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Squid Game 2 unveils new look for Lee Jung Jae and reveals release date with new preview video

Lydia Koh
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Squid Game 2 unveils new look for Lee Jung Jae and reveals release date with new preview video

The highly anticipated second season of Squid Game has finally been scheduled for release, as revealed in a teaser trailer with an athletics theme, hinting at the intense challenges to come.

This popular Korean series will return on Dec 26, three years after its first season premiered in September 2021.

The trailer also showcases the deadly games restarting, with players racing towards a goal under the watchful eyes of the pink soldiers and the Front Man, played by Lee Byung Hun.

“It’s been three years. Would you like to play again?” asks the Front Man. The teaser revealed that the second season would premiere on Dec 26.

On Aug 1, Director, Writer, and Executive Producer Hwang Dong Hyuk announced through a letter that Season 2 of Squid Game will debut on Dec 26.

He also mentioned that Season 3 is planned for 2025. Hwang expressed his excitement about diving back into the Squid Game universe and watching the story unfold further.

He stated, “I am thrilled to see the seed planted in creating a new Squid Game grow and bear fruit through the end of this story.” He encouraged fans to prepare for exciting new developments.

Photo: Instagram/Netflix Korea

Survival contest

The main plot of Squid Game is about an enigmatic survival contest with a grand prize of $45.6 billion (about $33 million).

In Season 2, the story continues with Seong Gi Hun (played by Lee Jung Jae), who chooses to pursue his goals related to the deadly game he won in the first season instead of moving to the United States.

Newly released stills show Seong Gi Hun, the sole survivor from Season 1, in the familiar green tracksuit, sparking curiosity about his return to the games and the new challenges he will face. An image from behind the scenes heightens the excitement for Season 2.

Playing again

In addition to Im Siwan and Kang Ha Neul, the returning cast includes Lee Jung Jae, Lee Byung Hun, and Wi Ha Joon. A second season of Squid Game: The Challenge, a reality competition based on the series, has also been announced by Netflix.

Squid Game quickly became one of Netflix’s most popular shows, receiving 14 Emmy nominations.

Being the first Asian actor to win this category for a performance that was not in English, Lee Jung Jae created history by taking home the Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series.

Singaporeans express worry about SG-US agreement for nuclear research, but others say it’s “another good step forward”

Mary Alavanza
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0
Singaporeans express worry about SG-US agreement for nuclear research, but others say it’s “another good step forward”

SINGAPORE: While Singaporeans have praised the recent SG-US agreement to nuclear research as “another good step forward,” some express concerns about potential risks.

On July 31, Singapore and the United States signed a 30-year agreement allowing Singapore access to the latest nuclear technologies and scientific research from American organisations, as reported by The Straits Times.

Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan and US Secretary of State Antony Blinken signed the 123 Agreement on Nuclear Cooperation during Mr Blinken’s visit to Singapore.

Authorities clarified that no decision had been made on deploying nuclear energy. The focus is on understanding and evaluating advanced nuclear technologies to explore their feasibility.

“Current conventional nuclear technologies are not suitable for Singapore. But given advances in civil nuclear technology, we need to stay abreast of breakthroughs in this rapidly evolving field,” said Dr Balakrishnan at the signing.

The agreement will grant Singapore access to information and technological expertise, fostering deeper engagements with US civil nuclear experts.

This is part of the US’s network of agreements on peaceful nuclear cooperation, allowing the transfer of significant nuclear material or equipment to partner countries. The US Nuclear Energy Institute noted that such exports require a bilateral agreement.

Singapore will join the US Department of State’s Foundational Infrastructure for Responsible Use of Small Modular Reactor Technology (First) programme. This initiative helps partners understand small modular reactors (SMRs) and other advanced nuclear technologies.

SMRs are considered more suitable for Singapore due to its land scarcity and high population density. With the country’s lower power capacity needs, enhanced safety standards, and smaller buffer zone requirements, SMRs fit better than conventional reactors.

The Ministry of Sustainability and the Environment (MSE) and the Ministry of Trade and Industry (MTI) issued a joint statement on July 31, noting that any decision to deploy nuclear energy in Singapore will require detailed studies on safety, reliability, affordability, and environmental sustainability.

Under the First programme, Singapore will gain access to a network of US nuclear energy entities, including the US National Laboratories, and engage with countries developing new nuclear technologies to build its capabilities.

“This agreement builds on the longstanding civil nuclear collaboration between (the) United States and Singapore and outlines a comprehensive framework to deepen peaceful nuclear cooperation based on a mutual commitment to nuclear non-proliferation,” both governments stated.

