Every day has been a surprise as the world awaits the moment K-pop superstars BTS take over playlists and the charts with their first album in over three years, Arirang, out on Mar 20.

On Monday (Mar 16), audio streaming platform Spotify announced that BTS will be headed to New York on Mar 23 for an exclusive fan event – Spotify x BTS: Swimside. 

In a “special performance and Q&A” – according to the press release – 1,000 fans will join the members in “immersive album-themed experiences”. This marks the group’s first performance in the US in nearly four years.

Then, on Tuesday, Netflix dropped the trailer to the group’s upcoming feature-length documentary, BTS: The Return, which will be out on the platform on Mar 27, a week after the album’s release. 

In the trailer, the seven members of the group – RM, Suga, J-Hope, Jin, Jungkook, V and Jimin – speak about their journey back to the stage following their hiatus.

It starts with the group’s leader, RM, saying, “Guess who? Welcome to the BTS documentary.” Then, a metronome begins along with clips of the supergroup performing on stage, with RM continuing: “Being part of a team like BTS is like wearing a big, incredible crown.”

As the metronome picks up speed, the rest of the members reflect on their time away from the group. They reflect on the pressures of making a return to an industry that keeps evolving and their drive to delivering “authenticity” in the album. 

And then, the metronome stops. 

In the rest of the trailer, the members are seen working on their music in Los Angeles, interspersed with clips of them performing and spending a day at the beach (which fans have noted was also where they did their Weverse live last year), as they reflect on the group’s direction in preparation of their album. 

“And this might be something only we can pull off,” RM says as the trailer closes.

Netflix’s synopsis reads: “Watch as BTS contemplates how to begin again, wrestles with honouring the past without being bound by it, and redefine an ever-evolving identity as the bandmates grow as artistes and global icons.”

The trailer has stirred emotional reactions among fans online. 

One fan on X said: “I think we need tissues for this one.” Another fan on Reddit said: “This is amazing and epic. Almost wish it was a series [because] I can only imagine how much footage they have. So many easter eggs and nods to their past, their Korean heritage & culture, and how they tackled this insane project of their next chapter.”

The behind-the-scenes documentary will be released on Netflix on Mar 27. BTS will also be holding their highly-anticipated BTS The Comeback Live Arirang on Mar 21, a day after the album drops. This is a free performance at the historical Gwanghwamun Square in Seoul, South Korea, which will be streamed on Netflix.

A photo of veteran Singapore radio presenter and sports commentator Brian Richmond circulating online recently has sparked rumours about his health. 

The photo shows the 78-year-old in a wheelchair at what appears to be a family home, with a bandage on his right arm and a sling on his left. A caption accompanying the photo said he had a "nasty fall in a movie theatre around Ang Mo Kio, about a month ago. He also has an early stage of dementia". 

His elder son Mark Richmond – also a sports commentator, host and local media personality – has since clarified that the incident happened some time ago and that his father is recovering well. 

“My dad had a fall two months ago and broke his arm in the process,” Mark Richmond told CNA Lifestyle, adding that he fell at a cinema at Plaza Singapura after watching a movie. 

“He’s doing fine now. He has been going to rehab and is in fact a lot more active than ever," he said. "His doctor has also given him a clean bill of health, and he has no dementia.”

Brian Richmond and his wife Susanne Ong have two sons: Mark Richmond and Don Richmond.

A familiar voice to many in Singapore, Brian Richmond spent 51 years in radio, beginning his career in 1971. He retired from Mediacorp’s Gold 905 in November 2022, where he was known for hosting The Vintage Showcase. In 2005, he received the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Singapore Radio Awards in recognition of his contributions to the industry.

Meanwhile, Mark Richmond is currently in Florida in the United States with his family. 

In an interview with 8Days in January this year, actress and theatre director Beatrice Chia-Richmond, Mark Richmond’s wife, shared that the family moved to Florida after their son Sol Richmond decided in 2022 to pursue golf seriously.

Mark Richmond is also studying psychology at the University of Central Florida and occasionally does sports commentary remotely, broadcasting from their home in the United States.

The family is expected to return to Singapore in mid-2026, when Sol Richmond begins his National Service.

These days, a trip to Seoul isn’t just about eating your weight in K-barbeque, salt bread and Dubai chewy cookies – or clearing entire shelves at Olive Young and the nearest K-pharmacy.

The real action? It’s happening in the boutiques.

From Gentle Monster and Ader Error to Andersson Bell, Seoul’s fashion neighbourhoods are packed with locals and tourists hunting down the next big thing. And when it comes to bags, brands like Osoi, Samo Ondoh, Stand Oil and Marge Sherwood are already firmly on the global radar – spotted on the arms of Hailey Bieber, Selena Gomez and Olivia Rodrigo.

But if there’s one thing Korea does exceptionally well, it’s launching tomorrow’s IT brand today.

The appeal is obvious: Quality craftsmanship, directional design and price points that don’t induce heart palpitations. Whether you’re into sleek minimalism, playful details, bold statements or timeless classics, there’s a Korean label that understands the assignment – and your OOTD.

Here are seven under-the-radar Korean bag brands to know for your next trip to Seoul (or your next online checkout session) – beyond the usual suspects.

1. LOEUVRE

If French girl chic met K-drama elegance, you’d get Loeuvre.

Founded in 2019, the brand has quietly built a cult following thanks to its architectural minimalism and European sensibility. You may have already seen its bags in K-dramas like The Judge From Hell, Business Proposal and Record Of Youth. Korean celebrities including Girls’ Generation’s Choi Soo-young and actress Jung So-min are also fans.

