Asia Insight

The rise of the internet has made the Philippines into a hub for dubbing international movies, TV shows, and cartoons into English. Meet the Filipino voice actors taking on the global market.

With an unemployment rate of over 20% among people under age 25, mass layoffs in China have affected the careers of young people. In response, many have decided to take their futures into their own hands and open stalls as street vendors. Although they may earn less than before, they can work without fear of suddenly losing their jobs, and some see vending as a chance for networking or study in preparation for other work. In this episode, we gather along with the young people seeking out stability amidst an uncertain future.

The Philippines' growing economy and population have led to a rise in trash, and it has become a serious social issue. Over half of this trash is food waste, and one woman hopes to use it to improve the lives of poor families. Lorilyn Daquioag uses microbes from the forest to break down food waste and produce a liquid solution that makes top-quality organic fertilizer. By distributing this for free to poor neighborhoods, she can track its efficacy on vegetables and flowers. The plan is to grow delicious, healthy vegetables for locals, and eventually produce a surplus to be sold at the market. Follow Lorilyn as she takes on the two-fold challenge of waste and poverty with a single solution.

To combat a declining fertility rate, in recent years the government of South Korea has offered increased financial aid to parents who apply for leave from work. Although guaranteed paternity leave by law, many fathers discover that upon returning to work, they face overt harassment such as lack of promotions, or more subtle interference. In response, support groups aspire to create a legal framework that protects working fathers, and to change society's perception of them.

Taiwanese was the language of everyday life in Taiwan until the KMT Party under Chiang Kai-shek came to power in 1949. Then martial law was enforced, the use of Taiwanese was banned, and Mandarin Chinese became the dominant language. Today, Taiwanese is spoken and read mostly by elderly people. But as concerns grow about the loss of linguistic heritage, and against a backdrop of political tension with the mainland, young people in particular are seeking to bring back Taiwanese. A social media star, young mothers and nature guides are among the people we meet who are reexamining their identity through the medium of the Taiwanese language.

Mongolia's capital Ulaanbaatar is home to the country's only art school that accepts students with disabilities. Currently, 13 of its 50 students have intellectual or physical disabilities. One graduate is now a professional artist who has enjoyed success in the US and Japan. Accessibility remains a challenge in Mongolia, and there are few educational and employment opportunities for people with disabilities. Many live isolated from society. By teaching students of all abilities side by side, the school has become a source of hope for many students and their families. As the school approaches its 30th anniversary, meet the students chasing their artistic dreams, and the principal and teachers who guide them.

The Banpo Labor Market located in the city of Xi'an was once known as a prime location for recruiting laborers. Now, almost all those who gather to find work are in their 50s or 60s. But to prevent construction site accidents, some major cities are passing ordinances that forbid the employment of people 60 or older. Migrant workers who need to sustain themselves accept jobs out of contract, and disputes are frequent. In this episode, we meet the workers who once fueled China's economic growth, but are now being left in the dust.

In October 2022, a tragedy took place at an Indonesian soccer stadium, taking the lives of 135 people. After the match, fans stormed the pitch. Security forces fired large amounts of tear gas in response. The resulting panic caused a fatal stampede. Bereaved families criticize the unnecessary escalation of the authorities, as they fight to uncover the truth behind the tragedy. Others seek to improve relations between rival supporters and transform Indonesia's often violent soccer culture.

Due to limited options available in their home country, many Nepali workers travel to locations such as the Middle East and Malaysia to send home funds that support the lives and education of their families. However, the work conditions they find waiting for them are often harsh, and many sustain kidney damage. Some even lose their lives, leaving families to support themselves. In this episode, we speak to the workers who face these conditions for the good of their families.

Under China's One-Child Policy, maternity benefits had been confined only to married couples, excluding mothers of children born out of wedlock. In recent years, major cities have revised this policy to combat population decline, prompting more people to apply for the benefits. However, as preexisting social discrimination against unwed mothers still remains, many face an uphill battle in actually attaining these rights that should be due to all women.

One-third of all food produced worldwide is wasted. Determined to do better, Taichung City in Taiwan enacted an ordinance on food banks in 2016. Under this framework, municipal food banks collect food nearing expiration and donate it to those in need; refrigerators in public markets allow unused food to make it into the hands of social welfare organizations; and a facility producing bio-powered electricity for 800 households has also been built. At the same time, the private sector is expanding its activities to eliminate waste. We look at the Taichung City-led effort to reduce food waste.

As political tensions run high between Taiwan and mainland China, inspections are being carried out of 100,000 emergency air-raid shelters, which have been mandatory in the construction of large buildings since 1971. Local leaders prepare the shelters and attempt to motivate citizens in the district to take part in evacuation drills, despite attitudes of complacency or aggression that have recently emerged. In this episode, we unearth the shelters that stand waiting to protect the residents of Taiwan.

The waters of Tokyo Bay once teemed with life. But Japan's economic rise saw coastal areas reclaimed and water quality undermined, and catches soon plummeted. Today, fishermen are working hard to restore the region's environment and marine resources. Conger eel fishers use equipment that allow fry to escape, while others are farming oysters on tidal flats as an alternative to diminished seaweed and asari clam harvests. A group of 300 fishermen have imposed strict rules upon themselves in order to protect and grow the splendid alfonsino population. Meet the passionate people working to shape a more sustainable future.

Spurred by a series of deadly accidents during the zero-COVID policy, young people in China have begun to express their political objections with blank white paper, symbolizing the people's inability to criticize the government. The gesture spread across China, with protestors holding large gatherings speaking out against the government in over 20 cities nationwide. This episode shares the voices of young protestors who took part in the demonstration in Shanghai.

The livelihoods of fishermen residing in Malaysia's Penang State are being placed at risk by a plan to construct enormous artificial islands with a total area of 1,800 hectares. Having worked in these waters for generations, the local fishermen are concerned about the intrusion into one of the country's most productive fishing sites for shrimp. Meanwhile, other fishermen work to preserve mangrove forests in the Penang area. In this episode, we voyage alongside the Malaysian fishermen who seek to continue living and working in harmony with the environment.

In the Philippines, where natural disasters and poverty are a continuing issue, people depend on their barangays for help and assistance. Barangays are the smallest administrative units in the country, carrying out various services, from health and welfare to disaster management. In Manila's Chinatown, community ties are especially close due to a history of persecution of people of Chinese descent under Spanish rule. We focus on one barangay's community bonding in the lead-up to Christmas.

The 2011 nuclear meltdown in Fukushima Prefecture forced many people to evacuate for years. While many locals have not returned even after decontamination, the number of residents moving in from other areas of the country has shown an increase. They come to towns in the region sensing new opportunities. One man opened a brewery serving unique beverages, while another came to support the community. Original residents who endured the disaster welcome these new contributions as they work together for the future of their towns.

In August 2022, torrential rains damaged homes across South Korea, with those living in semi-basement homes hit especially hard. In response, the Seoul government announced that to preserve safety, semi-basements would be eliminated, but they have yet to provide any effective alternatives. Additionally, low-income residents of the city find themselves unable to move due to rising rent. In this episode, we follow the plight of Seoul's semi-basement residents.

In Vietnam, the economy is on the rise, and so are the number of serious traffic accidents. A shortage of ambulances and paramedics results in victims dying on the streets. In response to this situation, FAS Angel, a civilian emergency rescue team, is training young volunteers to administer first aid at accident sites in Hanoi. We go on patrol with the group as they race to save lives in their mission to "never abandon anyone."

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Thailand's once vibrant tourism industry shut down completely, preventing visitors from entering from overseas. Although access has now resumed, hotel occupancy rates are still less than half their previous levels. In order to survive, local hotels and businesses used the off season to develop new tours and plans that highlight environmental preservation and sustainability. In this episode, we take part in the projects bringing new potential to tourism in Thailand.

South Korea holds the world's 10th highest GDP, and yet its welfare budget for disabled people is just 0.6% of this, less than one third the average of other OECD countries. In response, disabled citizens have taken to subway stations to demonstrate for their rights, especially freedom of movement. Less than 30% of South Korea's buses are wheelchair-accessible, and some of its stations lack elevators. This episode chronicles the country's disabled populace who rally for social change.

As a platform of his campaign, newly elected President Yoon Suk-yeol pledged to disband the Ministry of Gender Equality and Family, a government organization that furthers women's rights. His statement courted controversy, sparking a discussion as to which gender truly encounters discrimination: Although women are expected to fulfill traditional motherly roles, men lose 2 working years to mandatory military service. This episode examines the gender debate that divides South Korean society and politics.

Durian, a sweet, intense-smelling fruit, is known as the King of Fruit in Thailand. Nonthaburi Province is home to a traditional farming method passed down from generation to generation to cultivate top-quality durians. Top varieties can cost several hundred dollars each. However, in 2011, record flooding hit the area, destroying many farms and livelihoods. Adding to farmers' woes, the absence of successors and urban development is pushing them toward an unprecedented existential crisis. We follow 2 farmers who continue to protect their fields and pass on their durian heritage.

Since Russia began its invasion of Ukraine in February of 2022, many Chinese officials and citizens have made remarks supporting Russia's actions, but the opinions held by some people differ greatly. Filmmakers throughout the country create short films opposing the invasion, and young people in Yunnan collect messages from Chinese citizens to be translated and conveyed to show sympathy to those suffering in the war.

