East Asia

With US attention focused on the Arab World and Pakistan, will Kim Jong-il spring another attention seeking nuclear surprise?

How China’s elites see labour reflects differences within the Communist Party about the future course of the country, argues Russell Leigh Moses.

Worries about inequality and high youth unemployment raise questions over President Lee Myung-bak’s shift to the right.

North Korea and Pakistan have many differences. But they also share some key similarities—not least a history of taking the US for a ride.

Despite Jimmy Carter’s failure in North Korea, there’s room in US foreign policy for special envoys. Including Bill Clinton.

The hype over China’s military is reminiscent of Cold War fears about Russia. But the US shouldn’t overreact to a new Chinese aircraft carrier.

It would be tempting for Japan to withdraw inward following last month’s earthquake and tsunami. So far, though, its leaders have resisted.

The Chinese government may be cracking down hard on dissent. But some protesters are treated more gently than others, argues Minxin Pei.

Bo Xilai has a reputation as a rising political rock star. But do his ‘Red Culture’ policies in Chongqing really offer a viable model for China?

Tensions and diverging interests between China and Russia loomed large over the group’s latest meeting. Will BRICS ever find a unified voice?

With Chinese demand for hardwood rising, large swathes of forests are being illegally logged. Corruption and fear are hampering a crackdown.

Global warming is set to bring the Arctic into play as a key strategic region for the US, China and Russia. Can a stable set of rules be crafted?