The agreement has generated mixed reactions online, with many viewing it as a positive development for Singapore’s energy future.

One commenter remarked, “It’s a possible first step for Singapore’s own nuclear reactor,” while another expressed strong support, saying, “If it lowers our electricity bills and allows us to have island-wide air-conditioning, I’m 110% for nuclear.”

“Another good step forward,” another commenter added.

Some see the push for nuclear energy as crucial for Singapore’s clean energy goals. “Would be a very important step if we want to go clean, green, and heavy on the electrification of our infrastructure,” a commenter added.

However, while no decision has been made on deploying nuclear energy, concerns about its risks persist. Given Singapore’s small size, some worry about potential safety issues.

One netizen commented, “Our island is so small, unless they build it in the middle of the sea some of us are gonna be in the danger zone.”

Another raised concerns about handling potential disasters, saying, “I’d like to know what our plan is in case of a meltdown. We have no hinterland unlike the US, Russia, or Japan.” /TISG

Read also: Singapore to build pool of about 100 nuclear energy experts

Featured image by Depositphotos

ICA: Singapore to launch passport-less immigration clearance for traveller convenience

Mary Alavanza
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0
ICA: Singapore to launch passport-less immigration clearance for traveller convenience

SINGAPORE: Starting Aug 5, 2024, travellers at Singapore’s Changi Airport will experience a “hassle-free and faster clearance” without presenting their passports.

This initiative, part of the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority’s (ICA) efforts to strengthen border security while enhancing traveller convenience, will initially be implemented at Changi Airport and later at Marina Bay Cruise Centre by December 2024.

The New Clearance Concept (NCC) will allow travellers to use automated systems for immigration clearance. Singapore residents, including citizens, permanent residents, and long-term pass holders, will clear immigration using facial and iris biometrics.

However, children under six years old will not be able to use the automated lanes for immigration clearance.

This system will be available for residents at both arrival and departure points, while foreign travellers will only use it for departures. Token-less clearance relies on information from airlines and ship operators.

A QR code system will replace the traditional passport check for land checkpoints, where traveller information isn’t available in advance. Instead of presenting a passport, travellers will use a QR code for clearance.

Group QR codes can be reused for future trips if the group remains the same. The QR code system was introduced for car travellers in March 2024 and extended to bus drivers in April 2024.

With more than 70% of car travellers and bus drivers already using QR codes, the system will soon include motorcyclists, pillion riders, cargo vehicle drivers, and accompanying assistants by August 2024.

By December 2024, QR code clearance will also be available for bus passengers. This will reduce processing times at land checkpoints by around 30%.

At Changi Airport, the token-less clearance will begin on Aug 5, 2024, in selected automated lanes in Terminal 3, with a gradual rollout to all terminals by September 2024.

This system is expected to cut immigration processing times by 40%. Marina Bay Cruise Centre will implement the system by December 2024.

Passport-less Immigration Clearance at Most Singapore Checkpoints by End 2024
Photo: ICA

Foreign visitors arriving in Singapore for the first time and those returning with a different passport from their previous visit will need to show their passport for immigration clearance. On future visits, they can use a QR code for clearance.

Despite these advancements, ICA stated:

“Even as we implement passport-less immigration clearance at Singapore’s checkpoints, travellers will still need their passport for immigration clearance overseas. ICA may also occasionally require travellers to produce their passports for verification.

ICA officers will continue to be around to help travellers who require assistance with automated and passport-less immigration clearance.”

Assistant Commissioner Phua Chiew Hua, deputy director at ICA’s operations division, said, “Singapore is first in the world to implement token-less clearance on a large scale,” The Straits Times quoted him as saying. /TISG

Read also: Changi Airport passenger traffic hits 99.3% of pre-pandemic levels in H1 2024

Featured image by Depositphotos

BLACKPINK’s Jisoo in new zombie movie “Newtopia” set to find her lover, Park Jung Min through zombie-infested Seoul

Lydia Koh
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0
BLACKPINK’s Jisoo in new zombie movie “Newtopia” set to find her lover, Park Jung Min through zombie-infested Seoul

Coupang Play has officially announced the main cast for the upcoming zombie drama “Newtopia.” The series will follow the story of Jae Yoon, a soldier, and his girlfriend, Young Joo, as they navigate a zombie-infested Seoul in a desperate bid to reunite.

