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DreamWorks Animation’s Kung Fu Panda Joins Forces with Ragnarok Online in New Collaboration

BUENA PARK, Calif., April 16, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Gravity Interactive, Inc., in collaboration with Universal Products & Experiences, announced today that it has launched a DreamWorks Animation Kung Fu Panda integration in their celebrated world of Ragnarok Online. In this collaboration, from April 15 to May 13, 2025, Kung Fu Panda‘s main character Po, Zhen and Shifu will appear in Prontera as event NPCs. 

The four-week event introduces meticulously crafted character-inspired accessories including specialty headwear, unique garments, and lovable floppy dolls featuring fan favorites inspired by Kung Fu Panda. Each accessory maintains character authenticity while fitting naturally within Ragnarok Online’s art style.

In addition to cosmetic offerings, the event features:

  • Exclusive Training Quests: Players can train alongside Po and Master Shifu in specially designed-gameplay scenarios
  • Reward Exchange System: Special collaboration coins earned through gameplay can be traded with Zhen for specific in-game rewards including two power-enhancing food items and two collectible dolls
  • Limited-Edition Collaboration Card: A unique buff-enhancing card available exclusively during this event

This limited time event arrives as Ragnarok Online continues to demonstrate remarkable longevity in the competitive MMORPG landscape, now in its third decade of continuous operation. The game maintains its player base through strategic collaborations and content refreshes while preserving the core gameplay mechanics that originally captivated millions worldwide.

Players can find complete event details through the official Ragnarok Online website, as well as on Facebook, Twitter (X), Steam beginning April 15, 2025.

About Ragnarok Online

First launched in 2002, Ragnarok Online has established itself as one of gaming’s most resilient MMORPGs, blending 2D character sprites with 3D environments in a world inspired by Norse mythology. The game offers players unparalleled freedom to explore, battle, socialize, and craft their unique identities across a vast, interconnected world.

About Gravity Interactive, Inc.

Gravity Interactive, Inc., founded in California in 2003, has been at the forefront of bringing Gravity games to North American audiences and players worldwide. As a wholly-owned subsidiary of Gravity Co., Ltd., the company continues to support and expand the Ragnarok Online experience across multiple territories.

About DreamWorks Animation’s KUNG FU PANDA

Inspired by traditional martial arts and set in ancient China, Kung Fu Panda tells the epic tale of wide-eyed Po, whose love of kung fu is matched only by an insatiable appetite. The Academy Award®-nominated 2008 inaugural chapter became DreamWorks’ highest-grossing original animated film. With the release of Kung Fu Panda 4, the film franchise has earned more than $2 billion at the global box office. With its massive fan base, the franchise has expanded to a cross-category consumer products program, video games, an Emmy Award-winning television series and global Universal Destinations & Resorts theme-park attractions.

About Universal Products & Experiences

Universal Products & Experiences (UP&E) globally drives the expansion and elevation of NBCUniversal’s iconic collection of brands, intellectual properties, characters, and stories based on the company’s extensive portfolio of properties created by Universal Pictures, Illumination, DreamWorks Animation and NBCUniversal Television and Streaming. The division executes this through innovative physical and digital products, as well as engaging retail and product experiences across our expansive global theme park destinations (for both owned and third-party IP), location-based venues, e-commerce product platforms, and retailers around the world. Along with global brand strategy and creative, UP&E’s lines of business include Consumer Products and Games, along with Theme Parks Products & Retail. UP&E is a division of Universal Destinations & Experiences, part of NBCUniversal, a subsidiary of Comcast Corporation. More information is available at universalproductsexperiences.com.

DreamWorks Kung Fu Panda © 2025 DreamWorks Animation LLC. All Rights Reserved 

Media Contact:
Gravity Interactive, Inc
biz@warpportal.com

ⓒ 2025 Gravity Co., Ltd.

DreamWorks Kung Fu Panda © 2025 DreamWorks Animation LLC. All Rights Reserved

Z.ai Unveils New GLM Open-Source Models with World-Class Reasoning Performance

BEIJING, April 16, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Z.ai (formerly Zhipu) announces the open-sourcing of its 32B and 9B GLM model series, including base, reasoning, and rumination models, all under the MIT license. These models are now available for free access via the new z.ai website. This platform currently features the 32B base, reasoning, and rumination GLM models and will serve as the primary portal for interacting with and experiencing Z.ai’s latest model releases.

Model Open Source

All models in this open-source release are available under the MIT license. This allows for free commercial use and redistribution, granting developers significant flexibility in usage and development. The release includes models in two sizes, 9B and 32B, encompassing base, reasoning, and rumination models.

The GLM-4-32B-0414 base model, with 32 billion parameters, delivers performance competitive with larger mainstream models globally. Pre-trained on 15 Terabytes (TB) of high-quality data, including extensive synthetic data focused on reasoning, it lays a foundation for future reinforcement learning applications. In the post-training phase, beyond human preference alignment for dialogue scenarios, techniques like rejection sampling and reinforcement learning were employed to specifically enhance performance in instruction following, engineering code generation, and function calls, thereby bolstering the fundamental abilities required for agentic tasks. GLM-4-32B-0414 excels in engineering code generation, Artifacts creation, function calls, search-based question answering, and report writing, with some benchmark scores approaching or exceeding those of larger models like GPT-4o and DeepSeek-V3-0324 (671B).

