KUNMING, China, Sept. 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The 2025 International Youth Dialogue on World Cultural Heritage Protection took place on August 26 in Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province. The program was designed to bring together young leaders from across the globe to advance the preservation of cultural and natural heritage and to foster cross-cultural dialogue.

The dialogue featured remarks from senior representatives of China International Communications Group (CICG), China Center for International Communication Development (CCICD), the Publicity Department of the CPC Yunnan Provincial Committee, the Information Office of the Yunnan Provincial Government, the Honghe Prefecture CPC Committee, and the Honghe Prefecture Publicity Department. The Chinese National Commission for UNESCO and UNESCO itself also delivered video addresses. Attendees included winners of the second Orchid Awards, diplomats from nearly 20 countries, and international youth delegates, bringing together over 100 participants from China and abroad. 

During the event, CICG showcased its flagship Orchid Awards, calling attention to opportunities for youth engagement at the global level. Faculty and scholars from universities and research institutions exchanged perspectives on preserving both tangible and intangible cultural heritage. Highlights included the launch of the “Intangible Culinary Heritage Workshop: Revitalizing Mengzi Guoqiao Rice Noodles” initiative, as well as the introduction of the Honghe Initiative by youth delegates. A dedicated roundtable provided a platform for young people to share ideas on how to infuse innovation and new energy into heritage conservation. Additional activities included an evening seminar titled “Pingbian Night Talk: The Practice of Cultural Heritage Protection and Development in Honghe” in Pingbian County, followed by a thematic site visit for international participants. 

The event was coordinated by CICG and the Information Office of the Yunnan Provincial Government, with support from CCICD. Co-hosting organizations included the Honghe Prefecture Information Office, the Honghe Prefecture Cyberspace Affairs Office, and CICG International Communication Development Co., Ltd. Now in its third year since its launch in 2023, the dialogue has become a recurring platform for international youth collaboration in heritage protection and cultural exchange.

SEOUL, South Korea, Sept. 16, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Hanon Systems, a leading global automotive thermal management supplier and a subsidiary of Hankook & Company Group, today announced it has surpassed 1 million units in cumulative production of electric compressors (eCompressors) using eco-friendly refrigerant R744 (CO₂). This milestone, achieved just one and a half years after reaching 500,000 units in January 2024, demonstrates Hanon Systems’ competitiveness and growth in the electric compressor market.

Production of the R744 eCompressors takes place at Hanon Systems’ plant in Palmela, Portugal, which supplies components for Volkswagen Group’s MEB platform, exclusively used for electric vehicles. Demand for R744 compressors has increased significantly alongside the growth of the European electric vehicle market. At major industry events such as the IAA Mobility earlier this month, several leading automakers unveiled new electric vehicle models, further reinforcing expectations for the market’s future growth.

R744 is a natural refrigerant with a global warming potential (GWP) of just 1, making it a leading eco-friendly alternative to traditional refrigerants. In electric vehicle heat pump systems, the electric compressor is a core component, powering the refrigerant cycle to optimize cabin comfort and vehicle performance. The R744 electric compressor minimizes the environmental impact of electric vehicles while also mitigating the decline in driving range during cold weather conditions. In addition, R744 supports global electric vehicle adoption efforts by complying with tightening environmental regulations.

Hanon Systems has decades of experience developing thermal management solutions that operate with various refrigerants. The company was the first in the industry to design and develop an eCompressor that utilizes R744 for automotive climate control systems. Beyond R744 solutions, Hanon Systems also offers next-generation eco-friendly refrigerant solutions such as R290 (propane), as well as traditional refrigerants, including R134a and R1234yf. This comprehensive portfolio enables the company to respond effectively to diverse global demands.

“Hanon Systems continues to drive innovation in automotive thermal management solutions,” said Soo-il Lee, Vice Chairman and CEO of Hanon Systems. “Surpassing 1 million units in R744 electric compressor production is a testament to our leadership in eco-friendly technology and marks a significant milestone in our commitment to a sustainable future. As part of the Hankook & Company Group, we benefit from collective innovation that makes achievements like this possible.”

