Timely reports on issues and events from across China. Drawing on a vast range of sources, these succinct articles provide insights into the significance of each issue in a wider context.

NEWS

RisingTones

In Shaanxi, a Long-Buried Han Dynasty Tomb Is a Study in Power

The tomb of a Han dynasty prime minister, found with gold artifacts and rare clay seals, offers insights into ancient feudal China.

Li Xin

Shigatse Earthquake: Over 120 Dead as Rescuers Battle Cold and Rubble

As officials warn of more tremors, rescue teams comb through collapsed homes in search of survivors, and medical experts and emergency supplies pour into the affected region.

Chen Yiru

Jiang Xinyi

China Bars Two-Time Asian Champion Guangzhou FC Over Rising Debt

The expulsion underscores deepening financial woes in Chinese football, with unpaid wages and rising debts forcing clubs out of competition.

In Shanghai, Brain Implants Turn Thought Into Speech and Movement

The breakthrough in brain-computer interface technology opens possibilities for patients with speech and motor impairments.

Fan Yiying

China Slaps Heavy Fine on Top Dating Platform for False Ads

Zhenai, one of China’s oldest matchmaking services, was penalized for misleading users with fake profiles, exaggerated claims, and aggressive sales tactics, according to regulators.

Skincare to Seafood, China’s Trade Hubs Ride the Livestream Wave

A new Douyin report shows how livestreaming is driving billions in sales across China, with central and western regions rapidly gaining ground.

He Qitong

Touch and Go: Will Alipay’s ‘Tap!’ Gamble Pay Off?

The tech company is trying to disrupt China’s mobile payment market. The response from merchants and shoppers has been mixed.

Her Abuse Was a National Story. Now Her Husband Is Going to Prison.

He Zhongyang, whose violent assault last year left his wife hospitalized with permanent organ damage, has been sentenced to 11 years in prison.

More Chinese Couples Are Choosing to Live Apart. Is It Worth It?

A new study examines the rise of long-distance “commuter marriages” in China, driven by career and financial goals. It also highlights the emotional strain, gender imbalances, and family pressures such couples face.

Ding Rui

One Million Years Later, Yunxian Man Finally Gets a Glow Up 

Using advanced scanning, modeling, and forensic techniques, Chinese scientists have reconstructed the faces of Yunxian Man from million-year-old skulls.