GLM-4-32B-0414 has further improved code generation capabilities, capable of handling and generating more complex single-file code. Z.ai’s dialogue mode includes a preview feature, supporting visualization of generated HTML and SVG, facilitating user evaluation of results and iterative optimization.

GLM-Z1-32B-0414 is a reasoning model featuring advanced reasoning capabilities. Built upon GLM-4-32B-0414, it utilizes cold-start and extended reinforcement learning strategies and has undergone deep optimization training focused on key areas like mathematics, coding, and logic. Compared to the base model, GLM-Z1-32B-0414 shows significant enhancements in mathematical reasoning and complex problem-solving capabilities. Furthermore, the training integrated general reinforcement learning techniques leveraging pairwise critic rewards, effectively boosting the model’s overall general-purpose abilities.

In certain tasks, GLM-Z1-32B-0414, with its 32 billion parameters, matches the performance of DeepSeek-R1, which has 671 billion parameters. Through evaluations in benchmark tests such as AIME 24/25, LiveCodeBench, and GPQA, GLM-Z1-32B-0414 has demonstrated strong mathematical reasoning abilities, enabling it to address a broader range of complex tasks.

The GLM-Z1-9B-0414, a 9B model, delivers impressive performance for its size. Trained using the same advanced techniques applied to larger models, this smaller variant demonstrates excellent capabilities in mathematical reasoning and general tasks despite its reduced parameter count, ranking it among the leading open-source models in its size class. Particularly for resource-constrained environments, it strikes an effective balance between capability and efficiency, offering a strong option for users requiring lightweight deployment.

The rumination model GLM-Z1-Rumination-32B-0414 represents Z.ai’s next step in exploring the future form of AGI.

Unlike standard reasoning models, the Rumination model tackles highly open-ended and complex problems via a more extended, multi-step deliberation process. A key innovation is its ability to integrate search tools during this process to address complex tasks, guided by various rule-based reward mechanisms that steer and enhance end-to-end reinforcement learning. The model supports a full research cycle—autonomously formulating questions, searching for information, constructing analyses, and completing tasks—significantly boosting its proficiency in research-oriented writing and complex information retrieval.

Z.ai Launched

The new z.ai website, serving as the primary portal for interacting with Z.ai’s latest models, is now live!

Z.ai currently features three open-source models for interactive use:

  • GLM-4-32B (Base Model): Features powerful code generation capabilities, supports the new Artifacts feature, and enables an interactive development experience.
  • Z1-32B (Reasoning Model): Delivers superb reasoning performance, allowing users to experience inference speeds up to 200 Tokens/second online.
  • Z1-Rumination-32B (Rumination Model): Allows users to explore the powerful “Deep Research” capabilities, ideal for conducting in-depth investigations.

About Z.ai

Founded in 2019, Beijing Zhipu Huazhang Technology Co., Ltd. (Z.ai, formerly Zhipu) is a leading Chinese AI company focused on developing next-generation cognitive models. Since launching the GLM pre-training framework in 2020, Z.ai has released several industry-leading models, including GLM-130B and ChatGLM, with over 30 million global downloads. Its product suite includes QingYan, CodeGeeX, CogVLM, and CogView, as well as an innovative Model-as-a-Service (MaaS) platform for developers and enterprises. Recognized with numerous industry awards, Z.ai is driving progress towards the era of artificial general intelligence.

For more information, visit zhipuai.cn/en/.

Driving the Future of EASE Urban Mobility: The First-Ever SOUEAST Global EASE DAY to Launch in Shanghai

SHANGHAI, April 16, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — SOUEAST Motor is set to kick off the inaugural SOUEAST Global EASE DAY 2025 on April 21st in Shanghai, China. This global event will bring together international media and notable influencers for a five-day immersive experience, advancing the brand’s vision for EASE urban mobility through collaboration.

(Image: SOUEAST Global EASE DAY 2025)
(Image: SOUEAST Global EASE DAY 2025)

EASE DAY, SOUEAST’s first-ever global brand summit, will gather influential voices to forge meaningful media connection and amplify brand resonance. Serving dual purposes as both a milestone moment and a symbolic launchpad, this event will promote the brand’s transformation into a globally competitive auto force. Over the course of the event, guests will participate in a range of themed activities designed to foster deeper engagement.

The agenda features four core highlights: EASE Talk, EASE Experience, EASE Innovation, and EASE City. Through in-depth brand dialogues, test drives, car preview and urban cultural experiences, global media and notable influencers will gain a close-up understanding of SOUEAST’s brand vision and philosophy.

EASE YOUR LIFE in Motion

Since its comprehensive brand refresh in 2024, SOUEAST has rapidly expanded its international footprint, with successful rollouts across the Middle East and Central Asia. Guided by the brand philosophy, “EASE YOUR LIFE,” SOUEAST is reshaping urban mobility by combining global insight with local adaptation—offering customers stylish, comfort, and warm-tech driving experiences tailored to everyday city life.

EASE DAY 2025 represents a natural next step. The event will offer a platform for SOUEAST to engage closely with media through interactive experiences and strategic discussions. And attendees will gain firsthand insight into SOUEAST´s interpretation of intelligent urban mobility.

A Global Journey Begins in Shanghai

The first stop on the EASE DAY journey, Shanghai sets the tone for what SOUEAST envisions as a yearly tradition—bringing the global media and notable influencers together in a different symbolic city. By building a space for co-creation, shared insight, and cultural resonance, EASE DAY will bring extraordinary experiences to urban life.

