Death toll in Quetta coal mine blast rises to 34

South Korea is rapidly becoming one of the world’s leading destinations for medical tourism as international travellers increasingly combine vacations with comprehensive health check-ups. Foreign visitors are now adding blood tests, ultrasounds, cancer screenings and other preventive healthcare services to their travel plans, attracted by affordable costs, advanced technology, quick results and foreigner-friendly facilities. According to South Korea’s Ministry of Health and Welfare, more than 2 million foreign patients visited the country in 2025, marking a significant increase from the previous year. Visitors mainly came from China, Japan, Taiwan and the United States. Experts say South Korea’s growing popularity as a healthcare destination is driven by its efficient medical system, advanced equipment and competitive prices. Many international patients can complete full-body health screenings within a few hours, avoiding long waiting periods and complicated procedures common in other countries. Medical tourism officials say healthcare in South Korea remains relatively affordable because of government regulation of medical costs. In some cases, the cost of a single advanced medical test in countries like the United States can equal the price of a complete health screening package in South Korea. The country’s healthcare system also focuses heavily on preventive care, allowing doctors to detect diseases at an early stage through regular screenings. International visitors can book health packages through specialised medical concierge services that arrange appointments, interpreters and follow-up consultations. Many major hospitals and screening centres provide services in English and offer results in multiple languages. Foreign patients have shared positive experiences of completing extensive medical examinations, including blood tests, X-rays, ultrasounds and endoscopies, within a single visit. One visitor from Los Angeles said he chose South Korea after researching medical centres online and was impressed by the number of tests offered and the professionalism of healthcare workers. His complete screening, including several procedures, was completed within hours at a comparatively low cost. Another traveller from Hong Kong said a similar health package in her home country would have cost several times more than what she paid in South Korea. Healthcare providers say international patients are also attracted by smooth services, modern facilities and the availability of follow-up treatment if any health issues are discovered. However, experts advise travellers to confirm language support before booking appointments and recommend using medical assistance services to avoid communication problems.

The Indian government has reportedly suspended mobile internet services in several parts of central New Delhi as nationwide protests over examination paper leaks continue to gain momentum. The move came amid heightened security and growing demonstrations led by students and youth groups demanding accountability over alleged irregularities in the country’s examination system. According to informed sources, telecom companies were instructed to disable mobile data services in and around the main protest sites in central Delhi. The internet restrictions affected thousands of residents, commuters and businesses in the area. The suspension caused significant disruption to daily life. Shopkeepers, restaurants and street vendors reported difficulties accepting digital payments because many businesses in India rely heavily on internet-based payment systems. Residents also experienced problems accessing online services and communication platforms. The protests have continued for more than a month, with students camping in central Delhi and demanding the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. Demonstrators accuse the government of failing to prevent examination paper leaks that reportedly affected nearly two million students across the country. Student leaders say the paper leak scandal has seriously damaged confidence in India’s examination system and has put the future of millions of young people at risk. They insist the demonstrations will continue until those responsible are held accountable and meaningful reforms are introduced. Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently addressed the controversy and promised strict action against individuals involved in examination fraud. He said the future of India’s youth remains a national priority and announced plans to establish fast-track courts to ensure speedy trials in paper leak cases. However, opposition leaders argued that the government’s response does not go far enough. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi renewed his demand for the dismissal of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, accusing the government of failing to protect the country’s education system and the interests of students. The demonstrations intensified after security forces attempted to stop protesters marching toward Parliament during the monsoon session. Police used tear gas and batons to disperse crowds after protesters tried to breach security barriers. Clashes later broke out, leaving scores of protesters and security personnel injured. Following the unrest, authorities increased security across central Delhi by deploying additional police personnel, strengthening barricades and monitoring key government buildings to prevent further violence. The protest movement, which initially focused on examination paper leaks, has gradually expanded into a broader campaign highlighting concerns over unemployment, educational opportunities and governance. Protest organisers say the issue is no longer limited to examination irregularities but has become a wider movement demanding transparency, accountability and reforms.