Home Blog Page 3

US Court Strikes Down 75-Country Visa Pause, but Ruling Does Not Lift Laos Travel Ban

US court ruling on 75-country immigrant visa pause and Laos travel restrictions.
A picture used for illustration purpose only.

A US federal judge has struck down a Trump administration policy that paused immigrant visa processing for nationals of 75 countries, including Laos.

The ruling, issued on 21 August by US District Judge Jeannette Vargas in Manhattan, found that the State Department had exceeded its legal authority by stopping consular officers from individually assessing applicants and instead suspending visa issuance based on nationality.

But the decision does not lift the separate US travel restrictions currently covering Lao nationals.

Laos remains subject to a partial entry and visa suspension under a Presidential Proclamation issued by President Donald Trump in June 2025.

That means the court ruling does not, by itself, reopen the US immigrant visa process for Lao citizens for the time being.

Why Laos Was on Both Lists

The two measures are separate and came from different parts of the Trump administration’s immigration policy.

The State Department introduced the 75-country immigrant visa pause on 21 January 2026. It stopped the issuance of immigrant visas to nationals of the listed countries while the department reviewed concerns about applicants potentially becoming a “public charge.” Laos was among the 75 countries under that policy.

Judge Vargas ruled that the policy was unlawful because it prevented consular officers from carrying out the individualized assessments required under US immigration law. She described the policy as “patently unlawful.”

The lawsuit was brought by immigrant rights groups, visa applicants and US citizens sponsoring family members.

The court has now vacated that State Department policy. The ruling therefore affects the 75-country pause itself, rather than the separate presidential travel restrictions imposed on individual countries.

Judge Vargas gave the Trump Administration and the immigrant rights groups until 11 September to propose how the remaining issues should be resolved. The US government may appeal, meaning the ruling could change and further guidance may follow, so embassy processing arrangements remain uncertain.

What the Court Ruling Changes

The ruling is still significant for applicants from countries that appear on the 75-country list but are not subject to a separate presidential entry suspension.

For those applicants, the State Department’s blanket pause can no longer serve as the basis for refusing immigrant visas.

For Lao applicants, however, the situation is different. The court removed one layer of visa restrictions, but another, separate presidential proclamation remains in place.

The US State Department has not yet issued detailed guidance on how embassies should implement the ruling alongside the existing country-specific restrictions.

From Vietnam to the U.S: East West Barbershop takes on the world’s most competitive market


HO CHI MINH CITY, VIETNAM – Media OutReach Newswire – 24 August 2026 – A Vietnamese men’s grooming brand is preparing to enter the U.S. market with a business model that has been developed and scaled across Asia. The move will be an important test of East West Barbershop (Dong Tay Barbershop)’s ability to expand internationally, taking one of Asia’s leading men’s grooming chains into the world’s most competitive barbershop market.

East West Barbershop (Dong Tay Barbershop) has established a presence in several overseas markets, including Thailand, China, Uzbekistan and Europe.
East West Barbershop (Dong Tay Barbershop) has established a presence in several overseas markets, including Thailand, China, Uzbekistan and Europe.

From a Vietnamese barbershop to an international network of more than 130 locations

In the global men’s grooming industry, building an international brand requires barbershop chains to solve a fundamental challenge: How can they standardize services, train staff, maintain a consistent customer experience and scale their model without losing their identity?

This is the formula behind many of the world’s leading names in the hair and grooming industry, including Great Clips, Supercuts, Sport Clips Haircuts, TONI&GUY, QB House and Jawed Habib Hair & Beauty. These brands have transformed a service industry traditionally dependent on individual craftsmanship into scalable business systems.

East West Barbershop (Dong Tay Barbershop) is pursuing a similar path. Founded in Vietnam in 2018, the company has grown into a network of more than 130 locations, with over 1,000 barbers, while gradually expanding into international markets. At this scale, East West operates in a different league from independent barbershops.

The value of a barbershop chain with hundreds of locations lies in its ability to deliver a consistent experience across the entire network. This is also why East West Barbershop (Dong Tay Barbershop) has been ranked among the Top 10 large-scale grooming brands in the world.

