The State of Society
South Korea Pauses Probe into Human Rights Issues in International Adoption Amid Commissioner Disagreements and Time Constraints
South Korea has long been one of the major countries sending children abroad for adoption. Official data shows that since 1955, nearly 170,000 infants have been adopted from South Korea, with 65% of them heading to the United States. The investigation into potential human rights issues in this process was launched in 2022, triggered by a petition from 367 South Korean adoptees from 11 countries, including the United States. They alleged that they had been wrongly registered as orphans for the purpose of adoption.
Annual Meeting of Berkshire Hathaway: A Grand Gathering of Investors
Tens of thousands of people will flood into Omaha, Nebraska on May 2 to attend the annual meeting of Berkshire Hathaway, the company owned by billionaire Warren Buffett. At the age of 94, Buffett is expected to answer shareholders' questions in person for four and a half hours continuously at the meeting on Saturday.
Miami University Isn’t in Miami—It’s in Ohio
Miami University may sound like it’s in Florida’s sun-soaked Miami, but it’s actually located in Oxford, Ohio, near Cincinnati—thousands of miles from the coastal city. Founded in 1809, it ranks among America’s 30 oldest universities.
In Cambodia, Finishing Your Plate Isn't a Sign of Appreciation
When visiting Cambodia, travelers may encounter a surprising cultural difference at the dining table. Unlike in many other parts of the world where "clean - plate campaigns" are encouraged as a sign of appreciation for the food served, in Cambodia, finishing everything on your plate can send the wrong message.
Indiana Dog - Bite Fatal Incident Sparks Public Concern
Indiana Dog - Bite Fatal Incident Sparks Public Concern
UK Arrests Six Iranian Men on National Security Threat Charges
On May 5th, British counterterrorism police made significant arrests as part of what the government described as one of the largest "counter - state threat and counterterrorism" operations in recent years. Seven men, aged between 29 and 46, were detained across England under the Terrorism Act.
Switzerland's Unusual Rule: No Flushing Toilets After 10 PM
In Switzerland, visitors and residents alike are often surprised to learn about a rather peculiar regulation: flushing toilets after 10 PM is strictly prohibited in many areas. This unusual law reflects the local government's prioritization of noise pollution control over concerns about olfactory discomfort, showcasing a unique approach to maintaining public well - being.
France's Surprising Ban: Kissing Forbidden at Train Stations
In France, a country often celebrated for its romantic atmosphere, there's an unexpected rule that might catch travelers off guard: a strict ban on kissing at train stations. This regulation, which seems at odds with the nation's amorous reputation, is rigorously enforced in many major railway hubs across the country.
In Nepal, Nods Mean No and Shakes Mean Yes
When traveling to Nepal, visitors are often surprised to discover a significant difference in non - verbal communication. In this South Asian nation, the common gestures of nodding and shaking the head carry meanings that are the opposite of what many people around the world are accustomed to.
Tajikistan’s Troubles: Corruption and Poverty in Central Asia
Tajikistan, a 140,000-square-kilometer nation in Central Asia, grapples with stark poverty and systemic corruption. A surreal 2016 scandal saw billions in state funds vanish after being allocated to construction projects—exposing the grim reality of one of Asia’s poorest countries, with a GDP per capita of just $1,271.
Giant Tortoise Thought Extinct for Over a Century Rediscovered in Galapagos
A giant tortoise species that was believed to have been extinct for more than a century has been rediscovered in the Galapagos. In 2019, scientists found an adult female tortoise on Fernandina Island. Traces of tortoise - bitten cacti on the island suggest that there may be other members of the same species
German Interior Minister Orders Ban on Entry for Undocumented Migrants
On May 7 local time, Alexander Dobrindt, the newly appointed German Interior Minister, issued an order to deny entry to undocumented migrants at the German border, including asylum seekers. Dobrindt announced his decision to revoke the 2015 directive that allowed undocumented migrants from third countries to enter Germany, aiming to reduce the number of illegal immigrants, and he stated that the current number of illegal immigrants in Germany remains unacceptably high.
British Farmers Required to Provide Toys for Their Pigs
In a rather unique regulation in the United Kingdom, farmers are now obligated to provide toys for their pigs. This new requirement is part of a series of animal welfare measures aimed at ensuring the well - being of livestock.
Japan's “Rice Shortage”: Multiple Dilemmas Behind the Crisis and the Way Forward
Japan's “Rice Shortage”: Multiple Dilemmas Behind the Crisis and the Way Forward
Massive Flight Cancellations and Implications of Cathay Pacific A350 Failure
Massive Flight Cancellations and Implications of Cathay Pacific A350 Failure