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 On November 21, Financial Times published an editorial that sent ripples across the entire region. The article simultaneously criticized China, warned Japan, and analyzed a series of emerging security risks surrounding Taiwan. This was not a routine commentary—it read like a geopolitical storm forecast: East Asia is entering a new era of instability, where interests and power matter more than ever.

At that sensitive moment, Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi—well known for her hard-line style—appeared beside her car bearing the license plate number 37.77. To Chinese public opinion, this was anything but random. The number immediately evokes July 7, 1937, the outbreak of the Marco Polo Bridge Incident, the event that marked the beginning of the Second Sino-Japanese War. For Beijing, it is a painful historical memory; for Tokyo, choosing that number at this exact time is understood as a deliberate, wordless diplomatic message.

During a parliamentary session, Prime Minister Takaichi stated what generations of Japanese leaders had long avoided saying publicly:

“If Taiwan is attacked, Japan may fall into a situation where its survival is threatened.”

Under Japan’s 2015 Security Legislation, a “survival-threatening situation” is a condition that allows Tokyo to use force under the right of collective self-defense—even if Japan itself has not yet been directly attacked. In the words of Financial Times: Takaichi simply said aloud what all experts already understand — a Taiwan conflict would automatically pull Japan into the confrontation.

Beijing reacted fiercely. The Chinese Consul General in Osaka even posted a violent threat: “If you stick your filthy head into this matter, I will cut it off without hesitation.”
Although the comment was later deleted, it did nothing to stop the wave of anger spreading online. China has since tightened visa controls, exerted economic pressure, stepped up military presence, and continued its “wolf-warrior diplomacy” against both Japan and Taiwan.

Financial Times assessed that China’s reaction reflects increasing arrogance and a growing departure from diplomatic norms. But the newspaper also warned Takaichi: being right is not the same as choosing the right timing. Sino-Japanese relations are full of historical “detonators,” where a single strong statement can trigger a domino effect that sparks conflict.

The Marco Polo Bridge Incident

The Marco Polo Bridge Incident of 1937 was not merely a clash. It marked the beginning of a war that killed tens of millions and left a deep trauma in China’s national memory. For decades, Beijing has used these painful chapters to reinforce anti-“Japanese militarism” sentiment.

So when Prime Minister Takaichi—the head of the Japanese government—appeared in public with a number that precisely recalls that moment in history, it was a highly symbolic act. No speech was needed, no official statement; a single set of digits was enough to pull history back onto the negotiation table.

This “say little but say everything” gesture carries the classic signature of Japanese political communication. And it makes Beijing understand that Tokyo no longer intends to maintain the soft and cautious posture of the past.

Taiwan — the decisive flashpoint for Japan–China relations

Tokyo has repeatedly affirmed that Taiwan’s future is directly linked to Japan’s national security. This is not theory but strategic reality:

• Japan’s critical sea lanes pass through the Taiwan Strait.

• Tens of thousands of Japanese citizens live on the island.

• If the U.S. is drawn into a conflict, Japan will inevitably be affected — U.S. bases in Japan would become immediate targets.

• The Senkaku/Diaoyu dispute is already a flashpoint; the more aggressive China becomes toward Taiwan, the more likely the East China Sea is to erupt.

Financial Times notes that Takaichi is not exaggerating; she is merely articulating what Tokyo is compelled to confront.

Japan no longer fully relies on the American “umbrella”

One notable warning in the Financial Times editorial is that Japan can no longer rely wholly on the United States as it did during the Cold War. American politics is polarized, Washington’s strategic priorities are shifting, and its military commitments are now spread across multiple fronts.

Therefore, Japan must reinforce its own capabilities:
strengthening air and missile defense, coastal protection, expanding military cooperation with South Korea, Taiwan, Australia, and the Philippines, and deepening defense technology ties with the U.S. without becoming entirely dependent.

This strategic shift explains why Tokyo is increasing its defense budget at the fastest pace in decades.

 In recent months, many small household businesses have voiced growing concerns over the proposal to maintain the current tax threshold at just over 200 million VND in annual revenue. To them, this figure no longer reflects the reality of today’s volatile market, where input costs have skyrocketed across the board. In countless sectors where profit margins are razor-thin, high revenue does not automatically translate to actual earnings. For many vendors, “money flowing in” is nothing more than numbers passing through their hands before being paid straight back to suppliers.

A vivid example is the livelihood of lottery ticket sellers—a job commonly perceived as low-income but surprisingly high in revenue once total daily sales are accumulated. A lottery seller typically earns only a few hundred to one thousand dong per ticket. To make around 70,000–80,000 VND per day, they must sell at least 70–80 tickets. On the surface, this seems manageable. But when multiplied over a full year, their total revenue easily surpasses the 200-million mark, despite their true profit remaining meager. This leaves many feeling “shocked” when told they fall under the category that requires tax declaration, even though their income barely supports basic living needs.

Small business owners argue that the current threshold is too low for present economic conditions. Consider a birthday flower bouquet priced at 500,000 VND; selling just two bouquets already registers one million VND in daily revenue. Meanwhile, the costs of wholesale flowers, transportation, storage, spoilage, and shop rent have surged dramatically. Some florists even buy a bouquet at 800,000 VND and only dare sell it at 820,000 VND to stay competitive—making a fragile profit of only 20,000 VND, which is less than 3%.