Wanglaoji Launches WALOVI English Brand Identity in Kuala Lumpur to Strategically Expand in Malaysian Market

GUANGZHOU, China, April 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Recently, Wanglaoji Great Health Industry Co.Ltd. (hereinafter referred to as “Wanglaoji”), a leading Chinese natural herbal beverage enterprise, accelerated its Southeast Asian market expansion by signing an agreement with the partner in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, to deepen market cooperation. Wanglaoji unveiled its English brand identity, WALOVI, and inked an international strategic partnership agreement with Baosteel Packaging Co., Ltd. (hereinafter referred to as “Baosteel Packaging”) in Kuala Selangor, Malaysia, marking the initial steps in building its overseas supply chain network.

Malaysia is China’s second-largest trading partner among ASEAN member states, while China has maintained its position as Malaysia’s largest trading partner for 16 consecutive years. With the deepening implementation of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), this year, which coinciding with the 15th anniversary of the China – ASEAN Free Trade Area (CAFTA), has seen robust momentum injected into bilateral trade. Leveraging the tariff reduction policies under CAFTA 3.0, Chinese companies like Wanglaoji can now access Southeast Asian markets more efficiently.

On the morning of April 12, Wanglaoji and Baosteel Packaging signed a strategic cooperation agreement at Baosteel’s Can-Manufacturing Factory in Kuala Selangor. The two parties conducted in-depth cooperation in three aspects: overseas supply chain synergy, international market expansion, and packaging innovation R&D. This powerhouse alliance aims to enhance brand influence overseas and deliver superior products to consumers worldwide.

Wanglaoji herbal drink, which is renowned in China for its natural herbal formula with the function of preventing excessive “internal heat”, is now available in over 100 countries and regions worldwide. Baosteel Packaging, a leader in metal packaging materials for China’s fast-moving consumer goods sector, has established production lines in Vietnam, Malaysia, and other regions since 2012, boasting efficient localized production capabilities and flexible supply chains. Having been collaborating domestically for over a decade, the two companies are now elevating their partnership to the global strategic level.

Later that afternoon, Wanglaoji hosted the WALOVI English brand launch ceremony in Kuala Lumpur and signed a strategic market – expansion cooperation agreement with Baida International Trading Sdn. Bhd., a prominent “Southeast Asian service provider for Chinese brands expanding overseas”. Both parties agreed to strengthen sales and marketing efforts in Malaysia, jointly pursuing greater business growth. Moving forward, the WALOVI products will enter the Malaysian market through diversified channels, which cover mainstream retail outlets and consumer scenarios.

Fang Dafeng, General Manager of Wanglaoji, stated that Malaysia serves not only as a key stronghold for Wanglaoji’s brand-promotion in Southeast Asia but also as a pivotal hub in its globalization strategy. “We developed the PCBC Global Value Model—focusing on ‘Product, Channel, Brand, and Culture’—to tailor product for overseas markets, establish localized channel networks, promote the WALOVI English brand, and foster cultural integration. By championing Chinese health philosophy, we aim to elevate Wanglaoji into a global super beverage brand,” he emphasized.

 

SILVERSEA REVEALS MORE ON ITS HIGHLY ANTICIPATED SOUTHERNMOST HOTEL IN PUERTO WILLIAMS, CHILE, CREATING A NEW GATEWAY TO ANTARCTICA

Named The Cormorant at 55 South, Silversea reveals first spaces of the hotel, set to open during the 2025/2026 Antarctica season

Take a behind-the-scenes look at the creation of the hotel here and learn more on Silversea’s Antarctica offering here

MIAMI, April 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Silversea, the leading experiential luxury and expedition travel brand, has unveiled the first spaces and name of The Cormorant at 55 South, its new 150-room hotel in Puerto Williams, Chile, scheduled to open during the 2025/2026 Antarctica season. Upon completion, Silversea’s new hotel will create the most convenient, comfortable and seamless way to visit Antarctica.

Named The Cormorant at 55 South, Silversea reveals first spaces of the hotel, set to open during the 2025/2026 Antarctica season
Named The Cormorant at 55 South, Silversea reveals first spaces of the hotel, set to open during the 2025/2026 Antarctica season

“The Cormorant at 55 South is a tribute to the rich culture, breathtaking natural beauty, and storied history of Puerto Williams, immersing guests in their destination before embarking on their journey to Antarctica,” said Bert Hernandez, president, Silversea. “Every aspect of The Cormorant is thoughtfully designed with our guests in mind, ensuring a comfortable and uniquely Silversea experience. Each room offers panoramic views of Patagonia, and the hotel creates a deep connection to the local community, providing specially designed experiences that will allow our guests to begin their expeditions sooner than ever, all in uncompromised comfort.”

THE CORMORANT AT 55 SOUTH

The Cormorant is a nod to the unique location of the property at 55° S – making it the southernmost hotel on Earth – and an acknowledgement of the location’s history. Paying homage to Lakutaia, which is the indigenous Yahgan word for cormorant, the aquatic bird is a symbol of the seafarer and intended to bestow good fortune on guests embarking on their greatest adventure.

ROOMS DESIGNED TO IMMERSE GUESTS IN THE DESTINATION

The Cormorant will feature two distinct room views, including serene forest views and tranquil water vistas overlooking the Beagle Channel. This design brings guests closer to the breathtaking natural beauty of Patagonia, immersing them in the landscapes that define this region.