But as it prepares to enter the U.S. market, the key question is whether this model can be successfully transferred and operated in a completely different market.

Beyond the haircut: When a barbershop becomes an experience

East West Barbershop (Dong Tay Barbershop) seeks to differentiate itself by developing an “Experiential Barbershop” concept, combining grooming with relaxation and entertainment.

From the moment customers walk through the door, they are greeted by a space filled with greenery, along with relaxation areas featuring pool tables, chess, a piano, a bar and bookshelves. The chain, which caters exclusively to men and boys, also features car-themed barber chairs and dedicated play areas for its younger customers.

East West Barbershop (Dong Tay Barbershop) — The ultimate destination for men to relax and unwind
East West Barbershop (Dong Tay Barbershop) — The ultimate destination for men to relax and unwind

Its services extend well beyond a haircut, including hair washing, ear cleaning, massage, hair restoration treatments, perming, coloring, nail care, shoe cleaning and phone sanitization.

East West Barbershop (Dong Tay Barbershop) aims to change the way customers perceive a barbershop. Rather than simply purchasing a grooming service, customers can take time to relax, look after themselves or bring their children along to a space designed around the overall experience.

As consumers increasingly value the overall experience alongside service quality, this approach reflects the changing dynamics of the men’s grooming market.

The United States: East West Barbershop’s next major test

The United States is no random choice. It represents the next step in East West Barbershop (Dong Tay Barbershop)’s international strategy, building on a business model that has already been tested in Vietnam and several overseas markets.

Mr. Nguyen Hoai Thanh, Chairman of Dong Tay Barbershop Vietnam Joint Stock Company, said: “We chose the United States not because it is the easiest market to enter, but because it is one of the most demanding and competitive barbershop markets in the world. If a model built in Vietnam can succeed in the U.S., it would be the clearest testament to East West Barbershop’s ability to take its brand and business model to the international stage.”

The U.S. is home to many major barbershop and salon brands and is one of the world’s most mature markets for franchising in the service sector.

Great Clips is a prime example. With thousands of salons across the United States and Canada, the brand demonstrates the scale a haircut business can achieve when its model is standardized and successfully replicated.

Supercuts, Sport Clips and many other chains have likewise spent years building strong brand recognition and extensive customer networks.

Against this backdrop, the Vietnamese brand must answer a fundamental question: Why would American consumers choose a brand from Vietnam over names they already know and recognize?

East West Barbershop (Dong Tay Barbershop)’s answer is not simply to compete on price. Its goal is to “export” a business model that combines customer experience, workforce training, operating standards and franchising.

This requires the company to turn its operational experience into a transferable system while addressing the many differences between Vietnam and the United States.

East West Barbershop (Dong Tay Barbershop) identifies barber training, skills standardization and the ability to adapt to a new environment as key foundations of this process. International expansion also creates opportunities for Vietnamese barbers to gain exposure to international working environments.

East West Barbershop (Dong Tay Barbershop) has also linked its development with social initiatives, including free vocational training for young people, mobile haircut programs offering free services, and contributions to charitable activities. These efforts contribute to a distinctive brand story: a service business seeking to develop its brand, its profession and its community at the same time.

After nearly a decade of establishment and development, East West Barbershop (Dong Tay Barbershop) is gradually proving that a business model built in Vietnam can be standardized, franchised, and compete on the same playing field as the major players in the global hair industry.

If successful in the U.S., East West Barbershop (Dong Tay Barbershop)’s story will go beyond being a Top 10 brand or a network of more than 130 locations. It will be the story of how a Vietnamese service business transformed capabilities built at home into a model capable of reaching the global stage.