Loeuvre’s strength lies in its balance: gentle curves meet defined lines, supple leather meets structured silhouettes. The result? Bags that feel soft yet polished – the kind that look better with each wear.

The Sac de Cle is a standout. A modern reinterpretation of a vintage box bag, it can be worn as a shoulder, tote or crossbody. It’s deceptively roomy, with three interior compartments that make organisation blissfully easy.

While Loeuvre began with bags, it has since expanded into ready-to-wear that carries the same refined, architectural DNA.

Where to buy: 29 Seoulsup 2-gil, Seongdong-gu, Seoul. Visit Maison Loeuvre for more details. 

2. JEDREFEB 5

If your ideal bag doubles as an emotional support pillow, meet Jedrefeb 5.

The brand shot to fame in 2023 when actress Han So-hee was spotted at the airport with its cloud-like Croiffle Shoulder Bag – which promptly sold out. She later carried the Butterfly Shoulder Bag too, cementing its status as a soft-girl staple.

Expect slouchy silhouettes, puffed textures, ruffles, bows and quilted finishes – all executed with a light touch so it never veers into costume territory. The vibe? Youthful, romantic and effortlessly cool.

Practicality hasn’t been sacrificed for aesthetics either. The roomy interiors can fit laptops, water bottles and daily essentials, making them ideal for students and working professionals who like their bags equal parts cute and capable.

Where to buy: Check the brand’s Instagram account for pop-up details or visit Jedrefeb5 for more information. Jedrefeb5 ships to Singapore via Musinsa Global. 

3. KOIMOOI

For those who miss the 90s – or wish they’d lived through them – Koimooi delivers newtro perfection.

Think edgy boho with a Gen Z twist: Fringe, studs, cut-outs and Y2K energy. It’s playful without being chaotic, nostalgic without feeling dated.

The Clip Tote Bag is a crowd favourite and comes in small and large sizes – structured enough for the office, relaxed enough for weekend errands. For the more trend-driven, there’s even a faux fur version that makes a statement without saying a word.

Each Koimooi piece pairs seamlessly with everything from a white tee and jeans to floaty dresses or oversized tailoring.

Where to buy: The Plaza Seoul Gift Store and Dongwha Duty Free (Gwanghwamun outlet). Worldwide shipping available via Koimooi.

4. MONDE MONDE

If “stealth wealth” is your aesthetic mood board, Monde Monde should be on your radar.

Founded in 2021, the brand specialises in clean, structured silhouettes that whisper luxury rather than shout it. Forget loud logos – these bags are all about proportion, polish and subtle detail.

Neutral colourways ensure each piece complements rather than competes with your outfit. The Monde Doctor Tote Bag is a highlight: a vintage-inspired doctor’s bag reimagined with sleek lines and a distinctive clock-detail clasp. 

There’s even a backpack version for hands-free commuting.

Where to buy: 4F, 22 Jahamun-ro 10-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul (weekends only). Visit Monde Monde for more details.

5. ARCHIVEPKE

Minimalist – but make it colourful.

Founded in 2019, Archivepke blends clean silhouettes with playful pops of colour. Its name combines “archive” with “epke” (short for “etudes for people with keen senses”), reflecting its thoughtful design approach.

The Fling Bag is the brand’s icon. Adjustable straps allow it to transform from shoulder bag to swing bag to crossbody – essentially a day-to-night hero without the outfit change. It comes in everything from classic black and brown to bold red, mint and olive.

And because one Fling is never enough, there are multiple variations: The Mini Fling Twist, the roomy Fling Pot Bag and the casual Fling Messenger.

Archivepke has since evolved into a full fashion label offering ready-to-wear, shoes and accessories – but its bags remain the main character.

Where to buy: 7 Seoulsup 4-gil, Seongdong-gu, Seoul. Available via Musinsa Global for international shoppers.

6. ATELIER DE LUMEN

Imagine The Row – but without the eye-watering price tag.

Atelier de Lumen is beloved for its high-quality pebbled leather and timeless silhouettes that slot seamlessly into a modern urban wardrobe. It’s no surprise that K-fashion enthusiasts and celebrities alike are fans.

Red Velvet’s Joy and Apink’s Ha Young have both been spotted with the Panier Petit Bag – compact yet practical enough for daily essentials. It’s charming, structured and ideal for brunches or date nights.

For work, the Pave Tote Bag delivers on both form and function, with a spacious interior and internal pockets that keep everything organised. Soft yet sturdy, it’s built for long office days.

Where to buy: 745-13 Hannam-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul. More details via Atelier de Lumen.

7. CHRISTINE PROJECT

Overpackers, rejoice – this one’s for you.

Founded by ex-chef Christine Lee, Christine Project was born out of necessity. Lee needed a bag that could keep up with her hectic schedule – practical enough to carry everything, polished enough to look put-together.

The brand’s motto, “Plate Your Style”, reflects that philosophy: Merging functionality with fashion in a way that makes daily life easier.

Its signature Two Zipper Bag Original perfectly captures this ethos. Dual compartments allow you to separate work and personal items, and the spacious interior can reportedly fit a 16-inch MacBook. Finally – a bag that understands your “just in case” mentality.

Designed and produced in South Korea, it makes for a meaningful souvenir – though with worldwide shipping available, you won’t have to wait for your next Seoul trip to get one.

Where to buy: 58-9 Itaewon-ro 54-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul. Visit Christine Project for more details.

In the interest of time, who hasn’t used their handheld device while it’s still charging? And we mean plugging your handphone, tablet or laptop into an electric socket, not a power bank. 