The Palmela plant began producing mechanical compressors in 1988 and introduced its first electric compressor in 2009. Located in Setúbal, about 25 kilometers south of Lisbon, the Palmela plant benefits from its strategic proximity to the country’s capital and broader European value chain, enhancing its logistics efficiency.

About Hanon Systems

Hanon Systems, founded in 1986, is a global leader in thermal management solutions. In January 2025, it became a subsidiary of Hankook & Company Group. Its offering includes a wide range of solutions in the areas of heating, ventilation and air conditioning, powertrain cooling, compressor, fluid transport, and electronics and fluid pressure. The company currently operates 50 manufacturing sites and three regional innovation centers and employs more than 20,000 people across 21 countries. To learn more, visit hanonsystems.com.

Follow Hanon Systems:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hanonsystems 

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6bSZ7NMg7LPhXDyTOMwebQ/feed

‘World Champion of Whisky’ – Kavalan celebrates decade of world beating excellence

TAIPEI, Sept. 16, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Kavalan Distillery, Taiwan’s pioneering whisky producer, today celebrates a historic sweep of nine “World’s Best” titles from the world’s most prestigious competitions in the past decade – cementing its status as the World Champion of Whisky.

From the World Whiskies Awards (WWA) and Tokyo Whisky & Spirits Competition (TWSC) to the International Whisky Competition (IWC), Kavalan has consistently topped global rankings with its unique single malt releases. These tributes underscore the distillery’s insistence on craftsmanship, innovation and its commitment to Yilan’s terroir.

Kavalan’s ascent began in 2015 when its now legendary Solist Vinho Barrique Single Cask Strength Single Malt captured the WWA’s coveted “World’s Best Single Malt Whisky” title.

Judges described that exceptional whisky as: “Immediately and subtly liquor rich. Tiny bit of incense, a thread of spice and smoke.”

A year later, Solist Amontillado Sherry Single Cask Strength claimed “World’s Best Single Cask Single Malt Whisky” at the same awards. Judges famously coined it as:

“Hints of raisin and coconut on the nose, but essentially what we have here is a toffee smoking a cinnamon flavoured cigar.”

Since then, Kavalan has dominated Japan’s TWSC, capturing a record setting six “Best of the Best Single Malt Whisky” trophies:

• 2020 – Kavalan Solist Vinho Barrique Single Cask Strength
• 2021 – Kavalan 10th Anniversary Sky Gold Wine Cask Matured Single Cask Strength
• 2023 – Kavalan Solist PX Sherry Single Cask Strength
• 2024 – Kavalan Distillery Reserve Peated Malt Single Cask Strength
• 2025 – Kavalan LÁN & Kavalan Solist PX Sherry Single Cask Strength

Kavalan’s unmatched streak at the TWSC culminated when Kavalan made history winning a double “Best of the Best” Single Malt titles for LÁN and Solist PX Sherry Single Cask Strength.

Kavalan’s mastery was further recognized at the IWC 2025, where its Solist Fino Sherry Single Cask Strength was named “Whisky of the Year”. Combined with its TWSC triumphs, the win marked the ninth time Kavalan has been crowned world champion by an international panel of judges.

Chairman of King Car Group and CEO of Kavalan, Mr. Y.T. Lee, said: “Earning nine world titles across three major competitions is a milestone for Kavalan. When we set out to create a whisky that could stand shoulder to shoulder with the world’s best, we never imagined that one day we could achieve this for Taiwan. These awards belong to our entire team and for Yilan, which has nourished Kavalan from birth.”

“Our goal has always been to push the boundaries of whisky making while celebrating the subtropical climate and pure water of Yilan. These awards motivate us to keep exploring new challenges in flavour and texture.”

JUDGES NOTES:

WORLD’S BEST SINGLE MALT WHISKY (2015)

Kavalan Solist Vinho Barrique Single Cask Strength

“Lots of stewed fruits on the nose. There’s also aged Bourbon notes. Water brings out custard creams. Surprisingly smooth on the palate. The alcohol is very present. It’s like Bourbon infused milk chocolate.