The situation is no better for coffee vendors, small restaurants, or convenience stall owners. Even the cheapest rental space today costs several hundred thousand dong per day. Hiring a single employee adds another significant expense. Combined, operating costs already push their minimum daily expenses toward 550,000–600,000 VND. Yet these vendors are still classified as businesses with revenue exceeding the tax threshold. Many point out that “revenue is just a flow of money,” not an accurate representation of real profit. The more they earn in total sales, the more they must spend immediately on inventory and operation.

To make matters worse, transitioning to issuing VAT invoices for input purchases pushes total expenses up by another 8–10%. Larger companies can absorb this due to VAT deductions, but small household businesses must bear the entire amount as actual cost. This puts them at a serious disadvantage in an already highly competitive market.

Clearly, the current 200-million-VND threshold is outdated given the rapid changes in cost of living and market prices. Business owners hope tax authorities will consider profit margins, the specific cost structures of each trade, and the real financial resilience of small vendors. A fair and reasonable tax policy should not only ensure equity but also protect the livelihood of millions who are struggling to survive amid rising expenses. Many vendors emphasize that they do not oppose taxation; what they fear is a tax mechanism that calculates solely based on revenue rather than genuine income.

In the broader economic landscape, small household businesses—especially daily wage earners like lottery ticket sellers—play a vital role in sustaining local economies. They operate quietly yet consistently, contributing to circulation of goods and services even during economic downturns. Ignoring their hardships could weaken the very grassroots economy that supports larger markets. For policymakers, revisiting the tax threshold is not just a matter of paperwork—it is an evaluation of social fairness and the nation’s long-term economic health.

A revenue-based tax system may have been appropriate in the past when input costs were stable and profit margins more predictable. But in today’s climate of rising fuel prices, fluctuating imports, and inflation affecting everything from rent to raw materials, the structure is losing its balance. Vendors repeatedly stress that taxing them based on revenue is like “judging a person’s wealth by the number of bills passing through their hands,” even though none of those bills stay long enough to build actual income.

If the threshold remains unchanged, many fear that genuine micro-businesses—including lottery ticket sellers, sidewalk vendors, small cafes, flower shops, and household stalls—will be pushed into unsustainable pressure. Some may shut down entirely; others may be forced into operating informally to avoid being categorized as taxpayers. Ironically, this could reduce overall tax collection and create regulatory blind spots—an outcome no one desires.

Ultimately, small vendors are calling for a tax policy that acknowledges their reality: high revenue but low profit, high effort but fragile income. They hope policymakers will listen closely, evaluate carefully, and adjust wisely. A well-designed tax policy should not drown the smallest contributors of the economy but instead help them stay afloat, ensuring livelihoods are preserved and communities remain stable.

 From the perspective of small business owners—those who constantly juggle capital, battle rising costs, and try to keep their word with customers—the current revenue threshold of 200 million VND per year for tax liability is being viewed by many National Assembly deputies as unrealistic. Put simply, if a household business only earns 200 million VND a year, then after covering all operating expenses, the actual amount left is barely anything.

On the morning of November 4, 2025, the Government submitted the amended Personal Income Tax (PIT) Law to the National Assembly, proposing comprehensive adjustments to 35 existing articles. Among the changes, the draft law maintains the 200-million-VND annual revenue threshold as the “non-taxable level” for household businesses, starting from January 1, 2026, when the current quota-based system will be replaced by self-declaration and self-payment.

Household businesses with annual revenue between 200 million and under 3 billion VND will be taxed directly on their revenue, with specific rates for each sector: distribution–wholesale–retail at 0.5%; services and construction without material supply at 2%; manufacturing–transportation–construction with material supply at 1.5%; property leasing and certain specific agency activities at 5%; digital content, online entertainment, electronic media, and digital advertising at 5%; and 1% for other sectors. Those with revenue from 3 billion VND and above will be subject to a 17% tax on profit.

Deputy Trần Văn Lâm (Bắc Ninh) argued that although reform is necessary, small household businesses—already at the “bottom rung” of the economic ladder—will bear the heaviest burden. Most of them merely earn enough to support their families, cover daily expenses, and have almost no savings.

He further explained that the actual profit margin of small businesses is only around 3–5%, or 10% at best. If taxes of 1–5% are imposed on gross revenue, nearly the entire profit would “evaporate.” Compared to enterprises with full accounting systems, taxing revenue directly places household businesses at a clear disadvantage.

Mr. Lâm also pointed out the discrepancy compared with salaried workers: an employee earning 10–11 million VND per month must pay income tax, while a household business with 200 million VND annual revenue—about 16.6 million per month—but real profit of only around 1.6 million, is still classified as taxable. Is that fair? They also have children to raise, parents to care for, and family responsibilities, yet they receive no equivalent family deductions.

Associate Professor Trần Hoàng Ngân agreed: 200 million VND sounds like a lot, but after paying electricity, water, rent, labor, and inventory costs, almost nothing remains. Compared with the new family deduction of 15.5 million VND per month (around 280 million per year), keeping the 200-million-VND threshold for household businesses is unreasonable. He suggested raising it to 300–400 million VND per year.

