K-pop drum duet between Japan and South Korea's leaders caps off summit talks

On January 13, 2026, leaders from Japan and South Korea met in central Japan, where they engaged in a surprise drum performance to popular K-pop hits, signaling a cultural connection while discussing deeper cooperation on economic security, defense, and diplomatic issues.

In Iran, an ongoing internet blackout has prompted the government to deploy drones to locate Starlink users attempting to communicate with the outside world. This blackout follows intensified censorship efforts, including jamming the Starlink satellite service, which had been made available for free to citizens amid the crisis.

A chocolate-inspired dessert from Dubai has gained immense popularity in South Korea, leading to shops selling hundreds of cookies within minutes. This surge in demand has resulted in a significant increase in the prices of ingredients used to make these treats.

South Korean prosecutors have demanded the death penalty for former president Yoon Suk Yeol, who is on trial for insurrection charges related to his attempt to declare martial law in December 2024. This unprecedented trial marks the first insurrection case against a Korean head of state in three decades, with prosecutors arguing that Yoon's actions severely undermined the constitutional order and endangered public safety.

K-pop band BTS has announced a new world tour set to take place in 2026 and 2027, starting in South Korea in April after a nearly four-year hiatus due to the mandatory military service of all seven members. The tour will feature over 70 dates across Asia, North America, South America, Australia, and Europe, marking their first headline performances since the 2021-22 Permission to Dance on Stage tour.

South Korean prosecutors have called for the death penalty for former president Yoon Suk Yeol following his controversial declaration of martial law in December 2024, which led to significant unrest and a political crisis in the country. This unprecedented move involved sending troops to parliament to enforce the end of civilian rule.

South Korean prosecutors have recommended the death penalty for former president Yoon Suk Yeol, who is facing insurrection charges linked to his controversial declaration of martial law in December 2024. This unprecedented legal action follows significant unrest and a political crisis that ensued during his brief rule.

Japan's stock index has reached a new record, driven by increasing expectations for a general election next month that may strengthen Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's political position and enable her to implement more aggressive economic measures.