In the forests of southern Laos is a national preserve for the endangered Eld's deer. The deer are famous for their large, beautiful antlers with crescent curves. Although they once roamed from India to China, poaching and deforestation have led to their extinction in many countries. They were believed to have vanished from Laos 50 years ago, but were rediscovered in 2008. The government has led conservation efforts ever since, and the preserve is changing the lives of locals who depended on the forest for survival. Discover how the government is looking to protect the deer while improving the lives of locals.

Accompanying its growing economy, the pharmaceutical industry in China is expanding at a brisk pace. New medicines require participants in clinical trials to ensure that they are safe and effective for human use. These trials held in cities like Beijing pay richly by local standards, granting repeat participants and their recruiters newfound financial freedom. This episode examines China's pharmaceutical industry and the effect its testing system has on people from various walks of life.

Since the one-child policy ended in 2016, demand for fertility treatment in China has grown. Residents of rural areas travel to cities to receive treatment, staying at lodgings in districts that people call "child-seeking towns." Their reasons for treatment are diverse: Some hope for a second child or a son now that the policy has been abolished, while others feel compelled by the culture of their villages. This episode follows a year in the life of families seeking to bring a new child into the world.

During the Vietnam War, Laos was bombed heavily by US military forces. An estimated 80 million unexploded bombs remained, leading to over 50,000 casualties in the decades since. The Laos government provides free treatment and rehabilitation to survivors, but many are unaware that this support exists. In 2019, a rural support NGO teamed up with the Laos Centre for Medical Rehabilitation. The NGO uses its network to help find survivors and bring them to the center, and accompanies doctors to rural villages to provide treatment and rehab. Discover how the survivors of these explosions are being supported in Laos.

In July 2021, Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam saw an explosion of new COVID-19 cases. A medical team of 1,500 traveled from capital Hanoi to help, including over 800 student nurses. With few locals vaccinated, the students carried out tests across the city, urging positive patients to quarantine. They recorded footage of their experiences on the front lines of this battle as they discovered the realities of life as a medical professional through 2 months working in a city in lockdown.

In recent months, new residents have flooded to Beixiazhu Village in Zhejiang Province to be involved with livestreaming e-commerce, a growing industry that offers opportunities for anyone to potentially get rich quick. Many aspiring streamers include single mothers, the uneducated or others facing obstacles to conventional full-time employment. Industries have grown around the phenomenon, with schools offering intensive training courses to hopefuls willing to do whatever it takes to make a sale.

Street art in Thailand has gained attention, and nowhere more so than Bangkok's central Chaloemla Park, where people of all skill levels can receive permission to paint on the walls. Young artists and tourists gather to admire the art, and then spread it all over the country. Prominent street artists have worked since before the recent popularity of the medium in order to depict the changes occurring in Thai society. In this episode, we meet the artists painting a generation onto city walls.

The graying Chinese population has surpassed 260 million, while care facilities and welfare systems still remain undeveloped. Among this environment, many senior citizens search for new spouses. More than 200 of them gather every Sunday for matchmaking events in the Beijing park known as the Temple of Heaven. This episode introduces the elderly citizens who, having lived through a turbulent era, now seek their last life partners despite the challenges faced by an aging Chinese society.

Xiaoliuqiu is a small island in the south of Taiwan surrounded by a beautiful sea with coral reefs, also known as "Sea Turtle Island." However, the rising number of tourists has created massive amounts of plastic waste, posing a major threat to the local environment. In order to restore the natural beauty of the island, divers, innkeepers, shopkeepers and other residents are working together to turn the tide. We follow the efforts of a small island that has initiated a number of novel projects in pursuit of zero plastic waste.

Against the backdrop of the ever-growing Chinese economy, a new movement known as "lying flat" has gained attention from young people all over the nation. It means rejecting social status by working only enough to survive, and thus giving up on home ownership or marriage, which proponents of the lifestyle feel are already unattainable due to class differences. Against condemnation by the government and pressure from aging parents, these youth choose to stand up for themselves by lying flat.

Rudong County was called the birthplace of China's one-child policy, implementing it 10 years before the rest of the nation. Now, the youth that once participated in the policy have reached old age, and many are destitute, unable to count on financial assistance from one son or daughter. Despite the solitude these senior citizens endure and the end of the policy, the now middle-aged adults born in that era are reluctant to have more than one child, worsening the stagnant population growth.

In South Korea, due to traditional Confucian values, families tend to have a patriarchal structure. A 2020 study indicated that women in double-income households perform 3 times the chores that men do. In response to these conditions, support has grown toward women who choose to remain unmarried. This episode introduces unmarried women in a range of professions promoting their lifestyles through various careers and living situations, changing the notion of family in South Korean society.

South Korea is known for the intense competitive stress placed on young residents of cities, leading to suicide rates that increase yearly. To counteract this problem, an educational program known as "Don't Worry Village" was founded in the southern port city of Mokpo. It gives emotionally fatigued young people new courage and a chance for self-reflection, encouraging a fresh start in their lives. It has also helped the local community, which is affected by an aging and decreasing population.

Indonesia has been hit hardest by the coronavirus pandemic in South-East Asia. Its economy has taken a massive blow, and many are struggling to put food on the table. As government support is widely criticized as ineffective, people have come together to provide mutual aid under the banner of Gotong Royong. The phrase means "carrying together" in Javanese and its spirit can be found across the country. Meet the women and volunteers working hard to support their neighbors.

East Malaysian Borneo is known for its many indigenous peoples, with the northern state of Sabah said to be home to 42 minority groups, comprising half its population. Living as one with nature, these tribes have created unique clothing and crafts. Traditions are preserved by tribes in remote regions, but urbanization and modernization have caused much to be nearly forgotten. Now, the residents of North Borneo reexamine their roots so that they may be carried on by future generations.

The Nam Theun 2 Dam sits atop the Nakai Plateau in eastern Laos. Most of the power it produces is sold to Thailand, but a percentage of profits is earmarked for nature conservation and for improving the lives of locals. The region is a treasure trove of plant and animal life, so the government has forbidden locals from hunting or logging. Those who have lost their livelihoods are now pinning their hopes on an income from eco-tourism. The residents of one village have had their lives turned upside down by the mega-dam. What can be done to both conserve the environment and improve locals' quality of life?

In July 2020, a second wave of COVID-19 hit the city of Da Nang, Vietnam. A team from Hanoi's Bach Mai hospital who survived lockdown in the first wave came to support their colleagues and share their expertise on preventing in-house infections. But with far fewer resources, staff and equipment, it's a tough battle. To prepare for the worst-case scenario, they transform a local sports stadium into a field hospital. Follow the hard work of the medical team as they fight a multi-front battle.

In November 2020, one of Thailand's biggest festivals, the Surin Elephant Round-Up, took place -- despite the coronavirus pandemic. The event went ahead thanks largely to the passion of an ethnic tribe of elephant handlers. With a history of living with elephants that dates back centuries, the Kui people today depend heavily on income from tourism -- a livelihood that is now in danger of disappearing. We follow the people taking on new challenges in a long-running fight to preserve their culture.

Often called the "Island of gods," Bali in Indonesia has long drawn visitors from all over the world. But the tourism industry has suffered a massive blow from the coronavirus pandemic, with huge numbers unemployed. Many have been forced to return to rural villages and try their hand at farming to make ends meet. One mayor is working to revitalize agriculture and retain some of their newly returned residents. Another entrepreneur is designing an app to improve farmers' incomes. Explore how the people of Bali are using farming to overcome their economic dependence on tourism and make it through the pandemic.

Thailand was the first country outside of China to detect cases of COVID-19. However, with less than 4,000 infections and 60 deaths as of the end of November, the measures they have taken are drawing global attention. The unsung heroes behind the scenes are the 1.2 million Health Volunteers who work closely with the local community, doing everything from distributing masks to monitoring those who may be infected. We find out who they are and why they are so devoted to defeating the virus.

Online bartering has become a massive trend in the Philippines. Many people have lost work because of the novel coronavirus pandemic, and exchanging goods is a way to procure basic necessities. The movement has begun with Bacolod-based lawyer Jocelle Batapa Sigue, who started an online barter community with just 10 members back in May 2020. She sets rules, such as no cash transactions, and in-person exchanges only, as a way to promote a system of mutual assistance. Today over a million people across the Philippines are bartering online. Explore how Filipinos are using this new system to make it through the pandemic.

Thailand had relied heavily on foreign tourists, but the coronavirus forced it to close its borders in April, costing many their livelihoods. Some sought out new business opportunities, or continued working for a fraction of their former incomes. Others adjust their workstyle to focus on local customers. Among the compromised tourism industry, a multitude of people now seek new solutions.

Wuhan was the epicenter of the novel coronavirus. Now, it's home to a new art exhibition depicting the fear of infection and gratitude to those who kept the city safe. Behind the exhibition is young Wuhan artist Yang Qian. When lockdown began on January 23, 2020, she laid down her brushes and spent around 4 months delivering supplies to hospitals and care homes as a volunteer. Aware that she could become infected at any moment, she filmed her daily life and posted on social media. Follow the tireless volunteer work of this artist during Wuhan's long lockdown.

Vietnam is considered a success case in the fight against COVID-19, having kept infections to a minimum. But in late March, the country's biggest medical facility saw a large cluster of cases, and in an unprecedented move, Bach Mai Hospital was put into total lockdown. 700 severely ill patients and around 2,000 medical staff stayed on site, with all movement closely monitored. They tell their extraordinary stories from the 15-day lockdown of Vietnam's largest hospital.

The coronavirus pandemic is damaging the apparel industry in Guangzhou, China, as people and goods are barred entry. With orders from overseas clients almost completely eliminated, lack of demand affects people in every position: Jobless workers fight over cheap day labor, factory owners can barely turn a profit and inns struggle to stay afloat among the economic shockwave caused by the virus.