Each room is thoughtfully designed with expansive windows that frame sweeping views, filling the space with natural light and creating a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. The interiors feature warm wood tones and earthy elements, deepening the connection to the destination while creating an authentic and calming environment. To further this connection, every room will incorporate handcrafted items created by regional artisans, adding a unique touch that celebrates local and regional culture.

Welcoming guests from the moment they arrive will be The Cormorant’s own dedicated staff – all trained in The Silversea Way to provide the high level of service that is synonymous with Silversea.

ENHANCING THE EXPERIENCE THROUGH DESTINATION LEADERSHIP

The hotel will facilitate a uniquely frictionless journey to Antarctica, allowing guests to enjoy Silversea’s personalized service and warm hospitality throughout their entire experience. Silversea’s innovative six-day Antarctica Fly Cruise expeditions allow guests to fly over the Drake Passage, providing a shorter option without compromising on the time spent in the destination.

Having pioneered luxury expedition cruising in 2008, Silversea became the first travel brand to offer luxury Antarctica expeditions. With its experience in the region, Silversea now offers the most enriching and personalized adventures on the continent, with an industry-leading expedition team that comprises up to 28 experts in their field, knowledgeable kayak instructors, world-class onboard lectures and some of the highest Zodiac-to-guest ratios in the industry, among other enriching features.

Silversea’s expedition experts host guided walks ashore, identifying wildlife species, unique glacial and geological structures, and other fascinating features only found on an Antarctic expedition. Back on board, the team’s insightful lectures provide an overview of the day’s sightings and experiences.

FOLLOW ALONG WITH STORIES BY SILVERSEA

Silversea also announces the launch of Stories by Silversea, its new content series featuring authentic storytelling and resources. Today, Silversea is releasing the first two episodes, “Embrace the Unknown” and “A Legacy in the Making: Part 1.”

Designed to speak to the topics that matter most to its guests, Stories by Silversea will publish new content focusing on different topics, stories and moments unique to Silversea, establishing an important educational tool to learn more.

Included in the series will be a multi-part highlight on the development of The Cormorant at 55 South, including new resources and information, regular updates and a behind-the-scenes look at creating the southernmost hotel in the world.

For more information, please visit https://www.silversea.com/lp-fly-to-antarctica.html.

Cautionary Statement Concerning Forward-Looking Statements 

Certain statements in this press release relating to, among other things, expectations on timing, design, and demand for the development of the new hotel in Puerto Williams, Chile, constitute forward-looking statements under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Words such as “anticipate,” “will,” and similar expressions are intended to help identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements reflect management’s current expectations, are based on judgments, are inherently uncertain and are subject to risks, uncertainties and other factors, which could cause our actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from the future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied in those forward-looking statements. Examples of these risks, uncertainties and other factors include, but are not limited to, those included under the caption “Risk Factors” in our most recent annual report on Form 10-K, as well as our other filings with the SEC, copies of which may be obtained by visiting our Investor Relations website at www.rclinvestor.com or the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. Undue reliance should not be placed on the forward-looking statements in this release, which are based on information available to us on the date hereof. We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

About Silversea
Silversea is the leading experiential luxury and expedition travel brand, offering guests immersive experiences on all seven continents, personalized service, and an innovative culinary offering aboard its 12 intimate ocean and expedition ships. Silversea’s itineraries encompass an unparalleled range of destinations worldwide, from the Mediterranean and the Caribbean to the Galápagos, both Polar Regions, and hundreds of fascinating places in between. Set to strengthen its destination leadership in late 2025, the brand is developing the southernmost hotel on Earth in Puerto Williams, Chile – offering guests a uniquely seamless journey to Antarctica. Silversea brings its likeminded guests closer to their destination in uncompromised comfort, championing the joy of travel, an enriching spirit of discovery, and an enduring commitment To Finding More℠.

Silversea is one of five cruise brands owned by global cruise company Royal Caribbean Group (NYSE: RCL). For more information, visit www.silversea.com.

About Royal Caribbean Group
Royal Caribbean Group (NYSE: RCL) is a vacation industry leader with a global fleet of 67 ships across its five brands traveling to all seven continents. With a mission to deliver the best vacations responsibly, Royal Caribbean Group serves millions of guests each year through its portfolio of best-in-class brands, including Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, and Silversea; and an expanding portfolio of land-based vacation experiences through Perfect Day at CocoCay and Royal Beach Club collection. The company also owns 50% of a joint venture that operates TUI Cruises and Hapag-Lloyd Cruises. With a rich history of innovating, Royal Caribbean Group continually delivers exciting new products and guest experiences that help shape the future of leisure travel. Learn more at royalcaribbeangroup.com or rclinvestor.com.