Another nutty, meaty, savoury nose, with sweet notes in the backdrop. Very sweet pruney flavours initially on the palate, with fruit cake and big clove, chilli and dry cinnamon. Walnut and hazelnut on the very dry finish.

Immediately and subtly liquor rich. Tiny bit of incense, a thread of spice and smoke.

Caramel, marzipan, coffee-vanilla, fudge, rich, creamy, dried black fruits. Integrated and surprisingly light. Element of sandalwood. Starts creamy, waters out, almost disappears before rubbing hot brown sugar into the oesophagus. Tiny bitter trace.”

WORLD’S BEST SINGLE CASK SINGLE MALT WHISKY (2016)

Kavalan Solist Amontillado Sherry Single Cask Strength

“Hints of raisin and coconut on the nose, but essentially what we have here is a toffee smoking a cinnamon flavoured cigar. The palate opens with a nice burst of sweet fresh fruit – guava and melon – front to mid palate, after which the wood takes over; a Christmas pine hit, the fruit now acting as flamboyant outriders, the caramels rushing in to fill the gap. The finish is long and dry and punches into the throat.”

About Kavalan Whisky

Kavalan Distillery in Yilan County has been pioneering the art of single malt whisky in Taiwan since 2005. Our whisky, aged in intense humidity and heat, sources the crystal meltwaters of Snow Mountain and is enhanced by sea and mountain breezes. These conditions combine to create Kavalan’s signature creaminess. Taking Yilan County’s old name, our distillery is backed by more than 45 years of beverage-making under parent company, King Car Group. We have collected 900 gold or higher awards from the industry’s most competitive contests.

Kaitlyn Tsai
kaitlyn@kingcar.com.tw 

• Introducing popular travel destinations like Naksan Park, Namsan Seoul Tower, the National Museum of Korea, and Everland
• LOTTE rent-a-car offers dedicated foreign staff and multilingual customer service, enhancing convenience for global travelers
• Various promotions exclusively for foreigners, including a 5% discount on advance payments and complimentary merchandise 

SEOUL, South Korea, Sept. 16, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Netflix’s original animation ‘K-Pop Demon Hunters’ is expected to surpass 300 million global views. This is an animation that depicts the story of the girl group Huntrix, who are K-pop singers and demon hunters, fighting against demons. The unique setting of K-pop idols battling supernatural beings, combined with Korean symbols and sentiments, is drawing global attention to Korean culture.

The popularity of the movie is leading to travel to Korea. The number of tourists who want to visit the places that appeared in the movie and experience Korean food and culture has increased. The number of Taiwanese tourists visiting Korea in July was 199,000, a 39.6% increase compared to the same month last year. With the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day holidays in October approaching, the number of visitors to Korea is expected to increase even further.

LOTTE rent-a-car suggests a must-see destination for Taiwanese fans of ‘KPop Demon Hunters’ visiting Korea this fall. Furthermore, LOTTE rent-a-car introduces promotional benefits exclusively for foreigners who use the service.

Rumi and Jinwoo’s Secret Date, Naksan Park Night View

The place where Rumi and Jinwoo had their first date was Naksan Park in Jongno-gu, Seoul. As you walk along the 2.1km walking trail built along the Joseon Dynasty fortress walls, you will be greeted by a panoramic view of Seoul, with its forests, fortress walls, and downtown nightscape. In the film, the couple sing the OST “Free” against this backdrop, sharing their feelings. The trail ends at Ihwa Mural Village, famous for its colorful murals, making it a perfect spot for fans to explore.

Meet the Saja Boys at the final stage, Namsan Seoul Tower

Namsan Seoul Tower, a symbolic landmark of the Seoul skyline, is where the Saja Boys perform “Your Idol” in the final round of the film. This observatory, accessible by cable car or walking trail, offers a panoramic view of all of Seoul from 480 meters above sea level. As a landmark visited by over 10 million people annually, the area around the tower is covered with love locks, creating a romantic atmosphere. Unlike the movie, there is no actual stadium, but it is a cultural complex with exhibitions, experiences, art spaces, and restaurants, and is worth a visit.