In regions of Malaysian North Borneo such as the city of Kota Kinabalu, which is otherwise known as a classy tourist destination, illegal slums dot the map. Cobbled together above the waters, the dwellings are home to the "stateless," people who due to their lack of identifying documents effectively belong to no country. Many fled insurgence in the Philippines, and have lived in North Borneo for decades, relying on the support of NGOs to feed their families. Now, with the government enacting a lockdown in order to contain the coronavirus, their very survival is at risk.

The coronavirus pandemic has infected over ten million and killed hundreds of thousands around the world, and a true solution remains out of sight. Most countries have banned international travel and taken massive hits to their economies. Many in Asia have found their jobs and income cut off. This time on Asia Insight, we revisit several business owners we met previously in China, Mongolia, Taiwan and Cambodia to see how the pandemic has affected them. Explore their unique visions and strategies for the future.

Winphe is a popular satirical cartoonist in Yangon, Myanmar. He's drawn over 1,500 works exploring political and everyday issues from the perspective of ordinary citizens. During nearly 50 years of military rule, newspapers were censored and the work of satirists was suppressed. The censorship ended with the government's 2011 step towards democracy, but some cartoonists say that not everything can be freely criticized, with arrests still being made. Explore Myanmar today through the work of Winphe and his satirist colleagues.

Shenzhen, in Guangdong Province, is the center of China's IT industry. With a number of novel coronavirus infectees second only to Hubei, its businesses endured a lockdown that was lifted at the end of February. One businessman who operates amusement parks in the province faces a harsh struggle for financial survival. Unable to liquidate his assets and grappling with cancellations from investors, his business is just one of many in Shenzhen that have been destabilized by the virus.

Although South Korea completed its national pension system in 1999, late enrollment and other issues caused many seniors to be left without adequate financial aid. Now, some of those elderly men and women have resorted to gathering recyclable cardboard just to put food on the table. With cardboard prices dropping, a full day of foraging may not even provide an hour's pay at minimum wage, and the senior citizens are faced with a bleak future in their twilight years.

In April of 2019, Japan introduced a new visa status, the Specified Skilled Worker, intended to encourage foreign laborers to boost Japan's dwindling workforce. In theory, the system appears to be a fine proposal both for young Filipinos eager to send money home, and Japanese industries hoping for new workers. In practice, however, bureaucratic complications between the 2 nations mean that making use of the system isn't as easy as it should be.

In the shadow of Thailand's rapid economic growth is the district of Klong Toey, one of nearly 2,000 slums in Bangkok. Klong Toey is home to more than 80,000 residents, whose average income is half that of the typical Bangkok household. Some make their living as resellers, supporting their families by purchasing from local shops and selling elsewhere. While they manage to make ends meet, improving their lives enough to transcend this daily cycle is a daunting task.

In 2017, the militant group known as the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) was all but defeated by international forces in Syria. Its membership had included over 40,000 people from 110 different countries, and their repatriation became a major issue. In 2019, Kazakhstan became one of the first countries to begin repatriating its citizens. It has now returned over 600 people to Kazakh soil. The male fighters remain imprisoned, while women and children undergo counseling and training at rehabilitation centers near their homes. Hear about how these women came to join ISIL, their life in ISIL - controlled territory, and how they feel now they have returned.

Pinit, a successful Thai businessman and sports celebrity, turned his life upside down when he decided, at the age of 45, to become a woman -- Pauline. Her book, "Too Tight Shoes" speaks about her experience coming to terms with, and finally embracing, her gender identity. Pauline's journey to becoming a woman involved many painful decisions, including parting with her wife and daughter. She also strove to win the understanding of her parents. Eventually, she found a way to rebuild a family life, helping her ex-wife to run a restaurant. In this program, we follow a transgender woman's search for her true identity and her efforts to hold on to the people she loved.

In May 2019, the Taiwanese government became the first in Asia to legalize same-sex marriage. Some 2,500 couples have officially tied the knot in the 6 months following. Chi Chia-wei (61) has spent over 30 years campaigning for marriage equality. In 1986, Chi became the first person in Taiwan to come out publicly. He pushed the government to legalize same-sex marriage, fighting and winning a case in 2017 claiming that the current situation was unconstitutional. The government was forced to legalize same-sex marriage, but organized opposition from Christians and social conservatives resulted in a law under which same-sex married couples still do not have the same rights as heterosexual couples. We explore the history of marriage equality in Taiwan, and the issues it still faces.

Indonesia has lost around 30% of its forest coverage in the last 50 years, in part due to illegal logging. Since 2004, environmental NGO Telapak has worked with rainforest residents to curb this destruction. Locals have set up cooperatives to manage, fell and sell their own trees as part of a community logging initiative, providing a stable income that's higher than what illegal logging can pay. There are now 10 cooperatives around Indonesia totaling 7,000 members. We visit a 1,500-strong cooperative in central Java to discover how local forestry initiatives are helping residents protect the environment and earn a living.

Just like in any other country, Chinese youth dream of becoming famous actors, and many chase their dreams to Hengdian, a town that serves as a center of movie filming in the country. The jobs that await the vast majority are "extras," nonspeaking roles for just dollars a day, and barely enough to put food on the table. In this episode, we meet the thespians who have moved hundreds of miles only to be faced with the conflict of either abandoning their dream, or soldiering on as wordless members of the masses.

As bookstores around the world continue to dwindle in number among declining sales of physical books, Taiwan has been hit particularly hard: In 2012, two-thirds of all regions there lacked bookstores. But thanks to a government policy promoting small retailers, so-called "community bookstores" have begun to sprout up. Some include literary salons or cafes, while other have special concepts like trading local produce for books. All are places where paper books bring about new communication between people.

China's Yangtze River has seen a decline in species due to pollution and overfishing, which the government responded to with a ban on industrial fishing. Although intended to improve the local environment, this measure had the side effect of taking away the livelihoods of the fishermen living around the river. Now, desperately seeking the means to support their families, some of the fishermen have begun utilizing their knowledge through conservationist work to preserve vulnerable species such as the finless porpoises of the Yangtze River.

In July of 2018, a new theater group was formed in the southern Chinese city of Guangzhou. The subject of their performances is their own audience: Through improvisational theater, they express personal experiences suggested by the audience members, helping to give voices to the struggles of average people. However, they hit a major setback when a show was halted by the police, after which almost no theater would consent to renting them space. Now the group pushes on to find a new place in their home city, where they work to increase understanding and empathy among both loyal fans and new audience members.

Fighting, racing, soccer, shooting: esports, or competitive gaming, is taking the world by storm. With around 130 million potential competitors, the industry is expected to be worth 3 billion US dollars within the next few years. In Hong Kong, partnerships between the public and private sector are looking to expand the scope of esports and turn the city into a local hub. One start-up has partnered with the government to build one of Asia's biggest dedicated esports facility, while one of Hong Kong's biggest conglomerates has begun hosting an esports event, even creating their own professional team. Meanwhile one private investor has opened an esports coaching school. Explore the world of professional gaming in Hong Kong.

The Irrawaddy River (also known as the Ayeyawady River) in Myanmar in the only place in the world where humans and dolphins fish side by side. Today, this unique tradition is in danger. Myanmar's economy has undergone rapid growth, and the river has become polluted, sending the dolphin population and their food sources into decline. Only 20 fishermen with the knowledge of this traditional fishing method remain. We follow seasoned fisherman Maung Lay as he works alongside the dolphins, and learn about the initiatives looking to preserve them.

In recent years, marathons held all over China have emerged as a new way to local regions to gather revenue. Contestants come not just from within China, but all over the world. In particular, African runners from countries like Ethiopia and Kenya are strong contenders. But the road to success is a rocky one: The contestants pay their own travel costs and an agent's fee. If they can't get the cash prize for a top-3 finish, they're likely to end up in debt. In this episode, we run with these African contestants aiming for prizes in China.

The election of President Duterte has seen increased police action to arrest those involved with sales and possession of illegal drugs in the Philippines. However, this "war on drugs" leaves behind an escalating body count of poor citizens who are killed supposedly resisting arrest. Freelance photographer Raffy Lerma has made it his mission to interview and photograph bereaved families, to show the nation the price of this purported justice. In this episode, we accompany Lerma to meet the families who have been swept into an urban war.

70% of Laos was once covered in forests home to many elephants. People kept them as pets and used them to carry cargo and passengers, co-existing successfully. But starting in the 1960's, logging and illegal poaching for ivory soared and the elephant population has since dropped to just 800. The Elephant Conservation Center in Sainyabuli, northeastern Laos, is home to 29 elephants, all survivors of severe overwork in the logging industry. The center, led by Frenchman Sebastien Duffillot, runs a breeding program with the eventual goal of returning the elephants to the wild. Join Sebastien and his team as they work to protect the Asian elephant from extinction.

In 2010, the term "Shen Nu" entered use as a negative label for Chinese women in their mid-20s or older who remained unmarried. A decade later, the first wave of so-called "Shen Nu" approaches middle age. Whether due to the expectations for career or family that were influenced by this era of prosperity, women in China who have not yet found a spouse are often subjected to scrutiny from friends and family. In this episode, we meet the women who contemplate marriage while striving to live with a sense of individuality.

South Korea is a country known worldwide for the intense competition among youth in the job market. Unemployment among young people hit a high in 2014, with little signs of improvement, motivating them to seek new strategies in pursuing their future. Some aspire to become civil servants, while others start their own companies or look for work abroad. In this episode, we speak with the young South Koreans who are attempting to find their own solutions in a job market where conventional methods have failed them.