Professor Hoàng Văn Cường added that taxes should be levied on profit, not revenue. For example, someone selling 200 boxes of milk may have 200 million VND in revenue but only 10 million in profit—yet still has to pay tax. That is clearly illogical. He proposed that tax thresholds should be based on actual income.

From the viewpoint of small business owners, tax policies must reflect reality—fair, reasonable, and not “strangling” those who are simply trying to earn an honest living. Their concerns are entirely legitimate and deserve careful consideration by lawmakers.

 On the morning of November 13, according to Dân Trí newspaper, the police appeared at the headquarters of Mailisa Beauty Clinic in Ho Chi Minh City and its branch in Đắk Lắk Province to conduct an inspection. In Ho Chi Minh City, officers were seen at 86-88-92 Huynh Van Banh Street, now part of Phú Nhuận District. At the same time, in Buôn Ma Thuot City, Đắk Lắk Province, several police officers were also working inside the Mailisa branch on Ngo Quyen Street.

According to Tien Phong, the Ho Chi Minh City Police Department has not yet released an official statement explaining the reason for this inspection.

Who is Mailisa?

Mailisa is not just the name of a famous beauty clinic chain across Vietnam, but also the nickname of Ms. Phan Thi Mai (born in 1975) — the co-founder and current CEO of the Mailisa Beauty System, which she manages together with her husband, Mr. Hoang Kim Khanh. Established in 1998, Mailisa has become one of the most reputable beauty clinic chains in the country.

Ms. Phan Thị Mai, often called Mailisa, is a well-known figure in the beauty industry and on social media. She is famous for her luxurious lifestyle, owning large mansions and a collection of expensive supercars. Her husband, Mr. Hoàng Kim Khánh, is also a co-director of the Mailisa system and is recognized as a successful businessman with a strong passion for luxury cars.

Today, the Mailisa Beauty Clinic has branches all over Vietnam, offering services such as cosmetic tattooing, skincare, and advanced technology skin treatments.

From poverty to building an empire

According to Mailisa’s official website, Phan Thị Mai was born into a poor farming family in Tân Dân Commune, Đức Thọ District, Hà Tĩnh Province. She had one older brother, lost her father when she was 11 years old, and her mother could not read or write.

Growing up in hardship but full of determination to change her life, Mai left her hometown and moved to Saigon to start working. At first, she worked in a shoe factory, then became a housemaid and a waitress at a goat hotpot restaurant, saving only 900,000 VND after three months.

One day, after noticing how the price of balut eggs (hột vịt lộn) kept increasing, she came up with the idea of starting a small food business. With her tiny savings, she opened a street food stall, selling balut eggs, grilled corn, and snails. Thanks to her hard work, cleanliness, and friendly service, her stall quickly became popular.

However, when local authorities confiscated her food cart for taking up sidewalk space, Mai decided to take a new path. During the day, she attended hairdressing classes, and at night, she continued selling food to earn money. With her natural skill and good taste, she became a skilled hairstylist after just six months, and soon opened her own salon — the first major step toward building the Mailisa beauty empire that she runs today.

After receiving detailed reports from local authorities, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, on behalf of the Party and the State, commended the collective spirit, resilience, and timely response of the Gia Lai provincial government and its people in dealing with the devastating aftermath of Typhoon No. 13.

He emphasized that protecting people’s lives and safety remains the top priority, while urging all levels of government to move swiftly to restore housing, infrastructure, and livelihoods for affected communities.

The Prime Minister directed ministries, departments, and local governments to strictly comply with Directive No. 214/CĐ-TTg, dated November 12, 2025, focusing on accurate damage assessment, rapid relief, and the immediate recovery of typhoon-stricken areas in the central region.
He instructed all forces to reach out directly to affected families — especially those whose homes were destroyed, swept away, or severely damaged — to provide temporary shelter, food, and essential supplies. “No one should be left hungry, cold, or without a roof over their head,” he stressed.

Local authorities were told to compile precise lists of heavily damaged households to ensure timely financial support under state policy. At the same time, additional assistance from the Vietnam Fatherland Front, businesses, philanthropists, and community organizations should be mobilized to help residents rebuild their homes.
For households that can no longer live safely in their original locations, local governments must arrange resettlement land in secure areas and promptly develop resettlement zones for long-term stability.

Particularly, the government has allocated 60 billion VND (about USD 2.4 million) for De Gi commune, aimed at rebuilding and repairing homes for families who lost everything in the storm. The Prime Minister emphasized that this funding must be used efficiently and transparently, ensuring it directly benefits affected residents. He also called on local authorities to plan and manage coastal land not only for safe resettlement but also for economic development, tourism, and job creation, turning hardship into new opportunities for sustainable growth.

In parallel, relevant ministries and agencies are tasked with providing seeds, livestock, fertilizers, and agricultural materials to help farmers restart production quickly. Restoration of essential infrastructure — including schools, medical centers, hospitals, roads, electricity, water, and telecommunications — must be completed as soon as possible so that daily life can return to normal, ideally by November 15, 2025.

