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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.
Sleep, Forever, Among Chinese Celebrities and Cemetery Swag
By J.T. Quigley
After an enormously successful IPO, China’s biggest funeral service provider booms.
Hakamada Iwao and the Declining Support for Japan’s Death Penalty
By J.T. Quigley
Despite government figures, the Japanese public appears increasingly skeptical of capital punishment.
Tanaka Enters Training Camp to Much Fanfare, High Expectations
By Samuel Chi
Questions remain as far as Tanaka’s place in the Yankees’ pitching lineup.
Malaysian Restaurants Busted for Putting Endangered Species on the Dinner Menu
By J.T. Quigley
Special Valentine’s Day courses offered flying fox, civet and pangolin meat among others.
Defector’s Horrifying Drawings of Life in a North Korean Prison Camp Published by UN
By J.T. Quigley
Crimes against humanity depicted in a series of illustrations reminiscent of the Holocaust.
In Social Media Addicted Indonesia, Beauty Pageant Adds Tech-Related Titles
By J.T. Quigley
Miss Indonesia pageant added three awards based on a contestant’s online presence.
China Considers World’s Longest Underground Tunnel
By Angela Erika Kubo
The proposed tunnel would run across two earthquake fault lines, sparking concerns over safety.
Tarun Tejpal: Disgraced Indian Editor Charged with Rape
By J.T. Quigley
After months of apologies and outright denials, the former Tehelka magazine editor faces prison.
Record-Breaking Snowstorm in Japan Grinds Transportation to a Halt, Kills 12
By J.T. Quigley
Tokyo and surrounding areas saw the heaviest snowfall in 45 years.
Don’t Look Down! Russian Thrill Seekers Illegally Climb Shanghai Tower
By J.T. Quigley
Police are looking for two men who scaled the unfinished skyscraper without safety equipment or permission.
Air New Zealand Faces Turbulence over Controversial Safety Video
By Angela Erika Kubo
Many have criticized the video for its “unoriginality” and use of Sports Illustrated swimsuit models.
Mount Kelud Eruption: Indonesian Authorities Rush to Evacuate More Than 200,000
By J.T. Quigley
Two eruptions on Thursday hurled ash and rock at densely populated villages in Java.