Hashtag: #EastWestBarbershop #Dongtaybarbershop

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

East West Barbershop Vietnam Joint Stock Company

Established: 2018

Country: Vietnam

Number of locations: 130+ across Vietnam, Thailand, China, Uzbekistan and Hungary

Head Office: 23rd Floor, Landmark 81, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Email:

Website: dongtaybarbershop.com

Hotline: +84 1900 4737

Mobile: +84 901 602 902

IBM Study: Sports Fans Want Streamlined Digital Experiences as Platform Choices Expand

  • AI use among surveyed sports fans increased in 2026, with accuracy driving fan trust
  • Nearly half of respondents would download a single, consolidated sports app — but only about 3 in 10 would pay for one
  • Managing multiple subscriptions has become a source of frustration for surveyed sports fans

ARMONK, N.Y., Aug. 24, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — New research commissioned by IBM (NYSE: IBM) reveals the digital expectations of surveyed sports fans are rising as they navigate more platforms, subscriptions and technology.

According to the latest IBM Sports Intelligence Report*, based on responses from more than 20,000 sports fans across 12 countries, 46% of those surveyed say their expectations for digital sports experiences are higher than they were one to two years ago. That shift is already visible in their viewing habits. Thirty percent (30%) of surveyed fans say they are most likely to use a subscription streaming service to watch live sports, nearly even with the 29% who select linear broadcast. Respondents who watch sports through digital platforms – such as streaming services — cite convenience (43%) and access to exclusive content (27%) as the top reasons for choosing digital viewing over linear.

AI usage gains momentum, as accuracy shapes the AI-powered sports experience
AI use among all respondents increased from 52% to 69% year over year, while 59% say they trust AI-generated sports content — down from 63% last year. As AI becomes more widely utilized, the data suggest that familiarity may be a factor in driving trust: surveyed fans who already use AI trust AI-generated sports content nearly three times more than those who do not (74% vs. 27%). According to the research, accuracy matters more to fans than speed: 44% of respondents prioritize highly accurate sports information compared with 23% who prioritize speed, while accuracy is the top driver of trust in AI-powered insights, cited by 45%.

Sports apps emerge as a central hub for fandom
Nearly three-quarters (72%) of surveyed fans report using sports apps. A similar share (74%) say they trust sports apps and digital platforms to provide accurate and reliable information, second only to traditional broadcasters at 79%. Many are also seeking a more consolidated experience. While 47% of respondents say they would be likely to download and use a centralized sports app, only 29% are willing to subscribe and pay for one. Premium live viewing and having all content in one place are top potential drivers of paid sports app subscriptions at 61% each, followed closely by exclusive content and an ad-free experience, both at 58%. 

Among surveyed sports app users, 40% cite having information in one place as the leading motivator for using sports apps, while 35% use them for real-time updates when unable to watch or listen to an event. In addition, 30% of these respondents say they use live statistics and analytics more than they did one to two years ago, making it the fastest-growing app feature measured. Apps also extend beyond information and engagement to transactions. In the past year, 33% of surveyed users bought tickets, 30% ordered food or beverages at a live event, and 29% purchased merchandise through a sports app.

“Sports fans want reliable, connected digital experiences that bring everything together in one place so they don’t need to toggle back and forth between multiple apps,” said Kameryn Stanhouse, Vice President, Sports and Entertainment Partnerships, IBM. “As fans’ digital expectations keep growing, the organizations that earn their trust will be the ones that combine accuracy with streamlined experiences that put the power in fans’ hands.”

Other key findings:

  • More platform choices add complexity for fans: 39% of surveyed fans report frustration with managing multiple subscriptions to watch sporting events they care about, rising to 46% among Gen Z respondents.
  • Fans expect their viewing habits to evolve: 75% of respondents believe their sports viewing habits will change in the next two to three years, including 89% of Gen Z and 84% of Millennial fans. More than one-third (36%) of all surveyed fans expect to watch more live broadcast or streaming events.
  • Sports creators influence fans well beyond the game: Nearly half (49%) of surveyed fans follow sports creators, increasing to about 6 in 10 among Gen Z and Millennial fans. Their reach extends past sports, with 70% of surveyed followers confirming creators shape their opinions or awareness in areas such as fashion, music or technology, including 22% who say creators influence multiple aspects of their lifestyle.

