Asia

The North Korean leader's public absence and reports of a recent surgery have prompted a flurry of rumors about his health. But South Korean officials said Tuesday, "There is nothing we can confirm."

Gov. Larry Hogan, a Republican, announced his state paid $9 million for coronavirus test kits from a South Korean company. "If there were an easier way, we certainly would have taken it," Hogan said.

Singapore reported 1,426 new cases on Monday and now has the highest number of reported cases in Southeast Asia. Most of those recently infected are foreign workers staying in cramped dormitories.

They're using music to raise awareness about COVID-19 — and how to reduce its spread. Researchers say that songs can help transmit important information during a disease outbreak.

Mister Rogers said "look for the helpers" in times of crisis. Here's the story of Shah Dedar. He's 32, he's a Tom Hanks fan — and he works to protect the most vulnerable in crowded refugee camps.

Health experts say low rates of testing and refusal to enact strict lockdowns have allowed the virus to infiltrate all 34 provinces of the archipelago nation.

By Friday, South Korean authorities had identified 163 patients who tested positive again after a full recovery. The number more than doubled in about a week, up from 74 cases on April 9.

China's economy contracted by 6.8% in the first three months of 2020 from the same period a year ago — its biggest drop since 1992.