Uzbekistan's capital Tashkent was once an oasis along the Silk Road. Today, local fashion workshop Bibi Hanum is creating items that use the patterns and crafts of ikat, a traditional woven fabric. Workshop founder and designer Muhayo Aliyeva works with the rural artisans who have kept the technique alive. She creates modern dresses and accessories as a way to convey the beauty of ikat to a wider audience. Aliyeva hopes to not only conserve traditional crafts, but to also increase female employment through her workshop and partners' studios. Follow Aliyeva as she works alongside local women to revive the traditions of the Silk Road.

China's western city of Chengdu is one of the nation's larger cities, but retains a uniquely low-key atmosphere that has made it a destination for those seeking a different way of life than in Beijing or Shanghai. In particular, its vibrant music and art scene encourages self-exploration by creating an environment of diverse genres without the pressure of productivity or commercial success. In this episode, we examine the motivations behind the new youth culture of Chengdu.

Mongolia is a country strongly associated with the traditional nomadic farming lifestyles held by many of its citizens. But recently, a new and modern cultural movement has gained considerable popularity: Mongolian hip hop. Influenced by Western artists but adding their own upbeat and positive perspectives, the country's performers mix uniquely Mongolian melodies and instruments with fresh beats to send an inspirational message to other young people all over the nation.

China's Internet Plus Initiative has improved convenience and availability of technology nationwide, supposedly boosting quality of life through new industries such as bike sharing and internet food delivery. However, in the shadow of this growth, serious problems have become visible. Abandoned bikes litter cities, and food delivery workers are expected to rush food out at a dangerous pace. In this episode, we look at the difficulties of the Chinese workforce during the Internet Plus era.

In the Philippines, regional economic disparity drives people to the cities, where many live in slums. Mayor Johnielle Keith Pasion Nieto is taking a hands-on approach to improving people's lives in his municipality near Manila. His programs include loans to promote homeownership, job creation schemes and the foundation of a free university. And whenever residents have a problem, his office door is always open. We follow the mayor's groundbreaking attempts to make a difference.

In 2016 a new tourist hotspot was born in Malang, Indonesia: Rainbow Village. Once a poor slum, residents began painting their homes vibrant colors, creating trick art and handmade props. Today, both Indonesian and foreign tourists flock to the neighborhood to take selfies and upload photos to social media, creating new jobs for residents and increasing quality of life in the village. The project's success has prompted other villages across Indonesia to use paint to boost their quality of life.

Myanmar's government, led by Aung San Suu Kyi, is trying to end long-standing conflicts with ethnic armed groups. Talks are based on the Nationwide Ceasefire Agreement reached under the prior government. We speak to 2 of the men involved in drafting the historic agreement, Aung Min, a former military man and Min Zaw Oo, a former student demonstrator and rebel fighter who is now an expert in peace studies. Together, they bear witness to the recent history of peacemaking in Myanmar.

Taiwan began its democratization in the 1990's, paving the way for freedom of expression greater than in any other Chinese-speaking region. Now, Taiwan has grown into a haven for creators who seek to spread views disapproved of by the mainland Chinese government. Lam Wing-kee is one among them, a former bookstore owner who suffered months of imprisonment in China for selling politically sensitive books. In this episode, we hear from the free thinkers who have left their homelands so that they may begin new lives free from creative persecution.

Many people in Nepal turn to local shamans for everything from the timing of weddings and moves to treating illnesses. Some shamans single out local women as witches, claiming that they caused illnesses or tragedies. The resulting witch hunts sometimes end in physical abuse, and there are around 30 reported cases a year. The falsely accused women may be hit, kicked and forced to eat excrement. We speak with victims of these witch hunts, as well as to some NGOs that provide victims with support and are working to eradicate this terrible practice.

In Laos, despite the recent introduction of a 9-year compulsory education, many children are unable to attend school because their families are too impoverished to afford the necessities. Sounita Phimmasone, who works as a news anchor, experienced this hard way of life firsthand in her youth. It motivated her to found Kids' House, a weekend school located in the capital of Vientiane, providing classes in a variety of subjects such as art, dance and literature. In this episode, we visit Kids' House, where Sounita is bringing a future to the disadvantaged children of Laos.

Nepal is famed for its many mountains, which include part of the Himalayan Range. But despite an abundance of crystal-clear snowmelt, and over 6,000 rivers and streams nationwide, the capital, Kathmandu, and its surrounding valley are beset by severe water shortages. With over 100,000 rural migrants arriving in the city each year, water infrastructure is unable to keep up. As various businesses and schemes step in to fill this gap, we examine a city battling to secure the water it needs.

Laos is a small landlocked nation in Southeast Asia with a population of 6.5 million. Although 70% of the population of Laos still lives in rural villages, growing rice and raising livestock, a new affluence is being brought about by an increase of Chinese-run banana plantations. These have sprung up in response to a boost in demand for bananas in neighboring China, providing Laos workers with a ready source of income. However, behind this success, a darker reality lurks. In this episode of Asia Insight, we take a look at Laos' Banana Boom.

In the 25 years since Mongolia introduced a market economy at the beginning of the 1990's, the country saw growth fueled by rich mineral wealth, but since 2012 a fall in mineral value and government restriction of foreign investment has led to a stalled economy. Few jobs offer enough to live on and a third of the population are living in poverty. Many have turned to jobs in South Korea. In 2017 there were 135,000 visa applications, a four-fold rise in just 3 years. Meet the people seeking a better life at home by working in South Korea.

In recent years, video sharing service YouTube has grown increasingly popular for the freedom it provides users in expressing their views. Through it, these "YouTubers" often communicate the latest trends on their channels. But a surprising group has emerged among video creators: North Korean defectors who, having fled to South Korea, now seek to educate other young people on the truths of their homeland, while dispelling the deep-seated prejudices many hold towards them. These so-called "Defector YouTubers" consider what it means to be born North Korean, as they seek their own futures in a land so near to and yet so far from where they were born.

For centuries, a unique culture has existed in South Korea around the breeding and slaughter of dogs for their meat. However, protests by animal activists during the Olympics severely impacted public opinion of dog meat, costing breeders their jobs and reducing sales to a fraction of previous levels. Animal-lovers seek compassion for the animals, while those involved in the industry counter that their businesses are not in violation of the country's admittedly vague legislation. In this episode, we explore this industry at the center of a complex social controversy.

Although the youth of China are not permitted to discuss the politics of their country openly, the 706 Youth Space offers them a rare under-the-radar opportunity to consider their future. Many university students in Beijing hail from regional areas and can often find life in the city both expensive and isolating. The 706 Youth Space was created to provide an independent, non-faculty environment run by students from various universities. As well as providing inexpensive accommodation, events are held which give students a chance to exchange their views regarding both lifestyle choices and academic subjects.

The Golden Triangle, overlapping the borders of Thailand, Myanmar and Laos, is a major production center for opium poppies. In one area, however, the illicit trade has fallen sharply thanks to a project started by the Princess Mother Srinagarindra. Her foundation's work in Doi Tung, northern Thailand, has focused on supporting ethnic minorities through forest regeneration and promoting alternative crops such as coffee and nuts. This program looks at how a three-decade royal project eliminated poppy growing – and transformed lives.

Traditional Korean paper, or hanji, was first made around 2,000 years ago. Made from paper mulberry bark, research suggests it is durable enough to last for over 8,000 years. It is especially coveted for its properties by those restoring cultural treasures. However, aging masters and a lack of successors has put the tradition's future into question. This time on Asia Insight, we meet 4th-generation hanji maker Jang Sung-woo, who resolutely adheres to traditional techniques, and is determined to pass on the wealth of his family's tradition to a new young apprentice -- and the next generation of papermakers.

Across Seoul, the capital of South Korea, independent bookstores are on the up. 50 such establishments have opened in the last year alone, with many in the bohemian Hongdae neighborhood. Each offers a unique selection of literature with a personal touch, with some even giving customers the chance to enjoy a beer or a coffee as they peruse the stock. Drawn to this world, more and more young people are choosing to self-publish their own writings, and even to open stores themselves. With the country's publishing industry undergoing rapid change, we meet some of the young people turning a new page for books in South Korea.

Water puppet theater is a folk art unique to Vietnam. Puppeteers use poles to move their wooden dolls over a water "stage". This centuries-old tradition nearly died out during the Vietnam War, but the village of Dao Thuc, Hanoi, kept the skills alive. Despite losing half their puppeteers during the war, the village started a campaign in the mid-1980's to revive the troupe and restart performances. Villagers rediscovered old stories and added a new one, drawing on their war-time experiences. We follow their efforts to protect this important cultural heritage.

In the 20 years since control of Hong Kong was returned from Britain to China, access to the vast Chinese market has helped the territory grow into Asia's leading financial hub. But over the last decade, redevelopment has driven up land prices and rent, leaving many struggling to make ends meet: including families crammed into tiny apartments, and senior citizens forced to live in so-called "cage homes" comprised of a single bunk. Yet while many battle to escape such poverty, the flow of people from mainland China seeking wealth and success in Hong Kong continues unabated. Explore the true nature of Hong Kong's unequal society through the living conditions of its poor.

Each year, over one thousand defectors escape the restrictive nation of North Korea to seek a new life in the South. Even if they succeed, persistent discrimination against North Koreans prevents them from feeling truly accepted into the new society. In response, a handful of defectors have taken an ambitious approach: Starting their own companies, they seek social positions as company presidents that ensure respect from those around them. In this episode, we follow the North Korean entrepreneurs who have defied their former nation, justifying their new lives by emerging victorious in the business world.