Park Jung Min, acclaimed for his performances in films like “Deliver Us from Evil,” “Smugglers,” and “Start-Up,” will play the role of Lee Jae Yoon, a military serviceman grappling with uncertainty about his future.

Jisoo, who made a notable acting debut in “Snowdrop,” will portray Kang Young Joo, Jae Yoon’s girlfriend who has recently secured her first job after graduating from an engineering school.

 

Imminent danger

Newly released photos show Jae Yoon gasping in shock as he faces the sudden outbreak of zombies during his military service. His subordinate, In Ho, played by Im Sung Jae, appears even more terrified, hinting at their imminent danger.

Another image features Young Joo in a seemingly calm alleyway, adding to the intrigue and anticipation surrounding the drama.

“Newtopia” is scheduled to premiere in 2025, with more updates expected as the release date approaches.

Starring Jisoo and Park Jung Min

Jisoo, widely known as a member of the global sensation girl group Blackpink, is also a singer, actress, and model. Often described as the “visual” of the group, she is admired for her beauty, personality, and burgeoning acting talent.

Originally from Gunpo, South Korea, Jisoo aspired to become a painter and writer before developing an interest in the entertainment industry, eventually joining a drama club in high school.

Since debuting with Blackpink in 2016, Jisoo has gained widespread recognition for her visual appeal and stage presence.

Park Jung Min is a renowned South Korean actor who is celebrated for his versatility and skill in independent and mainstream films. He is known for his ability to tackle a wide range of roles, from intense and complex characters to more lighthearted and comedic parts.

Singapore shares open lower on Thursday—STI dropped 0.4%

Mary Alavanza
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0
Singapore shares open lower on Thursday—STI dropped 0.4%

SINGAPORE: Singapore shares opened lower on Thursday, Aug 1, even as US and European markets rallied overnight. The Straits Times Index (STI) dropped 0.4 per cent, falling 12.45 points to 3,443.49 as of 9:01 am, according to The Business Times.

In the broader market, 74 gainers outnumbered 44 losers after 59.4 million securities worth S$94.1 million were exchanged.

Japfa was the most actively traded counter by volume, which rose 9.1 per cent or S$0.03 to S$0.36, with 6.3 million shares transacted.

The agri-food company reported a net profit of US$51.7 million for the first half of FY2024 on Wednesday, bouncing back from a net loss of US$53.6 million in the same period last year.

Other heavily traded securities included Seatrium, which gained 2.4 per cent, or S$0.04, to S$1.72, with 3.3 million shares exchanged. Singtel declined 3.6 per cent, or S$0.11, to S$2.97, with 3.2 million shares traded.

Banking stocks showed mixed results at Thursday’s open. DBS dipped 0.1 per cent, or S$0.02, to S$36.57. In contrast, OCBC gained 0.7 per cent, or S$0.10, to S$14.95; UOB rose 0.6 per cent, or S$0.18, to S$32.53.

The rise in UOB stocks came after the bank announced a 1 per cent increase in Q2 net profit to S$1.43 billion, driven by double-digit fee income growth and lower credit allowances. It also declared a dividend of S$0.88 per share for the half-year ended June 30.

On Wall Street, stocks rallied on Wednesday after the US Federal Reserve hinted at potential interest rate cuts as soon as September.

Technology shares led the charge, with the Nasdaq Composite Index advancing 2.6 per cent to close at 17,599.4. The Dow Jones Industrial Average increased 0.2 per cent to 40,842.79, and the S&P 500 rose 1.6 per cent to 5,522.3.

European shares gained on Wednesday, supported by a significant jump in ASML and a series of positive earnings reports.

The pan-European Stoxx 600 index ended 0.8 per cent higher at 518.18, reaching a two-week high earlier in the session and showing a monthly increase of over 1 per cent. /TISG

Read also: Singapore stocks kick off on Wednesday—STI rose by 0.3%

Featured image by Depositphotos

Netball: Singapore confident of defending Nations Cup crown

Khalis Rifhan
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Netball: Singapore confident of defending Nations Cup crown

SINGAPORE — Despite undergoing a transformative period, marked by the retirement of veteran stalwarts Charmaine Soh and Kimberly Lim, the Singapore national netball team (Singapore Opens) exudes unwavering confidence in their ability to successfully defend their title at the 2024 Mirxes Nations Cup.

After a 16-year drought, hosts Singapore reclaimed the Nations Cup title last year, edging out Papua New Guinea 59-56 in a thrilling finale. This hard-fought victory marked a triumphant return to the top, reviving memories of their back-to-back wins in 2006 and 2007.

