Fresh off their record-breaking DominATE World Tour, Stray Kids, the South Korean powerhouse, has once again proven their relentless drive and creativity. Instead of taking a well-deserved break, the group released their latest album, *Karma*, just weeks after concluding their tour, which included two sold-out nights at London’s Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. This marks their second album in under a year, alongside an EP and a 12-track mixtape, *Hop*, featuring solo contributions from each of the eight members. Their achievements don’t stop there; they also made their Marvel Cinematic Universe debut with a cameo in *Deadpool & Wolverine*, contributing the soundtrack song *Slash*. These accomplishments catapulted them to become the fifth biggest-selling act globally in 2023, trailing only Taylor Swift and Drake. What sets Stray Kids apart is their hands-on approach to music—writing and producing their own material, a rarity in the K-pop industry. Despite the grueling tour schedule, which included three-hour nightly performances, the group found time to explore local cultures, from art galleries to baked potato outlets. Their collaborative spirit and shared workload, as explained by rapper Han, have been key to sustaining their creative output. *Karma* showcases their versatility, blending Brazilian funk rhythms with pop-punk influences, while tracks like *Bleep* deliver bold messages against detractors. The album’s success was further amplified by Felix’s legal victory in unmasking an anonymous social media user in a defamation case, highlighting the challenges of fame in the K-pop world. Beyond their music, Stray Kids have cultivated a deep connection with their fans, known as STAY, through intimate live streams and interactive concert experiences. Their DominATE tour set box office records, selling 1.2 million tickets and grossing $182 million, while *Karma* debuted at number one on the US charts—a historic feat for the group. Despite their monumental success, the members remain humble, with leader Bang Chan emphasizing their hunger for more milestones. Looking ahead, Stray Kids aim to leave a lasting legacy, as articulated in their track *Half Time*, which reflects their renewed commitment to their craft. With their boundless ambition and innovative spirit, Stray Kids are just getting started.
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Why a tiny island’s fate could decide Seychelles’ next president
Assumption Island, a remote and seemingly unremarkable island in the Indian Ocean, has unexpectedly become a focal point in Seychelles’ ongoing elections. Located over 1,000 kilometers from the nation’s main hub, this barren island is now at the center of a heated debate involving geopolitics, environmental conservation, and national sovereignty. The island’s strategic location near key shipping lanes has attracted international interest, particularly from India, which sought to establish a military base there. However, public pressure has so far prevented such developments. The recent lease of part of the island to the Qatari royal family for a luxury resort has further stirred controversy, raising concerns about environmental degradation and lack of transparency. Conservationists warn that the island’s ecological significance, particularly its role as a nesting site for green turtles and its proximity to the UNESCO-listed Aldabra atoll, is at risk. As Seychelles heads to the polls, the future of Assumption Island has become a key electoral issue, with President Wavel Ramkalawan defending the Qatari deal as essential for economic survival, while opposition leader Dr. Patrick Herminie criticizes the government’s handling of the situation. The election outcome could determine the island’s fate, balancing economic interests against environmental preservation and national pride.
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US President Gerald Ford’s would-be assassin dies at age 95
Sara Jane Moore, the woman who infamously attempted to assassinate U.S. President Gerald Ford in 1975, has passed away at the age of 95, according to U.S. media reports. Moore, who was sentenced to life in prison but later released on parole, died amidst renewed scrutiny of presidential security following recent assassination attempts on former President Donald Trump. On September 25, 1975, Moore fired a .38-caliber revolver at Ford outside a San Francisco hotel but missed her target. A former U.S. Marine in the crowd subdued her, preventing a second shot. Moore had been arrested the previous day for carrying a gun near Ford, which was confiscated, prompting her to purchase another weapon. She pleaded guilty and served 32 years before her parole. Her attack occurred just 17 days after Lynette ‘Squeaky’ Fromme, a follower of cult leader Charles Manson, also attempted to assassinate Ford. In a 2009 interview, Moore claimed her actions were driven by a belief that a violent revolution was necessary to change the U.S., citing the social upheaval of the 1960s and 1970s. Investigators found no ties to revolutionary groups and deemed her legally sane. Moore’s death coincides with the recent conviction of Ryan Routh, who attempted to assassinate Trump in 2022, highlighting ongoing concerns about presidential safety.
