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Samsung Electronics Showcases Galaxy S23 Series at Lao Samsung Multi Experience Store

Lao Samsung Electronics has launched its new Galaxy S23 series for the public to try out at its Lao Samsung Multi Experience Store in Vientiane Capital.

D&A Jewellery: Grand Opening of International Flagship Boutique

Biggest collection of never-seen-before Colombian emeralds coincides with grand opening celebrations

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach – 4 February 2023 – In conjunction with the official opening of its international flagship boutique in Singapore, D&A Jewellery is proud to present an extraordinary collection of never-seen-before, exceptional quality, investment-standard Colombian emeralds.

A pair of pear-shaped emeralds (45.84ct & 42.55ct) totalling 88.39ct

A pair of pear-shaped emeralds (45.84ct & 42.55ct) totalling 88.39ct

From 4th to 10th February 2023, gemstone aficionados will have the opportunity to marvel at over 100 significant pieces of the highly-prized green gemstone at D&A Jewellery’s flagship boutique at ION Orchard, meticulously sourced, selected and procured, they are a testament to the brand’s unwavering ethos of offering nothing but the best. Remarkable pieces in the collection include an astonishing 92.14 carats, of vivid green, octagonal-shaped Colombian emerald, a pair of stunning pear-shaped, vivid green Colombian emeralds totalling 88.39 carats, a set of 15-pieces Colombian emeralds totalling 175.31 carats, and many more, all of which certified by renowned, international gemological laboratories.

Synonymous with royalty, emeralds are one of the world’s oldest gemstones. Indeed, Cleopatra was renowned for her love of the gemstone that is considered the “Jewel of Kings” and was known to have adorned herself and her palace with emeralds. Today, emeralds found in Colombia, especially the ones mined in the Cordillera mountains of the Andes, particularly from the Muzo mines there, are the most sought-after by collectors globally.

The most important feature of all emeralds is the colour and even a slight variation in the color of an emerald has a very significant effect its value. Those with a bright, pure green hue, reminiscent of fresh grass under the sunlight, with saturation and a glow that radiates from inside the gem, are considered exceptionally rare, and hence, most precious.

The amazing 92.14ct Colombian octagonal-shaped emerald

The amazing 92.14ct Colombian octagonal-shaped emerald

Founded by Jewish sisters Daria and Anna, D&A is the epitome of style, luxury and finesse. With its luxurious, contemporary jewellery flagship boutique spanning over 1,000 square feet, D&A Jewellery aims to create a whole new shopping experience for the modern fine jewellery and precious gems consumer. With a multitude of experiential elements, from installations to eclectic furnishing and artworks from renowned artists, together with a stunning selection of rare and precious gems, as well as exceptionally crafted fine and high jewellery, the boutique provides a complete and immersive experience.

To view the extraordinary emeralds in private, please call 82072008 to arrange an appointment, or visit D&A Jewellery flagship boutique at #03-04, ION Orchard.

For more information, please visit www.da.style or checkout their Instagram @da_jewellery
Hashtag: #D&AStyle #Jewellery #Flagship #Emeralds


The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

DA JEWELLERY PTE. LTD

United States to Help Advance Maternal Child Health, Nutrition in Laos

United States to Help Advance Maternal Child Health, Nutrition in Laos
Center-left to right - US Ambassador Haymond and Vice Minister of Health Sanong Thongsana witnessed the signing of the MOU for the USAID-funded Capacity Strengthening for Maternal Child Health and Nutrition Project.

New USAID Initiative to Improve Health and Nutrition Outcomes in Five Provinces.

