we bid farewell to 2023, here is a selection of the most peculiar stories published by This Week in Asia in the last 12 months. 1. Dalai Lama’s slip of the tongue The Dalai Lama, the 87-year-old spiritual leader of Tibetan Buddhism, set tongues wagging globally after a viral video of him asking a young boy to suck his tongue drew widespread condemnations. The video shows the Dalai Lama planting a kiss on the boy’s lips as the child leans forward to pay his respects. The Buddhist monk is then... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/week-asia/people/article/3246476/asias-weird-2023-dalai-lamas-gaffe-puking-mullet-bird-stories-amuse-and-enrage?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/week-asia/people/article/3246476/asias-weird-2023-dalai-lamas-gaffe-puking-mullet-bird-stories-amuse-and-enrage?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 28 Dec 2023 07:00:09 +0000 From taste testing China’s much anticipated first home-grown durian to how a family who left Guangzhou, southern China, for Vancouver in 1981, built a fruit and vegetable empire in Canada, we look back at the food and drink stories most read by Post readers in 2023. 1. A taste of China’s home-grown durian China’s much-anticipated first home-grown durian got the taste test in August from the Post’s Shea Driscoll. He found the taste and smell were just a faint facsimile of a “proper” durian, while... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/lifestyle/food-drink/article/3246354/most-read-2023-tasting-first-chinese-durian-drinking-koreas-whisky-trend-tributes-masterchef?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/lifestyle/food-drink/article/3246354/most-read-2023-tasting-first-chinese-durian-drinking-koreas-whisky-trend-tributes-masterchef?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 27 Dec 2023 08:15:11 +0000 For Singaporeans who had grown accustomed to the city state’s rather sedate way of doing politics, 2023 will go down as one of the most turbulent years in decades. But as a high-level corruption case and string of political resignations rocked Singapore, it also shone on the global stage by attracting the likes of international musical acts Taylor Swift and Coldplay. Here are the top Singapore stories This Week in Asia covered in 2023: A month of scandals In July, the ruling People’s Action... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/week-asia/article/3246278/singapores-turbulent-yet-tantalising-2023-political-scandals-pop-sensations?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/week-asia/article/3246278/singapores-turbulent-yet-tantalising-2023-political-scandals-pop-sensations?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 26 Dec 2023 11:00:15 +0000 Hong Kong cinema is so back, it would now take a particularly biased or ignorant observer to deny the remarkable resurgence that is happening before our eyes. Following a record-breaking year that saw the city’s film industry produce the two highest-grossing local features – sci-fi spectacle Warriors of Future (HK$81 million/US$10 million) and ensemble comedy Table for Six (HK$77 million) – in its entire history, 2023 kicked off in similarly buoyant mood with the Lunar New Year release of A... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3246279/every-hong-kong-film-released-2023-ranked-worst-best-year-new-directors-continue-make-history?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3246279/every-hong-kong-film-released-2023-ranked-worst-best-year-new-directors-continue-make-history?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 26 Dec 2023 08:25:08 +0000 From fashion trends (New Balance, Lunar rabbit-themed sneakers), to viral moments (Kibbe body types) and who was in vogue (Carmen Dell’Orefice, AI models), we look back at some of the most read stories in 2023 from the worlds of fashion and beauty. Some may surprise you. 1. Why the dad shoe is on trend We looked at why everyone is buying New Balance sneakers. The “dad shoe” is right on trend, has had high-profile collaborations and was worn at the Fifa World Cup. At one time, you would not be... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/lifestyle/fashion-beauty/article/3246052/most-read-2023-fashion-and-beauty-trends-new-balance-sneakers-and-ai-vogue-models-hermes-birkin?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/lifestyle/fashion-beauty/article/3246052/most-read-2023-fashion-and-beauty-trends-new-balance-sneakers-and-ai-vogue-models-hermes-birkin?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 26 Dec 2023 03:15:07 +0000 Dave Besseling’s weekly dive into the Post’s archives for Post Magazine opens a door to the past, giving readers a look at stories that made headlines in Hong Kong over the decades. In 2023, several of the most popular with readers had a crime element. 2004: Bank junks deposit boxes in blunder We looked back at an incident in 2004 when a Hong Kong bank suffered a crushing humiliation after scrapping 83 safe deposit boxes full of cash, jewels and personal items. DBS Bank was renovating one of its... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/magazines/post-magazine/short-reads/article/3246007/most-read-2023-hello-kitty-murder-death-jet-lis-manager-7-stories-post-archives?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/magazines/post-magazine/short-reads/article/3246007/most-read-2023-hello-kitty-murder-death-jet-lis-manager-7-stories-post-archives?