Team Singapore, propelled by a dynamic fusion of seasoned netball players, vibrant youthful talent, and astute team rejuvenation since their resounding triumph last year, is poised to tackle the upcoming Nations Cup with renewed vigor.

The Singapore Opens team boasts a reassuringly familiar lineup from last year’s competition, with a few additions to bolster their ranks. Co-captains Toh Kai Wei, and Khor Ting Fang will continue to provide leadership both on and off the court.

Sindhu Nair is poised to make a return to the team, having valiantly overcome the adversity of an ACL injury sustained in April last year during the PacificAus Sports Netball Series. As she stands on the cusp of earning a milestone with the national team, Nair’s remarkable resilience and dedication are a testament to her unwavering commitment to the sport.

“It feels incredible to be back with the Singapore Opens team. Recovering from my ACL injury has been challenging, but the support from everyone has been amazing. I’m excited to contribute to our team’s success and reach my 50th cap milestone during the Mirxes Nations Cup,” reflected Nair on her return to the Singapore national team.

Meanwhile, the talented young trio of attacker Goh Wei Ping, defensive player K. Mishalenee, and Miki Ng (Singapore A co-captain in 2023) have seamlessly transitioned to the Singapore Opens team. The three players are building on the impressive foundations they laid with the Singapore A team (developmental squad) in last year’s tournament, where they showcased their skills and caught the attention of fans and coaches alike.

Ranked 24th in the world rankings, the Singapore Opens team will face stiff competition at the OCBC Arena from 1 to 7 September, as newcomers UAE (21) and Kenya (30) join the fray, as well as familiar foes Republic of Ireland (25) and unranked Canada, both of whom boast prior Nations Cup experience.

Photo credit: Netball Singapore

Singapore Opens will begin their Nations Cup campaign against Canada on Sep 1, before taking on the Republic of Ireland the following day. The Singapore national team will be up against Kenya on Sep 3, and will face the Singapore A developmental squad in matchday four. Sep 5 will be a rest day for all teams, and Singapore Opens will resume their competition against the UAE on Sep 6. The finals and the classification matches will be held on Sep 7.

Head coach Annette Bishop also expressed her confidence in the team’s readiness: “We’re excited and ready to defend our title at this year’s Mirxes Nations Cup. Sindhu’s return brings energy and experience to the team. We look forward to showcasing our skills and teamwork against strong international competition.”

The Republic of Ireland made their Nations Cup debut in 2012 and have since become familiar opponents, with their most recent appearance coming two years ago. In 2022, they mounted a formidable campaign, ultimately securing a commendable fourth-place finish, narrowly missing out on a podium spot after a 36-52 loss to hosts Singapore in the third-place playoff.

Canada was one of the pioneering teams in the inaugural Nations Cup in 2006 alongside hosts Singapore, Papua New Guinea, and Scotland. Their best-ever finish in the competition were in 2009 when they came in third out of the six participating nations

However, their most recent outing last year ended in heartbreak, as they suffered a nail-biting 48-49 defeat to Cook Islands in the third-place playoff, echoing the Republic of Ireland’s similar misfortune a year prior.

The Mirxes Nations Cup will take place from 1 to 7 September 2024 at the OCBC Arena. Tickets are now available through Ticketmaster.

Singapore Opens Team

  1. Toh Kai Wei (Co-Captain)
  2. Khor Ting Fang (Co-Captain)
  3. Amandeep Chahal
  4. Goh Wei Ping
  5. Jamie Lim
  6. K. Mishalenee
  7. Lee Pei Shan
  8. Miki Ng
  9. Rachel Ling
  10. Reena Divya
  11. Sindhu Nair
  12. Tan Yi Jie

Singapore A Team

  1. Angeline Rebecca Leong
  2. Charlotte Lee
  3. Faithmaria Lawrence
  4. Jenine Ang
  5. Lee Li Xuan
  6. Matilda Narayan
  7. Norah Paul Gabriel
  8. Priscilla Wong
  9. Sheikha Aljunied
  10. Uzma Rashad
  11. Yasmin Iman
  12. Zulfa Rashad

Is it “realistic” for women to expect men to pay for everything? Some Singaporeans says it’s a “red flag”

Beatrice Del Rosario
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Is it “realistic” for women to expect men to pay for everything? Some Singaporeans says it’s a “red flag”

SINGAPORE: A 29-year-old man took to an online Singaporean community forum on Sunday (July 28) to ask online users for their thoughts on the opinion of a girl he had a conversation with recently.