The Prime Minister also urged the State Bank of Vietnam and the Ministry of Finance to introduce preferential credit packages, debt deferrals, and tax relief measures for businesses and households affected by the storm. He called for maximum mobilization of resources — from the government, military, police, youth unions, and community volunteers — to accelerate recovery efforts and revive economic activity.

According to preliminary data, Typhoon No. 13 caused 2 deaths and 8 injuries, with estimated total damages exceeding 5,900 billion VND. More than 71,000 houses were destroyed, flooded, or damaged, including over 1,000 homes completely ruined. Thousands of hectares of rice fields, vegetables, long-term crops, and livestock farms were lost; 386 fishing boats were damaged, and many power lines, roads, and irrigation systems were destroyed.

In the immediate aftermath, the province deployed over 65,000 personnel, 1,000 vehicles, and 40 rescue boats to carry out emergency relief operations under the “Four On-the-Spot” disaster response strategy (forces, command, logistics, and materials). Over 93,000 households (341,000 people) from high-risk areas were evacuated to safety. Temporary barricades, warning signs, and 24-hour monitoring points were established at 550 vulnerable sites.

 Mother of Two in Hanoi Accuses Husband of Brutal Beating Inside Apartment: “All I Could Do Was Cover My Head and Endure”

A young woman in Hanoi has come forward to expose the domestic violence she has suffered for months. According to her account, her husband assaulted her right inside their apartment, leaving her with a ruptured eardrum, brain concussion, and multiple injuries across her body.

The victim, Nguyen Thi Thu Trang (born 1996, living in Yen Nghia Ward, Ha Dong District, Hanoi), recalled the horrifying night that took place around 9:45 p.m. on July 28 at their apartment in Dai Mo Ward.

“We had a small argument. I had barely said a few words before he lost his temper. He started hitting me with his hands and feet—on my head, face, chest, and stomach. I tried to run away, but he chased me down. Then he dragged me out into the apartment hallway and continued beating me,” Trang recounted, her voice trembling.

She said the husband’s rage went on for several minutes.
“There was an elderly woman who saw it happen but was too afraid to intervene. Only when the neighbors in our apartment group chat warned each other did people rush over to help me,” Trang said in tears.

“It took several people to stop him.”

The incident occurred in a crowded apartment complex, shocking many residents who witnessed it. Several neighbors had to physically intervene to stop the assault. After the beating, Trang was seriously injured and taken to the hospital.

Doctors diagnosed her with a ruptured eardrum, brain concussion, and multiple soft-tissue injuries. According to medical records, she was hospitalized for treatment from July 30 to August 4, suffering from exhaustion, anxiety, and psychological trauma.

Once she regained composure, Trang reported the incident to the Dai Mo Ward Police and filed an official complaint. On November 5, she underwent a medical forensic examination at the Hanoi Forensic Center.

“It’s been over three months, and my left ear still can’t hear properly. Every time the weather changes, I feel pain and constant ringing in my head,” she said.

A Marriage Full of Scars

According to Trang, marital conflicts had persisted for months, often arising from small, daily issues. She revealed that this wasn’t the first time she had been assaulted, but she endured it for the sake of her children and her hope for a peaceful family.

“I once believed he would change, but things only got worse. Sometimes, I had to hide at my neighbor’s house to avoid being beaten,” she shared.

After the latest attack, she decided to file for divorce in October, and the court is expected to issue the official decision on November 21.

Both Trang and her husband had gone through previous marriages and each had children of their own. They started living together in 2023, officially registered their marriage in March 2024, and later had a baby together.

“When my baby was just three months old, I had to go back to work to earn money. Since the divorce, I’ve been the one directly raising the child. I only wish for my kids to have a peaceful childhood, free from the violence their mother endured,” Trang said, her eyes welling up.

“I Hope the Law Protects the Vulnerable”

Despite her injuries and trauma, Trang remains determined to pursue justice.

“I just hope the authorities will handle the case strictly and make sure the abuser is held accountable. No one deserves to be beaten and live in fear,” she said firmly.

The story of this mother of two is more than a personal tragedy — it’s a wake-up call about the ongoing issue of domestic violence that continues silently behind closed doors.

Behind those apartment walls, countless women still suffer in silence, believing they must “endure” for the sake of their families — until they simply can’t anymore.

“I chose to speak up — not only for myself but for all the women who are still being hurt like I was,” Trang said, tears streaming down her face.

 In a series of recently shared photos, singer J97 appeared in a simple gray T-shirt, pants rolled up neatly, and barefoot as he joined local residents in cleaning up the streets of Hue after the floods. He helped collect trash, clear mud, and rearrange damaged belongings for the villagers. The photos quickly went viral on social media, drawing tens of thousands of comments and shares.

Under the comment section, besides some negative opinions accusing him of “putting on a show” or “image washing,” many others expressed sympathy and support:

“Helping others is always a good thing. The past is the past — what matters is what he’s doing now.”

“Well, doing something good for society is already nice. No need to judge too harshly.”

“Everyone makes mistakes, but owning up and changing is what really counts.”

“Be fair — good deeds deserve recognition.”