Spackman Media Group Artist Son Suk-Ku Ranks #1 In The 2023 MALE ACTORS TO WATCH Survey In Korea

  • Spackman Media Group artist Son Suk-ku secured the top spot in the 2023 MALE ACTORS TO WATCH survey conducted by Cine21, a weekly film magazine in Korea
  • The ranking serves as a testament to Son Suk-ku’s dominance in both big and small screens in Korea, headlining 2022’s top box office performing film, THE ROUNDUP, and the most popular K-drama in May 2022, MY LIBERATION NOTES
  • Fresh off winning the JTBC Grand Prize at the 2022 TV Drama Acting Awards in Korea, Son Suk-ku’s latest Disney+ original drama, BIG BET, ranked first in the Top 10 TV Shows on Disney+ Korea as of February 2, 2023

SINGAPORE Media OutReach – 3 February 2023 Spackman Entertainment Group Limited (the “Group“), one of Korea’s leading entertainment production groups founded in 2011 by global media & technology investor Charles Spackman, wishes to announce that Son Suk-ku of the Group’s associated company, Spackman Media Group Limited (“Spackman Media Group“), ranked first in the 2023 MALE ACTORS TO WATCH survey conducted by Cine21, a weekly film magazine in Korea.

Since 2021, Cine21 has conducted a survey of Korean video content industry experts to study the forward-looking direction of the Korean entertainment industry. 64 video content experts participated in the survey, including CEO’s & directors of various well-known and established production and entertainment companies, such as Netflix, Showbox, Ace Maker, Lotte Cultureworks, Studio Dragon, BA Entertainment, Kakao Entertainment, Watcha Content, Barunson, Keyeast, etc.

The number 1 ranking recognizes Son Suk-ku’s dominance in both big and small screens in Korea, following his starring roles in 2022’s top box office performing film, THE ROUNDUP, and the most popular K-drama in May 2022, MY LIBERATION NOTES.

In January this year, Son Suk-ku also took the top spot in movie star reputation, according to the Korea Corporation Reputation Research Institute. Moreover, Son Suk-ku’s latest Disney+ original drama, BIG BET, ranked first in the Top 10 TV Shows on Disney+ Korea as of February 2, 2023[1].

Previously, Son Suk-ku won the JTBC Grand Prize at the 2022 TV Drama Acting Awards held in December 2022 by Good Data Corporation, an online competitive analysis agency for K-content in Korea.

Looking ahead, Son Suk-ku is scheduled to star in two upcoming highly anticipated Netflix original K-dramas, D.P. SEASON 2 and MURDEROUS TOY. He is represented by SBD Entertainment Inc. (“SBD Entertainment“), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Spackman Media Group that represents and manages the careers of 12 artists. In addition to Son Suk-ku, SBD Entertainment also represents one of Korea’s rapidly rising young actors, Han Ji-hyun of popular K-drama THE PENTHOUSE 3, who won the Best Rookie Female Actor in the 2021 Brand Customer Loyalty Awards in Korea and endorsed Shiseido in 2022.


[1] FlixPatrol, https://flixpatrol.com/top10/streaming/south-korea/2023-02-02/, TOP 10 on Disney+ in South Korea on January 11, 2023

Hashtag: #SpackmanEntertainmentGroup

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About Spackman Entertainment Group Limited

Spackman Entertainment Group Limited (“SEGL” or the “Company“), and together with its subsidiaries, (the “Group“), is one of Korea’s leading entertainment production groups. SEGL is primarily engaged in the independent development, production, presentation, and financing of theatrical motion pictures in Korea.

The Company was founded in 2011 by renowned media and technology investor Charles Spackman who served as the Company’s Executive Chairman until 2017. For the past two decades, Mr. Charles Spackman has been a powerhouse in the Korean entertainment industry starting in the early 2000’s with the pioneering success of Sidus Pictures, the largest movie production company at the time and the first to be listed in Korea. Mr. Spackman is also the Founder, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the global investment firm, Spackman Group. For more information, please visit and .

Since its founding, SEGL had produced more than 30 major motion pictures including a number of the highest grossing and award-winning films in Korea, namely #ALIVE (2020), CRAZY ROMANCE (2019), DEFAULT (2018), MASTER (2016), THE PRIESTS (2015), SNOWPIERCER (2013), COLD EYES (2013) and ALL ABOUT MY WIFE (2012).

Our films are theatrically distributed and released in Korea and overseas markets, as well as for subsequent post-theatrical worldwide release in other forms of media, including online streaming, cable TV, broadcast TV, IPTV, video-on-demand, and home video/DVD, etc. Generally, we release our motion pictures into wide-theatrical exhibition initially in Korea, and then in overseas and ancillary markets.