To view the full study, visit: https://newsroom.ibm.com/image/IBM+Sports+Intelligence+Report+August+2026.pdf 

*Study Methodology
This survey was commissioned by IBM and conducted by Morning Consult in June 2026 among a total sample of 20,589 sports fans ages 18 and older in the US, Canada, the UK, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, India, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Mexico and Brazil. The interviews for each country were conducted online, and the data is unweighted, with ~2,000 responses per market in the US, Canada, the UK, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and India and ~1,000 responses per market in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Mexico and Brazil.

To qualify for this survey, respondents must be at least an average sports fan and follow one or more of the following sports: soccer, cricket, tennis, basketball, baseball, rugby, golf, American football, F1 racing, track and field, swimming, and the Olympics.

About IBM
IBM is a leading provider of global hybrid cloud and AI, and consulting expertise. We help clients in more than 175 countries capitalize on insights from their data, streamline business processes, reduce costs and gain the competitive edge in their industries. Thousands of governments and corporate entities in critical infrastructure areas such as financial services, telecommunications and healthcare rely on IBM’s hybrid cloud platform and Red Hat OpenShift to affect their digital transformations quickly, efficiently and securely. IBM’s breakthrough innovations in AI, quantum computing, industry-specific cloud solutions and consulting deliver open and flexible options to our clients. All of this is backed by IBM’s long-standing commitment to trust, transparency, responsibility, inclusivity and service. Visit www.ibm.com for more information.

Media contact:

Marisa Conway
IBM Corporate Communications
conwaym@us.ibm.com

IBM and the USTA Introduce New AI-Powered Fan Experiences for 2026 US Open

NEW YORK, Aug. 24, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — IBM (NYSE: IBM) and the United States Tennis Association (USTA) today announced new and enhanced AI-powered fan features coming to USOpen.org and the US Open app for this year’s tournament. Three new, enhanced AI-powered innovations are designed to help fans cut through the noise, stay closer to the action and experience the US Open in a more personalized way than ever.  Since 1992, IBM and the USTA have brought some of the most advanced digital experiences in sports to more than 14 million global tennis fans annually.

This year’s tournament comes at a time when audience demand for AI-powered features is gaining momentum, as accuracy, not speed, shapes the digital sports experience. According to a new global survey also out today from Morning Consult and commissioned by IBM, 91% of global tennis fans surveyed use sports apps during events, with high trust (64%) in AI-powered sports content.

At the heart of this year’s experience is the all-new Live Updates homepage — a smarter, more personalized way for fans to follow the action that matters most to them. Fans can prioritize their favorite players and quickly zero in on the matches, insights and stories they care about most.

IBM Match Statistics App (Photo Credit: IBM)
IBM Match Statistics App (Photo Credit: IBM)

A new Serve Quality metric puts a whole new spin on how fans watch serves. Available across all 254 singles matches, the AI-powered tool uses advanced limb-tracking technology developed with IBM Bob to help analyze the precise mechanics of every serve – with 21 data points across the body and racquet, tracked 50 times per second. That means everything from wrist flex to the transfer of energy from a player’s legs through their torso is captured, generating roughly 1.2 billion data points over the course of the tournament. The continuous stream of live data — including efficiency, accuracy, consistency and ball toss — is managed by IBM Confluent. The result: a Serve Quality score generated in near real-time, giving fans a new way to understand what makes a great serve great.  

Also new this year, Key Moments takes the popular live Likelihood to Win feature a step further, helping fans understand not just who’s winning – but why. Available for all singles matches, Likelihood to Win calculates each player’s probability of victory using an AI-powered analysis of current and historical statistics, expert opinion and match momentum. Key Moments provides additional, richer information, to summarize the swings, turning points and momentum shifts that change each match in an instant.

IBM SlamTracker App (Photo Credit: IBM)
IBM SlamTracker App (Photo Credit: IBM)

The enhanced Match Chat acts as an interactive companion throughout each match, letting fans ask questions in their own words to get instant, conversational answers.   Some responses now go beyond text, bringing in relevant photos and video to add even more context. Match Chat, powered by watsonx Orchestrate, draws on an expanded mix of live match data, analysis and historical information. A collection of AI agents and fit-for-purpose models trained in the USTA’s editorial style and the language of tennis make responses feel right at home on the court.