Earlier, on November 7, the Hanoi Department of Culture and Sports had issued an administrative fine of 55 million VND and suspended J97’s performance activities for nine months. The penalty was considered strict, reflecting the authorities’ determination to uphold cultural and artistic standards.

Now, the image of J97 in his sportswear, sweating among the crowd, perhaps makes some people see him in a slightly different light.

 now, we have to go finđing 

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 According to many historians, the “Lệ Chi Viên Case” was not merely a tragic accident of fate but likely a carefully staged conspiracy led by Queen Mother Nguyễn Thị Anh. Later on, Emperor Lê Thánh Tông—who posthumously cleared Nguyễn Trãi’s name—may have also known the truth. Yet, for the dignity of the royal house and to preserve the face of the Lê dynasty, he chose silence over scandal. To this day, it remains one of the most hotly debated mysteries in Vietnamese history.

The Shadows of Destiny

Records from Đông A Di Sự note that Nguyễn Trãi’s maternal grandfather was Trần Nguyên Đán, a powerful and virtuous minister of the Trần dynasty, renowned for his deep knowledge of astrology and destiny. He had foreseen the downfall of his dynasty through Hồ Quý Ly’s ambition, and in an attempt to protect his descendants, allied his family with the usurper.

As fate would have it, his grandsons—Trần Nguyên Hãn and Nguyễn Trãi—would both become national heroes. However, upon reading Nguyễn Trãi’s horoscope, Trần Nguyên Đán warned him: “Conquer the city, then withdraw.” He sensed greatness and tragedy intertwined within the same destiny—glory that would one day demand a price from three generations.

The Rise and Fall of a Scholar–Statesman

Nguyễn Trãi was instrumental in the Lam Sơn uprising against Ming invaders, drafting strategies and proclamations that led to victory in 1427. In recognition, Lê Lợi conferred upon him the title Quan Phục Hầu, along with rare honors and privileges—proof of his unmatched contribution.

However, his brilliance also made him a target. After the deaths of his allies Trần Nguyên Hãn and Phạm Văn Xảo, Nguyễn Trãi’s influence waned. He was gradually pushed away from state affairs, confined to cultural and scholarly duties. Even the royal surname “Lê” granted to him was later omitted from inscriptions.

It wasn’t until King Lê Thái Tông recognized his wisdom and recalled him to serve again that Nguyễn Trãi’s prestige was restored. By 1439, he had regained most of his former ranks. Yet, destiny had already set the stage for tragedy.

The Night at Lệ Chi Viên

In 1442, the king visited the East to inspect the troops. During his stay, Nguyễn Trãi invited him to rest at Côn Sơn. Soon after, at the “Lệ Chi Viên” (Lychee Garden), the 20-year-old king suddenly fell ill and died. Nguyễn Trãi and his wife, Lady Nguyễn Thị Lộ, were accused of regicide and sentenced to “extermination of three generations.”

But centuries later, scholars revisited the case and found clues that pointed elsewhere. Before his death, Lê Thái Tông had replaced his crown prince—Nghi Dân—with Bang Cơ, the child of Nguyễn Thị Anh. Meanwhile, Lady Ngô Thị Ngọc Dao (mother of the future king Lê Thánh Tông) was pregnant and persecuted by Nguyễn Thị Anh. Nguyễn Trãi and his wife had secretly sheltered her at temples in Hanoi and Từ Liêm, protecting her until she gave birth to Prince Tư Thành.

Such compassion, however, marked them for death. Nguyễn Thị Anh feared exposure of her son’s illegitimacy and conspired to eliminate the king during his visit—then blame Nguyễn Trãi. The perfect scapegoat was ready.

Following the king’s death, Nguyễn Trãi’s entire clan was executed. Soon after, even two eunuchs—Đinh Phúc and Đinh Thắng—who had known court secrets, were killed. Historians believe they had advised Nguyễn Trãi to tell the king about Bang Cơ’s true parentage, but he hesitated—and paid the ultimate price.

Years later, King Lê Thánh Tông reversed the verdict, honoring Nguyễn Trãi with the words:
“The heart of Ức Trai shines bright as the Khuê Star.”

In 1464, the king officially pardoned him, restoring his descendants’ names and titles.

Modern scholars—including Phan Duy Kha, Đinh Công Vĩ, and Lã Duy Lan—have offered compelling evidence supporting the theory that Nguyễn Thị Anh orchestrated the conspiracy. Their findings were detailed in the book “Lễ Nghi Học Sĩ Nguyễn Thị Lộ và Thảm Án Lệ Chi Viên” (2004), restoring the dignity of two unjustly condemned souls after centuries of silence.

 Barely a week after launch, “Brother Hai’s Pho Shop” – a small, independently developed Vietnamese game – has taken social media by storm. Gamers are sharing clips, memes, and even creating fan groups just to discuss… the runaway dog “Cậu Vàng” and the accidentally burnt broth. 