You might recall feeling a buzzing or tingling sensation – more so if your device is “naked” (you don’t believe in getting a case) or it has a body made of metal. It’s unnerving enough to make you wonder: Will you get electrocuted if you continue holding your gadget? Will it affect your device? Should you get an electrician to check your home? 

We find out from the experts with the “power” to decipher “watt” is going on, and whether you can minimise the strange vibrations (okay, enough puns already).

WHAT’S CAUSING THE TINGLING?

That peculiar sensation is caused by a leakage current – “a tiny, safe amount of electrical current that escapes from the charger onto the device’s metal casing”, said Lay Leong Loong, a senior lecturer from Republic Polytechnic’s School of Engineering. 

“This leakage usually comes from the electromagnetic interference (EMI) suppression components inside the charger. Among these components are the capacitors, designed to help reduce electrical noise,” Lay continued. “In ungrounded chargers, which are typically the two‑pin plugs, these capacitors can cause a very small current to be felt on the metal enclosure of your device.”

As a result, said Li Zhen, the lead science educator with Science Centre Singapore, “when you touch your mobile phone or laptop during charging, the current may flow through your body, triggering nerve endings in the skin and creating a mild buzzing or tingling feeling”.

ARE THERE DEVICES MORE LIKELY TO PRODUCE THE TINGLING SENSATION WHEN CHARGING?

“Any electronic equipment with a metallic body or casing as well as high-power adapters,” cited Boey Kai Ming, the manager of Singapore Polytechnic’s School of Electrical & Electronic Engineering.

Metal and current are, of course, self-explanatory. As for high-power adapters (they charge faster), they should be fine if they come with a functioning three-pin plug that allows the current leakage to “escape” through the third pin – and not your body, said Lay. And by “functioning”, he meant that the middle pin has to be made of metal, not plastic, as is often the case with compact travel chargers. 

The next time you travel, take note if your gadgets feel zappier than usual when they're juicing up. 

IS THERE A DANGER TO OUR HEALTH? CAN WE CONTINUE HOLDING THE DEVICE?

The tingling sensation from a charging phone or laptop is harmless leakage current, not a dangerous shock, said Boey. “The energy you feel is extremely small – hundreds of microwatts from microamp currents – compared to the actual charging process that delivers tens of watts to your phone or laptop.”

As uncomfortable as the sensation may feel to you – and it can intensify and spread throughout your body – Li added that you can “safely handle the device while charging”. 

Lay explained that “safety standards such as IEC 62368 strictly regulate the maximum allowed leakage current, keeping it well within safe levels”. “However, if you ever do experience a real shock, stop using the charger immediately.” 

An electric shock would produce “acute, sharp pain” and cause you to lose control of your muscles, “which may prevent you from releasing your grip on the electrical source”, said Li. “If the current travels through the chest, the shock may interfere with your heart's natural electrical activity, potentially triggering ventricular fibrillation or cardiac arrest.”

WHAT DOES IT MEAN FOR PEOPLE WITH MEDICAL IMPLANTS LIKE PACEMAKERS?

“In general,” said Lay, “the leaking current is not at a dangerous level to affect pacemakers.” “Modern medical devices, especially implants, are designed to withstand everyday EMI exposure, including such leakages.”

Li agreed but cautioned that “each person and device may be different, so what is safe for one pacemaker user may not be safe for another”. “The best approach is for pacemaker users to avoid touching devices that cause noticeable buzzing or tingling feeling, and talk to their heart doctor about electrical safety for their specific pacemaker type,” he said.

In addition, it pays for pacemaker users to stay a safe distance away from high-power electrical equipment, strong magnets and induction stoves as they can “create electromagnetic fields that may interfere with how the device works”, Li added.

HOW CAN WE MINIMISE THE TINGLING SENSATION?

Other than switching to a grounded, three-pin charger, Lay also suggested adding a non-conductive casing for your devices, such as those made of silicone rubber or thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). 

“Use chargers from reputable brands or those with certifications such as UL, CE, IEC or local safety marks,” Lay suggested. “Keep charging ports clean as dust can possibly interfere with the grounding. Cleaning with an air blower or soft brush helps.”

WHEN SHOULD WE CALL FOR AN ELECTRICIAN, OR CHANGE THE CHARGER OR CABLE?

Call in an expert if the tingling sensation is unusually strong, persistent or accompanied by other issues such as overheating, sparking or inconsistent charging, advised Boey.

“An electrician should be consulted if multiple outlets in your home cause noticeable buzzing, or if you see signs of electrical problems such as tripped circuit breakers, burning smells, black spots on cables or socket outlets, or loose sockets,” said Boey.

A sure sign to change your cable or charger, he added, is if the current one is visibly damaged, feels hot, or is from a low-quality brand without safety certification. “Poor insulation or faulty design can increase leakage beyond safe limits,” Boey cautioned.

Other signs for a new cable or charger, said Li, include:

• The cable shows visible damage like worn areas, exposed wires, cracked covering or bent plugs.
• The device charges inconsistently or stops working when the cable is moved.
• The cable or charger gets very hot during normal use.
• The plug does not fit tightly into the device or falls out easily.
• Charging becomes much slower than usual.
• Sparks appear at the cable or charger when plugging in or unplugging.

You should immediately stop charging, said Lay, if you notice:

• Painful shocks
• Sparks during plugging
• Burning smell
• Smoke or unusual heat
• Signs of water exposure

Apple on Monday (Mar 16) unveiled the second generation of its premium AirPods Max over-ear headphones at US$549, more than five years after the first version's launch. It's priced at S$749 in Singapore.

