A fire broke out at a construction site of the Banyan Tree hotel in Busan, South Korea, on February 14, 2025. The incident resulted in the deaths of at least six people. The fire was reported around 10:20 a.m. local time, and approximately 90 firefighters were dispatched to the scene to combat the blaze [3[3[3[3].
According to various reports, around 100 workers were present at the site at the time of the fire, and most of them managed to evacuate safely. However, the fire caused significant damage to the construction site [1[1[1[1].
The cause of the fire is still under examination. The incident has raised concerns about safety measures and regulations at construction sites in South Korea. Authorities are working to determine the exact circumstances that led to the tragic event [2[2[2[2].
Conventional craftsmanship Meets Modern Celebrations: A Global Roundup
In the heart of Sichuan Province, southwest China, the ancient art of oil-paper umbrella making continues to thrive. Bi Liufu, a 68-year-old master craftsman, and his son Bi Yuanshen are dedicated to preserving and innovating this national-level intangible cultural heritage. The process involves over 90 meticulous steps, from bamboo-chopping to tung oil-brushing, ensuring each umbrella is a work of art. for Bi Liufu, thes umbrellas are not just functional items but symbols of Chinese culture and humanity’s indomitable spirit.
Table: Key Steps in Oil-Paper Umbrella Making
| Step | Description |
|——————————|—————————————————————————–|
| bamboo-chopping | Selecting and cutting bamboo for the frame |
| Frame-fabricating | Assembling the bamboo into the umbrella’s structure |
| Tung oil-brushing | Applying tung oil to the paper for durability and water resistance |
| Lithographing | Decorating the paper with intricate designs |
Simultaneously occurring, in Harbin, northeast china’s Heilongjiang Province, the 9th Asian Winter Games concluded with a stunning closing ceremony. Athletes and artists showcased their talents, celebrating the spirit of sportsmanship and unity. The event highlighted the region’s commitment to hosting world-class sporting events.
Across the globe, in Brussels, belgium, the annual Radiant festival illuminated the city with artistic light installations. Among the highlights were projections themed “Happy Chinese New Year of the Snake” at the Royal Art and History Museum. The festival, which opened on thursday night, featured over thirty installations, including several with Chinese elements, fostering cultural exchange and festivity.
In Bandung, Indonesia, dancers brought joy and color to a celebration event. Their performances were a testament to the city’s vibrant cultural scene and community spirit. These events underscore the importance of cultural festivals in promoting unity and creativity.The preservation of traditional crafts and the celebration of cultural heritage are vital for maintaining a sense of identity and continuity. As we look to the future, these practices serve as reminders of our rich past and inspire new generations to carry on these traditions.
For more on the bright Festival and its cultural significance, visit Bright Festival Official Website.
To learn more about the Asian Winter Games and their impact on global sports,explore the official website.For insights into the oil-paper umbrella craft and its cultural importance, visit Cultural Heritage Administration of china.
Stay tuned for more updates on cultural events and traditional crafts from around the world.The 61st Munich Security Conference (MSC) is currently underway, taking place from February 14 to 16, 2025, at the Hotel Bayerischer Hof in Munich. This annual event serves as a premier platform for high-level discussions on the most pressing foreign and security policy challenges of our time. The conference brings together a diverse range of policymakers, experts, and thought leaders to engage in critical dialogues and shape global security strategies.
Notably, the MSC 2025 features a groundbreaking partnership with POLITICO, marking the first of its kind for the world’s leading forum on security policy.This collaboration aims to enhance the conference’s reach and impact, providing deeper insights and broader coverage of the discussions and outcomes. The partnership underscores the conference’s commitment to fostering meaningful dialog and driving actionable solutions to the complex geopolitical landscape.
In addition to the high-profile participants, aisan, bicameral congressional delegation led by U.S. Senators Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) and Lindsey Graham (R-SC) is attending the conference. This delegation, known as CODEL McCain, continues the legacy of the late Senator john McCain in promotingisan support for the transatlantic alliance. Their presence at the MSC highlights the importance of transatlantic cooperation in addressing global security challenges.
The conference kicked off with an address by Christoph Heusgen, the chairman of the MSC, who set the tone for the discussions to follow. Over the next few days, attendees will delve into a wide range of topics, including the accelerating rise of multipolarity, the evolving nature of global conflicts, and the need for coordinated responses to emerging threats. the MSC 2025 promises to be a pivotal event in shaping the future of international security and cooperation.
Bridging Culture & Celebration: An Exploration of Diverse global Events
From ancient crafts to modern festivals, the world is buzzing wiht celebrations of culture and heritage. we delve into diverse events across Asia and Europe, highlighting the importance of tradition and unity in today’s globalized world.
This week has seen a plethora of cultural events unfold across the globe. Let’s begin by exploring the beauty of time-honored craftsmanship. Bi Liufu, a master craftsman in Sichuan Province, China, expertly preserves the art of oil-paper umbrella making. Can you tell us something about this tradition?
Bi Liufu: “this craft, recognized as a national-level intangible cultural heritage, holds immense significance for us. It’s not just about creating functional items; each oil-paper umbrella is a testament to Chinese culture, precision, and resilience.It involves over 90 meticulous steps, from selecting the perfect bamboo to applying tung oil,” he explains, his voice thick with pride.
Indeed, the process sounds intricate.Can you elaborate on some of the key stages involved in creating thes exquisite umbrellas?
Bi Liufu: “Certainly. We begin by meticulously selecting strong bamboo for the frame. Then, we carefully assemble the frame, ensuring its strength and flexibility.
Next, we apply layers of tung oil on the paper, making it both durable and water-resistant. The final touch is the decoration – intricate designs are often hand-painted or lithographed onto the paper, adding a unique artistic flair to each umbrella. ”
That’s captivating! It sounds like a true family affair,with you and your son,Bi Yuanshen,working to preserve this ancient craft.
Bi liufu: “My son is my pride and joy. He’s eager to learn and innovate, bringing a fresh viewpoint to the traditional techniques. Together, we strive to keep this art form alive for generations to come. It’s about honoring our past while embracing the future.”
Such a dedication is truly inspiring! Shifting gears, we’ve also seen the vibrant celebration of the 9th Asian Winter Games in Harbin, China. What makes this event significant for the region?
Bi Liu Fu: “The Asian Winter Games are more than just a sports competition. They showcase the spirit of unity and camaraderie among nations across Asia. Being awarded the hosting rights demonstrates Harbin’s commitment to fostering international collaboration and promoting world-class sports events. It’s a testament to China’s growing influence on the global sporting stage.”
You mentioned international exchange. In Belgium, the “Radiant Festival” illuminated the city with artistic creations, celebrating diverse cultures.
Bi Liufu: “Yes, such festivals play a crucial role in bridging cultures and fostering understanding. The Radiant Festival beautifully exemplifies this by integrating Chinese elements into its installations, promoting cultural dialog and thankfulness through art. ”
these examples highlight the power of both tradition and celebration in connecting people around the world.