IBM Match Chat App (Photo Credit: IBM)
IBM Match Chat App (Photo Credit: IBM)

“Our work with IBM this year has been game-changing, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in digital fan engagement,” said Brian Ryerson, Senior Director, Digital Strategy, USTA. “By leveraging their AI capabilities, we’re delivering new, innovative, and highly personalized content and insights to our millions of fans worldwide, while significantly enhancing our ability to tell compelling stories throughout every match of the US Open.”

“Our partnership with the USTA continues to redefine digital sports experiences,” said Jonathan Adashek, Senior Vice President, Chief Global Affairs Officer at IBM. “We can take millions of live data points streaming from the court and automatically route them into workflows that deliver usable insights in minutes and hours. These capabilities of Confluent, Bob and other IBM technologies help deliver a more intelligent experience, drawing greater value from data and changing the game for the US Open.”

The 2026 US Open runs from August 23 – September 13. Explore these IBM technologies and more by visiting USOpen.org and/or the US Open app available in the Apple and Android app stores on all mobile devices.

About IBM
IBM is a leading provider of global hybrid cloud and AI, and consulting expertise. We help clients in more than 175 countries capitalize on insights from their data, streamline business processes, reduce costs and gain the competitive edge in their industries. Thousands of governments and corporate entities in critical infrastructure areas such as financial services, telecommunications and healthcare rely on IBM’s hybrid cloud platform and Red Hat OpenShift to affect their digital transformations quickly, efficiently and securely. IBM’s breakthrough innovations in AI, quantum computing, industry-specific cloud solutions and consulting deliver open and flexible options to our clients. All of this is backed by IBM’s long-standing commitment to trust, transparency, responsibility, inclusivity and service. Visit www.ibm.com for more information.

Media contact:

Paul Pettas
IBM
paulpettas@ibm.com


Serve Quality Data Capture.

Reborn Interior Expands Team to 60 Designers as Singapore Renovation Firm Scales Operations


SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 24 August 2026 — Singapore-based interior design and renovation company Reborn Interior Pte. Ltd. has expanded its team to approximately 60 interior designers since its establishment in 2024, as the company develops its residential renovation operations and explores the use of technology in its design and customer engagement processes.

Mr Hengky (founder) of Reborn Interior Pte. Ltd.
Mr Hengky (founder) of Reborn Interior Pte. Ltd.

Founded by Mr. Hengky, Reborn Interior provides residential interior design and renovation services, with an approach centred on understanding homeowners’ requirements before developing design concepts and renovation plans. The company said its growth has also been accompanied by efforts to strengthen project management, customer communication and internal professional standards.

Focus on Customer Communication and Project Management

Renovation projects can involve significant financial commitments for homeowners and require coordination across design, construction, materials and project timelines. Against this backdrop, Reborn Interior has placed emphasis on clearer communication with clients, including discussions around pricing, project timelines and renovation requirements.

The company said its designers begin projects by understanding homeowners’ lifestyles, functional requirements and preferences before developing design proposals. Its project support also includes inspections of workmanship and identification of defects before project completion.

“Growth is meaningful to us because it reflects the trust homeowners have placed in our team,” said Mr. Hengky, Founder of Reborn Interior Pte. Ltd. “As we expand, our priority is to strengthen our standards, develop our people and provide homeowners with greater clarity throughout the renovation process.”

Developing Professional Standards

As part of its expansion, Reborn Interior is also working towards additional industry-recognised credentials and quality accreditations. The company said these efforts form part of its broader focus on professional standards, compliance and service processes.

Mr. Hengky entered the interior design sector after a career in banking and subsequently developed his knowledge of architecture, space planning, furniture and materials through industry research and visits to manufacturing and furniture hubs in China. These experiences have informed the company’s approach to residential design and product selection.