The update marks Apple's first major refresh of the over-ear headphones since their 2020 debut, as the company adds new features and improved noise cancellation to compete more aggressively in the premium headphones market.

Currently, the segment is largely dominated by Japan's Sony Group, Bose and Sennheiser.

Powered by Apple's in-house H2 chip, which runs the latest range of AirPods devices, the new headphones will be available to order from Mar 25 in more than 30 countries, including Singapore, with retail availability beginning early next month, the company said.

Upgrades to the AirPods Max 2 include better active noise cancellation, an improved microphone system and a range of new features including Adaptive Audio, Conversation Awareness and Live Translation.

Live translation, first introduced on the AirPods Pro 3 in September, enables users to translate in-person conversations across languages using Apple Intelligence, the company's artificial intelligence platform. 

AirPods Max 2 also supports high-resolution lossless audio when connected via USB-C, targeting music creators and professional users who require higher fidelity audio, Apple said. 

Lego fans in Singapore have a new pop-up to explore.

The Lego Group has launched the Lego Shophouse Experience at Design Orchard, an immersive installation inspired by Singapore’s Peranakan shophouses. The experience runs until Apr 5, and is open daily, from 11am to 9pm. Admission is free.

The pop-up recreates the layout of a traditional Peranakan shophouse, allowing visitors to move through different rooms – including dining and living areas, bedrooms, study rooms and twin lofts – designed using Lego bricks and featuring fan-built creations.

Visitors will encounter traditional interiors, such as a foyer with a brick-tile feature wall designed as a photo backdrop. Some everyday objects include a retro cassette player, a wall calendar, a sunflower bouquet, mineral collections and even a Lego interpretation of Claude Monet's artwork.

You can also create your own postcard by collecting coloured stamps around the installation, which together form a graphic inspired by Peranakan heritage. After completing the postcard, head to the retail zone to build a keepsake: A retro Lego boombox from Mondays to Fridays, or a Lego Peranakan mosaic tile on weekends. Quantities are limited each day.

Visitors who sign up for Lego Insiders, the brand’s free membership programme, at the pop-up can receive a free Lego set. To redeem the reward, register via a QR code at the Lego Shophouse Experience and present your confirmation.

The set is randomly allotted and available on a first-come, first-served basis daily. It includes items such as the Grey Castle Set, Retro Tape Player or Baby Gorilla Encounter.

“We’re excited to introduce the Lego Shophouse Experience as it marks our first showcase of this kind,” said Agnes Molnar, the Lego Group’s Marketing Director for Singapore, Malaysia and APAC Travel Retail. “It pays tribute to Singapore’s rich heritage and celebrates the stories, traditions and creativity that connect generations.”

The new Apple MacBook Neo is already shaking up the PC industry with its affordable price. Not only is it Apple's cheapest laptop yet – it starts at S$849 – it's also competing in the low-cost laptops Windows segment, but offering performance that punches way above its price point.

If you're wondering if you should get the MacBook Neo, read on. But if you're thinking whether you should buy one of Apple's other MacBooks instead, don't worry, we’ve got you covered as well. After all, the MacBook range stretches from the new Neo, to the thin and light Air, to the powerful Pros, so here's what each offers.

THE ALL NEW MACBOOK NEO

Designed for everyday use, students, or someone looking to jump into the Mac ecosystem without breaking the bank, the MacBook Neo doesn't use the same processors as the other MacBooks in the lineup. Instead, it's the same chip found on the Apple iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max.

If the question is whether a phone processor can run a computer, the answer is yes. The Neo is more than capable of editing 4K videos, playing games such as Hades II, and offers better value compared to, say, Windows laptops of the same price range which may struggle.

The Neo features a 13-inch display, with storage starting from 256GB (S$849) and going up to 512GB, 16 hours of battery life, dual speakers, and weighs just 1.23kg. But it's not perfect, as the laptop doesn't come with a backlit keyboard, two USB-C ports, only supports one external monitor, and you only get Apple's fingerprint login, Touch ID, if you purchase the 512GB model.

The best thing about the MacBook Neo though, isn't just the price and value. It comes in four gorgeous hues: Silver, Indigo, Blush, and Citrus. The latter is particularly striking, and these bold colours really make this laptop stand out – even compared with the other MacBooks.

So should you get this? Well, if you're looking for a perfect budget laptop, it offers value that's seriously unbeatable right now, unless Windows laptop makers can figure out how to compete in this segment that Apple looks to have upended.

We recommend going for the 512GB version with Touch ID, priced at S$999. You'll appreciate the convenience of Touch ID and the extra storage. If you're a student, the Neo comes with a S$120 discount, so the laptop costs S$729 (256GB) and S$879 (512GB) respectively.

THE SUPER THIN MACBOOK AIR WITH M5

Ever since making its debut in 2008 by getting pulled out of a brown manila envelope, the Air has always impressed with its thinness. It's still the slimmest MacBook at around 1.13cm thick, but no longer the lightest as it now shares that honour with the Neo.

But while they may weigh the same, the S$1,599 MacBook Air with M5 comes with much better specs. It sports the base M5 processor, which is Apple's latest chip for its mainline MacBook range. It comes with 16GB of unified memory, double that of the Neo, and storage space of up to 4TB. The Air with M5 also features a 13.6-inch or 15.3-inch display, 18 hours of battery life, four-speaker system, a backlit keyboard, two USB-C Thunderbolt 4 ports, and Touch ID.

This enables it to handle heavier workloads compared to the Neo, perfect for creatives and executives who want something beefier for travel. The slightly larger display (13.6-inch), longer battery life, more storage space, and a more colour accurate display will make this enticing for users who want a portable and powerful laptop.