At first glance, it sounds like just another cooking simulator, but Brother Hai’s Restaurant is unexpectedly real, raw, and hilarious. Players take on the role of Anh Hai, a man trying to start his life over by opening a pho shop in the peaceful countryside of Đan Phượng, Hanoi. The tranquility doesn’t last long — within minutes, players find themselves caught in chaotic, real-life situations: moody customers, nosy neighbors, a mischievous dog escaping its leash, and even cinematic action moments worthy of a Vietnamese drama.

What makes Brother Hai’s Pho Shop stand out isn’t flashy graphics or complex mechanics, but its authentic storytelling and familiar slice-of-life vibe. With every choice leading to one of four different endings — from “happily ever after” to “total disaster” — players can’t help but see themselves in Anh Hai: a simple, hard-working Vietnamese man juggling reality and ambition.

The developer, a young indie creator, said humbly:

“I never imagined my little game would become this popular. I just wanted to tell a Vietnamese story, made by Vietnamese hands. I picked pho because it’s not only close to our hearts but also famous around the world.”

Surprisingly, the game is completely free. Every sound effect, visual, and detail was self-made from publicly available assets, adjusted and reworked to fit the Vietnamese theme. “I used what I could find online, modified it to make it more local, and just hoped people would like it. Seeing it blow up like this is surreal,” he shared.

Right now, the keywords “Phở Anh Hai” and “No.10 Đan Phượng” are trending across Facebook, TikTok, and Reddit. Some ride-hailing app drivers even joked about customers requesting rides to the “fake address” featured in the game — that’s how deep the meme has gone.

When Vietnamese Games Start Telling Vietnamese Stories

Brother Hai’s Pho Shop isn’t just a viral hit; it’s proof that Vietnamese culture can shine in gaming without copying anyone else. No fancy 3D graphics or massive budgets — just authenticity and heart — are enough to capture both local and international audiences.

Vietnam’s gaming industry is already on the rise. In 2024, total revenue surpassed 13.6 trillion VND, up nearly 9% from the previous year. International markets alone brought in over 2 trillion VND, with 5.7 billion downloads from global players, placing Vietnam among the Top 5 gaming markets in the world. Games like “Return to Childhood”, which lets players relive the 1990s with nostalgic Vietnamese street games, and “Brother Hai’s Pho Shop” are shaping a distinct “Made-in-Vietnam” identity in the digital space.

Experts say Vietnam’s cultural heritage — from history and folklore to everyday life — is still a gold mine waiting to be explored. Blending local culture into games doesn’t just make them more relatable; it also becomes a new way for young people to connect with their roots through technology. When Vietnamese stories are told with Vietnamese creativity, the gaming industry does more than make money — it helps spread the nation’s spirit worldwide, in a natural, vibrant, and soulful way.

Colleges and academies in Vietnam have already begun opening official game design and development programs, aiming to build a strong, homegrown talent pool. With the right support, Vietnam could soon become a regional powerhouse for game creation, where new “Anh Hai” developers continue telling local stories in global languages.

In short, “Brother Hai’s Pho Shop” isn’t just a funny, feel-good indie game — it’s a declaration: Vietnamese games can stand tall on their own identity. And maybe, just maybe, in the near future, when people think of “Made-in-Vietnam” games, they’ll picture a steaming bowl of pho — warm, flavorful, and full of soul.

Link dowload this game: https://marisa0704.itch.io/brother-hais-pho-restaurant

 Once upon a time, there were two rice grains that were carefully kept aside to be used as seeds for the next season, for both were healthy, plump, and full of life.

One day, the farmer decided to sow them in the nearby field. The first grain thought to itself:
“Why should I let him take me to the field? I don’t want my body to be crushed and buried in the soil. It’s better to keep all my nutrients inside this shell and find a safe, cozy place to stay.”
So, it rolled into a dark corner of the granary and hid there.

Meanwhile, the second grain longed day and night to be planted into the earth. It felt pure joy at the thought of starting a new life.

As time passed, the first grain withered away in the corner. Without sunlight or water, its nutrients became useless — it slowly dried up and died.
The second grain, though broken and buried in the dirt, sprouted into a golden rice plant heavy with new grains. It gave birth to a new generation of life.

Moral:
If you lock yourself inside your own shell just to preserve a meaningless sense of safety, you will live an empty life and lose your true value.
Therefore, learn to step out, embrace challenges, and dare to be broken — for only through such courage can your life gain meaning and bring real value to the world.

2. The “Ugly” Class Beauty

When the female students in a university class held an open vote to choose their class beauty, Xiao Mai — an ordinary-looking girl — stood up and said to everyone:

“If you vote for me, then a few years from now, each of you can proudly tell your husband: ‘Back in college, I was even prettier than our class beauty!’”

The result? She was elected with an overwhelming majority of votes.

Moral:
To win people’s support, it’s not always about proving that you’re better than others. What truly matters is showing them that because of you, they can become better, more accomplished, and more confident themselves.

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Global Rap Star “Silenced” for Crossing Cultural Boundaries: The Story Behind Lisa’s Crazy Horse Controversy

After her performance at the world-renowned cabaret Crazy Horse in Paris in September 2023, global rapper and BLACKPINK member Lisa became the center of controversy and soon faced multiple restrictions in China. Although Crazy Horse is considered a symbol of artistic performance in France, Lisa’s participation was deemed a “cultural deviation” under China’s strict moral and media regulations. 

