Under a 2019 revision of the law, globally recognized K-pop stars were allowed to put off their service until 30. Military service is hugely controversial in South Korea where all able-bodied men aged between 18 and 28 must fulfil their duties as part of efforts to defend against nuclear-armed North Korea.

The 22-member Arab League summit is being hosted in Algeria this year. Even as the league continues to support the Palestinian cause, many members have normalized ties with Israel.

North Korea has fired a missile towards the Sea of Japan, the South Korean military has said. Pyongyang promised a "fiercer" response to the US presence in the region.

Qatar has been heavily criticized for its human rights record. Who is performing at the opening ceremony for the World Cup is still unclear. Rod Stewart said "it's not right to go there," but Jung Kook will perform.

Russia and Ukraine have agreed to extend a UN-brokered grain export deal for another 120 days, Ukraine's infrastructure minister has said.

This summer, an unprecedented marine heatwave hit the Mediterranean Sea, causing mass die-offs of marine life. Will ecosystems ever recover? The Down to Earth team takes a closer look.

We've seen a very different kind of fan during this World Cup in Qatar, be it for reasons of cost, travel or even politics. These changes are substantial and it's made for some dramatic changes to the ambiance and atmosphere. One of the most visible effects is perhaps what we saw after Morocco's victory over Spain: a show of immense unity in the Arab World.

China relies heavily on Saudi oil and is expected to sign a number of agreements with Riyadh. This is Xi's third overseas visit since the start of the coronavirus pandemic.

The Philippines' Defense Ministry said it would boost its military presence following reports China embarked on fresh land reclamation projects in the South China Sea.

The Qatar World Cup has been nothing if not novel, and for many female football fans in the region the opportunity to visit stadiums and watch live matches has been a welcome new experience.

Israel's government has made efforts in recent years to expand diplomatic ties with its neighbors. But an Israeli minister's controversial visit to a sacred compound in Jerusalem has some worried about further conflict.

More and more athletes are using mental training to improve their performance. But what do pens and rulers have to do with it? And can the brain train muscles?