And unlike the Neo, it supports two external monitors, perfect for productivity. The only downside? The Air doesn't come with built-in fans, so when it's firing on all cylinders, say, gaming, or video encoding, the laptop may slow down slightly to keep things cool. Like the Neo, you get a pick of four colours (though not as bright): Sky Blue, Silver, Starlight, and Midnight.

So who is the MacBook Air for? The answer is simple. If you want more power compared to the Neo, and prefer its sleek form factor, the 13-inch Air will definitely be the one to get. If you need a bigger screen, go for the 15-inch one instead. But with everything Apple, the Air is designed to offer performance of about 90 per cent of what you'll get if you get the next step up in line: The base MacBook Pro with M5.

THE BASE MACBOOK PRO WITH M5

Sitting right in the middle of the pack and sporting a 14.2-inch 120Hz display, the Pro with M5 offers up to 24 hours of battery life, and a starting 1TB of storage. This is the right balance for those who want a powerful laptop that can handle anything you can throw at it. And if you want to relax and unwind with some games, it is more than capable of running games at 30fps or more.

But what is it that makes the base Pro with M5 something to consider over the Neo or Air? Well, a few things. The 120Hz display gives you buttery smooth scrolling while reading, improved responsiveness, and reduced motion blur. It's also much brighter, and supports HDR content, so movies on Netflix will look amazing. Then there's the six-speaker system, which delivers impressive sound that will give movies an immersive feel.

And unlike the prior two MacBooks, the base MacBook Pro (and onwards) has built-in fans, which keeps the laptop's M5 processor running cooler and letting it run at full power much longer. That means it works great for all sorts of heavy duty tasks, such as 3D modelling, video editing, AI image generation, editing photos, and more.

To be clear, it's not like the Neo and Air aren't capable of doing all these things, but the base Pro with M5 will handle this much better, and run longer as well, with its 24 hours of battery life versus the Air's 18 hours. It also has better connectivity, with three USB-C Thunderbolt 4 ports, a HDMI port, and a SD card reader. Unlike the more colourful MacBooks, the MacBook Pro only comes in Space Black or Silver.

Now, is the Pro the best fit for you? If you want a great laptop that can do it all, you can't go wrong with this MacBook. It has performance for anything you can throw at it, great battery life, and a brilliant display. Creatives will love that it comes with a built-in card reader as well, so you can easily edit photos without needing to bring an extra card reader dongle along.

THE MOST POWERFUL MACBOOK PRO WITH M5 PRO AND M5 MAX

If performance is what you crave and are willing to pay for, then the MacBook Pro with M5 Pro and M5 Max will be your laptop of choice. Don't expect these to come cheap, though, the M5 Pro-powered 14-inch laptop starts at S$2,999, while the M5 Max starts at S$5,099.

The M5 Pro and M5 Max are currently the fastest processors in Apple's laptop lineup, delivering incredible power that lets them do whatever the previous laptops can do without breaking a sweat. And if you're so inclined, these are also incredibly powerful gaming machines, letting you play most games with ease.

Available in two sizes, 14-inch and 16-inch, the MacBook Pro with M5 Pro and M5 Max are also available with an optional matte display. It's a great option to have, and costs just a bit more. They also come with everything the base Pro has, but with more power and speed.

These highest-end models come with three USB-C ports, but with the faster Thunderbolt 5 connectivity standard, which is twice the speed of Thunderbolt 4. You also get the same HDMI port and SD card reader.

The MacBook Pro with M5 Pro and M5 Max are perfect for the current AI boom, with the performance and capabilities to run your own AI chat bots on the machine itself without needing to go online. It will also be able to generate images from text descriptions the fastest of all the MacBooks. 

Other uses include data modelling, post-production work, and anyone doing complex computation and simulations. So get this if you're planning to do all that, or if money is no issue and you just want the very best.

It might have taken six years for Jeanette Aw to make her Channel 8 comeback, but we think the 46-year-old is definitely enjoying herself a lot more on set now.

“I still have expectations for myself, but I won’t put pressure on my co-stars anymore,” Aw candidly told Chinese media Zaobao.sg at the press conference for her new drama Highway to Somewhere on Mar 4, 2026.

In the new gripping thriller series, Aw plays Liu Huizhen, whose marriage to Zhang Fangda (Romeo Tan) is on the brink of collapse. They attempt to mend their relationship through a road trip, but their journey takes a daunting twist, no thanks to a mysterious stalker, played by Nick Teo.

The actress stepped away from full-time acting in 2017 before launching her own artisanal patisserie Once Upon A Time. Her last Mediacorp drama prior to this was 2019’s After The Stars.

Aw noted that she and her character in the series share similar qualities, as both are very direct and candid. 

She said: “I feel that there’s no need to beat around the bush. If you have something to say, just say it directly so everyone understands.”

The actress, however, acknowledged that her high standards for herself and blunt personality made her appear strict and unapproachable on set.

“Many actors who have worked with me felt a lot of pressure, because I expect a lot from myself and unconsciously expect the same from my co-stars. And since I speak very directly, sometimes I end up hurting others,” she recalled.

But this time, she noticed she’s no longer the same as before: “I’ve become happier and more relaxed, and I’ve let go of many things.”

Truth is, in the past, Aw didn’t like communicating or chatting with others while filming.

K-pop supergroup BTS is set to launch a fan experience project called BTS City, transforming Seoul into their stage with pop-up events, exhibitions and themed activations across the city.