The Group also invests into and produces Korean television dramas. In addition to our content business, we also own equity stakes in entertainment-related companies and film funds that can financially and strategically complement our existing core operations. SEGL is listed on the Catalist of the Singapore Exchange Securities Trading Limited under the ticker 40E.

Production Labels

SEGL owns a 100% equity interest in Studio Take Co., Ltd. (“Studio Take“) which produced STONE SKIPPING (2020) and THE BOX (2021). Its latest film, A MAN OF REASON, is set to be screened theatrically and digitally in North America and at theatres in Korea in the first half of 2023. A MAN OF REASON premiered in the US at the 42nd Hawaii International Film Festival. The film was also invited to the 47th Toronto International Film Festival, the largest film festival in North America, and the 55th Sitges Film Festival, one of the world’s top three genre film festivals. Studio Take shall also release an upcoming film, THE GUEST, in 2023 tentatively.

SEGL owns Novus Mediacorp Co., Ltd. (“Novus Mediacorp“), an investor, presenter, and/or post-theatrical distributor for a total of 80 films (59 Korean and 21 foreign) including OKAY MADAM (2020), LONG LIVE THE KING (2019), MY FIRST CLIENT (2019), ROSE OF BETRAYAL (2018), THE OUTLAWS (2017) and SECRETLY, GREATLY (2013), which was one of the biggest box office hits of 2013 starring Kim Soo-hyun of MY LOVE FROM THE STARS (2013), as well as FRIEND 2: THE GREAT LEGACY (2013). In 2012, Novus Mediacorp was also the post-theatrical rights distributor of ALL ABOUT MY WIFE (2012), a top-grossing romantic comedy produced by Zip Cinema. In 2018, THE OUTLAWS, co-presented by Novus Mediacorp broke the all-time highest Video On Demand (“VOD“) sales records in Korea. For more information, please visit

The Company owns a 100% equity interest in Greenlight Content Limited (“Greenlight Content“) which is mainly involved in the business of investing into dramas and movies, as well as providing consulting services for the production of Korean content. Through the acquisition of Greenlight Content, the Group’s first co-produced drama, MY SECRET TERRIUS, starring top Korean star, So Ji Sub, achieved #1 in drama viewership ratings for its time slot and recorded double digits for its highest viewership ratings. Greenlight Content was one of the main investors of MY SECRET TERRIUS.

The Company owns a 100% equity interest in Simplex Films Limited (“Simplex Films“) which is an early stage film production firm. The maiden film of Simplex Films, JESTERS: THE GAME CHANGERS (2019), was released in Korea on 21 August 2019. Simplex Films has several line-up of films including HURRICANE BROTHERS (working title).

The Company owns a 20% equity interest in The Makers Studio Co. Ltd., which plans to produce and release four upcoming films, the first of which will be THE ISLAND OF THE GHOST’S WAIL, a comedy horror film.

Talent Representation

The Company holds an effective shareholding interest of 43.88% in Spackman Media Group Limited (“SMGL“). SMGL, a company incorporated in Hong Kong, together with its subsidiaries, is collectively one of the largest entertainment talent agencies in Korea in terms of the number of artists under management, including some of the top names in the Korean entertainment industry. SMGL operates its talent management business through renowned agencies such as SBD Entertainment Inc. (Son Suk-ku, Han Ji-hyun, Park Keun-rok), MSteam Entertainment Co., Ltd. (Son Ye-jin, Wi Ha-jun, Lee Min-jung, Ko Sung-hee, Lee Cho-hee), UAA&CO Inc. (Kim Sang-kyung) and Play Content Co., Ltd. (Hwang-hwi). Through these full-service talent agencies in Korea, SMGL represents and guides the professional careers of a leading roster of award-winning actors/actresses in the practice areas of motion pictures, television, commercial endorsements, and branded entertainment. SMGL leverages its unparalleled portfolio of artists as a platform to develop, produce, finance and own the highest quality of entertainment content projects, including theatrical motion pictures, variety shows and TV dramas. This platform also creates and derives opportunities for SMGL to make strategic investments in development stage businesses that can collaborate with SMGL artists. SMGL is an associated company of the Company. For more information, please visit

