What's in this episode:

• TOP BIT: Travel Warnings, Warships, and Sharp Words
  • Japan's PM Sanae Takaichi states a Chinese attack on Taiwan poses an "existential threat" to Japan, sparking a diplomatic storm.
  • Beijing responds with harsh rhetoric (a diplomat suggesting Japan's "dirty neck" be "severed") and summons ambassadors.
  • China issues travel warnings for Japan, leading to free rebookings/refunds for flights.
  • Increased military presence: China's Coast Guard patrols near disputed islands; Taiwan reports more military aircraft/vessels.
  • Beijing advises Chinese students to "carefully reconsider" studying in Japan, while simultaneously courting Taiwanese travelers with visa-on-arrival.
  • Historical context: Tensions fueled by past disputes (2012 Senkaku crisis), China's military buildup, and Japan's strategic shift in defense policy.
• NUMBER OF THE DAY: $11.2 Billion
  • The amount Chinese tourists spent in Japan in 2024, making them Japan’s strongest spending group (one-fifth of all foreign tourist spending).
  • Early slowdown signs: Hotel cancellations and paused marketing activities in China due to political tensions.
• MARKET BIT: Samsung’s $310 Billion Mega Plan
  • Samsung plans a $310 billion investment in South Korea over five years to lead the global AI race.
  • Key projects include Pyeongtaek Plant 5 (chip fab, 2028 launch) and new AI data centers by Samsung SDS for proprietary AI models and GPU capacity.
  • Part of a national re-industrialization push, with Hyundai also investing $86.5 billion in AI, autonomous tech, and EVs.
  • Samsung creates its first dedicated M&A team for AI, semiconductors, and automotive tech.
• WORD OF THE WEEK: Nunchi (눈치)
  • A crucial Korean soft skill meaning "eye measure"—the ability to read the room and unspoken cues.
  • Essential for navigating strict hierarchies in Korean companies, influencing behavior and feedback.
• Partner Highlights:
  • China approves foreign in-car AI (Tesla, Volvo, Mercedes-Benz) for the first time.
  • Alibaba adopts digital bank tokens (JPMorgan partnership) for faster global payments.
  • Marathon madness in Seoul disrupts daily life, with events jumping from 19 to 254 in four years.
• Country Reads: Japan split on collective self-defense if China attacks Taiwan; Thailand's king visits China; Malaysia's 2025 growth forecast.

Read more at asiabits.com