On Monday (Mar 16), the group posted their detailed BTS City programme line-up on fan communication platform Weverse in the lead-up to their highly-anticipated return with album Arirang, out on Friday (Mar 20), kickstarting a slew of BTS-themed events and spaces taking over Seoul.

These are some of the festivities not to be missed.

On Mar 20, the day of the album release, four iconic landmarks in Seoul will light up from 7pm onwards: Sungnyemun, N Seoul Tower, Gwanghwamun Square and Dongdaemun Design Plaza.

Another popular spot in Seoul, the Han River, will come alive with BTS festivities. 

Here, ARMYs can look forward to a 15-minute drone light show at Ttukseom Hangang Park or head over to the Love Song Lounge at Yeouido Hangang Park to relax while listening to BTS’ tunes. The latter event will be held till Mar 22.

Gwanghwamun Square, where BTS will be performing on Saturday (Mar 21), will be another hot spot. From 7pm on Mar 20 to midnight on Mar 22, fans can catch BTS content on the large outdoor screens located around the square, with viewing sessions held every 20 minutes.

Following Mar 20, fans can catch music light shows at Dongdaemun Design Plaza till Apr 12, as well as at Banpodaegyo Bridge Moonlight Rainbow Fountain on Mar 21 and 22 from 7.30pm to 8.30pm.

A stamp rally will also take place around Seoul from Mar 20 to Apr 19, where ARMYs with valid Weverse accounts can complete missions at various locations to collect stamps. Collect five and earn the Seoul Special badge. The first 10,000 fans who clear the ARMY Madang stage will get a trial version of the BTS digital membership.

For ARMYs looking to purchase merchandise, a series of pop-up stores are opening in Seoul from Mar 20 to Apr 12 at Hybe's Yongsan headquarters and at Shinsegae Department Store’s main branch. 

Items include official Arirang merchandise including apparel and traditional Korean items, as well as five items in BTS’ collaboration with National Museum Foundation of Korea’s cultural goods brand Mu:ds.

Many other on-ground promotions await fans across Seoul, from hidden photo spots around the city with Photoism, a popular Korean self-photo studio chain in Seoul, to BTS-themed menus at cafes and restaurants.

Travellers flying into Seoul for BTS’ highly-awaited return can also stay at hotels collaborating with BTS for special F&B programmes in their restaurants, including JW Marriott Hotel Seoul and The Westin Seoul Parnas.

Travellers can also use applications like the K.Ride app or Kakao T to travel to every BTS City location within Seoul with ease and comfort using a special discount code.

More detailed information for each highlight of the BTS City can be found on BTS’ official Weverse page. 

Another one bites the dust in Singapore’s dining scene. Hong Kong-based restaurant chain Itacho Sushi has closed its remaining outlets in Singapore, with its website and social media accounts no longer active.

Founded in Hong Kong in 2004 under the Taste of Japan Group, Itacho Sushi was known for its handmade sushi and popular salmon dishes. The chain expanded internationally in the late 2000s and opened its first Singapore outlet in 2009.

In its early years, the brand built a strong local following, often drawing long queues at mealtimes. According to local Reddit users who frequented the chain, it used to be known for offering what many diners saw as premium Japanese food at relatively accessible prices, including promotional sushi priced at under S$1 per piece.

However, some customers online also said the restaurant’s appeal had waned in recent years. On Reddit and other forums, users pointed out that the menu quality appeared to have declined even as prices increased.

The chain’s closure follows earlier developments in Hong Kong. In December 2024, the South China Morning Post reported that Itacho Sushi’s final Hong Kong outlet had shut down after the death of its founder, Ricky Cheng. 

In Singapore, the chain had four outlets located at Ion Orchard, Bugis Junction, Square 2 at Novena and The Star Vista – all of which are now listed as permanently closed on Google Maps.

At the time of writing, the brand’s website is no longer accessible, and its social media accounts on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok appear to have been removed. Its mobile app, previously used for menu browsing, ordering and rewards, is also no longer available on app stores. There had been no public announcement from the company regarding the closures.

A spokesperson from Bugis Junction, which is owned by CapitaLand, told CNA Lifestyle: “The closure of Itacho Sushi at Bugis Junction was a planned non-renewal by the tenant, Itacho, as part of a planned unwinding of their Singapore business following the passing of the group’s Hong Kong founder in 2024. The last day of their lease was on Mar 11, 2026.”

CNA Lifestyle has contacted Itacho Sushi for comments.

The 98th Academy Awards on Monday (Mar 16), Singapore time, saw One Battle After Another win big with six awards, including best picture, director, supporting actor and casting.

Sinners followed with four awards, including best actor for leading man Michael B Jordan.

Comedian Conan O’Brien returned for a second year to host the ceremony, held at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles.

Best original song winners had many more thanks to give backstage

Netflix's KPop Demon Hunters won best animated feature film. In her acceptance speech, director Maggie Kang apologised to “those of you who look like [her]” that it took so long for them to be represented on the screen.

“This is for Korea and Koreans everywhere,” she said.

Ejae, Audrey Nuna and Rei Ami, the vocalists behind the movie's hit track Golden, later performed it live for the Oscars audience.

Golden ended up winning best original song.

As the group of winners accepted the award, the music started up. Singer-songwriter Ejae, who spoke first, put her hand up and said, “Please stop.” The music kept going as her fellow winners tried to speak and then the lights dimmed as they cut to commercial.

They later thanked additional colleagues and family members backstage, with Ejae saying that she wanted to shout out Rei Ami and Audrey Nuna.

The cast also delivered thanks to their fans watching in Korea.

“I was very nervous but it was such an honour to be performing, it’s such an incredible stage,” Ejae said. “It was not on my bucket list because I did not think it was possible.”