Just 1 year ago in Myanmar, the National League for Democracy led by Aung San Suu Kyi was formally elected, freeing the country from the grip of a 50-year military reign. During the past regime, punk music had emerged as an underground medium to protest the government's authoritative rule. However, new social problems have grown visible under the current government. In the midst of Yangon's economic growth, harsh income gaps and joblessness are major obstacles, giving modern punk music a new perspective for their voice of protest. In this episode, we follow the activity of The Rebel Riot, a punk band in Myanmar addressing social issues through song, and working to help the country's disadvantaged citizens.

Despite the great economic growth that is invigorating China, recently a small group of young people are turning their backs on the busy cities to search for a simpler way of life. In the mountains of Fujian Province, a handful of men and women disillusioned with big city life are working together to build their own sustainable community. With only their dreams to guide them, they attempt building, farming and other community planning entirely from scratch. But whether their ideals will be sufficient to sustain this challenging infrastructure remains to be seen. In this episode, we meet the young men and women pursuing a simpler lifestyle in a community of their own making.

The city of Siem Reap is a major tourist destination, acting as the gateway to the Angkor Wat temple. It is also home to a very different kind of spectacle: a circus troupe that performs gravity-defying stories from Cambodian history and culture. The performers, who come from underprivileged backgrounds, were trained at Phare Ponleu Selpak, an art school co-founded by Khuon Det. In this episode we trace Det's extraordinary story, from Thai refugee camp to performing arts director - and some of the flying acrobats he has helped to lift out of poverty.

70% of the world's civilian-use drones are made in the same city: Shenzhen, now referred to as "Drone City" by locals. In the span of a few years, drones have become a popular product with enthusiasts around the world, but the general public has perceived them as little more than toys. All this is beginning to change thanks to the innovations made in Shenzhen. From police investigation to transport, drones are set to enable major changes in society. We follow alongside this new technology to witness the heights to which the "Industrial Revolution of the Sky" has taken flight.

Hong Kong was returned to mainland China in 1997. In spite of the Umbrella Revolution 3 years ago when junior high school students occupied Hong Kong's financial district, the pros and cons of its independence are still being debated. In spite of the proposed "one country two policy system", the future looks uncertain. On this episode of Asia Insight we take a look at Hong Kong -- 20 years after returning to China.

One in ten Filipinos -- over 10 million people -- work outside their native country. Recently, many people are hoping to work overseas as caregivers. They are graduates from 4-year universities and people changing careers from skilled positions such as computer technicians. Often coming from large families, Filipinos are used to caring for elderly relatives. Their cheerful, dedicated work ethic has made them popular in other countries. Although most have been employed in the West or Middle East, the increase in older populations in nearby Asian countries is driving demand in this region as well. Japan has the world's oldest population, and one school has had a surge in applicants for a course that specializes in caregiving for Japan. Lessons include an intensive Japanese language course. Meet the young caregiver hopefuls who study for their families and for a brighter future.

Economic growth in Myanmar has seen wine become popular with the country's younger generation. One of its major wineries sits in the highlands of the Shan state in northeast Myanmar. It's founder, German entrepreneur Bert Morsbach, worked with local residents and spent 5 years making the country's first domestically-produced wine. The biggest challenge was finding grape varieties that could survive the six-month monsoon season. They imported 13,000 young grapevines of over 30 varieties from Europe and conducted repeated cultivation tests. Today the winery produces 400,000 bottles a year. Over a hundred locals work at the winery and vineyard, which provides them with a stable income. We will explore the winding and difficult path taken by the pioneers who produced Myanmar's first wine.

Though Myanmar is an agricultural nation, with over 60% of the population engaged in farming, many rural villages lack vital infrastructure such as running water and electricity. Furthermore, decades of political unrest have left numerous farmers struggling to eke out a living from rented land. Set up 9 years ago in Yangon, Proximity Designs is an NPO that aims to support impoverished farming communities by offering affordable agricultural tools, as well as providing micro-finance loans. Much of the equipment they provide relates to irrigation, with treadle pumps and water storage tanks that save time and effort, enabling farmers to invest more time in other work for a staggering increase in yields. We follow the activities of this NPO working hand in hand with rural farmers to promote development in Myanmar.

The district of Daehangno, located in central Seoul, has been known for decades as a college town. Young people brought their creativity to the location, which in turn attracted people from all over the nation seeking to express their views through art and performances. But in recent years, tragedies caused by government neglect and general complacency have led to a reaction in the area, where artists now seek to draw attention to political issues through their works. In this episode, we explore an art town that directly confronts the problems faced by modern South Korea.

There is a big trouble in the faraway Polynesian Kingdom of Tonga. Until recently Tonga was best known for the skill of its rugby players but today Tonga has been classified as "the most obese nation on earth", caused by a reliance on imports of cheap fatty meats, refined carbohydrates and other packaged junk foods. Traditionally, Tongans ate a lot of fish and root vegetables, but their eating patterns have changed drastically. Obesity has led to a great number of Tongans developing deadly Type 2 diabetes. Amputations and heart disease have hit record levels and life expectancy is falling. We investigate Tonga's efforts to combat this medical emergency and explore why there is "Big Trouble in Paradise".

In years past, China's migrant workers were looked upon as lowborn, and expected to eagerly accept even harsh working conditions. But with the country's major economic growth, rising wages mean that there are fewer young workers taking jobs in factories. But a handful of so-called "outsiders" have instead become entrepreneurs in the city, creating businesses that provide specialty services valuing skill and experience more than social standing. In this episode, we take a look at this "new blue collar", a group of young people chiseling out their own identities in the harsh cities of China.

In the east of Indonesia is a unique clinic known as the "Garbage Clinic". The clinic encourages local people from impoverished areas to bring recyclable trash to the clinic which they can deliver in exchange for free medical consultations. The clinic opened in 2013, at the instigation of Dr. Gamal Albinsaid (27), who not only encouraged his colleagues to take part but also gathered corporate donations. Approximately 10% of Indonesia's population lives in poverty. While medical insurance is available, it is not very widespread and coverage amongst underprivileged people is rare. 4 years after opening the clinic, the number of registered residents has exceeded 250. Dr. Albinsaid has also set up a system that allows patients with serious conditions to receive treatment at nearby major hospital. He plans to open another clinic later this year. We follow the work of Dr. Gamal Albinsaid and his colleagues as they look to provide medical services to people in need.

Known as the "Hawaii of China", the popular resort island of Hainan has drawn attention for creating a new model for farming villages. Boxue, a village with 300 residents, succeeded in branding its main crop of lychees in 2014 and doubled local incomes. Some farmers even earn more than the average Shanghai business worker! Chen Tongkui, aged 36, led the change. He was the first in the village to graduate university. After quitting his job as a newspaper journalist to return to his hometown, Chen set up an online retail system to sell lychees and financed agricultural events through crowdfunding. Explore how one man is leading local residents to reshape and revitalize the village with his new ideas.

Sri Lanka: this island nation, often called "the pearl of the Indian Ocean", with its year-round beaches, endless nature and 8 designated World Heritage Sites, is an irresistible spot for travelers. After the end of the Sri Lankan Civil War in 2009, foreign tourists quadrupled in the space of 7 years, and the young people of Sri Lanka are working hard to take advantage of the opportunities this new tourism boom offers. We follow students at a 100-year old hotel's tourism school as they strive to become first-rate hotel employees, and visit a group of men looking to strike it rich by offering unique sightseeing tours on the chaotic Sri Lankan streets. This time on Asia Insight: the youth of Sri Lanka and their tourism dreams.

The Kingdom of Cambodia is located on the Indochina Peninsula and approximately 80% of the population lives in rural areas. In the 1960's, the country thrived as a major producer and exporter of rice. However, the country was plunged into a long period of turmoil in the 1970's and the once abundant country was left in ruins. One man, Dr. Yang Saing Koma, has come across a revolutionary new way to cultivate rice and has devoted the past 20 years to restoring prosperity to Cambodia's rural areas. In this episode of Asia Insight, we follow his dedicated efforts to create a new golden age for the agriculture of Cambodia.

In 2016, education in the Philippines underwent a dramatic overhaul. A new high school system was introduced, extending the period of basic public education by 2 years. However, many students have been forced to abandon their studies midway due to financial restraints. This episode of Asia Insight focuses on a groundbreaking new educational system in the Philippines, aiming to achieve a brighter future for its young people.

Depopulation of rural areas has become a serious issue in China, where economic growth has led the vast majority of youth to migrate to urban eras. Homes and fields that had supported families for generations are now falling into disrepair, with only a handful of villagers left to maintain them. Although the younger generation shows no signs of returning, outside groups are instead finding creative uses for the rustic area: Artists have recently established studios in the village, inspired by the rich history and nature that abound there. In this episode, we explore the current state of China's rural farming villages, and the movements that are bringing new life to them.

In certain hotels in Beijing, diverse crowds of men and women from all age groups and birthplaces gather each day. The sole point they share in common is that they seek to make their names by auditioning for movies and television roles. In particular, the rising genre of online movies has gained attention from these hopefuls. Such locations attract not just aspiring actors, but directors, production staff and investors as well. However, all are aware that the line between fortune and failure is a fine one in this unpredictable field. In this episode, we follow Beijing's "audition hotels", and how they reflect a booming new genre of Chinese media.