The Birthplace of Korean History Becomes a Merchandise Mecca: The National Museum of Korea

The National Museum of Korea is Korea’s largest museum, housing over 1.5 million artifacts from prehistoric times to the present. As you stroll through the magnificent exhibition hall, the flow of Korean history unfolds at a glance, and each special exhibition presents a different theme to greet visitors. Recently, museum merchandise has become so popular that they are causing a huge run. In particular, the ‘Magpie Tiger Badge’, which resembles the tiger character ‘Duffy’ from KPop Demon Hunters, has sold over 40,000 pieces and has become a must-have item for fans visiting the museum.

Everland Theme Zone: Where Anyone Can Become Rumi

Located in Yongin, just outside Seoul, Everland is Korea’s largest theme park, attracting millions of visitors annually. It’s famous for its wooden roller coaster, the T Express, Safari World, and seasonal parades and fireworks. Starting September 26th, a K-pop Demon Hunters themed zone in collaboration with Netflix will open. Guests can enjoy cosplaying as Huntrix and Lion Boys and participate in mission-based games that explore each character’s story. Limited-edition merchandise available only at Everland is also highly anticipated.

LOTTE rent-a-car offers foreign professionals and a convenient reservation process

LOTTE rent-a-car is the leading brand in the Korean market and a global partner of Hertz. The official website supports English, Chinese, and Japanese. It also employs professional staff capable of providing consultations in other languages. Even first-time travelers to Korea can easily use the service in their native language, from reservations to contract management and consultations.

With branches located in major airports like Incheon, Gimpo, and Jeju, as well as Seoul Station, you can rent a car immediately upon arrival. Simply reserve your desired vehicle type and date on our website, and present your passport and international driver’s license to conveniently pick up your vehicle on-site.

A wide range of vehicle models are available, from compact cars to SUVs and sports cars. If you’re worried about your first trip, consider using the “Chauffeur Drive” service, which includes a foreign language-speaking driver. A variety of insurance coverage and price ranges are also available.

5% discount on LOTTE rent-a-car prepayment and benefits for popular travel destinations

LOTTE rent-a-car has prepared various benefits for international travelers visiting Korea this fall. Pre-pay on the website to receive a 5% discount on rental fees. Customers who pre-pay on the website during the month of October will receive K-culture merchandise. Available until supplies last.

October is a month of abundant benefits at each branch. OLIVE YOUNG offers discounts to customers who use LOTTE rent-a-car in Jeju. Customers who rent a LOTTE rent-a-car from October 1st to November 30th can receive a 10% discount coupon that can be used at six OLIVE YOUNG stores in Jeju, including Jeju International Airport, Jeju Yongdam, Seogwipo Donggwang, Seogwipo Innovation City, Jeju Jungmun, and Jeju Hyeopjae. Customers who choose the Chauffeur Drive service will also receive a cosmetics sample pouch.

To mark the APEC 2025 Gyeongju hosting, LOTTE rent-a-car and the Korea Tourism Organization are collaborating to run special promotions at branches in the southern region, including Gyeongju, Busan Station, and Gimhae Airport. From October to November, the first 1,000 customers will receive a 50,000 won discount.

In addition, there is a promotion that provides free charging cards to foreign customers who rent electric vehicles at Jeju Island, Seoul Station, Incheon Airport, Busan Station, Gimhae Airport, and Haeundae. LOTTE rent-a-car is also running a promotion in Jeju that offers discounts at popular tourist destinations and LOTTE affiliates to customers using short-term car rentals.

LOTTE rental, stated, “Autumn is the most beautiful season to enjoy Korea, and the number of international tourists visiting Korea has increased since the success of ‘K-Pop Demon Hunters’,” adding, “LOTTE rent-a-car offers a variety of services and benefits to help travelers freely explore Korea and experience its charms.” 

Detailed information about the promotion can be found on LOTTE rent-a-car’s English and Chinese websites and app. The app can be downloaded from the Google Play Store and the Apple App Store.