 

 

Named The Cormorant at 55 South, Silversea reveals first spaces of the hotel, set to open during the 2025/2026 Antarctica season
Named The Cormorant at 55 South, Silversea reveals first spaces of the hotel, set to open during the 2025/2026 Antarctica season

 

Named The Cormorant at 55 South, Silversea reveals first spaces of the hotel, set to open during the 2025/2026 Antarctica season
Named The Cormorant at 55 South, Silversea reveals first spaces of the hotel, set to open during the 2025/2026 Antarctica season

 

Named The Cormorant at 55 South, Silversea reveals first spaces of the hotel, set to open during the 2025/2026 Antarctica season
Named The Cormorant at 55 South, Silversea reveals first spaces of the hotel, set to open during the 2025/2026 Antarctica season

 

Video – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_KNxHGJvVLA
Video – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OsRUq3r3Huk

French May Arts Festival 2025, French GourMay Food and Wine Festival 2025 Holds Successful Press Conference to Commemorate This Year’s Programmes

Hong Kong’s May mega event bolsters East-West cultural bonds
with the best of French art, cinema, circus, music, dance, theatre and gastronomy

HONG KONG, April 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The French May Arts Festival (French May) 2025 and the French GourMay Food and Wine Festival 2025 (French GourMay) held a press conference today (15 April) at The Peninsula Hong Kong, officiated by esteemed guests, government officials, and key members of the arts and culture community. Supported by The Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust alongside other patrons and partners, French May this year presents more than 60 programmes running from 15 March to 13 July. It hopes to enrich and enliven audiences with the best of French culture and heritage, bolstering cultural bridges between East and West. As Hong Kong’s signature mega events in May, the festivals have successfully bridged Hong Kong, French, and Western cultures since 1993, reaching over 20 million attendees across three decades and attracting 350,000 annually, including tourists and locals alike. Their success affirms Hong Kong’s status as a highly regarded hub where global arts and culture gather, and new creative iterations are made possible through innovative cross-cultural collaborations.

At the press conference, among those honored were sponsors such as the Mega Arts and Cultural Events Fund of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region; the Major Partner, The Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust, which has supported the festival for the 14th consecutive year; and Grand Patrons including BNP Paribas, First Initiative Foundation, Natixis Corporate & Investment Banking, Crédit Agricole Group, Indosuez, Van Cleef & Arpels, The Peninsula Hong Kong, Wheelock Properties (Hong Kong) Limited, and Chinachem Group. Their commitment to the arts and culture in Hong Kong plays a vital role in the success and sustainability of the festivals.

The press conference was officiated by Ms. Vivian Sum Fong Kwang, JP, Permanent Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism; Mrs. Christile Drulhe, Consul General of France in Hong Kong and Macau; Ms. Winnie Yip, Head of Charities (Culture, Sports and Community Engagement) of The Hong Kong Jockey Club; Mrs. Mignonne Cheng, Co-Chairperson of the Board of French May Arts Festival; Ms. Karena Lam, Ambassador of French May Arts Festival; Mr. Xavier Mahé, Executive Director of French May Arts Festival; Mr. Bertrand Quevremont, Director of Business France, French Trade Commission in Hong Kong and Director of French GourMay Food & Wine Festival; and Ms. Anne-Sophie Nicolas, Chef Ambassador of French GourMay Festival and Chef de cuisine at Gaddi’s, The Peninsula Hong Kong. The guests shared their insightful perspectives on the significance of the festivals in fostering cultural exchange and community engagement.

Ms. Vivian Sum Fong Kwang, JP, Permanent Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, said: ‘With the clear support in the National 14th Five-Year Plan, Hong Kong aspires to become the East–meets–West centre for international cultural exchange. And I must thank French May for your commitment to creating a platform for arts and cultural exchange, and bringing about opportunities for the industry and community. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank the Consulate General of France in Hong Kong, and all the collaborating organisations and artists that work together to bring this year’s Festival to life.’

Mrs. Christile Drulhe, Consul General of France in Hong Kong and Macau, said: ‘The French May Arts Festival is back for its 32nd edition, ready to enchant Hong Kong with a vibrant showcase of French culture. The festival’s rich programme features outstanding exhibitions and performances across disciplines. Thanks to the invaluable support of our friends, partners, patrons, and the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, French May continues to build cultural bridges and enrich everyday life through the arts.’

Ms. Winnie Yip, Head of Charities (Culture, Sports and Community Engagement) of The Hong Kong Jockey Club, said: ‘This is our 14th year as a Major Partner of the French May Arts Festival, collaborating with the Consulate-General of France in Hong Kong and Macao as well as the Association Culturelle France-Hong Kong to bring the splendour of French art and culture to our vibrant city. the Club’s Charities Trust is one of the world’s leading charity donors and dedicated to building a culturally vibrant Hong Kong, enriching lives and promoting social inclusion through art-related initiatives. The Club will continue to support many more world-class exhibitions and multi-art-form programmes, in our endeavour to enhance our city’s cultural vitality.’

Mrs. Mignonne Cheng, Co-Chairperson of the Board of French May Arts Festival, said:Since 1993, our French May Arts Festival has become synonymous with the bonds of creativity and collaboration between France and Hong Kong. This year’s highlight programme, ‘The Hong Kong Jockey Club Series: Picasso for Asia—A Conversation’, an incredible joint effort between Musée national Picasso-Paris and M+, opened its doors on March 14 to great critical acclaim around the world. Besides this exhibition, we have prepared a kaleidoscope of more than 60 programmes taking place all over Hong Kong in the next couple of months. We invite everyone to immerse in this rich Festival experience and share in the joys of creativity.’