Exploring AI-Assisted Design

The company is also exploring the potential application of artificial intelligence within its design workflow. One proposed application would allow homeowners to upload floor plans and receive AI-assisted visualisations during consultations, helping them better understand potential design and renovation options.

Reborn Interior said the technology would be intended to support designers rather than replace them, allowing its team to focus on understanding clients’ requirements and refining design concepts. The proposed application remains part of the company’s future technology plans.

Investing in People

Alongside its operational expansion, Reborn Interior has placed emphasis on developing its growing team. The company said its founder’s focus includes mentoring less-experienced designers and developing future team leaders as the organisation expands.

Mr. Hengky said his experience managing the company’s growth has shaped an approach centred on resilience, accountability and continuous improvement, with employee development regarded as an important component of sustainable business growth.

Looking Ahead

Over the next two years, Reborn Interior plans to continue expanding its professional team, pursue additional industry certifications and awards, and further develop its technology capabilities. The company also aims to contribute to discussions around professional standards and customer practices within Singapore’s renovation sector.
Hashtag: #RebornInterior

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

About Reborn Interior Pte. Ltd.

Founded in 2024, Reborn Interior Pte. Ltd. is a Singapore-based interior design and renovation company specialising in residential interior design and renovation services. The company focuses on customised design solutions, project management and customer communication, with its operations led by Founder Mr. Hengky.

Facebook:
Tiktok:
Instagram:

Visa-Free Guizhou: One-Stop Cool Summer, Endless Mountain Adventures


GUIZHOU, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 24 August 2026 – Just over a three-hour flight from Thailand, travelers can escape the sweltering heat and dive into a refreshing 23°C summer in Guizhou, China. Boasting 90% mountainous terrain and over 60% forest coverage, this region is a natural air conditioner, offering cool mountain breezes and misty waterfalls. Beyond the cool climate, Guizhou invites Thai travelers to unlock a world of vibrant, spicy, and sour culinary delights.

processed-F8ACDE9B-88D0-496E-AB57-910836DD1B18.jpeg

Watch the upGuizhou YouTube Video to experience Guizhou’s ultimate summer escape.

Spectacular Landscapes at Every Step

Carved by karst topography, Guizhou’s scenic wonders await at every turn. The Huangguoshu Waterfall surges downward, its cool mist enveloping the valley; stepping into the Water Curtain Cave behind it brings you within arm’s reach of the rushing torrents. For serenity, drift by boat into the Dragon Palace, where hanging stalactites and rising mist create an eternal autumn within the caves. Journeying south to Xingyi, the Maling River Canyon, known as ‘the earth’s most beautiful scar,’ reveals a grand theater of waterfalls plunging down vertical cliffs. Amidst these boundless landscapes, the gentle 23°C breeze remains a timeless constant.

Modern Adventures and Vibrant Flavors

Guizhou’s charm extends far beyond nature. The Huajiang Canyon Bridge, the “world’s highest bridge,” spans across a sea of clouds, offering picture-perfect views. At night, Guiyang’s iconic “White House” and Twin Towers illuminate the city skyline. Visitors can dive into the lively Qingyun Market to discover trendy hand-crafted souvenirs and mouth-watering local delicacies.

The fermented Sour Fish Soup, refreshing Siwawa (veggie wraps), and tender Qingyan Braised Pig’s Trotters are crowd favorites. “The Sour Fish Soup reminds me of Tom Yum Goong back home, yet it brings a completely new and exciting flavor,” shared a Thai travel blogger who recently visited.

Learn more about the region’s unique culinary culture on the guizhoutravel Special Page

Seamless Travel with Visa-Free Entry

With mutual visa-free entry now in place, a direct flight from Bangkok to Guiyang takes just three hours.On August 26, the ‘Cool Guizhou, Rendezvous in Siam’ Summer Tourism Promotion Salon was held in Bangkok, bringing together local Thai media and travel agencies for business matchmaking. During the event, Guizhou Tourism Investment International Cultural Co., Ltd. (a subsidiary of Guizhou Tourism Group) signed agreements with leading Thai travel agencies to co-develop premium summer getaway itineraries. We warmly invite Thai friends to explore the cool, hidden paradise of Guizhou.