The Company owns a 100% equity interest in Constellation Agency Pte. Ltd. (“Constellation Agency“). Constellation Agency, which owns The P Factory Co., Ltd. (“The P Factory“) and Platform Media Group Co., Ltd. (“PMG“), is primarily involved in the business of overseas agency for Korean artists venturing into the overseas market. The P Factory is an innovative marketing solutions provider specializing in event and branded content production. PMG is a talent management agency which represents and manages the careers of major artists in film, television, commercial endorsements and branded entertainment.

Strategic Businesses

The Company also operates a café-restaurant, Upper West, in the Gangnam district of Seoul and own a professional photography studio, noon pictures Co., Ltd.

For more details, please visit

LOHAS EXPO x Natural, Organic, Green Life Expo 2023

Asia’s largest LOHAS Expo Including commerce and public

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach – 3 February 2023 – The ” LOHAS EXPO x Natural, Organic, Green Living Expo 2023″ (referred to as LOHAS Expo) hosted by the Exhibition Group Co. Ltd. opens today at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre for three days until February 5th, 2023. This year’s LOHAS Expo is the largest ever, with over 1,000 brands participating, and aims to showcase sustainable products and trends in the industry and to consumers.

The opening ceremony of LOHAS Expo 2023 was attended by Dr. CHAN Pak Li, Bernard, Under Secy for Commerce and Economic Development, and Mr. LIU Chun San, JP, Under Secy for Transport and Logistics, and Hon Benson LUK Hon Man, Legislative Council Member, and Mr. Cary Wong, Chairman of the Exhibition Group Co. Ltd.

Mr. Cary Wong, Chairman of the Exhibition Group Co. Ltd, said: “In recent years, the world has been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, and every industry and individual has been affected to a certain extent, making people pay more attention to health. Whether it is the focus on preventative medicine by the Chinese, or the natural and herbal remedies promoted by Western countries, they are all closely related to daily life. In recent years, the government has also been promoting a green and sustainable lifestyle, which is in line with the goals of the exhibition. With the joint efforts of the government and the industry, we can promote a healthy and sustainable lifestyle.”

Since the first LOHAS Expo was held in Hong Kong in 2012, the expo dedicated to promoting natural, organic health food, health products, beauty products, and daily necessities in Asia to bring the concept of a sustainable lifestyle. This has attracted over 1,000 well-known companies and brands from around the world to participate. The expo has also drawn buyers from the Asia-Pacific region and is highly regarded in the industry.

In addition to shopping, this year’s LOHAS Expo also features a variety of exciting events for on-site spectators, including the “Student Culinary Competition” co-sponsored by the Chinese Culinary Institute, “Healthy Cooking” hosted by star chefs, and multiple business exchange forums. In addition, this year’s event will feature different award ceremonies, such as the “Hong Kong LOHAS Award” and “Green Beauty Salon Award.”

For more information on LOHAS Expo events and products, visit https://lohasexpohk.com or the Facebook page “LOHAS Expo Natural Organic Green Living Expo.”

LOHAS EXPO x Natural, Organic, Green Life Expo 2023

Date: 3 – 5 February, 2023 (Friday – Sunday)
Time: 3 – 4 February: 11:00 a.m – 8:00 p.m.

5 February: 12:00 a.m – 7:00 p.m.

Venue: Hall 3F – 3G, Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre

1 Expo Drive, Wanchai

Website: https://lohasexpohk.com

Hashtag: #LohasExpo

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

New Vientiane Skatepark to Offer Free, Public Space to Build Skills, Camaraderie

The Laotian Times interviews the organizers of Vientiane Skate Park, which will open to the public with a celebration on Sunday, February 5. 