Ms. Anne-Sophie Nicolas, Chef Ambassador of French GourMay Festival and Chef de Cuisine of the Michelin-starred Gaddi’s at The Peninsula Hong Kong, said: ‘French GourMay has long been a bridge connecting the essence of French gastronomy and the vibrant culinary scene of Hong Kong and Macau. This year’s theme highlights the diversity of French spirits, from Cognac to Calvados. These spirits are not only drinks that can be sipped neat or mixed in cocktails, but they are also key ingredients in French culinary traditions, enhancing the flavours and aromas in myriad dishes. During this year’s festival, we will offer a special lunch menu featuring five creations infused with French spirits. This menu will be available from May 2 to 31 at Gaddi’s.’     

Ms. Karena Lam, French May Arts Festival Ambassador, said: ‘I am delighted to support the French May Arts Festival in promoting art and cultural activities for these 13 years. The programmes this year shine a spotlight on East-meets-West. The connections and exchanges between France and Hong Kong have been deep since the early days, and French May has been very crucial in bringing the best of French culture and arts to Hong Kong.’

French May Arts Festival

Themed “Vive L’art’ – In Art We Live”, the 32nd edition of French May promises a vibrant celebration of art and culture, featuring an international cast of talent from Hong Kong SAR and France collaborating on programmes spanning the genres of art, cinema, circus, music, dance, theatre and gastronomy. Highlight programmes include:

The Hong Kong Jockey Club Series: Picasso for Asia—A Conversation

Dates: 15 March – 13 July 2025

Venue: West Gallery, M+

French GourMay Food and Wine Festival

Dates: 1 – 31 May 2025

Le Bal  

Dates: 9 – 11, 13 – 18 May 2025

Venue: Parade Ground, Tai Kwun

Gautier Capuçon plays Shostakovich

Dates: 8 – 9 May 2025

Venue: Concert Hall, Hong Kong Cultural Centre

Trio Wanderer Hong Kong Début

Dates: 14 & 17 May 2025

Venue: Concert Hall, Hong Kong City Hall

French May Cinema Programme

Dates: 20 May – 4 June 2025

Venues: Broadway Circuit and other cinemas 

Corps extrêmes

Dates: 30 May – 1 June 2025

Venue: Grand Theatre, Xiqu Centre

Giselle

Dates: 30 May – 8 June 2025

Venue: Grand Theatre, Hong Kong Cultural Centre

Jazz Female Duo – Paris Rendezvous

Date: 6 June 2025

Venue: Concert Hall, Hong Kong City Hall

Erik Truffaz – Rollin’ & Clap!

Date: 7 June 2025

Venue: Concert Hall, Hong Kong City Hall

Echoes of the Heart

Date: 14 June 2025

Venue: Concert Hall, Hong Kong Cultural Centre

Souvenirs

Dates: 14 – 15 June 2025

Venue: Theatre, Sheung Wan Civic Centre

French GourMay Food and Wine Festival

Participants also enjoyed a Food & Spirits Experience organised by French GourMay offering a selection of top spirits and delicacies from France, designed to enhance the festive atmosphere and reflect the cultural connections celebrated throughout the festival.

The 16th edition of French GourMay Food and Wine Festival unveils the soul of French culinary culture and art-de-vivre – French spirits, a testament to the perfect union of terroir mastery and human ingenuity. From the amber glow of Cognac to the delicate whispers of Calvados, each sip is a journey through time and tradition. This May, French GourMay invites all gourmets in Hong Kong and Macau to embark on a triple exploration of French spirits and liquors through our extensive network of partners.

a.  Restaurant offers
From Michelin-starred establishments to cozy bistros, participating restaurants are crafting exclusive menus that elevate French spirits. Savour Armagnac-glazed duck breast at fine dining venues, indulge in Calvados-infused crème brûlée at casual eateries, or experience flambée at modern fusion kitchens.

b.  Bar-hopping programme
Bars will take centre stage with innovative cocktails blending French spirits with a symphony of flavours. In collaboration with Whisky Magazine, French GourMay debuts a citywide bar-hopping adventure: enthusiasts can explore exceptional mixology talent and hidden cocktail destinations to sample crafted cocktails while collecting stamps at each location. These collected stamps may be redeemed for premium rewards!

c.  Retailer promotions
Throughout the festive month, numerous wine merchants, gourmet shops and online platforms will provide special offers on French spirits and gourmet products. These diverse, exclusive offers are designed to appeal to discerning connoisseurs while remaining accessible to casual enthusiasts of French gastronomy.

d.  Education events
The festival presents an exclusive opportunity to explore French spirits through expert-led tastings and culinary workshops. Select learning centers will decode the craftsmanship behind iconic French liquors while demonstrating their versatile applications in gastronomy. Participants will gain privileged access to rare vintages and professional techniques typically reserved for industry insiders.

e.  French GourMay Markets
Mark your calendars: the French GourMay Market events, organised in collaboration with Chinachem Group, will enliven Central Market (1-5 May) and Nina Mall (6-8 June) respectively in early May and early June. Immerse yourself in French flavours with gourmet stalls, live cooking demos, and curated spirit tastings!

For further details about French GourMay’s Spirits UP! theme and Chef Ambassador Anne-Sophie Nicolas, please refer to the Appendix.

French May presented programmes tickets are available at URBTIX starting from April 16. More detailed information for individual programmes and activities is available on the websites at www.frenchmay.com and www.frenchgourmay.com.  

Please click here to download the high-resolution images.

