North Korea Surprises World with Successful Rocket Launch
Launch comes mere days after the regime announced a delay due to technical difficulties.
East Asia
Chinese Military Might Look Inward With New Drone
Unmanned aerial vehicles could be used by China for internal surveillance.
North Korea Plans Missile Test Amid International Tension
With political changes across the region, North Korea must make itself heard again.
South Korean Presidential Election Starts With Surprise
An independent candidate drops out, making the election a two-person race.
Obama Addresses Pressing Issues at East Asia Summit
The American president’s Asia trip appears to have yielded little of significance.
Laos’ Hydropower Boom Attracts Regional Attention
China, Thailand and Vietnam are keen to import hydroelectricity for Laos.
China’s Hu Ensures Smooth Transition, Resigns Army Post
President Hu Jintao unexpectedly steps down from his military leadership post.
As Economy Slows, Japan’s Noda Backs Free Trade Deals
Japan’s prime minister throws his support behind freer trade as the economy contracts.
Japan Seeks Upgrade in American Security Alliance
In its island dispute with China, Japan isn’t sure if the United States have its back.
New Leaders, Old Policy as Chinese Ruling Party Convenes
China’s outgoing leaders will continue to exert influence behind the scenes.
Mounting Sino-Japanese Tension Amid Military Exercise
China bristles as Japan and the United States conduct joint military exercises in East Asia.
Japan’s Politics in Game of Brinkmanship Over Budget
Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda is counting on the opposition to avoid a fiscal cliff.
“Strategic Reassurance” Implies Chinese Dominance in Asia
The United States “pivoted” to Asia to prevent China from dominating the region.
Nationalist Tokyo Governor Forms New Political Party
Shintaro Ishihara could play a key role in the formation of the next government.
China’s Next Leaders Likely to Continue Slow Reform
China’s leadership transition is unlikely to herald radical policy changes.