On a small residential street just off Chou Anou Road in Vientiane’s Northwestern Nongtha Neua Village, nestled behind Hi5 Football Field, Laos’ first skatepark to meet international standards is taking shape. The scene – with smooth, poured concrete and stable, professional-grade ramps – is a far cry from the small, do-it-yourself skateparks that have cycled in and out of Laos’ capital city.

One such park near the night market, a popular meeting point for young skaters, consisted of moveable handmade rails and ramps made from discarded wood. Skaters were repeatedly told to dismantle the handmade parks because of safety concerns, but those skaters’ efforts made it clear that Laos wants – and can benefit from – a more permanent public skatepark. Thanks to international fundraising efforts and the expertise of the organization Make Life Skate Life, those Lao skaters are about to have their often dashed hopes for safe, permanent skate infrastructure met.

Tom Drury, who made a name for himself by skateboarding across Australia to raise funds for this new park in Laos, says that the new Vientiane skatepark will offer new challenges and opportunities for already street-smart Lao skaters. Drury’s 4,000 kilometer ride helped him to raise more than AUD 42,000 (LAK 502 million), all of which has gone toward the creation of the Vientiane Skate Park.

“Many Lao skaters are incredible street skaters. I’ve seen them landing some really impressive tricks. But these ramps and half pipes will offer them a whole new opportunity for learning. Dropping in. Transitions. These are all new skills for people who haven’t had access to this kind of skate infrastructure.”

Architectural plans for the new park, including a skater’s path (photo credit: Make Life Skate Life)

These skills also potentially open up the door for Lao skaters to compete on an international stage. Dropping in (the process of entering a half-pipe from the top edge) and transitions (areas of the park with angles between 0 and 90 degrees) are essential parts of both the men’s and women’s park competitions at the Summer Olympics, which began including skateboarding in 2020.

When 13-year-old Momiji Nishiya won gold at those Olympics for Japan, she ignited a new generation’s interest in skateboarding for both girls and boys alike – a popularity surge that was certainly felt in Laos, where youth can often be seen carrying around boards and landing impressive jumps.

While skating, like most sports, certainly promotes health and athleticism, Drury emphasis the unique support, egalitarianism, and kindness inherent in skate culture.

“Skaters really compete against themselves, not each other. Because of that, and because it encourages a kind of flow state, skating helps with all kinds of mental issues and neurodivergence. It even helps people with ADHD to concentrate in the rest of their lives. It’s a lot like meditation.” 

Skating has even been found to encourage youth resiliency and foster acceptance across racial and gender differences. The mental and social benefits of skating are perhaps most noteworthy because skating, unlike some other sports, doesn’t require a lot of expensive gear. Moreover, any gear that is necessary will be available at the new, volunteer-run park. The Vientiane Skatepark will be free to use and include free-to-rent safety gear, like helmets and knee pads. 

(Photo credit: Vilaxay Chandara)

The decision to build the park in a more residential area, rather than in the center of the city, makes it an asset for locals rather than just an attraction for tourists. Crucially, alcohol won’t be allowed on the premises, making the park an oasis for local youth who are increasingly likely to start drinking too soon. Underage drinking is a serious problem in Laos, and this decision to make the space booze-free makes it a welcome alternative for anyone looking to socialize while sober. The park will also be closed and locked at night to discourage safety issues like skaters going out alone.

The opening day celebration (2pm- 6pm, Sunday, February 5) will include live music, competitions, demonstrations, and skateboarding workshops led by professional skaters. Local artists are also strongly encouraged to come and paint areas of the park with murals in order to make it their own.

”This isn’t meant to be a foreigner-run space. Instead we hope that the community will take ownership of it – to make it a reflection of what they want the space to be. We’re not sure how Laos will make this park their own, but we’re excited to find out.”

Lao Friends Hospital for Children Celebrates Eight Years

The Lao Friends Hospital for Children (LFHC) in Luang Prabang celebrated its 8th anniversary on January 27, 2023.

Applications Now Open for Australia Awards Scholarships for Study in 2024

Prestigious Australia Awards Scholarships on Offer for Study in 2024

The Australian Embassy in Laos is pleased to announce the opening of applications for the prestigious Australia Awards Scholarships for study in Australia commencing in 2024.