Only days after her shows ended, backlash erupted across Chinese social media. On November 1, 2023, Lisa’s personal Weibo account, along with her largest fan club in China, was deleted or permanently suspended for “violating community guidelines.” Simultaneously, her images were removed from the official Chinese pages of Celine and Bvlgari, two luxury brands where she had served as a global ambassador.

The situation didn’t stop there. Two well-known actresses — Angelababy and Zhang Jiani — who were spotted attending Lisa’s show, also had their social media accounts locked. This wave of sanctions highlighted how China is tightening its control over celebrity behavior, especially when it concerns morality, youth influence, and cultural representation.

China has long enforced strict rules regarding celebrity images and moral standards. Anything perceived as “suggestive” or “inappropriate” can be subject to censorship. Lisa’s bold Crazy Horse performance was therefore seen as crossing the line of acceptable art. Though no official ban was announced, she became the target of a silent “blacklisting,” disappearing from Chinese media, advertising, and social platforms.

Born Lalisa Manobal in 1997 in Thailand, Lisa is BLACKPINK’s lead rapper and main dancer. Known for her sharp stage presence, confidence, and fierce style, she has become a symbol of modern K-pop’s global reach. After nearly a decade in the spotlight, Lisa’s net worth is estimated at around $40 million, according to Celebrity Net Worth — proof of her massive success and influence.

Before the controversy, Lisa had been one of the most beloved K-pop idols in China. She served as a dance mentor on the hit reality show Youth With You, which achieved record-breaking viewership. Her fanbase, Lisa Bar, was famous for lavish spending — from buying thousands of albums to purchasing massive birthday billboards across Asia. Thanks to her immense popularity, Lisa was a marketing magnet for luxury brands aiming to attract young Chinese consumers.

However, after the Crazy Horse incident, her presence vanished from China’s digital sphere. For many in the media, this marked a “cold cut” between Lisa and the market that once adored her. Despite this, Lisa remains an international icon, continuing to perform at elite global fashion and music events.

Lisa’s case is more than a celebrity scandal — it’s a reflection of the delicate balance between artistic freedom and social norms in an era of globalization. In a country like China, where tradition and moral values hold immense weight, international fame alone is not enough to override cultural boundaries.

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 On his personal social media page, Cristiano Ronaldo Jr, the eldest son of the Portuguese superstar, caused a stir when he posted a picture with a luxury SUV along with the caption: “My first car.” What seemed like a harmless moment quickly went viral, attracting hundreds of thousands of likes — and just as many mixed reactions.

Many argued that it’s only natural for the son of one of the world’s richest footballers to own an expensive car. After all, Cristiano Ronaldo has built an enormous fortune from his brilliant career and countless high-value endorsement deals.

However, behind that seemingly proud post came a storm of controversy. At just 15 years old, Ronaldo Jr is far from the legal driving age in Saudi Arabia, where the minimum age to obtain a driver’s license is 18. His act of “showing off” a car wasn’t just viewed as inappropriate — it raised the question of whether Ronaldo’s family enjoys certain privileges that place them above the local laws and norms.

According to a 2021 report by the AAA Foundation, only about 4% of teenagers aged 15–16 in developed countries own cars. This makes Ronaldo Jr’s image beside his shiny SUV an unintentional symbol of the growing gap between “celebrities” and “ordinary people.”

Not long after, the young Ronaldo once again drew attention by sharing a photo with a girl next to a supercar — rumored to be his girlfriend. The post sparked online gossip and divided opinions, with many fans worrying that such a public lifestyle at age 15 could distract him from building his football career.

Despite the controversy, Ronaldo Jr continues to focus on football. On October 31, he made his official debut for Portugal’s U16 national team during a 2-0 victory over Turkey in Antalya. The 15-year-old came on in the final minutes of the match, earning applause from spectators and catching the attention of scouts in the stands — proof that the name “Ronaldo” still carries immense weight and expectation.

Currently, he is competing with Portugal’s U16 squad in the Torneio Taca das Federações (Federations Cup) in Turkey. Just a week earlier, Ronaldo Jr made headlines by scoring two goals to help Al Nassr U15 defeat Al Hilal 2–1 in the King’s Cup final.

The story of Ronaldo Jr isn’t merely about a wealthy teenager showing off — it reflects the pressure of privilege and the heavy expectations that come with being the child of a global icon. His biggest challenge may not be scoring goals, but learning how to stay grounded in a world that watches his every move.

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The incident where Jack97 “let it slip” on stage, blurting out “Lào gì cũng tôn” in front of a fiery crowd, might seem like a fleeting moment of impulsiveness — yet it has peeled open a deeper crack in Vietnam’s pop culture: when young artists no longer know fear, and audiences grow accustomed to what’s wrong.

A Ten-Second Clip That Exposed a Cultural Problem

A video not even ten seconds long was enough to ignite a storm of controversy, outrage, and disappointment. Across social media, people split into camps — some defending Jack for “showing personality,” others condemning him for disrespecting the audience.