Explore more of mysterious Guizhou:https://th.guizhoutravel.com/

Hashtag: #Guizhou

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

Escape to Mysterious Guizhou, China for a Cool 23°C Summer


GUIZHOU, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 24 August 2026 – For those seeking a relaxing summer retreat, Guizhou, China is an unmissable destination. As a mountainous province with over 60% forest coverage, Guizhou boasts an average summer temperature of 23°C, serving as a natural air conditioner and oxygen bar. Its cascading waterfalls, canyon breezes, and cool karst caves offer a soothing escape where the summer heat melts away through the endless green hills, leaving you wrapped in pure comfort and relaxation.

processed-525C220B-D5AA-478E-9548-9895592569D7.jpeg

Watch the upGuizhou YouTube Video to experience Guizhou’s ultimate summer escape.

Pure Refreshment in a Sacred Landscape

Guizhou’s landscapes possess a unique aesthetic carved by nature over millions of years. Beyond Zhangjiajie, Mount Fanjingshan—known as the “Castle in the Sky”—offers a serene retreat for wellness and zen living. Visitors can also explore Libo Xiaoqikong, the “Emerald of the Earth,” to witness pristine karst forests, or stand before the majestic Huangguoshu Waterfall, Asia’s largest cascade. A popular Korean travel reality show recently filmed here, with hosts praising the region: “Guizhou’s landscapes retain an authentic Eastern charm. Stepping into these forests instantly heals your soul.”

Vibrant Heritage and Cultural Wonders

Beyond its scenic wonders, Guizhou’s vibrant ethnic diversity and cultural heritage offer a profound appeal. The delicate stitches of Miao embroidery weave ancient totems into fabric, while the indigo-and-white batik reveals one-of-a-kind, natural ice-crackle patterns.

Here, the intangible heritage invites you to slow down. Touch the artisanal spirit of embroidery and batik, listen to the celestial, centuries-old Grand Song of the Dong, and immerse yourself in the living romance of local traditions. Nestled in ancient mountain villages, you can slip into distinctive ethnic costumes for a timeless photo—a perfect, personal keepsake of Guizhou’s mountains and soul.”

Discover more unique culinary and cultural highlights on the guizhoutravel Special Page

Seamless Travel with Direct Flights

With direct flights operating between Seoul and Guiyang, combined with China’s 240-hour visa-free transit policy, traveling to Guizhou is seamless. On August 24, the “Cool Breeze from Guizhou, Shared Coolness in Seoul” Summer Tourism Promotion Salon will be held in Seoul. During the event, Guizhou Tourism Investment International Cultural Co., Ltd. will sign agreements with leading Korean travel agencies to co-develop premium itineraries. We warmly invite our Korean friends to discover the endless summer surprises of mysterious Guizhou.

Explore more of mysterious Guizhou: https://kr.guizhoutravel.com/

Hashtag: #Guizhou

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

Silence Wang Wax Figure Arrives at Madame Tussauds Hong Kong

Special Exhibition Launches Ahead of Hong Kong Stop of the Age of Romance World Tour


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 24 August 2026 – Madame Tussauds Hong Kong is pleased to announce the arrival of renowned singer-songwriter Silence Wang’s wax figure for a special six-month exhibition in its Glamour zone. The exhibition coincides with the Hong Kong stop of Silence Wang’s highly anticipated Age of Romance World Tour, offering fans an additional opportunity to celebrate the artist’s visit to the city.

MTHK Silence Wang Figure Launch (1)

This marks the first time Silence Wang’s wax figure has been exhibited in Hong Kong and the first collaboration between Madame Tussauds Hong Kong and the acclaimed artist. Running alongside his Hong Kong concerts from 4 to 6 September, the exhibition extends the concert experience beyond the stage, allowing visitors and fans to get up close to the star in an immersive themed setting.

