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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.
Sleeping Beauty on the Seabed: Underwater Art on Display in the Maldives
By J.T. Quigley
Austrian artist juxtaposes fairytale characters with aquatic landscapes.
Help Wanted: A Reliable Executioner in Sri Lanka
By J.T. Quigley
Sri Lanka’s latest hangman resigns after visiting the gallows.
Indian Diplomat Row: Charges Dropped Against Devyani Khobragade
By J.T. Quigley
U.S. prosecutors have hinted that they will pursue a new indictment.
Linsanity Has Been a Failure to Launch in Houston
By Samuel Chi
The Asian-American superstar has spent most of his time on the Rockets’ bench.
Despite Western Music Ban, Iranians Rock On
By Angela Erika Kubo
Western culture faces political opposition in Iran, but that doesn’t stop people from enjoying some rock ‘n’ roll.
Jackie Chan’s K-Pop ‘Boy Band’ to Release Debut Album This Month
By J.T. Quigley
The martial arts master and action superstar is now managing a male idol group.
PTSD Plagues Tohoku Three Years After March 11 Disaster
By J.T. Quigley
More than 30 percent of children in disaster areas battle with the psychological side effects.
Koichi Wakata Becomes First Japanese Commander of International Space Station
By J.T. Quigley
The veteran astronaut, who previously served as flight engineer, will hold the post until mid-May.
Divine Intervention? Indonesian Clerics Issue Fatwa to Protect Endangered Species
By J.T. Quigley
The decree compels Indonesia’s 200 million Muslims to put an end to wildlife trafficking.
Thai Fishing Sector Rife with Abuse, According to Report
By Angela Erika Kubo
Migrant workers are often trafficked into Thailand’s billion-dollar seafood industry.
Meals for Masochists: 7 of Asia’s Spiciest Foods
By J.T. Quigley
Regional cuisine includes some notoriously fiery dishes – how many have you eaten?
Autumn Radtke: Bitcoin Exchange CEO Found Dead in Singapore
By J.T. Quigley
The 28-year-old First Meta executive may have committed suicide.