Shanghai’s changing expats, Hong Kong trail sign fallout: SCMP’s 7 highlights

We have selected seven stories from this week’s news across Hong Kong, mainland China, the wider Asia region and beyond that resonated with our readers and shed light on topical issues. If you would like to see more of our reporting, please consider subscribing.1. 2 former Chinese defence ministers handed suspended death sentencesTwo former Chinese defence ministers, Wei Fenghe and Li Shangfu, have received suspended death sentences after being found guilty of corruption, according to Xinhua.2. ‘It’s a new crowd’: how Shanghai’s expat population is recovering – and changingTourists from Belarus and Russia pose for photos at Yuyuan Garden in central Shanghai. Photo: XinhuaFour years after Shanghai’s harsh citywide lockdown, there are signs the city’s expatriate population – which thinned significantly during the pandemic – is starting to rebound, though with a notably different demographic profile.3. Authorities vow action after woman poses with detached MacLehose Trail signA viral photo of a woman holding a detached MacLehose Trail sign in Sai Kung has drawn criticism online. Photo: HandoutHong Kong authorities have vowed to follow up on a case of a detached MacLehose Trail sign after a woman shared a photo of herself posing with the wooden marker on social media that went viral and sparked online discussions.4. Has China given the first sign it’s ready to export J-35A fighter to Pakistan?A J-35A fighter jet appeared on Chinese state television on May 1, fuelling speculation it is a variant set for export to Pakistan. Photo: CCTVChina’s state broadcaster has given a glimpse of the first export variant of the J-35A – the country’s second land-based fifth-generation fighter jet – with Pakistan the most likely recipient, according to reports and analysis.5. China unveils new naval defence systems as drones change nature of war at seaThe Chinese navy has unveiled a new anti-drone air defence system, according to state broadcaster CCTV. The report on Monday said a “finalisation test” – which certifies that a weapon system’s design meets all operational requirements – had been successfully carried out in the Bohai Sea.6. South Korean judge in Kim Keon-hee’s appeals trial found dead days after verdictA South Korean appellate court judge who presided over a high-profile case involving former first lady Kim Keon-hee was found dead early Wednesday morning, police said.7. Chinese son saves driver from burning truck after ‘might not return’ call to mumA Chinese man in his 20s rescued a driver from a burning truck, calling his mother to say he might not return. Photo: SCMP composite/DouyinA young Chinese man who risked his life to save a driver from a burning truck, called his mother during his heroic act to tell her that he “might not return”.Further Reading