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China launches campaign to keep killjoys off the internet
In a sweeping effort to foster a more positive online environment, the Chinese government has launched a two-month campaign targeting social media posts that amplify negative and pessimistic sentiments. Spearheaded by the Cyberspace Administration of China, the initiative aims to curb narratives such as ‘studying is useless’ and ‘hard work is useless,’ which have gained traction amid economic slowdowns, high youth unemployment, and intense competition for education and jobs. This campaign reflects Beijing’s growing concern over the disillusionment among its younger generation, who increasingly question their future prospects. The government’s anxiety has manifested in a series of sanctions against influencers and platforms. Notably, content creator Hu Chenfeng saw his social media accounts wiped clean after a viral comment that many interpreted as reinforcing social divides. Similarly, Zhang Xuefeng, a prominent online tutor, faced restrictions on his accounts following controversial remarks about Taiwan and his blunt advice on social mobility. The campaign also extends to social media platforms like Xiaohongshu, Kuaishou, and Weibo, which have been warned to curb ‘negative’ content. While the government frames this as a move to create a ‘civilised and rational online environment,’ critics argue that such top-down efforts may fail to address the root causes of societal pessimism. Experts like Dr. Simon Sihang Luo of Nanyang Technological University caution that suppressing expressions of frustration could exacerbate mental health issues. Despite the crackdown, the underlying pressures driving China’s youth to ‘lie flat’ and retreat from the rat race persist, highlighting the challenges of addressing systemic issues through censorship alone.
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Bosch to cut 13,000 jobs to save billions in costs
Bosch, the global engineering powerhouse, has unveiled plans to slash 13,000 jobs as part of a strategic initiative to save €2.5 billion (£2.06 billion). The cuts will primarily impact the company’s mobility division in Germany, which specializes in vehicle parts and software. The decision comes in response to a stagnated market, intensified competition from industry giants like Tesla and China’s BYD, and rising costs exacerbated by former US President Donald Trump’s tariffs on EU exports.
The company identified a significant ‘cost gap’ of €2.5 billion in its automotive business, prompting a comprehensive cost-reduction strategy. In addition to workforce reductions, Bosch plans to scale back investments in production facilities and infrastructure, citing a ‘sharp decline in demand’ for its products. As of December 2024, Bosch employed 418,000 people worldwide, with the latest cuts expected to affect roles in administration, sales, development, and production across key locations in Germany, including Feuerbach, Schwieberdingen, Waiblingen, Bühl, and Homburg.
Stefan Grosch, a member of Bosch’s board of management and director of industrial relations, expressed regret over the decision, stating, ‘Regrettably, we will not be able to avoid further job cuts beyond those already communicated. This hurts us greatly, but unfortunately, there is no alternative.’ The announcement underscores the challenges facing the once-dominant German automotive industry, which has seen its market share eroded by foreign competitors.
Bosch emphasized that its UK operations would remain unaffected for now, though it would ‘continually assess’ its global operations based on customer demand and market developments. The company also highlighted the broader economic pressures, including Trump’s 15% tariff on EU exports to the US, which, while lower than tariffs imposed on other countries, has significantly increased operational costs. Bosch plans to initiate discussions with affected employees immediately as it navigates this turbulent period.
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Obama gets Freedom of the City of Dublin amid some backlash
Former U.S. President Barack Obama was formally awarded the Freedom of the City of Dublin in a ceremony held at the Shelbourne Hotel on Thursday. The honor, bestowed by Dublin’s Lord Mayor Ray McAdam, recognizes Obama’s global leadership and vision for a fairer society. However, the event was not without controversy, as several Dublin councillors opposed the decision, citing concerns over Obama’s foreign policy, particularly his stance on Israel, Libya, Yemen, and Somalia. The council had initially voted in 2017 to grant the honor to Obama and his wife Michelle, with 30 votes in favor and 23 against. At the ceremony, Obama received a first edition of James Joyce’s *Ulysses* and a bottle of Teeling Whiskey. In his acceptance speech, he emphasized the enduring bond between Ireland and the United States, rooted in shared hope and resilience. The event was attended by approximately 30 guests, including the Lord Mayor’s six-year-old son, who presented Obama with a homemade Spider-Man card. Despite the opposition, Lord Mayor McAdam defended the decision, stating that no political career is without flaws and that the honor reflects Dublin’s recognition of Obama’s contributions. The Freedom of the City of Dublin, the highest honor the city can bestow, has been awarded to only 88 individuals, including notable figures like Nelson Mandela, John F. Kennedy, and Greta Thunberg. Obama’s visit to Dublin also includes a sold-out event at the 3Arena, where he will engage in a conversation with Irish journalist Fintan O’Toole.
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Dallas shooter intended target to be ICE not detainees – officials
A tragic shooting at an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facility in Dallas, Texas, has left one detainee dead and two critically injured. The suspected shooter, identified as 29-year-old Joshua Jahn, left behind a collection of notes revealing his intent to target ICE agents while attempting to minimize harm to detainees. Acting U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Texas, Nancy Larson, disclosed that Jahn’s writings indicated a calculated plan to ‘maximize lethality against ICE personnel and property damage’ at the facility. Larson emphasized that Jahn did not intend to harm detainees, stating, ‘It is clear from these notes that he was targeting ICE agents and ICE personnel.’
FBI Director Kash Patel highlighted the evidence of extensive pre-attack planning, including a handwritten note that read, ‘Hopefully this will give ICE agents real terror, to think, ‘is there a sniper with AP rounds on that roof?” Larson confirmed that Jahn likely acted alone, describing the attack as a ‘targeted, ambush-style’ assault on law enforcement. The shooter fired at transport vehicles carrying ICE personnel and detainees, acknowledging the potential for collateral damage.