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 25 Dec 2023 08:15:16 +0000 The death in January of Lisa Marie Presley, daughter of Elvis Presley, aged just 54 – she suffered a heart attack – prompted Anthea Rowan to turn a spotlight on how to maintain a healthy heart and keep cholesterol low. We also looked at nine ways cardamom, the “queen of spices”, can boost your health, from better sex to fresher breath to weight loss. We look back at those and other health and wellness stories that struck a chord with Post readers in 2023. 1. Secrets to a long and healthy... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/lifestyle/health-wellness/article/3245953/most-read-2023-how-live-long-healthy-life-power-fasting-your-7-top-health-and-wellness-stories?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/lifestyle/health-wellness/article/3245953/most-read-2023-how-live-long-healthy-life-power-fasting-your-7-top-health-and-wellness-stories?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 24 Dec 2023 08:15:11 +0000 Throughout the Asia-Pacific region, women and gender minorities have continued to encounter threats to their safety and restrictions on their rights this year. The alarming outbreaks of violence across the region, in particular, have underscored the unique challenges faced by women and girls during times of conflict. Unfortunately, the progress towards advancing the rights of queer communities faltered in the past year, as several countries failed to implement laws that would provide stronger... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/week-asia/people/article/3246099/violence-and-prejudice-2023-year-hurdles-asias-women-and-gender-minorities?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/week-asia/people/article/3246099/violence-and-prejudice-2023-year-hurdles-asias-women-and-gender-minorities?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 24 Dec 2023 07:00:28 +0000 Looking back at 2023, a series that shone a spotlight on major Hong Kong pop culture figures of recent decades proved popular with readers. Profiles of Isabella Leong Lok-sze and sex bomb Amy Yip Chi-mei in particular struck a chord. 1. Girl power In May, Richard James Havis profiled Anita Yuen Wing-yee, known as the Audrey Hepburn of Hong Kong cinema, who made her mark playing forthright women. She also had a reputation for being difficult to work with and sparked a 22-year feud with martial... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3245697/most-read-2023-hong-kongs-audrey-hepburn-sex-bomb-us250000-breasts-your-7-favourite-celebrity?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3245697/most-read-2023-hong-kongs-audrey-hepburn-sex-bomb-us250000-breasts-your-7-favourite-celebrity?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 23 Dec 2023 08:15:10 +0000 From the cute and creepy hyperrealistic sculptures created by Australia’s Patricia Piccinini to anonymous Hong Kong artists Lousy and Matsushimaon’s sexually charged works, we look back at some of the arts stories that struck a chord with Post readers in 2023. 1. Mocking the monogram Artist, cheongsam designer and drag performer Scotty So’s mock photo series was inspired by people in Hong Kong wearing top-to-toe luxury monogram fashion. He moved to the Australian city of Melbourne in 2018 to... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/lifestyle/arts-culture/article/3245636/young-naked-women-canvases-gross-sculptures-evoke-disgust-and-emotion-7-most-popular-arts-stories?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/lifestyle/arts-culture/article/3245636/young-naked-women-canvases-gross-sculptures-evoke-disgust-and-emotion-7-most-popular-arts-stories?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 22 Dec 2023 09:15:09 +0000 It was another big year for Korean dramas in the fertile streaming era, but 2023 was especially notable for the swift rise of Disney+. The Mouse House has only been dabbling in K-dramas for two years, but this year it aired over half the shows on this list, including five original productions. Netflix was no slouch this year, but now that it has a worthy rival to contend with, the future is looking brighter for K-content creators and consumers. Here is our pick of the best Korean dramas of 2023,... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/lifestyle/k-pop/k-drama/article/3245562/ranked-15-best-k-dramas-2023-queenmaker-glory-song-hye-kyo-superhero-saga-moving-and-mask-girl?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/lifestyle/k-pop/k-drama/article/3245562/ranked-15-best-k-dramas-2023-queenmaker-glory-song-hye-kyo-superhero-saga-moving-and-mask-girl?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 21 Dec 2023 20:15:18 +0000 The skies over Asia have been crowded this year, with nine of 10 of the world’s busiest domestic flight routes and nine of the 10 busiest international flight routes found within the continent, according to research released this week by air travel analytics platform OAG. As in both 2019 and 2022, the busiest route overall – defined as that with the largest volume of scheduled airline seats in 2023, for flights in both directions – has been that between Jeju International and Seoul Gimpo... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/lifestyle/travel-leisure/article/3245859/busiest-flight-routes-2023-and-asia-mostly-skies-over-korea-japan-singapore-malaysia-and-china-buzz?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/lifestyle/travel-leisure/article/3245859/busiest-flight-routes-2023-and-asia-mostly-skies-over-korea-japan-singapore-malaysia-and-china-buzz?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 21 Dec 2023 11:45:17 +0000