The French May Arts Festival (French May) 2025 and the French GourMay Food and Wine Festival 2025 (French GourMay) held a press conference today. Officiating guests included (from left): Mr. Xavier Mahé, Executive Director of French May Arts Festival; Ms. Karena Lam, Ambassador of French May Arts Festival; Mrs. Christile Drulhe, Consul General of France in Hong Kong and Macau; Ms. Vivian Sum Fong Kwang, JP, Permanent Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism; Ms. Winnie Yip, Head of Charities (Culture, Sports and Community Engagement) of The Hong Kong Jockey Club; Mrs. Mignonne Cheng, Co-Chairperson of the Board of French May Arts Festival; Ms. Anne Sophie Nicolas, Chef Ambassador of French GourMay Festival and Chef de cuisine at Gaddi's, The Peninsula Hong Kong; and Mr. Bertrand Quevremont, Director of Business France, French Trade Commission in Hong Kong and Director of French GourMay Food & Wine Festival.
The French May Arts Festival (French May) 2025 and the French GourMay Food and Wine Festival 2025 (French GourMay) held a press conference today. Officiating guests included (from left): Mr. Xavier Mahé, Executive Director of French May Arts Festival; Ms. Karena Lam, Ambassador of French May Arts Festival; Mrs. Christile Drulhe, Consul General of France in Hong Kong and Macau; Ms. Vivian Sum Fong Kwang, JP, Permanent Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism; Ms. Winnie Yip, Head of Charities (Culture, Sports and Community Engagement) of The Hong Kong Jockey Club; Mrs. Mignonne Cheng, Co-Chairperson of the Board of French May Arts Festival; Ms. Anne Sophie Nicolas, Chef Ambassador of French GourMay Festival and Chef de cuisine at Gaddi’s, The Peninsula Hong Kong; and Mr. Bertrand Quevremont, Director of Business France, French Trade Commission in Hong Kong and Director of French GourMay Food & Wine Festival.

About the French May Arts Festival

Established in 1993, French May is one of the largest cultural events in Asia. With about 100 programmes presented across two months, we showcase the most diversified art forms – from heritage and contemporary art, paintings and design to classical music and hip-hop dance, cinema and circus. It has become an iconic part of Hong Kong’s cultural scene, reaching over 200,000 visitors each year.

French May brings the arts to everyone, not only in cultural venues, but also in public spaces, shopping malls and more, inviting everyone across Hong Kong to enjoy art in their daily lives.

With the aim of promoting accessible arts for all, French May places a strong emphasis on education through outreach programmes, guided tours, workshops, masterclasses and free performances. The festival strives to reach the widest possible audience and contribute to education of the young and less-privileged, working closely with over 50 local institutions and organisations to establish barrier-free access to the arts.

About the French GourMay Food and Wine Festival

Being an important part of French May since 2009, French GourMay Food and Wine Festival (www.frenchgourmay.com), organized by French Trade Commission – Business France, has been celebrating and promoting the French food and wine culture in Hong Kong and Macau. It has become in a few years, thanks to a strong communication and involvement of the gourmet community, a major food and wine festival. Every year in May, French GourMay presents a different region (Midi-Pyrénées, Rhone Valley, Provence, Burgundy, Bordeaux, Alsace, Champagne, South of France), introducing and encouraging people to experience the dining culture in French style and letting go through an authentic French gastronomic journey through a network of more than 200 local partners.

Press Materials: Press Kit

Contact 

For further enquiries and requests for interviews, please contact: 

Occasions PR & Marketing Ltd. 

Stella Wong

Email: stellawong@occasionspr.com

Tel: +852 3678 0123

Candice Kot

Email: candice@occasionspr.com

Tel: +852 3678 0117

French GourMay Food and Wine Festival

Isak LIANG

Email:   weihang.liang@businessfrance.fr

Tel: +852 6660 0665

Consumer goods expo highlights China’s growing allure for global brands


HAIKOU, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 15 April 2025 – ​The fifth China International Consumer Products Expo (CICPE), held on the tropical island province of Hainan, has reaffirmed the country’s position as a vital marketplace for global enterprises.

The high-tech exhibits and beachside fashion shows at the 5th CICPE.
The high-tech exhibits and beachside fashion shows at the 5th CICPE.

