Slashie, Bridging Europe & Asia. Bruxelles, Belgique. Social Trends Observer (Observateur des tendances Sociales). Life and Culture Exchanges. Image Training and Visual Marketing. Facebook Fan Page Design and Editor. Media PR Life in Europe and in Asia
Reading Time : 2minutesThe Apple TV+ docuseries “K-Pop Idols” offers a rare glimpse into the challenges faced by K-pop stars like Jessi, Blackswan, and Cravity. From grueling training sessions to mental health struggles, the series reveals the intense pressures of South Korea’s music industry. Despite the glamorous image, these idols endure significant sacrifices, making this series a must-watch for anyone interested in the realities behind the fame.
Reading Time : 2minutesThe Polaris Dawn mission, led by Jared Isaacman, marks a historic moment in space exploration as the first civilian spacewalk mission. The SpaceX-operated journey will take a four-person crew to new heights, advancing private scientific exploration and paving the way for future missions to the Moon and Mars.
Reading Time : 3minutesIBM is cutting over 1,000 jobs and closing research labs in China as geopolitical tensions between Beijing and Washington escalate. This marks a significant shift in the company’s strategy as it adapts to the increasingly challenging business environment for American firms in China. IBM, once optimistic about China’s growth potential, now faces declining revenues and heightened national security concerns, prompting this major pullback.
Reading Time : 2minutesBlack Myth: Wukong has taken the gaming world by storm, selling 10 million copies in just three days. The game’s success is driven by its rich narrative based on the Chinese tale of Sun Wukong, the Monkey King, brought to life with stunning graphics and engaging gameplay. This modern retelling of a classic myth highlights the growing trend of cultural storytelling in games, resonating with players worldwide.
Reading Time : 3minutesCuriosity and imagination are the keys to a richer life, as Alice discovered in Wonderland. By following her curiosity, Alice explored a world full of wonder and challenges, showing us the importance of questioning the ordinary and embracing creativity. Her journey reminds us that life is more exciting when we view it with an open mind and a playful spirit. Start your own adventure by nurturing your curiosity and imagination today!
Reading Time : 2minutesPavel Durov, the founder of Telegram, has been arrested in France on charges related to the platform’s lack of moderation, which allegedly allowed criminal activities to thrive. This arrest has sparked a debate about the balance between privacy and security in the digital age. Prominent figures like Elon Musk have voiced concerns, fearing that Durov’s detention could signal a broader crackdown on encrypted communication and internet freedom.
Reading Time : 2minutesBotswana has uncovered the largest diamond found in over a century, a stunning 2,492-carat gem from the Karowe Mine. This discovery marks the second-biggest diamond ever unearthed, following the famous Cullinan Diamond of 1905. Weighing nearly half a kilogram, the diamond was presented by President Mokgweetsi Masisi, who expressed awe at the historic find. The stone’s value is yet to be determined, but it solidifies Botswana’s reputation as a leading source of the world’s most exceptional diamonds.
Reading Time : 2minutesTourists at the Great Wall of China can now enjoy meals delivered by drone, thanks to Meituan’s innovative service. This cutting-edge initiative, launched at the Badaling section, offers a quick and convenient way to deliver food, drinks, and medical supplies to visitors navigating the ancient fortifications. The drones, capable of carrying up to 2.3 kilograms, make the journey in just five minutes, enhancing the experience at one of China’s most iconic sites while showcasing the country’s advancements in drone technology.
Reading Time : 2minutesThe FTC has introduced a pivotal rule to combat fake and AI-generated reviews, prohibiting businesses from creating, buying, or selling misleading feedback. This regulation ensures that online reviews genuinely reflect consumer experiences, banning incentivized or biased reviews, insider testimonials, and deceptive social media practices. The FTC’s comprehensive approach aims to protect consumers and promote a fair and transparent digital marketplace.
Reading Time : 2minutesToy brands are shifting their advertising focus from traditional TV to streaming platforms like YouTube, Netflix, and Disney+. With kids increasingly watching shows online, brands like MGA and Hasbro are creating content that aligns with their products, such as MGA’s “Rainbow High” on Netflix. This strategy allows them to reach both children and parents, who often co-view, while also exploring platforms like TikTok and Roblox to stay relevant.
Reading Time : 2minutesCouche-Tard’s $38 billion bid to acquire 7-Eleven’s parent, Seven & i Holdings, marks the largest-ever foreign takeover attempt of a Japanese company. If successful, the deal would create a global convenience store empire with 100,000 locations. However, regulatory challenges and cultural resistance in Japan make the outcome uncertain. This move reflects the broader trend of aggressive mergers and acquisitions reshaping the global business landscape in 2024.
Reading Time : 3minutesNew York City’s shift to the Dining Out NYC program marks a significant change in outdoor dining regulations. Initially vital during the pandemic, dining sheds now face stricter guidelines, requiring modular structures and seasonal removal. While some restaurant owners welcome the order these rules bring, others struggle with the financial and logistical challenges. With fewer than 3,000 establishments applying for permits, the program’s impact highlights a potential shift favoring larger, resource-rich restaurants, raising questions about the future of outdoor dining in the city.
Reading Time : 2minutesFor centuries, China held a tight grip on the world’s silk production, guarding the secrets of sericulture with unwavering diligence. However, in the 6th century, two Byzantine monks, disguised as pilgrims, carried out one of history’s most daring acts of industrial espionage. By smuggling silkworm eggs out of China, hidden within their hollowed-out walking sticks, they broke China’s monopoly, transforming the Byzantine Empire into a new center of silk production and forever altering the course of global trade.
Reading Time : 2minutesAbu Dhabi’s Zayed International Airport is pioneering a revolutionary Smart Travel Project, aiming to eliminate the need for passports or tickets by 2025. By installing biometric sensors at every checkpoint, the airport plans to streamline the passenger experience with facial and iris recognition technology. This innovation promises quicker transit times, reducing the need for manual checks. While the majority of travelers embrace the change, traditional verification options remain available for those who prefer a more personal approach. This could set a new global standard in air travel.
Reading Time : 2minutesSteve Ballmer’s Intuit Dome in Inglewood is a groundbreaking arena for the LA Clippers, featuring cutting-edge technology like the $100 million Halo Board and cashierless food spots. With an emphasis on fan experience, the stadium offers spacious seating, interactive rewards for loud fans, and a section dedicated to Clippers diehards. It’s set to host the 2028 Olympic basketball games.