LOTTE rental is South Korea’s leading rental company, providing integrated rental solutions across all fields, including automobiles, office automation equipment and industrial equipment. Its subsidiary, LOTTE rent-a-car, holds the top market share in the domestic rental car industry and offers extensive mobility services to domestic and international customers through over 220 branches nationwide and a global partnership network. 

About LOTTE rental

LOTTE rental, the only comprehensive rental company in Korea, provides better value with various business portfolios, including auto mobility services that encompass car life, business solution services that support more efficient businesses.

LOTTE rent-a-car is creating an innovative car life as the No.1 car rental brand. LOTTE rent-a-car G car, Korea’s –first car-sharing brand, is drawing a better mobility service.

LOTTE rental is moving forward as a mobility leader that connects customers’ precious lives.

For more information about LOTTE rental, please visit: https://www.lotterental.com/

DEERFIELD, Ill., Sept. 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Over the past two decades, surgical techniques have increasingly shifted toward minimally invasive approaches, requiring adapted workflows and skillsets. At the same time, patient complexity has grown, calling for tailored strategies to support safe and effective care in the operating room.

Professor Ulrich Stock

After its global launch in Europe, Baxter has introduced Hemopatch Sealing Hemostat in New Zealand. Hemopatch Sealing Hemostat is a room-temperature storage collagen pad designed for hemostasis and sealing in both open and minimally invasive surgical procedures (MIS).

To support its introduction, a series of clinical visits took place across several hospitals. Professor Ulrich Stock, Head of Cardiothoracic and Transplant Surgery at Fiona Stanley Hospital (Perth, Australia) led the sessions, presented his insights from daily clinical practice. Reflecting on the product’s development and its role in today’s surgical environment, he shared:

“I believe it’s very important for the industry to listen to their surgeons—to recognize when something is good or fair but could be improved. It takes time and testing, but ultimately it benefits everyone: the surgeon, the patient, and the wider medical community.

We’ve learned that when we reduce blood loss and avoid transfusions, patients recover faster and often do better in the long term. That’s especially important as we see more patients with complex histories. In heart transplantation, for example, 60% of our patients have had previous surgeries. These changes in patient profiles demand new tools and better support in the OR.”

The roadshow provided a valuable opportunity for surgical teams to explore the updated features—focused on ease of use and supporting positive patient outcomes.

We look forward to sharing further updates as the global rollout expands.

For more information on Hemopatch sealing hemostat,
Visit: https://advancedsurgery.baxter.eu/hemopatch 

Reference:

1. Hemopatch sealing hemostat Instructions for Use.

Manufacturer: 

Baxter Healthcare SA

Thurgauerstrasse 130 Glattbrugg, 

ZÜRICH, 8152 Switzerland

Class of Device: III

CE 0123

This content is intended solely for healthcare professionals and should not be interpreted as medical advice. Please consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any health concerns.

Hemopatch sealing hemostat is approved for use only in selected countries. For specific information on the availability and regulatory status of Hemopatch sealing hemostat room temperature in your country, we recommend contacting your local Baxter Healthcare sales representative.

Baxter and Hemopatch are trademarks of Baxter International Inc. or its subsidiaries.

GBU-AS21-250027 (v1.0) 08/2025

Indication and Important Risk Information

Photo – https://laotiantimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/baxter_hemopatch_rt_vienna_professor_ulrich_stock.jpg

Photo – https://laotiantimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/hemopatchiri_nz.jpg

Haunted is a social horror experience designed to bring frights and memorable moments to groups looking for an adrenaline rush

MELBOURNE, Australia, Sept. 16, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Zero Latency VR, the undisputed leader in immersive entertainment and the mastermind behind the largest true location-based free-roam VR network in the world, has announced the launch of HAUNTED, its first fully immersive horror experience – and its most atmospheric title to date.

Set inside a mysterious, shifting house that seems to live and breathe, HAUNTED offers players an intense, cinematic horror experience. Featuring wireless, warehouse-scale gameplay, 5K visuals, and responsive spatial audio, the title places up to eight players inside a psychologically unsettling narrative where survival is never guaranteed.