Silence Wang Wax Figure Makes Hong Kong Debut

Since his debut, Silence Wang has established himself as one of the most influential singer-songwriters and music producers in the Chinese music industry. With 12 albums and more than 200 original songs to his name, he has built a strong following through hits including One Hundred Thousand Volts, 21st Century Romance, and Age of Romance ACT I. His upcoming Hong Kong concerts will also mark an important milestone, as he becomes the first Mainland Chinese artist to headline three consecutive shows at Kai Tak Stadium.

To celebrate Silence Wang’s achievements and his upcoming concerts in the city, Madame Tussauds Hong Kong has brought his wax figure from Shanghai to Hong Kong for a limited-time exhibition. Located at Victoria Peak, one of Hong Kong’s most iconic attractions, the exhibition offers local and visiting fans a unique opportunity to experience the figure in person. Created by Madame Tussauds’ studio artists in the United Kingdom over more than 240 days, the figure faithfully captures Silence Wang’s distinctive stage presence, from his signature pose to the intricate details of his performance styling.

From Beijing’s National Stadium to Hong Kong

The figure was first unveiled in March 2025 during Silence Wang’s One Hundred Thousand Volts 2.0 concert at Beijing National Stadium, commonly known as the Bird’s Nest. The launch marked a milestone for Madame Tussauds, representing the first time a celebrity wax figure had been officially unveiled on stage during a major concert production.

The figure is dressed in a replica of the custom-made outfit worn during Silence Wang’s The Great Entertainer New Year’s Concert, recreating one of the artist’s most memorable stage looks. Following its successful display in Shanghai, the figure now makes its Hong Kong debut ahead of the Age of Romance World Tour concerts. The exhibition offers fans an opportunity to revisit key moments from Silence Wang’s musical journey while celebrating his latest concert tour in Hong Kong.

MTHK Silence Wang Figure Launch (2)

Immersive Fan Experiences and Exclusive Ticket Offer

To celebrate the exhibition, Madame Tussauds Hong Kong will introduce a series of exclusive fan experiences. Inspired by the Age of Romance World Tour, a dedicated themed zone featuring lighting, sound and visual effects will recreate the atmosphere of a live concert.

In addition, an exclusive “Xiao Long Bao” Fans Ticket will be available via the official Madame Tussauds Hong Kong Douyin account for HK$199. Fans can enjoy close-up interactions with Silence Wang’s wax figure, take photographs in themed settings, listen to an exclusive greeting, receive a limited-edition souvenir ticket, and stand a chance of winning autographed memorabilia. Availability is limited and offered on a first-come, first-served basis while stocks last. Visitors can also purchase an Admission + VR Experience Package on-site for just HK$210, offering excellent value access to both Madame Tussauds Hong Kong and its immersive virtual reality experience.

With limited quantities available, fans are encouraged to visit and experience the excitement surrounding Silence Wang’s Age of Romance World Tour at Madame Tussauds Hong Kong.
Hashtag: #MadameTussaudsHongKong

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

About Madame Tussauds

Madame Tussauds has been inviting people to walk the red carpet and get closer to the revered for over 250 years. With 17 Merlin-operated attractions in the world’s top destination cities, we are dedicated to giving millions of visitors the opportunity to mingle with the mighty from A-listers to music legends, heroes of sport, to world leaders. Today, we continue to partner with the global icons of a generation to create astonishing lifelike figures from sittings and offer exciting and interactive experiences to ensure guests have never felt closer to fame.

About Merlin Entertainments

Merlin Entertainments is a world leader in branded entertainment destinations, offering a diverse portfolio of resort theme parks, city-centre gateway attractions and LEGOLAND Resorts which span across the UK, US, Western Europe, China and Asia Pacific. Dedicated to creating experiences that inspire joy and connection, Merlin welcomes more than 60 million guests annually to its diverse global estate in over 20 countries. An expert in bringing world-famous entertainment brands to life, Merlin works with partners including the LEGO Group, Sony Pictures Entertainment, Peppa Pig, DreamWorks and Ferrari to create destinations where guests can immerse themselves in a wide array of brand-driven worlds, rides and uplifting learning experiences.

See for more information.