Andrew Knox, The Economist’s Korea correspondent, delves into the complexities of South Korea’s mandatory military service, particularly as BTS member Kim Sook Jin begins his duty. He discusses the cultural significance of conscription for global stars and contrasts it with pressing issues like food inflation in Africa. The turmoil under Elon Musk at Twitter is explored, revealing the challenges of governance in social media. From shrinkflation to celebrity responsibilities, Knox provides a fascinating perspective on societal norms and economic realities.
Elon Musk may be stepping down as chief executive, but he has already changed the firm’s fortunes—and shown that social media’s free-speech struggle is far from over. A bit of fried dough in Kenya reveals how cost-of-living concerns in Africa manifest as shrinkflation. And why members of South Korea’s pop behemoth BTS are headed into the armed forces.