“This is an experience that lingers,” said Tim Ruse, CEO of Zero Latency VR. “HAUNTED is a deeply immersive, sensory-rich story designed to stay with players long after they leave the arena. It taps into fear in unexpected ways. Sometimes it’s loud and chaotic. Sometimes it’s quiet and intimate. Either way, brave participants come out of it talking, laughing, and often, a little shaken.”

Built with a focus on environmental storytelling and emotional intensity, HAUNTED invites players to explore a space where shadows move, rooms distort, and the house itself becomes the enemy. Group dynamics are tested as players are drawn apart, guided by whispers, laughter, and a presence that always seems one step ahead.

HAUNTED expands Zero Latency’s genre offering, adding a bold new dimension to its growing catalog of free-roam VR experiences. The title will be available at Zero Latency venues worldwide beginning October 3.

Bookings now open at: https://booking.zerolatencyvr.com 

ABOUT ZERO LATENCY:

Zero Latency VR is the global pioneer in immersive entertainment, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in location-based experiences. As the largest free-roam VR network on the planet, with 150+ cutting-edge venues across 30 countries, Zero Latency is where thrill-seekers come to live out their wildest fantasies.

SOCIAL MEDIA LINKS:

Instagram and TikTok: @zerolatencyvr

LinkedIn: Zero Latency VR

Press Contact:

Luke Mitchell
PR & Communications Manager
+61 (0) 413614412
luke.mitchell@zerolatencyvr.com

Something horrifying is here. You are not safe. You need to get out. RUN.

MELBOURNE, Australia, Sept. 16, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Zero Latency VR, the undisputed leader in immersive entertainment and the mastermind behind the largest true location-based free-roam VR network in the world, has announced the launch of HAUNTED, its first fully immersive horror experience – and its most atmospheric title to date.

Darkness has a new address, and Zero Latency VR has just given you the keys. In HAUNTED, the house has been waiting, patient and still, for someone foolish enough to open the door. Tonight, it got what it wanted.

Open your eyes. How did you get here? You may never leave. The air is thick here; the floor unsteady, the sound of something moving just out of sight.

No one knows who built the house in HAUNTED, or why it remains there. Some say it wasn’t built at all; it simply appeared. And now it’s waiting for you and your friends.

The house hears you, even when you’re silent. Sometimes it laughs. Sometimes it breathes. Always, it wants you alone.

Step carefully. In HAUNTED, friends blur into strangers, corridors lengthen, and shadows whisper in voices you almost recognise. Stay together if you can… but the house prefers you apart.

The experience is simple: survive. But this isn’t just an experience. It’s a full-body VR horror movie where you and your friends are the main characters. Fully immersive, no cables, no backpacks – only fear and whatever courage you have left.

Arena-scale, 5K visuals and spatial sound bring the nightmare to life. Loud noises echo through the night. A whisper brushes your neck. Your heartbeat is the only rhythm you hear… and it’s far too loud.

Your mission is to stay alive. But no one does. Not really.

“This isn’t an attraction. It’s an infection,” said Tim Ruse, CEO at Zero Latency VR. “You wake up inside HAUNTED, and it takes something from you. We designed it to scare you, yes – but sometimes it scares us too. If you make it out, don’t look back. It hates that.”

HAUNTED is the latest free-roam VR experience from Zero Latency VR, the world leader in immersive, mind-blowing adventures. It’s available this spooky season, and it’s waiting in an arena near you. The only question is: will you escape?

No one gets out alive. HAUNTED launches on October 3 at Zero Latency VR venues worldwide. Book now – if you dare – at https://booking.zerolatencyvr.com/.

###

ABOUT ZERO LATENCY:
Zero Latency VR is the global pioneer in immersive entertainment, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in location-based experiences. As the largest free-roam VR network on the planet, with 150+ cutting-edge venues across 30 countries, Zero Latency is where thrill-seekers come to live out their wildest fantasies.

SOCIAL MEDIA LINKS:
Instagram and TikTok: @zerolatencyvr
LinkedIn: Zero Latency VR

Press Contact:
Luke Mitchell
PR & Communications Manager
+61 (0) 413614412
luke.mitchell@zerolatencyvr.com