Japan, ASEAN agree to cooperate on AI development
WorldHANOI -- Japan and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations have agreed to work together on developing new artificial intelligence models and preparing related laws.
Anime therapy trial launched in Japan
WorldYOKOHAMA -- A Japanese research team has launched a trial of 'anime therapy,' a method in which animated characters provide counseling to young people facing social challenges.
Brazil shuts down Sigma Lithium waste piles over safety concerns
WorldBrazil's Labor Ministry has shut down three waste piles at Sigma Lithium's flagship mine in the state of Minas Gerais, citing a "grave and imminent" risk to workers and the local community, according to documents seen by Reuters.
South Korea's ex-president Yoon given 5-year jail term in first ruling over martial law
WorldSEOUL -- A South Korean court on Friday sentenced former President Yoon Suk Yeol to five years in prison on charges that included obstructing attempts by authorities to arrest him following his failed bid to impose martial law in December 2024.
Social media sites block 4.7 million underage accounts in Australia
WorldSYDNEY -- Tech giants have blocked 4.7 million accounts under Australia's world-first social media ban for under-16s, the country's online safety watchdog said Friday.
Amazon launches new Europe-based cloud service to address user concerns
WorldFRANKFURT -- Amazon's (AMZN.O) AWS launched a new cloud service located entirely in Europe on Thursday, addressing user concerns about the data security delivered by mainly U.S.-based providers by offering the continent's own independent alternative.
Hundreds of firefighters tackle blaze in deprived area of South Korea's Gangnam district
WorldSEOUL - Nearly 300 South Korean firefighters were battling a major fire on Friday in a deprived area of the upmarket Gangnam district of southern Seoul, a fire official said.
26 charged in latest basketball gambling scandal
WorldLOS ANGELES (UNITED STATES) -- Twenty-six people have been charged with fixing U.S. college and Chinese professional basketball games in an alleged transnational criminal conspiracy, federal prosecutors said Thursday.
Holders Vietnam to meet Indonesia, Singapore at ASEAN Championship
WorldJAKARTA - Defending champions Vietnam will face four-times winners Singapore as well as Indonesia, Cambodia and either Brunei or Timor-Leste in Group A of the 2026 ASEAN Championship following the draw for the group phase in Jakarta on Thursday.
Japan panel seeks rationale for curbing foreigners' land purchases
WorldTOKYO -- A Japanese government panel proposed in an opinion statement Wednesday that the government further discuss legislative facts to explain why acquisitions and use of domestic land by foreigners should be regulated in light of national security.
