Blog
Asia Life
Sports, culture and the arts are a passion for billions in the Asia-Pacific, and offer unique insights into what makes countries here tick. From the latest cricket match to prize-winning novels and the latest art exhibitions, The Diplomat's bloggers cover it all, giving you a fresh perspective on the region.
Competition for the 2022 Winter Olympics Heats Up
By Catherine Putz
Will Almaty be “Keeping it Real” in 2022 or will Beijing prove to be a “Joyful Rendezvous upon Pure Ice and Snow”?
Is Cambodia’s Evolution Just a Mirage on the Mekong?
By Poppy McPherson
A new photo-book catalogs Cambodia’s growth and transition, painting a complex picture of progress.
Hidden Potential in South Korea’s Urban Neighborhoods
By Kris Hartley
Culture can play a vital role in local economic development.
Review: The Eagle and the Dragon
By Juan José Morales
A new book demonstrates that “the colonization of America and the history of Asia are linked.”
After 3 Year Ban, Japanese Film Tops China's Box Office
By Shannon Tiezzi
The latest Doraemon film is setting records in China.
There's an App For That (in Myanmar)
By Poppy McPherson
Emerging from years of censorship to capitalize on growing demand for local apps, developers jump straight to mobile.
Labor Exploitation Revealed in Australia’s Food Industry
By Kyla Ryan
A current affairs show reveals widespread exploitation of working holidaymakers in Australia.
Build Your Own Bangkok: An Artist Turned Amateur Anthropologist
By Poppy McPherson
In her art, Kathy MacLeod explores Bangkok's 'vibe of self-worship', the hipster invasion, and sexpat culture.
Meeting the Master of Fresco Art in Pakistan
By Sonya Rehman
One master artist in Lahore is keeping alive an endangered art form.
George Orwell: Shooting an Elephant in Yangon?
By Helen Clark
A collection of the great writer’s essays have been translated into Burmese.
‘Cheap and Trendy’ Fashion Comes at a Price
By Kyla Ryan
The rise of “fast fashion” is influencing labor standards in Asia and elsewhere.
Mongolian Empire 2.0? A World Conquered by Online Freedom
By Julian Dierkes, Trevor Kennedy, Melanie Schweiger, Christina Toepell
Mongolia plays host to a conference on Internet freedom.