Asia Pacific Jan 15, 2021

North Korea unveils new submarine-launched missile at parade

'Powerful weapon' likely to put all of Japan within range, and experts say it could lay the groundwork for longer-range solid-fueled missile.

Asia Pacific / Politics | ANALYSIS Jan 14, 2021

Architect of U.S. pivot picked to be Biden's 'Asia czar'

The appointment of former Obama administration official Kurt Campbell will 'supercharge' Biden’s standing in Asia, experts said.

Asia Pacific / Politics Jan 13, 2021

North Korea's Kim vows stronger 'nuclear war deterrent' as party congress ends

Kim wrapped up the congress on Tuesday by noting the importance of nuclear weapons and a strong military in the face of what it calls a “hostile policy” by the U.S.

National / Politics | ANALYSIS Jan 13, 2021

Defend, dominate, deny: Declassified U.S. strategy shows vision for Indo-Pacific

The document appears to highlight the large role Japan played in its formation and after, touting the “strategic resonance” of Tokyo’s “Free and Open Indo-Pacific” concept.

National Jan 12, 2021

Avoid nonessential outings in daytime, Japan virus response chief says

Economic revitalization minister Yasutoshi Nishimura made the request after the three-day weekend saw no change in the number of people venturing out.

Asia Pacific / Politics Jan 11, 2021

General Secretary Kim: North Korean leader given late father's title

Kim Jong Un was elected to the top post Monday, taking the mantle from his late father in a move seen as cementing the role of the Workers’ Party of Korea in the country’s affairs.

Asia Pacific / Politics Jan 10, 2021

North Korea ruling party says key congress to be held every five years

Prior to the amendment to the party’s rules, the congress — where leader Kim Jong Un has announced key regime decisions and plans — had been sporadically held.

Asia Pacific / Politics | ANALYSIS Jan 10, 2021

Trump's Taiwan policy ends much as it started — by blowing up status quo

The U.S. has lifted decades-old restrictions on contacts between U.S. officials and their Taiwanese counterparts, just days before President-elect Joe Biden is due to take office.

Asia Pacific / Politics | ANALYSIS Jan 9, 2021

North Korea's Kim greets Biden era with plan to upgrade nuclear capabilities

Kim vows to bolster arsenal — including via new weapons tests — but leaves door open to diplomacy with the United States.

Asia Pacific / Politics Jan 8, 2021

North Korea's Kim hints at improving inter-Korean ties and foreign policy

The leader teased the possibility of improved ties with Seoul and vowed to expand "external relations" in his first remarks on foreign policy since Joe Biden's election.