Taiwan Strait Tensions: Taiwan called China’s “law enforcement” maritime operation east of the island “provocative” and “expansionism in disguise,” saying Chinese ships were pushed further east after a standoff and that seven patrol vessels were deployed to monitor them. North Korea Watch: Xi Jinping made a rare Pyongyang visit, pledging unwavering support for Kim Jong Un and urging deeper cooperation across diplomacy, law enforcement and the military as North Korea leans more on Russia. AI and Chips in South Korea: Nvidia announced new AI data-centre and technology deals with SK Telecom and major Korean groups, while also partnering with SK hynix on advanced memory components. US-China Security Crackdown: The Pentagon updated its list of Chinese military-linked companies, adding Alibaba, BYD and Baidu, tightening restrictions on US defense contracting. Japan Disaster Response: Japan issued tsunami advisories after a 7.8 quake off the southern Philippines, with minor waves observed in Okinawa and at Chichijima. China Flooding: Heavy rain in Guizhou tore through homes and farmland, triggering flash-flood and landslide warnings. Japan Economy: Japan reported a big April current account surplus of ¥3.91 trillion, driven by overseas income and exports. Japan Nuclear Policy Debate: Dozens of Japan’s local assemblies urged the government to uphold the “three non-nuclear principles.” Sports: Alas Pilipinas bounced back in the AVC Women’s Cup with a win over Kyrgyzstan ahead of a do-or-die match vs South Korea.