Asian Games Wrap: The Aichi-Nagoya 2026 Asian Games officially closed in Nagoya, with China topping the medal table for a 12th straight time (169 gold, 341 overall) and hosts Japan second (83 gold, 269 overall); South Korea finished third (39 gold, 150 overall) as the torch passed to Doha for 2030. Football & Ceremony Fallout: South Korea’s men’s football captain Lee Gi-hyuk apologized after boasting about avoiding military service with the gold, and fans also booed when the South Korean flag appeared stuck during the victory ceremony. Security Flashpoint: North Korea fired a ballistic missile toward the East Sea after Seoul demanded an apology over a DMZ blast that injured three South Korean soldiers, with Seoul saying the missile traveled over 700 km. Tech & Defense Tension: North Korea claimed it used AI to guide missiles, while South Korea disputed the claim and said its defenses could still detect and intercept. K-Lifestyle in Kenya: South Korea’s K-Lifestyle showcase in Nairobi drew crowds with Korean food, beauty, tech and brands, including major electronics names. U.S.-Seoul Energy Deal Noise: The White House says South Korea plans $200B in U.S. energy projects, including $54B for Alaska LNG, but Seoul officials have signaled uncertainty over commitments.