After meeting a “lovely girl” with whom he shared an “interesting conversation,” the man took to an online forum to share the topic they talked about, which were expectations in relationships and marriage.

“In her eyes, a man needs to be able to provide financially and to put it simply, a man needs to be able to pay for everything in the family,” he shared.

He added, “This includes housing, food, bills, holidays, child expenses and the list goes on. The few exceptions are things such as personal spa treatments or leisure activities that she indulges in…she can pay (for those) on her own. Of course, she’s not expecting to live a luxurious lifestyle and it’s fair to say, she also does not want to be living rough.”

He then turned to fellow Singaporeans on the forum, asking them to share their two cents on the matter.

“Is this sustainable / realistic for average men (or even slightly above average men)? I can understand her view, as she also brought up that her parents share a similar view. I do agree that this view is commonly found and done in our parent’s generation. However, I wonder how many couples are doing this (where the man pays for everything) that are around my age group?”

“Let’s leave out the part where a woman is pregnant or she has devoted all her time to being a mum/ housewife. I can see that a man has to pay in this situation,” he added.

Singaporeans share their thoughts on men paying for everything

Many responded to the post, sharing their two cents on the matter. While some were quick to call out having such an expectation of a man a “red flag,” others explained their opinions in more detail.

“In my opinion, it’s not too realistic/sustainable unless the man is really rich,” said one. “I prefer teamwork. Of course, the man can always offer to pay and cover more costs but to ask the man to pay for every single thing…a bit too much. I’m a girl. Exceptions: If she’s pregnant, a full-time mother and housewife, or if she can’t work due to health issues.”

Others said that it depends. “I think there should be a balance, needn’t be 50-50, could be 60-40 or even 70-30 depending on income. If one has to quit the job to take care of a kid or household, then the other has to contribute (regardless if it is a man or woman).

“At the end of the day, I think it’s important if the person actually makes the effort to balance it out.”

TISG/

$200K-earning senior exec still finds Singapore too expensive, considers retiring overseas

Yoko Nicole
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$200K-earning senior exec still finds Singapore too expensive, considers retiring overseas

SINGAPORE: A senior-level executive at a tech firm recently shared on social media that despite raking in a hefty annual salary of $200,000, he still finds Singapore ‘exceedingly’ expensive and is contemplating about retiring in a nearby, more affordable country.

In a post on r/singaporefi, he shared that although he is well-aware that his income places him in the top ten percentile (according to salary.sg) in Singapore, he still feels financially strained because he has a young family and is struggling to save every penny for his kids’ education.

“In my early 40s and seriously thinking about my career runway…I’ve been feeling broke for the longest time,” he expressed. “It amazes me at how people are able to spend discretionarily incredulous amounts of money and hence wondering if I am way lower in the real income scale.”

“I grew up in a blue collar household and had never been able to afford luxuries. I can’t imagine how much more it would take for me to ever feel comfortable in life.”

Aside from the high cost of living in Singapore, he also mentioned that his demanding job has been preventing him from spending enough time with his family and is raising health concerns as he continues to overwork himself.

“I’m grappling with some thoughts of throwing in the towel, escaping the rat race and spending more time with my young kids before they grow into young teens.”

“For those around my age, are you raking in 500k easily and have absolute confidence about how your career would continue at this income level?”

“Spend less money, spend more time with family.”

In the discussion thread, Redditors from Singapore suggested he sit down with his wife to go over their monthly expenses. They recommended making a budget to get a better grip on their finances and see where they might save some money.

One Redditor speculated that the man and his family might be facing financial difficulties because they’re choosing private options like condos, exclusive schools, and high-end hospitals.

Given this, it’s understandable why they might feel financially stretched, as these private amenities can make Singapore one of the most costly places in the world to live. He added, “I think it’s all about lifestyle inflation which can be quite dangerous if you let it happen slowly.”

Another Redditor said, “May you find more happiness in life outside of the obsession with money. There are a lot of happy people and families with lower income/spending than you (>90% of people). Learn how to be happy from them.”

A few others also suggested looking into ways to adjust his career or reduce work stress to improve his work-life balance.

One Redditor advised, “Spend less money, spend more time with family. Downgrade your salary for upgrade in physical and mental health.”

There were also several Redditors who felt that the man was being insensitive by complaining about his financial strain, given that he’s earning a salary that many others would find enviable.

One Redditor commented, “Any idea how many households in Singapore are genuinely struggling to get by on a fraction of your annual income?”