Jahn’s notes, found at his residence, included a detailed ‘gameplan of the attack’ and expressed his disdain for ICE employees, whom he referred to as ‘people showing up to collect a dirty pay check.’ Larson condemned the act as terrorism, stating, ‘What he did is the very definition of terrorism.’ Despite his hatred for the federal government, no evidence linked Jahn to any specific group or agency beyond ICE.
ICE Field Office Director Marcos Charles praised the bravery of federal agents who risked their lives to save detainees during the attack, calling for an end to ‘violent rhetoric’ against ICE. The incident underscores the ongoing tensions surrounding immigration enforcement in the United States.
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China’s export juggernaut defying and denying Trump’s tariffs
Despite former U.S. President Donald Trump’s aggressive tariff policies, China’s export sector has demonstrated remarkable resilience, with its trade surplus projected to reach $1.2 trillion by the end of 2025, surpassing last year’s $1 trillion mark. This success stems from China’s strategic adaptability, including market diversification, supply chain rerouting, and a focus on sectors less vulnerable to U.S. tariffs. For instance, exports to Southeast Asia have surged beyond their COVID-19 peak, with record-breaking shipments to India and Africa. Arthur Kroeber of Gavekal Dragonomics notes that the Trump era inadvertently spurred China to enhance its export competitiveness through innovative workarounds, such as transshipments and relocating production to lower-tariff countries. However, these tactics have drawn scrutiny, with Trump vowing to penalize nations facilitating such arbitrage. Meanwhile, Southeast Asian economies, including Vietnam, Indonesia, and Thailand, face challenges from China’s overcapacity, political instability, and weak infrastructure, hindering their aspirations to become manufacturing hubs. Mexico stands out as a potential outlier, considering a 50% tariff on Chinese goods. As global tensions escalate, China seeks to avoid provoking protectionist measures while navigating deflationary pressures and internal economic reforms. The U.S., burdened by a $36 trillion national debt, faces its own economic reckoning, with experts warning of severe consequences from Trump’s tariff-driven trade war. Despite these challenges, China’s export engine continues to defy expectations, underscoring its pivotal role in the global economy.
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Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs back in court to ask for reversal of conviction or new trial
Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs, the renowned music producer and rapper, appeared in a New York federal court on Thursday, accompanied by his legal team, to request the overturning of his prostitution convictions or a new trial. Judge Arun Subramanian adjourned the hearing without an immediate ruling. Combs, who has been incarcerated since his arrest in September 2024, was convicted in July on two counts of prostitution related to allegations of running a sex trafficking operation. His lawyers argue that the convictions misapply the Mann Act, a century-old law designed to combat human trafficking and sexual exploitation. Combs faces sentencing on October 3, with prosecutors pushing for a lengthy prison term, while his defense seeks a maximum of 14 months, citing his time already served. The defense also contends that applying the Mann Act to Combs’ case is unprecedented and that his celebrity status and legacy have been irreparably damaged. During the hearing, Combs’ attorney portrayed him as a voyeur with no commercial motive, distancing him from the charges. Combs was acquitted of more severe racketeering and sex trafficking charges in July but convicted on lesser charges of arranging interstate travel for prostitution. Prosecutors allege that Combs facilitated paid sexual encounters involving male sex workers and his girlfriends, some of whom testified to physical abuse. Combs has pleaded not guilty to all charges, and the judge has twice denied him bail.
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Trump urges Turkey to stop buying Russian oil as Erdogan chases deal on F-35s
In a high-profile meeting at the White House, U.S. President Donald Trump called on Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan to cease purchasing oil from Russia, emphasizing the importance of cutting off Moscow’s energy revenue as the conflict in Ukraine persists. Speaking alongside Erdogan, Trump described halting Russian oil imports as ‘the best thing’ Turkey could do to support global efforts against Russia’s aggression. The meeting concluded without concrete agreements on lifting U.S. sanctions on Turkey or advancing the sale of F-35 fighter jets, though Trump remained optimistic about resolving these issues. Turkey has been barred from acquiring F-35s since 2019 after it procured Russian S-400 air defense systems, leading to its expulsion from the F-35 production program. Trump highlighted Erdogan’s unique position as a leader respected by both Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Russian President Vladimir Putin, suggesting that Turkey could play a pivotal role in influencing the war. Turkey, alongside India and China, remains one of Russia’s largest oil and gas customers. Trump’s remarks follow his recent warning to NATO allies about ‘funding the war against themselves’ through Russian energy purchases. The U.S. president also hinted at the possibility of lifting sanctions on Turkey ‘very soon’ if the meeting yielded positive outcomes. Meanwhile, bipartisan concerns in the U.S. Congress persist over Turkey’s military actions in Syria and its cooperation with Russia, casting doubt on the potential F-35 sale.