Arrogance That’s Been Allowed to Grow

Just days before the scandal, Jack97’s company had been fined for holding a press conference with content inconsistent with what was approved. Yet barely a week later, he stood before thousands and uttered a vulgar phrase, causing public backlash.
It’s fair to ask: Was that defiance?

Maybe Jack didn’t mean to challenge anyone — maybe he was just “joking,” like many young people do. But what’s troubling isn’t the joke — it’s his indifference to consequences, his lack of fear for discipline.
A fine of a few million đồng means nothing to a star earning hundreds of millions per show. The punishment was too small — like a mosquito bite on stainless steel — and it quietly sent the message: “Rebellion is cheap. Being outrageous pays.”

Imagine if anyone could publicly curse and pay just 5% of their daily wage for it — the world would explode in chaos.
But Jack isn’t just anyone. He’s a public figure, seen by millions, a representative of a generation’s cultural image.

Fearless — Because No One Ever Stopped Him

People say, “The young are allowed to make mistakes.” True — but only if they learn from them. Jack97 was punished once, criticized many times, yet he keeps walking the fine line between right and wrong with no sign of remorse.
Why? Because no one has ever truly made him afraid.

Some artists, like Đàm Vĩnh Hưng, once faced performance bans — and they complied. But Jack? His defenders flooded the internet, KOLs sneered “Who can ban him?”, and officials remained silent, waiting for “reports from local authorities.”
That loop of indulgence keeps feeding chaos in the entertainment industry, where a vulgar outburst becomes “no big deal.”

The Blame Doesn’t Stop with Jack

It’s too easy to dump all responsibility on him. Behind his arrogance lies a whole ecosystem of negligence —
TV shows chasing ratings, producers chasing clicks, and audiences watching not for art, but for gossip.

Even that line “Lào gì cũng tôn” — if you look closer — sounds like a self-pitying complaint: “Why is everything aimed at me?”
But was Jack really a victim? No. Every scandal he’s faced — from personal drama to public behavior — was born from his own choices. When you live recklessly, you can’t blame the audience for watching the crash.

It’s Not Just What He Said — It’s Where He Said It

If Jack had expressed his frustration in a song, with a thought-provoking lyric or bold statement, that might have been called artistic expression.
But shouting a vulgar line on stage, in front of a live audience, isn’t art — it’s disrespect.

Artists have the right to rebel, yes — but not the right to drag everyone else into the mud. Every word they speak can echo among thousands of young fans, turning bad manners into a new “norm.”

When Fans and Idols Reflect Each Other

The sad truth is, Jack97’s behavior mirrors something bigger — a society slowly desensitized to indecency. Fans who defend him, share his clip, and flood the comments with heart emojis are part of the mirror reflecting our current mindset:
We love drama more than decency, noise more than meaning.

Let’s be honest — we’ve all cursed in anger once or twice. The difference is, most of us know it’s wrong. Today, many treat vulgarity as “authenticity.” That illusion makes artists like Jack think they’re “loved for being real,” when in fact, they’re just participating in the cheapening of culture.

The Dangerous Silence of Those in Power

Three days after the incident, the Department of Performing Arts still hadn’t said a word. No statement. No warning. Maybe they were “waiting for the proper report.”
But while procedures crawl forward, culture bleeds backward.

This slow, bureaucratic reaction teaches performers one thing: “Go ahead. No one will stop you.”
And soon, vulgar lyrics and crude performances multiply — because silence has become approval.

The Real Problem: The Ones Behind the Curtain

The most frightening part isn’t Jack97 — it’s the producers and showrunners who knowingly put such figures on mainstream TV.
They know exactly who crosses the line, yet they push them into the spotlight because “controversy gets clicks.”

Parents might ban TikTok, but they can’t ban prime-time television.
So when a problematic artist appears on official channels, vulgarity becomes institutionalized, wearing the costume of legitimacy.

It’s No Longer About Jack97 — It’s About Us

That infamous line, “Lào gì cũng tôn?”, is more than an outburst.
It’s a mirror, reflecting an uncomfortable question for our entire pop culture:
Why have we become so tolerant of what’s wrong?
Why can vulgarity and popularity coexist so easily?

Look at our neighbors — their pop music is still fun and commercial, yet full of literary elegance and cultural depth.
Because they invest in aesthetic education and value artistic literacy.
Meanwhile, we’ve reduced everything to numbers — views, likes, interactions — until art is no longer about meaning, but metrics.

When a trashy song hits ten million views, while meaningful art barely reaches a few thousand, the problem runs far deeper than any one artist.
It’s systemic — from policymakers to producers, from performers to audiences.

In the End — Don’t Just Ask Jack, Ask Yourself

Jack97 was wrong, undeniably.
But the bigger tragedy is that an entire culture has stopped feeling that it’s wrong.
When vulgarity becomes entertainment, and absurdity becomes “authentic style,” the question “Lào gì cũng tôn?” isn’t his alone — it’s ours too.

It’s a wake-up call — a reminder that every time we consume such content, we’re shaping the culture we’ll live in.

If we don’t want the next generation to believe that “cursing is confidence” and “being offensive is originality,” then maybe — just maybe —
it’s time we all learned to fear again.
Fear the wrong, fear the ugly, and fear losing our sense of culture.\

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