Stories about East Asia from December, 2015
How the Michelin Star Became the Kiss of Death for Hong Kong’s Street Food
The Michelin Star has turned out to be the kiss of death for several small restaurants in Hong Kong, as landlords raise rents to profit off anticipated earnings boom.
How Activists in Southeast Asia Celebrated Human Rights Day
The theme of justice resonated across Southeast Asia as activist groups highlighted their governments' human rights violations and other abuses.
Debunking Rumors About Japan's Supposed Anti-Muslim Restrictions
"Although Japan does harbor prejudices and Japanese can be ignorant of other cultures, there has been no move to restrict Islamic practices or expel Muslims."
Chinese Authorities Think Internet Companies Should Reward Netizens Who ‘Spread Good News’

China's State Internet Information Office spokesman urged Internet companies to allocate charity funds to those who "spread good news." But netizens don't completely agree with government's idea of good news.
Cambodians March for Land, Justice and Human Rights Despite Government Restrictions
Protests are now banned at the Phnom Penh freedom park, but Cambodian activists from the provinces continue to march towards the capital in order to celebrate International Human Rights Day.
American Bombs Made It Inaccessible, But Viewing This Historical Site in Laos Is Possible Again Thanks to Drones
"The mysterious plain of jars in Northeastern Laos is still one of the biggest uninvestigated archaeological sites in Southeast Asia."
Famed Post-War Japanese Cartoonist Mizuki Shigeru Dies
Mizuki Shigeru, one of Japan's greatest post-War pop icons, has died. His cartoons captured the soul of Japan.
After Naysayers Call Him ‘Lewd’, Singaporeans Voice Their Support for American Singer Adam Lambert
"Singaporeans can enjoy a good show without their consciences being affronted by lewd acts in the name of entertainment."
‘Cloud’ Jokes Aplenty After China Blamed for Australian Meteorology Bureau Hack
Accusations that China has hacked Australia's Bureau of Meteorology have brought swift online responses down under.
Beijing's ‘Airpocalypse’ Hits Record Levels as Toxic Smog Chokes City
"Major skyscrapers and landmarks disappear overnight. I cannot for the life of me see what color the traffic lights at the opposite end of the road are."
Thai Printers Scrub Front-Page Article From The International New York Times
"The article in this space was removed by our printer in Thailand. The International New York Times and its editorial staff had no role in its removal."
Fears of a Political Purge Grow in China as Editor and Professor Are Sacked for ‘Improper Discussion’
"So the question is: who defines what is improper or not? Who is the judge?"