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Pop culture in Asia
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Pop culture in Asia
The latest news, analysis and opinion on Pop culture in Asia. In-depth analysis, industry insights and expert opinion.
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China’s soft power
From Labubu to blockbuster films, was 2025 the year of China’s soft power?
Chinese lifestyle brands and other cultural exports proved to be a hit around the world this year, here are some of our most notable stories.
21 Dec 2025 - 11:00AM
Internet
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How a block of online text led to a cafe’s viral stardom
13 Dec 2025 - 9:03AM
Music
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European EDM festival Tomorrowland makes China debut in Shanghai
24 Nov 2025 - 4:17PM
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Labubu
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Labubu craze hits Singles’ Day in London
Labubu craze hits London on Singles’ Day with AliExpress live shopping show.
12 Nov 2025 - 3:08PM
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Hong Kong
Jarvis Cocker’s record shop mishap moved the needle on vinyl revival
The Pulp frontman’s tumble helped boost desirability of the old-school music format, which many in the city now collect as a labour of love.
29 Oct 2025 - 3:15PM
On Our Radar
The Avengers of pop culture are floating into Hong Kong. And one of them is purple
Colossal inflatables turn the harbour into their paddle pool from October 25, plus a waterfront market of collectibles and games.
17 Oct 2025 - 6:15PM
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Japan
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The underdog horse who won hearts, not races
Despite never winning a race, Japanese racehorse Haru Urara became a national and global icon, inspiring fans with her determination and perseverance.
9 Oct 2025 - 7:13PM
Icons and Influencers
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VTubers: the virtual stars redefining entertainment
Behind the animated avatars are real people who offer a glimpse into the new industry and how they connect with fans on a deeply personal level, forming devoted communities worldwide.
27 Sep 2025 - 8:00AM
Icons and Influencers
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VTubers: the virtual stars redefining entertainment
Already selling out concerts in New York, Hong Kong and Japan, VTubers are transforming what it means to be an entertainer, without ever revealing their real faces.
27 Sep 2025 - 12:10PM
Japan
The cult of cute: inside Sanrio’s multigenerational grip
Sanrio’s Kuromi and My Melody turn 20 and 50 this year. What explains the cross-generational pull of cute characters in a hyper-fast world?
28 Jul 2025 - 12:15PM
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