This year’s expo has drawn record participation from over 4,100 brands across 71 countries and regions, reflecting the expanding international appetite for engagement with China’s vast consumer market and its evolving landscape.
The UK, this year’s guest country of honor, brought 27 companies spanning fashion, beauty, and other fields. Flagship brands like Burberry and Bentley showcased their latest offerings, with a strong emphasis on green technology and sustainable development.
“I have seen the tremendous innovation and growth taking place within China’s economy in recent years, not least in digital technologies, life sciences and green energy,” said Douglas Alexander, minister of state of the UK’s Department for Business and Trade.
These areas present significant opportunities for both economies, he said, emphasizing the UK’s commitment to deepening economic ties with China.
Burberry Greater China President Josie Zhang noted the value of the expo in facilitating foreign firms to engage with local partners. “By deepening cooperation with various stakeholders, we aim to explore new market opportunities and achieve mutual growth,” she said in a written interview.
Slovakia also made a notable debut with its first-ever national pavilion. Andrea Jancekova, CEO of Slovak brand Truscada, praised the expo’s global reach. “You can have a good connection also with people from all over the world.”
Slovak Deputy Prime Minister Denisa Saková highlighted the expanding trade ties between the two countries. “China is one of our most important trading partners outside the European Union,” she said. “The growing volume of trade is a testament to the strength and dynamism of our economic relationship.”
Among the newcomers was Japan’s Eda Livestock Co., Ltd., known for its premium Wagyu beef. “We plan to establish a foreign trade company in Hainan as our strategic entry point into the Chinese market,” said Rei Tanaka, the firm’s chief operating officer, who participated in the CICPE for the first time.
This year’s expo also gathered an array of top-tier global luxury brands. Richemont’s TimeVallée debuted as an independent exhibitor, while LVMH and Kering Group brands made notable appearances, reflecting confidence in China’s premium consumption growth.
“Luxury consumers in China are significantly younger than those in many overseas markets, and that presents a major opportunity for us,” said Nancy Liu, president of luxury travel retailer DFS China. The company has introduced tailored services to cater to the expectations of these emerging consumer groups.
Beyond luxury, sectors like automotive and technology are repositioning China from being a mere sales destination to a research and innovation hub.
As the co-organizer of the 5th China International Consumer Products Expo, the Hainan Provincial Bureau of International Economic Development stated that, amid China’s technological innovation momentum, this year’s expo for the first time introduced dedicated zones for artificial intelligence and the low-altitude economy, showcasing cutting-edge technologies and products from leading tech companies around the world.
“Since 2020, Volkswagen has invested over 10 billion euros in China. In particular, we have established a research and development center in China in 2023, the largest outside Germany,” said Su Bahong, vice president of Volkswagen Group China. “This shows the trend where China is becoming the global technological innovation hub.”

Hashtag: #CICPE

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

Ruko Unveils U11MINI 4K Drone: Your First Pocket Aerial Drone

HONG KONG, April 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Ruko, a dedicated brand in family-friendly drones, has officially launched the U11MINI 4K—a compact yet powerful aerial pocket drone designed for beginners, travelers, and photography enthusiasts. With ultra-clear 8K imaging, 20,000ft long-range transmission, up to 96 minutes of flight time from triple batteries, and highly equipped kit, it offers the best value and highest configuration in its class.

Ruko U11MINI 4K-Pocket Drones with Camera for Adults 4K Video 8K Photo
Ruko U11MINI 4K-Pocket Drones with Camera for Adults 4K Video 8K Photo

Ultra-Portable Pocket Drone

The U11MINI 4K redefines convenience with its palm-sized, foldable design, allowing users to carry it effortlessly in a pocket or backpack. Weighing less than 249g, the U11MINI 4K is FAA registration-free, offering effortless portability and hassle-free flying anywhere.

Comprehensive Accessories & High Value

It comes with a full set of accessories, including 3 data cables for compatibility with different smartphones, 3 intelligent batteries providing longer flight, 3 charging cables, and a set of spare propellers. It also features an exquisite storage bag and packaging box, making it an ideal gift for anyone eager to explore the world of aerial photography.

High-Performance Image and Video

Despite its compact size, the U11MINI 4K boasts premium imaging capabilities, featuring an 8K photo resolution and 4K/30fps video recording. A 3-axis brushless gimbal and EIS provide smooth, stable footage, while enhanced digital zoom unlocks new creative perspectives, making it ideal for recording precious moments and fun adventures.

AI Takeoff/Landing System & Safe Flight

The U11MINI 4K’s AI-powered Takeoff/Landing system, combined with a four-way intelligent positioning system (GPS, barometric altitude hold, TOF, and optical flow), ensures smooth and stable low-altitude flights. It offers multiple return-to-home options, including one-click, low-battery, and signal-loss returns, along with the feature to update the return point. Additionally, the built-in beeper helps quickly and accurately locate the drone when it’s hard to spot. No worries about losing your drone, even beginners can handle it!

Extended Range & Seamless Connectivity

The U11MINI 4K sets a new standard with its 20,000ft maximum flight and transmission range, ensuring uninterrupted connectivity for long-range aerial exploration. Equipped with a high-performance transmission chip and dual antenna design, it delivers smooth, stable, and lag-free video transmission at longer distances. Plug-and-play wired connection technology enhances user convenience, making it ideal for both beginners and professionals.

Triple Batteries & Fast Charging

It comes with 3 intelligent batteries, providing a total flight time of up to 96 minutes (32 minutes per battery). It also includes 3 charging cables, allowing all batteries to charge simultaneously—saving valuable time and keeping you ready for longer aerial adventures. Supporting PD 3.0 fast charging, it allows users to recharge quickly and conveniently, whether at home or on the go. For outdoor trips, pair it with the Ruko R299 Portable Power Station (sold separately) for easy charging anytime, anywhere—an ideal combo for uninterrupted aerial shooting. Whether filming vast landscapes or dynamic aerial sequences, the extended battery life ensures you never miss a moment.

Perfect for Family Moments & Creative Adventures

Whether you’re filming your kids playing in the backyard, celebrating a family picnic at the park, or documenting a weekend road trip, this U11MINI 4K mini pocket drone brings a new perspective to everyday memories. Its lightweight, foldable design makes it easy to take anywhere, while its smart features and stable footage ensure anyone can fly with confidence—whether you’re a beginner or an aspiring content creator. From family fun to stunning outdoor views, the U11MINI 4K turns ordinary days into shareable, unforgettable scenes.

The Ruko U11MINI 4K will be available for purchase around 04/15/2025. To learn more about this innovative Ruko drone, visit Ruko’s official website www.ruko.net or search Ruko U11MINI 4K on Amazon.