The nation of Nepal voted to abolish their two hundred and forty year old monarchy and became the world's newest republic. An assembly meeting in Kathmandu voted overwhelmingly to end the monarchy and the news was received with celebrations in the streets. The country had previously faced a conflict between the monarchy and Maoists.

South Korea has suspended operations in two more nuclear reactors after concerns have arisen over the use of unauthorized parts. The first two reactors were suspended in 2012 and the closing of two more raised concerns over the country's power capabilities in the upcoming summer months.