Asian excellence

When South Korean director Park Chan-wook was in Hong Kong for the promotion of his latest movie Decision to Leave (2022), he talked to Tatler about how his unique take on life, translated in groundbreaking productions such as Oldboy (2003), thrust South Korean cinema into the international limelight.

Since his early movies, the Korean director has shown the world what Asian excellence could look like. Other than cinema, this newsletter highlights numerous trailblazers across industries: in literature, with award-winning Thai “boy's love” writer Jidanun Lueangpiansamut; in architecture, with Malaysian entrepreneur Lucas Loo’s startup which uses bamboo for construction; and even in cosmetics, with Korean celebrities popularising the ultra-dewy “glass skin” glow—among other trends in the field.

Other newsletter highlights this week:

Have an amazing Friday, and a wonderful weekend!

Salomé Grouard
Deputy Digital Editor

 

STYLE

Everything you need to know about popular cosmetic treatments

Cosmetic treatments are becoming an openly discussed topic today with more people sharing details of their experiences (Photo: Getty Images)

More people are turning towards non- or minimally-invasive treatments to enhance natural features, rather than dramatically changing the way they look.

From facials to micro-doses of Botox, we document a variety of treatments available today, as well as trends that are rising in this space.

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MORE FROM STYLE

German-born South Korean actress Mun Ka-young is Tumi’s latest global brand ambassador.

Here’s everything you need to know about investing in jade and jadeite.

Horology's biggest annual event Watches & Wonders returns this month in Geneva: here’s what to know about the watch fair.

 

LIFESTYLE

The events you can’t miss in Hong Kong this April

The Hong Kong Rugby Sevens are back again this April (Photo: Instagram / @hksevens)

Although Art Month has officially ended, there are still quite a few events to attend in Hong Kong.

From the Rugby Sevens to music festival Creamfields—with Martin Garrix headlining—and exciting Earth Day celebrations, here are the events you cannot miss this month. 

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MORE FROM LIFESTYLE

Mercury retrograde is about to start, and Tatler’s astrologer Casey Chan tells us what it means for each star sign.

Ahead of his Hong Kong performance with The Wailers, Aston Barrett Jr talks about spreading Bob Marley’s message.

Travel like a local and stay at these late winter destinations in South Korea.

 

POWER & PURPOSE

Will the BL genre bring global recognition for Thai literature?

Jidanun Lueangpiansamut wonders if the somewhat controversial genre that is BL might be the key to popularising Thai literature

Do you know about “BL” or “Boys' love” literature? Originating in Japan in the 1970s, the genre has found a new popularity in Thailand in recent years.

Multi-award-winning Thai writer Jidanun Lueangpiansamut says that the genre might break barriers and bring homegrown stories to a brand new audience.

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MORE FROM POWER & PURPOSE

Meet the visionary CEOs fuelling Asia’s sustainable energy ambitions.

Here’s how this startup empowers “Orang Asli” communities by transforming bamboo into the construction material of the future.

Workaholism has surprising costs. This psychotherapist breaks them down for you.
 

 

HOMES

An opulent holiday home in Phuket, Thailand

An uninterrupted view of the Andaman Sea from the outdoor terrace of this holiday home

Trisara is an exclusive resort complex of residential and holiday villas nestled in the secluded bay of Nai Thon amidst the lush tropical hills of Phuket.

Take a sneak peek inside the luxurious home serving as a timeless homage to the rich cultural tapestry of Thailand.

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MORE FROM HOMES

How Ikea’s Tesammans collection is a dopamine decor hit.

Chinese calligraphy and the lunar phases have inspired the architects behind this Singaporean apartment.

These 14 modern resort-style homes in Malaysia embody peacefulness and inspire calm.

 

DINING

Tatler Dining Awards Hong Kong & Macau’s nominees

Tatler Dining Awards 2024

The Tatler Dining Awards Hong Kong & Macau is back this year! 

From Rising Star to Best Interior Design, find out which names are in contention to win at the Tatler Dining Awards on April 9, 2024.

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MORE FROM DINING

These are the best ways to cook eggs, according to chefs.

The secret to chef Hélène Darroze’s longevity in the restaurant industry.

Inside 5 Kuala Lumpur restaurants showcasing open-flame cooking and sizzling design.

 

AROUND ASIA

SINGAPORE | As Singapore Olympic champion Joseph Schooling announces his retirement, these are the facts you might not know about him.

PHILIPPINES | These 15 Filipinos made it onto Forbes’ 2024 list of richest billionaires in the world.

MALAYSIA | Tatler speaks to renowned father-and-daughter eco-architects Serina Hijjas and Hijjas Kasturi on their passion for sustainable design.