Another wrote, “Go for therapy? To fix your issue of not knowing how to be comfortable in life?”

Read also: “What about the struggling middle class?” — Singaporeans ask in response to SG being named the world’s most expensive city

Queen Woo’s historical drama teaser showcases Jeon Jong Seo’s survival on her own after Ji Chang Wook’s death

Lydia Koh
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0
Queen Woo’s historical drama teaser showcases Jeon Jong Seo’s survival on her own after Ji Chang Wook’s death

TVING’s next historical drama, “Queen Woo,” has released its first teaser and posters, setting the stage for an intriguing story.

A historical drama including chase action, “Queen Woo” centres on Queen Woo, who finds herself the focus of five tribes fighting for dominance and princes vying for the throne after the king’s untimely death.

The narrative follows her desperate struggle to secure a new king within 24 hours to protect her family and tribe.

Jeon Jong Seo stars as Woo Hee, a queen of Goguryeo who marries one of her deceased husband’s younger siblings to safeguard her people. The drama features an ensemble cast, including Kim Moo Yeol, Ji Chang Wook, Jung Yu Mi, Lee Soo Hyuk, and Park Ji Hwan.

Regal image

The released posters offer a glimpse into the intense atmosphere of the series. One poster shows Queen Woo adorned in a golden crown, exuding majesty as she seemingly confirms the king’s death, whose silhouette looms in the background.

Another poster contrasts this regal image by depicting Woo Hee in armor, wielding a bow, with the text, “The king’s death, I must survive on my own.” This imagery suggests a fierce battle for survival and power.

Photo: Instagram/TVING

The teaser video accompanying these posters reveals the chaos within and outside the Goguryeo palace following King Go Nam Moo’s (played by Ji Chang Wook) unexpected death.

The video highlights the turmoil as Woo Hee faces a crisis, attempting to maintain control while external and internal forces threaten to overthrow her. The scenes hint at escalating conflict and intrigue as the characters navigate this power struggle.

“Queen Woo” is scheduled to premiere on Au 29, promising an action-packed and dramatic exploration of power, loyalty, and survival in ancient Goguryeo.

Singapore looking to build world-class wellness attraction to draw in more tourists

Gemma Iso
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Singapore looking to build world-class wellness attraction to draw in more tourists

After the city’s recent concerts filled hotels to the brim, Singapore is eyeing a new kind of mega event: a mega wellness attraction.

The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) is inviting bids to transform a four-hectare site along the Marina South waterfront into a world-class wellness destination.

This space, roughly the size of seven football fields, is envisioned as a day-use-only attraction that will focus on physical, emotional, and mental wellness, with a ban on hotels and casinos to preserve its wellness-centric atmosphere.

The mega wellness attraction

The STB is seeking next-generation wellness experiences, including therapeutic arts, tech-driven floatation and frequency therapies, and fitness activities that use water or specialized equipment. The venue could span up to 80,000 sqm and must host a year-round calendar of top-tier wellness events to draw both locals and tourists.

While the STB hasn’t named a specific model for the project, it’s clear they’re aiming to create a space that will extend visitors’ stays and boost spending in Singapore. The concept is part of a growing trend of urban wellness playgrounds, with the Therme Group’s European destinations serving as a close comparison. These large-scale day attractions blend bathing, hydrothermal, and spa experiences with art, music, and wellness events, drawing international visitors and encouraging repeat visits with dynamic programming.

A booming industry

Some hoteliers have expressed skepticism about the project, questioning the high cost of developing wellness on prime real estate when natural settings in neighboring countries offer therapeutic experiences for free. However, with the global wellness market expected to nearly double by 2028, proponents argue that Singapore can’t afford to miss out on this booming industry.

Rakesh Patel, CEO and founder of ALTA Capital Real Estate, believes Singapore has an opportunity to create a wellness hub, leveraging its strengths and positioning itself alongside countries like Thailand and Japan. He suggests focusing on health tech, a sector where Singapore could innovate and create value.

A smart move

Singapore’s plan to blend art, technology, and wellness is seen as a smart move to tap into these trends. Innovative destinations like Submersive in Austin, Texas, which will use AI and neuroscience to induce states of awe and euphoria, show the potential for multi-sensory wellness experiences.

In this dynamic wellness market, simply offering a spa and a sunset isn’t enough. Singapore’s proposed mega wellness attraction could be the city’s next big draw if it can successfully blend innovation, technology, and human connection to create a unique and compelling wellness experience.

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