The number of Chinese immigrants to Laos increases daily, with men and women who struggled to succeed in the quickly developing country seeking new lives for themselves. More than wealth or opportunity, they wish to begin anew in a country where life moves at a slower pace, without any the stress of their homeland. Around them grow new communities and groups, reflecting the unique presence they bring to Laos. In this episode, we follow the Chinese people who have traveled to Laos in search of a better quality of life, free from the hustle and bustle of their homeland.

The Cambodian capital of Phnom Penh has a culture strongly affected by its Chinese residents, who comprise a sixth of its population. In recent years, the Chinese population has expanded markedly as investors seek opportunities in the city's real estate or garment industries. However, for each success story, there are several more failures, as well as the complications left in their wake. To ease Chinese investors into the unique business environment of Phnom Penh and reduce the risk of failure, business consultants and committees have sprung up all over the city. In this episode, we take a look at the complex and deepening role of Chinese business in Cambodia.

It is a little known fact that Singapore has had a long battle in delivering sufficient water to its citizens. Using state of the art technology, the country is deeply committed to achieving its goal of an independent water supply. One such innovation is NEWater, which uses wastewater from homes and factories and is transformed into water pure enough to drink. It already accounts for 30% of the water used and there are hopes that by 2060, this figure will rise to 55%. In this episode of Asia Insight, we follow Singapore's efforts to save precious water and secure an independent domestic water supply.

As China experiences ongoing economic decline, housing costs in Beijing now surpass those of New York and according to an April 2016 announcement from the UK's Global Cities Business Alliance, they are now the most expensive in the world. The rise in prices has made it difficult for migrants in particular to purchase their own homes and many people are moving to the suburbs in search of affordable properties. However, there is a serious imbalance between cost and value. On this episode of Asia Insight, we take a look at ever-spiraling housing costs in Beijing.

One civic group based in Myanmar's capital Yangon provides a unique form of social service. The Free Funeral Service Society (FFSS) carries out memorial services for any family too poor to afford one. They also run free health clinics, offer vocational training, and provide disaster support.

South Korea is famous as a hotspot for the beauty industry, and the number of children using cosmetics is soaring. Research shows that over half of female junior and senior high school students have used makeup, with 70% of them starting at junior high, and the trend even having spread to elementary schools.

Near the heart of South Korean capital Seoul, is Seongmisan Maeul - a community network in the national spotlight. Made up of 6,000 families, the community is notable for a range of restaurants, stores and other businesses co-funded by residents. Members of the network discuss their community's day-to-day needs, and work together to realize the ideas and proposals they come up with. This scheme began in 1994 when 25 dual-income couples decided to co-fund a childcare center to give their kids the best start in life. Now, some 22 years later, there are over 70 resident-led businesses and groups, and even a school that formulates its own curriculum.

Indonesia's capital city, Jakarta is said to be the most congested city in the world. Although it has a population of around 10 million, it still lacks an adequate public transport system. Motorbikes are the quickest way to get around and this has led to a helpful new innovation: a smartphone application through which customers can conveniently book motorbike taxis.

In recent years a new term has been popularized among the youth of South Korea: "abandoned generation". New graduates face harsh odds competing for coveted positions at large firms, in a society where their social station is intrinsically linked to the size of their employer. Suicides among youth are especially high, and those who are not among the chosen few to attain elite positions are treated as failures. This episode follows the young men and women of South Korea who toe the line between success and failure.

Each weekend, hundreds of people gather in public locations in Shanghai to exchange financial speculation in what is known as the "street stock salon". The so-called forecasters lack formal certification, but their energetic predictions draw countless onlookers, many of whom are seeking to recover from China's massive stock market crash of 2015.

In March of 2015, the word "Internet Plus" first came into use in China, encouraging new economic development by seamlessly integrating financial services into the internet. Cottage industries sprung up almost immediately as both consumers and entrepreneurs responded hungrily to the opportunity. Join us as we take a look at the diverse uses of Internet Plus, and the flexibility it has delivered to the lives of Chinese people.

In the 1960's, Cambodia was a peaceful and prosperous country; various forms of art flourished, and more than 300 domestic movies were made during this decade. With the rise of the Pol Pot regime in the 1970's, the country was thrown into turmoil and much cultural heritage was lost. In this episode of Asia Insight, we follow the efforts to restore movies from Cambodia's Golden Age of Cinema, in the hope of creating a new culture for the future.

Competition for employment in China among university graduates is becoming fierce as many vie for placements at leading corporations. Some, however, are seeking different paths with less focus on social status and job security. We follow the lives of 3 graduates who are contributing to the environment and culture, as they attempt to pave the way for a new generation of entrepreneurs.

Asian city state Singapore is facing a severe shortage of… graveyards. The country stretches only 42 km from east to west, and 23 km from north to south, but has a population of 5.5 million. Since achieving independence in 1965, the Singapore government has drastically reduced the number of graveyards from over 200 to just 60. Historical villages, farming communities, and graveyards have all been demolished to make way for social infrastructure aimed at driving economic growth. In 1998, a new government policy was introduced to limit use of burial plots to a maximum of 15 years. Now, over 80% of Singaporeans choose cremation. As part of its efforts to promote cremation, the government has been setting up state-run columbaria to house the ashes of the dead, but super-luxurious, private facilities have also emerged, and the field is taking off. Discover the many unique aspects of graves, government, and progress in the city state of Singapore.

Within the bustling activity and prosperous economy of Beijing, China's young men are facing a new challenge: solitude. Men born during the "one-child policy" have been raised with such singular attention that they find themselves lacking understanding of the female heart, and unable to find a spouse. Women, meanwhile, are putting an emphasis on their careers, with less incentive to settle down. A new market is springing up to impart social skills to this young generation of men. In this episode, we take a look at the hurdles faced by China's generation of only children when facing marriage.

Chongqin in Southwest China is famous for its delicious hot pot dish, full of rich and spicy ingredients. The profit margin for vendors, however, is relatively small, leading to the use of dubious ingredients ranging from waste oil to deceptively fresh looking meat. In October 2015, the government implemented a tough revision to the country's food safety law holding all parties involved in food production and sales legally responsible. Hot pot restaurants and street vendors have been forced to clean up their act with some taking innovative approaches. We tell the story of several hot pot businesses as they try to adapt to the new regulations.

In 2013, one of the most powerful storms ever recorded struck the Philippines, killing more than 6,000 people and destroying some 1 million homes. Typhoon Haiyan was soon followed by a social scourge; human traffickers moved in to the affected areas to prey on disaster victims. A government task force is combating the traffickers, who are using ever more cunning methods. We go to the front lines to investigate the new menace facing typhoon-hit areas.

Ever since China's underground music and art culture started to really emerge in the 1980's, artists have had to release their work while maintaining a delicate relationship with authorities. Even today, the government still cracks down on what they consider vulgar culture. We follow a contemporary artist, a rock musician and a filmmaker as they search for ways to express themselves in modern-day China.

The One Belt, One Road (OBOR) economic policy links the commercial city of Yiwu, Zhejiang Province, to all the way to Spain by train. This episode follows the gradual changes occurring now.

Laos is a landlocked country on the Indochina Peninsula and one of the poorest countries within ASEAN. On this episode of Asia Insight, we follow the efforts to promote organic farming in the hope of putting Laos on the economic map in Asia.

Tibet was once among the world's most isolated places. Its main city, Lhasa, was a center of traditional culture and Tibetan Buddhism. But in recent years, development by the Chinese government has brought waves of construction. This episode of Asia Insight takes a look at the ways some people are benefiting from Tibet's development boom, while others are simply trying to hang on.

Being one of the most undeveloped countries in Asia, Laos still lacks adequate medical services in rural areas, and the mortality rate for pregnant women is ranked bottom among all the ASEAN member nations. We follow a Laotian midwife in her tireless efforts to change peoples' thinking and provide care to mothers and their newborn babies.

Thailand's CO2 emissions have reached a staggering 310 million tons per year, mostly due to heavy traffic in urban areas and smog-spewing factories. At the 2014 COP20 climate change conference in Peru, the country boldly announced its plans to reduce CO2 emissions by between 7% and 20% before 2020, in line with its ambitions of becoming the industrial center of Asia. Many companies have already begun following the government's lead, by investing in modern facilities and switching to new fuels and materials. Members of the public are also doing their part with some people making products from waste that would otherwise be incinerated. In this episode, we follow Thailand's efforts on the frontline of greenhouse gas reduction.

Rapid economic expansion in China has brought about changes in the lifestyles of its citizens. More people work later and dine later, resulting in increased numbers of diners. Guijie Street is Beijing's largest gourmet restaurant district. More than 100 eateries and bars line the 700-meter street. Young people from all over China flock here to find jobs in the catering trade. The streets also bustle with unlicensed vendors. This small area actually reflects trends in modern day China. On this episode of "Asia Insight" we take a look at 24 hours in Beijing's major gourmet town.

The Tibetan Mastiff became known as the "Dog of God" in China during the height of a craze to have them as pets, and there was once a time when one could be sold for hundreds of thousands of dollars. But now that the fad has died down and owners realize these big dogs require special care, many are being abandoned or neglected. In this episode, we follow an animal rights group at the frontline of rescuing Tibetan Mastiffs and meet several breeders who have different reasons for breeding.

In September 2014, the world witnessed Hong Kong's so-called "Umbrella Revolution", named after the umbrellas pro-democracy marchers used to protect themselves from tear gas, after they occupied central areas and brought Hong Kong to a virtual standstill. Students and citizens called out for "true universal suffrage" but not a single one of their demands were ever met. In this episode, we catch up with some of the Umbrella Revolution's key players, and hear what they feel about the future of Hong Kong.