She added it was an “incredible experience” to honour their ancestors by beginning their performance with Korean traditional music.

One Battle After Another wins best picture

The film was the big winner at this year’s Oscars, leading the way with six wins: Best picture, best directing, best actor in a supporting role, best writing (adapted screenplay), best casting and best film editing.

It becomes the 42nd film in Oscars history with at least six statuettes.

Sean Penn, who won best supporting actor, had skipped the ceremony.

“Sean Penn couldn’t be here this evening,” presenter Kieran Culkin said. “Or didn’t want to, so I’ll be accepting the award on his behalf.”

Penn did little campaigning this awards season and also stayed away from the Actor Awards and BAFTA Awards, where he won trophies.

It’s not the first time Penn has no-showed at the Oscars.

The 65-year-old actor has never appeared too attached to Hollywood hardware, whether he wins or loses. He previously gave one of his Oscars to Ukraine president Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

Sinners won four this year and Frankenstein won three.

Michael B Jordan wins best actor

The loudest and rowdiest applause of the evening likely came from inside the press room when Michael B Jordan was announced as the winner of the best actor prize. Reporters in the room burst into raucous cheers before presenter Adrien Brody could even finish reading out the Sinners star’s name.

Michael B Jordan’s father stood up and pumped his fist toward the stage. The actor said his father flew in from Ghana for the Oscars.

He was one of the many, many people who gave the Sinners star a rousing, standing ovation for his first Oscar win.

“I stand here because of the people that came before me,” he said, adding thanks for the support he’s received throughout his life.

“I feel it, I know you guys want to me to do well, and I want to do that because you guys bet on me.”

Reiner’s actors join Billy Crystal onstage in tribute

Billy Crystal opened the in memoriam segment honouring his best friend, Rob Reiner.

He ticked off a list of Reiner’s films, including When Harry Met Sally, starring Crystal and Meg Ryan, Stand By Me, Say Anything and This Is Spinal Tap, among many others.

A photo of Reiner and his wife, Michelle Singer Reiner, appeared behind Crystal.

The Reiners were found dead in their Los Angeles home in December. Their son, Nick Reiner, has been charged with the deaths of his parents and has pleaded not guilty.

Having a slew of actors with longstanding ties to Reiner – Meg Ryan, Kiefer Sutherland, Fred Savage, Demi Moore, John Cusack, Ione Skye and many others – come on stage for the tribute was reminiscent of how the Academy did the same for director John Hughes at the Oscars 16 years ago.

‘An intellectual cowboy who blazed his own trail’

Barbra Streisand’s tribute to Robert Redford highlighted the late actor-director’s history of defending press freedoms, protecting the environment and encouraging new voices in film.

“Bob had real backbone on and off the screen,” she said.

Babs, as Redford used to call her, sang The Way We Were at the end of her tribute.

“I miss him now more than ever, even though he loved teasing me,” she said, explaining how she got the nickname.

Rachel McAdams paid tribute to women – and Diane Keaton, in particular

“Believe me when I say there is no actress of my generation who was not inspired by and enthralled with her absolute singularity,” she said.

McAdams told the audience a Girl Scout song Keaton used to sing on film sets:

"Make new friends, but keep the old. One is silver, the other is gold. A circle is round, it has no end. That’s how long, I will be your friend."

Winners of the 98th Academy Awards

Best Picture

One Battle After Another

Best Actor

Michael B Jordan, Sinners

Best Actress

Jessie Buckley, Hamnet

Best Supporting Actress

Amy Madigan, Weapons

Best Supporting Actor

Sean Penn, One Battle After Another

Best Director

Paul Thomas Anderson, One Battle After Another

Best Original Song

Golden from KPop Demon Hunters, Ejae, Mark Sonnenblick, Joong Gyu-kwak, Yu Han-lee, Hee Dong-nam, Jeong Hoon-seon and Teddy Park

Best Original Score

Sinners, Ludwig Goransson

Best Animated Film

KPop Demon Hunters

Best International Film

Sentimental Value, Norway

Best Documentary Feature

Mr Nobody Against Putin

Best Casting

Cassandra Kulukundis, One Battle After Another

Best Sound

Gareth John, Al Nelson, Gwendolyn Yates Whittle, Gary A. Rizzo and Juan Peralta, F1

Best Cinematography

Autumn Durald Arkapaw, Sinners

Best Original Screenplay

Sinners, Ryan Coogler

Best Adapted Screenplay

One Battle After Another, Paul Thomas Anderson

Best Live Action Short Film

The Singers and Two People Exchanging Saliva (Tie)

Best Animated Short Film

The Girl Who Cried Pearls

Best Documentary Short Film

All The Empty Rooms

Best Visual Effects

Joe Letteri, Richard Baneham, Eric Saindon and Daniel Barrett, Avatar: Fire And Ash

Best Production Design

Tamara Deverell and Shane Vieau, Frankenstein

Best Film Editing

Andy Jurgensen, One Battle After Another

Best Makeup And Hairstyling

Mike Hill, Jordan Samuel, Cliona Furey, Frankenstein

Best Costume Design

Kate Hawley, Frankenstein

Japan lovers, cherry blossom season is returning to Gardens by the Bay.

The annual Sakura floral display will return to the Flower Dome for its 11th edition, featuring landscapes inspired by Japan’s Ishikawa prefecture. This year’s display recreates scenes reminiscent of historic Japanese streets, including settings where samurai once walked and traditional teahouses associated with geisha culture.