Xi Jinping, the Chinese President, recently expressed concerns over a culture of vulgarity that was taking root in the country. This led to self-regulations by certain industries - the most noticeable being the sudden ban of models at the Shanghai auto show, which had a reputation for using scantily dressed females. This move tarnished the image of modeling in China altogether and many girls found themselves out of work. In this episode, we follow a model, an agent and an auto show PR Director who are trying to restore and change people's perceptions of modeling in China.

The small, yet affluent city-state of Singapore, on the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula. Occupying an area of just 710 square kilometers, the population already exceeds 5.4 million and is expected to grow even further due to migration from overseas. Only 1% of the country's land is used for agriculture, making Singapore dependent upon imports for 90% of its food. To combat this problem, businessmen have come together with the government to develop new and inventive agricultural techniques. Such innovations include rooftop farms in the city, and indoor greenhouses and vertical farming in more rural areas. In this episode of "Asia Insight", we follow the progress of new agricultural innovations in the urban state of Singapore.

English language education for students from overseas is now a huge industry in the Philippines. In Cebu City, the country's 2nd largest metropolis, there are currently more than 200 schools with thousands of young students enrolled from all over Asia. Parents of Southeast Asian students in particular are attracted to the low fees. They also feel that as their home countries become richer, their children will have more opportunities to work abroad in an English speaking environment. Our crew follows the fortunes of a young Vietnamese student and a popular teacher.

Da Nang, Vietnam is located directly between the capital of Hanoi and the economic metropolis of Ho Chi Minh. The city has long prospered as a trading base between the east and west and thanks to the opening of the East West Economic Corridor, a road that cuts through Southeast Asia from Vietnam, Laos, Thailand to Myanmar, Da Nang has undergone a dramatic economic transformation. It now has the potential to become one of the largest distribution base in Southeast Asia. On this episode of Asia Insight, we take a look at how these new developments are benefiting the business people of Da Nang.

Vietnam has emerged as one of the most gay-friendly nations in Southeast Asia after recently ending a ban on same-sex marriage. In a country, which used to treat homosexuality as a sin on par with crime and prostitution, it's a significant change of direction. Gay-friendly businesses are becoming less taboo and new enterprises targeting homosexuals are beginning to emerge. They range from wedding planners to hotels and restaurants. In this episode, we look at the changing attitudes towards gay people in Vietnam as the country begins to embrace its homosexual population.

China is known all over the world for its counterfeit goods, with millions of tourists taking home fake products from the country as souvenirs every year. But, as the nation's reputation for phony merchandise continues to grow, some people are standing up against unscrupulous vendors and are trying to make a change. In this episode, we follow China's Counterfeit Hunters in their quest to protect consumers and raise the quality of products made in China.

By 2016, more than 14% of Singapore's population will be over the age of 65 and with a birthrate of just 1.19%, there is an urgent need to create a new social system to cope with this ageing society. Both government schemes and private sector investment are being put into place to create new opportunities for the elderly. On this episode of Asia Insight, we take a look at how Singapore is challenging its aging society.

Kung Fu or Chinese martial arts have become a way for many youngsters from rural parts of China to escape from poverty. They enter academies in and around the mythical Shaolin Temple and train in a severe environment, miles away from their families and homes. Graduates typically go on to become police officers, military personnel, bodyguards or even movie actors. In this episode, we follow one 14-year-old trainee who is fighting for his dream of joining China's special police force and one day supporting his parents.

China's one-child policy has contributed to a rapid greying of the population. This has led to an increase in senile dementia, a condition in which memory and thinking skills decline so severely, that the ability to perform everyday activities becomes extremely difficult. Many elderly citizens have started wandering off and going missing with some disappearing altogether. Volunteer groups and the government have started taking action, in a bid to locate and reunite such seniors with their families. In this episode, we follow China's efforts to find its missing aging citizens.

Laos has enjoyed constant economic growth averaging over 7.5% over the past 10 years. This has created new jobs and a demand for various types of workers, resulting in an influx of tens of thousands of migrants from neighboring Vietnam. Many Vietnamese see Laos' rapid growth as a golden opportunity for success, especially with the establishment of the ASEAN Economic Community and the region's economic integration expected later this year. We follow several Vietnamese migrants in Laos as they search for wealth and prosperity.

Dhaka is the capital of Bangladesh and is famous as the world's most densely populated city. More and more international companies are making inroads into the market in pursuit of cheap labour and although the country is experiencing rapid economic growth - an average of 6% every year - Bangladesh still remains one of the poorest nations in Asia. Dhaka's port bustles with migrants coming in from rural areas in search of work. Outside the city, however, life is hard with not enough farming work to go round. But with increased construction in the city, the demand for brick exceeds the supply. Is this a chance for the people of Bangladesh to escape poverty and look forward to a life of more abundance?

In impoverished areas of the Philippines, many households cannot afford electricity and don't use their lights. As the homes are so densely packed, they block sunlight and remain in darkness even during the day. Illac Diaz is a social entrepreneur who is striving to help those in this situation by promoting the use of an ingenious method of lighting using plastic bottles. This episode of Asia Insight focuses on his project and the lives of those who struggle to find adequate sources of lighting in the Philippines.

The Irrawaddy dolphins, which inhabit the Mekong River in Cambodia, are an endangered species that are bringing economic benefits to local people through eco-tourism. In this episode, we follow the villagers of Kampi, and see how they have turned their conservation efforts into a lucrative homegrown industry, which is now beginning to blossom in other parts.

Disputes over poor medical treatment between doctors and patients, stemming from chronic overcrowding, the high cost of healthcare, and a lack of doctor-to-patient communication, have become a growing issue in China, with tens of thousands of cases reported over the past 3 years alone. The problem has become so bad that the government decided to create a system where third-party mediators stand between doctors and patients to conduct investigations.

Tibet was once among the world's most isolated places. Its main city, Lhasa, was a center of traditional culture and Tibetan Buddhism. But in recent years, development by the Chinese government has brought waves of construction - and Han Chinese workers. The region is being transformed with highways, shopping malls, hotels, and a way of life that threatens to wipe out customs that have been handed down for centuries.

July 1, 2014 heralded the 17th anniversary of Hong Kong's return to China after British rule. A mass pro-democracy protest involving 500,000 people was held. 10 days earlier residents had voted in an unofficial referendum calling for democratic elections when selecting Hong Kong's chief executive. Although the referendum was a success, Beijing announced a new system whereby candidates would be nominated by an approval committee.

In Cambodia, many garment factories have been forced to shut down temporarily and some have even gone under altogether. This was triggered by strikes for higher wages that escalated into large-scale demonstrations in which there were more than 40 injuries and deaths. News of the unrest quickly spread and overseas clients cut back on orders, sensing risk and instability with their Cambodian manufacturers.

Puppetry is a vital part of Laotian theatrical tradition, and for many years, it was a very popular form of entertainment. As time past, however, fewer people have learned the craft, resulting in an art in decline. The puppet theater troupe, Kabong Lao, is trying to revive the art form with an innovative and fresh approach. They use everyday objects from rice containers to washing machine hoses to invent a unique style of puppetry combined with live theater. Their performances are fantastical but they also contain spiritual or social messages that connect strongly with the people. In the episode, we follow the theater troupe that is using creative ways to keep puppetry alive in Laos.

Sex trafficking in Nepal is a serious concern with thousands of females from rural parts being regularly forced into prostitution. An estimated 10,000 women and girls are smuggled across the porous Nepal to India border each year. Some are able to escape or are fortunate enough to be rescued, but even after they return to Nepal, they are shunned by society, and face misunderstanding and prejudice. Shelter and counseling is being provided, however, by an NGO run by former victims. In this episode, we follow Nepal's sex trafficking survivors - women who are trying to rebuild their lives and fighting discrimination.

Laos is a landlocked country on the Indochina Peninsula and one of the poorest countries within ASEAN. However, its economy has been expanding at roughly 8% annually over the last 5 years creating larger numbers of affluent people. These consumers are concerned about their health and are prepared to pay around 20% more to purchase organic vegetables. With its long-standing tradition of natural cultivation, Laos is suited to organic agriculture because much of the land has not been contaminated with agrochemicals.

More and more South Koreans who want to get married are finding it increasingly difficult to find a partner. The issue is particularly serious among men, where the average age of marriage is 32, the highest figure in Asia. In recent years, many singles have been turning to unconventional methods and depending on matchmakers for help. These go-betweens range from a Buddhist priest to an agency that introduces North Korean defectors. In this episode, we follow some of the single men in South Korea who are finding a partner and report on the country's changing face of matchmaking.

In South Korea, approximately 10,000 children are born to single mothers who never married every year, and in the 50 years between 1956 and 2006 around 100,000 infants were adopted away from the country. Due to the strong influence of Confucianism, having a child out of wedlock has long been a taboo and traditionally frowned upon by South Koreans. Unwed single mothers are often disowned by their families and have nowhere to go. Several years ago, a group of unwed mothers decided to take action and founded an organization to share their experiences and seek understanding and support.

Qatar is a small country in the Middle East with a population of 2 million people. Although it is blessed with natural resources such as oil and natural gas, the government realizes that one day these resources will be exhausted. It has started, therefore, to invest vast amounts of money in other sectors, including the world of sports.

Abu Dhabi is the capital of the United Arab Emirates and with its rich oil resources, it is also the most affluent emirate. TV dramas produced here are already popular throughout the Arab countries of the Persian Gulf Region and they focus on everyday life in the emirate, including such taboo subjects as trouble with domestic staff. In this week's episode, we take a look at the TV drama industry in Abu Dhabi.

In impoverished areas of the Philippines, many households cannot afford electricity and don't use their lights. As the homes are so densely packed, they block sunlight and remain in darkness even during the day. Illac Diaz is a social entrepreneur who is striving to help those in this situation by promoting the use of an ingenious method of lighting using plastic bottles. This episode of Asia Insight focuses on his project and the lives of those who struggle to find adequate sources of lighting in the Philippines.

During the Vietnam War, vast amounts of defoliant were released by the US military in order to destroy the tropical forests that concealed guerilla fighters. The dioxins contained in the defoliant destroyed foliage and soil, creating toxic hotspots and areas where only grass can grow even today. In this episode, we follow the 40-year campaign of Dr. Quy to restore the Vietnamese rainforests to their former glory.

In deprived Filipino districts, it's common for children to record poor attendances after starting school and some drop out altogether. Even though children have the right for free education in the Philippines, many parents simply can't afford to pay for uniforms and study materials. Some kids end up helping to support their families by going out to work. An innovative mobile school project has emerged which aims to reduce the number of children who've abandoned their schooling. Through visiting poor neighborhoods with books and study materials stacked on to pushcarts, they are providing kids with hope for the future.

South Korea is home to a growing legion of lonely men. They are fathers whose wives and kids have gone overseas so the children can receive an international education. Goose fathers juggle the burden of providing for their families while dealing with the stress of living all alone. Such sacrifices cause some men to become depressed. In this episode, we talk to several goose fathers who have given up the comforts of family life in the hope of giving their children a bright future.

Chinese New Year is traditionally a time for people in China to spend time with their families. Migrants living and working in major cities typically return en masse to their hometowns. But the number of people who choose not to go home is increasing. Some remain in the cities to work and earn extra money. Others are hesitant to spend time with their families. This episode looks at migrants who decide to stay put, and what it means for a time-honored Chinese custom.

PM2.5 - tiny particulate matter - is the main cause of the air pollution currently plaguing China. The air quality in Beijing is reaching critical levels and it seems that China is paying the price for its voracious economic development. With the health of Beijing's residents at risk, in this episode we take a look at how authorities, scientists, the business sectors and locals are dealing with this issue.

Following the lives of those who lived through the devastating typhoon that hit the Philippines in November 2013.

Cambodia's economy is booming thanks in part to a burgeoning garment industry. Business people from other countries have opened factories in areas surrounding the capital, Phnom Penh. Many Cambodians are abandoning rural life for factory jobs and the increased economic opportunity they offer. But the process has not been smooth. Workers are demanding higher pay and other concessions from management. Factory owners are being forced to reexamine their image of Cambodia as a low-wage alternative to China.

Cambodia is going through a dramatic transformation, with its GDP jumping three-fold over the past 10 years, thanks to heavy foreign investment. Prolonged internal conflict in the 1970's however, saw thousands of innocent lives perish and created deep scars for this ancient empire. Now, a new generation is finally emerging, who aim to make Cambodia a proud nation once again. This episode of Asia Insight follows the dreams and hopes of 4 young Cambodians who are active in the fields of politics, economics and culture.

A succession of population policies - first encouraging childbirth and then enforcing one-child families - has brought on one of China's most pressing problems, its ever growing aging population. Adequate laws, support systems and care centers have yet to be developed and the country is facing a major crisis. In this episode of Asia Insight, we follow the efforts of private enterprises and caring individuals who are trying to give the senior citizens of China the support and respect they need.

Indonesia has the largest Muslim population of any country, but for many years, many schools of Islam have stigmatized Indonesia's transgender people, known as Waria. However, in recent years, Waria have started asserting their rights, and some religious leaders are now showing increasing acceptance. We report from Indonesia where Waria are demanding greater participation in the community, and look at how society itself is gradually becoming more tolerant.

With more than 70% of young South Koreans going on to further education, the country is facing a chronic shortage of manual workers in its medium and small sized factories. Seeking to resolve this problem, 10 years ago, the government instigated the Employment Permit System whereby it has opened its doors to foreign workers. Although South Korea has achieved much international acclaim for this policy, there may be negative consequences for some of the country's domestic workers.

This episode of Asia Insight follows a social business that has been trying to improve the lives of Chinese farmers for the past 20 years

In this episode of Asia Insight we investigate the viscous circle of gun violence in the Philippines

Singapore faces a declining birth rate that could threaten the stability of the nation.

A social enterprise in Vietnam is giving deprived children the opportunity to become professional chefs. It offers them free culinary training, accommodation and ultimately a route out of poverty. The organization is developing a business model in which profit from the youngsters' work is invested into efforts to help them rebuild their lives. This episode of Asia Insight focuses on the group's endeavors 10 years after its founding.

10 years after gaining independence from Indonesia, East Timor is slowly rebuilding itself but basic infrastructure is still largely unestablished. A severe shortage of doctors and nurses is resulting in alarmingly high mortality rates for infants and pregnant women. To try and alleviate this, the East Timorese government has been offering mobile health check-ups nationwide since 2008. Some villagers support these efforts by serving as volunteers. They go door to door to check on the health of women and children, and encourage them to get examinations at the mobile health clinics. This episode of Asia Insight follows the endeavours of the mobile health workers and volunteers and depicts some of the difficulties facing this young nation.

Traveling handymen, who live and work from their vans, travel from town to town to fix leaking roofs and ceilings when called upon. This used to be a common profession in China about 20 years ago but as the country gets more developed and homes become better built, the need for such services is decreasing. But these traveling migrants from poor rural areas still prefer this nomadic lifestyle and feel it pays better than farming or factory work. This episode follows the lives of China's traveling handymen as they struggle through a summer of scarce work.

In this program in the Greater Mekong Subregion series, we focus on the economic strategies of Cambodia. We highlight the country's endeavors to develop infrastructure and construct special economic zones as it attempts to make the transition from its recent dark history into a bright new era.

In the Greater Mekong Subregion, the bordering countries of China, Thailand, Laos Cambodia, Vietnam and Myanmar are working hard to stimulate and increase trade. Asia Insight will devote three episodes to measures implemented by nations as they battle for economic control. The first episode focuses on China and its efforts to build infrastructure, develop a massive trade center, and train entrepreneurs. We also highlight the growing trade between China and Myanmar and the lives of local workers endeavoring to realize their hopes and aspirations.

The free market economy continues to grow vigorously in China but at the cost of traditional values. In cities, residents feel a sense of indifference to each other as greed and materialism takes over. In a bid to revive ethical behavior and promote good deeds, a new movement called the Good Deeds Banks has emerged. The bank allows members to save up good deeds as if they were deposits with the points they accumulate entitling them to various discounts and services. This episode of Asia Insight follows a Good Deeds Banks founder and its members.

South East Asia's Golden Triangle used to be notoriously known as the world's largest opium producing region. For some time now authorities have been trying to halt the cultivation and trade of this deadly narcotic. The Thai royal family went as far as taking the initiative to start a program to provide technical support and financial incentives to encourage farmers to switch from opium to coffee growing. But although such bold steps are admirable, the trafficking of illicit substances continues. This episode of Asia Insight focuses on the ongoing battle against drugs and the changes taking place across the region.

Dance has always been an integral part of Philippine culture and Filipinos love to dance. Now it is being used as a way to rehabilitate inmates serving time in prison. Being part of a dance troupe gives inmates a sense of belonging and accomplishment with authorities reporting that regular dance sessions contribute to their better physical and mental health and also improves discipline. With special permission to film inside these prison communities we focus on this unique rehabilitation program through the lives of several current and former inmates.

The number of college graduates has been increasing steadily in China. But the nation known as "the world's factory" needs manual laborers. Managers are needed only a handful. This is making it extremely difficult for college graduates to find their dream job. To help these fresh grads, one apartment complex in Zhejiang Province, allows young job seekers to stay at low cost and offers career advice. This episode of Asia Insight follows the job-hunting efforts of several tenants staying at this so-called "job-hunting inn" as they deal with challenges of a tough job environment in China today.

A new group of writers is capturing the hearts of young readers these days. The so-called "80's writers" are those born in the 1980s. These writers and their readers have a different perspective on their country compared with older generations because they were born after the enforcement of the one-child policy and amid China's rapid economic growth. As the rest of the nation looks down on their literature as mere pop culture, these writers depict the realities and feelings of their generation. This episode of Asia Insight followed several prominent "80's writers" and their readers.

When Hong Kong was returned to mainland China from the U.K. in 1997, it was promised 50 years of autonomy and different political, judicial and economic systems than mainland China. This gave freedom of speech to mainland writers as well because they could publish banned material in Hong Kong. But as the Chinese economy grows, and gains stronger ties with Hong Kong, writers publishing in Hong Kong have been receiving various forms of pressure. Some writers have even been detained after their works have been published. Others have had emails checked and phone calls bugged. This episode of Asia Insight followed many Hong Kong and mainland-based writers and publishers fighting to protect their freedom in a changing region.

As most parts of Shanghai become more modernized, one district retains its pre-war landscape. TianZi Fang, which used to be a French settlement before World War II, maintains an international feel. Its old-fashioned narrow alleyways are filled with shops and restaurants owned by foreigners, making the districta popular tourist spot that attracts 3 million visitors a year. This cultural melting pot has seen some friction between multinationals who run the stores on the ground floors and local Chinese residents living on the second and third floors of those buildings. This episode ofAsia Insight follows the localChinese residents and the foreign community.

An in-depth portrait of Asia today, covering its dynamism as a center of growth as well as its traditions tossed around by the advance of globalization