The Sakura display is a limited-time installation held each year at the Flower Dome that brings elements of Japan’s cherry blossom season to Singapore, featuring a range of cherry and plum blossom trees within a themed Japanese landscape. This year's display will run until Apr 15, 2026. 

Sakura 2026 is presented in partnership with the Embassy of Japan in Singapore and coincides with the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Singapore and Japan. The display was officially launched on Sunday (Mar 15) by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade and Industry Gan Kim Yong, alongside Gardens by the Bay chief executive officer Felix Loh and Japan’s Ambassador to Singapore Hiroshi Ishikawa.

This year’s edition features close to 40 varieties of cherry blossoms and highlights traditional sake-brewing processes associated with Ishikawa Prefecture. Adding a playful touch to the display are Sanrio characters, including Hello Kitty, My Melody, Pompompurin, Cinnamoroll and Kuromi, placed among the blossoms.

Anime fans can also look forward to the Anime Garden at the Supertree Grove and Flower Dome on Mar 21 and 22. The event will feature appearances by cosplayers Thames Malerose and Munoko, as well as performances by local and regional artists, including Japanese singers Yanaginagi and Eir Aoi, who will perform anime songs and J-pop hits at the event venue. A marketplace offering merchandise, collectibles, as well as food and drinks will also be held during the weekend event.

“Sakura remains a much-loved tradition that our visitors look forward to each spring, and we continually strive to make each edition a special experience,” said Gardens by the Bay's CEO Loh.

“Coaxing cherry blossoms to bloom in the tropics remains no small feat and beyond crowd favourite cultivars, we introduce new varieties each year so our visitors have new blooms to enjoy. Each edition of Sakura also spotlights a region of Japan, celebrating its landscapes, traditions and cultural heritage.

“This year, as Singapore and Japan mark 60 years of diplomatic relations, we are honoured to spotlight Ishikawa Prefecture, bringing the nostalgic charms of its samurai and geisha legacy to Flower Dome for the first time.”

Fans who attended Korean singer 10cm’s Singapore concert on Saturday (Mar 14) will receive full refunds after the singer experienced a "sudden decline" in his throat condition on the day of the show.

The concert, part of his 2026 Asia tour, took place at The Theatre at Mediacorp.

In a statement posted on Instagram, concert organiser FriedRice Entertainment said: “Due to a sudden decline in the artiste’s throat condition, he received medical attention from local medical staff on the day of the show.”

Despite the issue, the concert proceeded as scheduled as the singer wished to perform for fans who had come to the venue and he performed a full set.

Organisers apologised, saying they were “unable to present a fully complete performance in the artiste’s best condition”.

“As such, a full refund will be issued for this concert,” the statement said. All refunds will be made via Ticketmaster through the original mode of payment. Refunds may take up to 40 business days to process.

Fans who attended the concert were filled with praise for the singer for pushing through despite his condition.

One fan on X said: “His throat clearly wasn't at its best, but he still gave [it] all his best. There was [supposed] to be just one ending song, yet he added Spring Snow as well. He also told us not to worry about his condition and encouraged us to keep cheering for an encore.”

Another fan said: "I'm just a casual listener of 10cm but he [really] earned my respect after this show.”

Organisers said they will “continue to closely monitor the artiste’s condition with medical professionals, prioritise the artiste's health and safety and do [their] best to ensure a swift recovery.”

10cm, whose real name is Kwon Jeong-yeol, was originally a duo act formed in 2010. Now a solo artiste and one of the most popular indie acts in South Korea, 10cm is known for songs such as Spring Snow, a soundtrack from K-drama Lovely Runner, and Tell Me It's Not A Dream from K-drama Queen Of Tears.

KPop Demon Hunters won two Academy Awards, best animated feature film and best original song, on Monday (Mar 16), Singapore time, capping a culturally defining run that has placed the musical-action movie atop both box-office and music charts. Golden is the first K-pop song to win an Oscar.

Netflix's big blockbuster follows HUNTR/X, a Korean girl group that battles otherworldly demons, a rival boy band and their lead singer's own shame. Its choppy animation style, which combines 2D anime aesthetics with 3D CGI stylisations, underscores the high-octane action. The soundtrack, led by the Grammy-winning hit Golden, landed eight songs on the Billboard Hot 100. Alongside all the demon-slaying and choreography is a creative tale of self-acceptance that blends Korean mythology and K-pop idol culture.

The win further demonstrates the global influence of South Korean pop culture. The film's fantastical world, where the only force standing between evil spirits and humanity is one snack-loving vocal trio, inspired many children’s Halloween costumes in the United States. The HUNTR/X singers – Ejae, Audrey Nuna and Rei Ami – gained hundreds of thousands of Instagram followers, performed at Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade and appeared alongside Bad Bunny on the Saturday Night Live season premiere.

Arden Cho, who provided the speaking voice for Rumi, was named one of The Associated Press' Breakthrough Entertainers of 2025.

The film's victory came as little surprise to those following awards season. The other nominees – Arco, Elio, Little Amelie Or The Character Of Rain and Zootopia 2 – had racked up a few prizes at the shows leading up to the Oscars. KPop Demon Hunters won big at many of the precursors, including the Producers Guild Awards and the Golden Globes.

The recognition continues voters' celebration of original animated stories that don't adapt existing intellectual property. Recent winners include Hayao Miyazaki's The Boy And The Heron and the Latvian film Flow.

Maggie Kang, one of the film's directors, has said she wanted to fully immerse viewers in its Korean setting rather than explain certain elements for Western audiences. By “throwing people into the deep end of a culture”, she previously told the AP, it is easier to break down barriers. “If you don’t shine a light on it, it just becomes more easily accepted,” she said.