Investigate Asia

Undercover Asia: North Korea Slaves | Investigate Asia More than 50,000 North Korean men and women are being used like slaves in 40 countries. Most of their salary is stolen from them to keep the Supreme Leader in power. North Korean Slaves is an investigative documentary that exposes state-sponsored forced labor, focusing on hidden coal miners in Malaysia and funds funneled to the Kim regime. The workers' hard labor and wages are forcefully extracted to keep Kim Jong-un and his regime in power. This documentary first aired in 2016 ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ Welcome to Investigate Asia - Explore the diverse landscapes of Asia through in-depth documentaries that delve into the region's politics, economy, culture, and history. From ancient traditions to modern innovations, our content offers a unique perspective on the forces shaping Asia today. Join us on a journey to better understand one of the world’s most dynamic and influential regions. Whether you're a history enthusiast or curious about global affairs, this channel is your gateway to discovering Asia.

Undercover Asia: Maids Enslaved | Investigate Asia ‘Maids Enslaved’ follows human rights activist Rakesh Senger on a mission to save young girls caught in domestic servitude. The film reveals multiple fronts leading to maid exploitation and culminates in the rescue of a trafficked underage girl from an upmarket... ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ Welcome to Investigate Asia - Explore the diverse landscapes of Asia through in-depth documentaries that delve into the region's politics, economy, culture, and history. From ancient traditions to modern innovations, our content offers a unique perspective on the forces shaping Asia today. Join us on a journey to better understand one of the world’s most dynamic and influential regions. Whether you're a history enthusiast or curious about global affairs, this channel is your gateway to discovering Asia.

Modi’s India: Democracy or Dictatorship? | Investigate Asia India under Modi: The Rise of Fascism in the World's Largest Democracy | Investigate Asia He has been dubbed an ultranationalistic dictator who is dividing the country. His controversial ‘anti-muslim’ citizenship reforms have deprived millions of people of their rights, and any criticism of his government is quickly silenced. But what shaped Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s political view and ideology? In this film, we gained access to the secret RSS movement, a powerful faction promoting the rise of Hindu nationalism, and investigate what is happening to Gandhi’s dream of a united nation. Formed in the 1920s and inspired by extreme right-wing organizations like the German Nazi Party, the RSS movement promotes India as an exclusively Hindu nation. It runs training camps for children aged 3 to 15, where Formed in the 1920s and inspired by extreme right-wing organizations like the German Nazi party, the RSS movement runs training camps for children where they are taught to fear and hate Muslims. It’s here that most members of the ruling BJP underwent basic training.

Tricked into Surgery: India’s Hysterectomy Scandal | Investigate Asia In India, the average age of women having a hysterectomy is just 34. Many are a lot younger. Thousands of women are being tricked into expensive and unnecessary operations to remove their wombs by unscrupulous private doctors. As well as leaving their families burdened with heavy debt, the operations push the women into early menopause, often leaving them weak and unable to work. In the sugar growing region of Beed, one in three women have had their wombs removed. Many of them, like Prabarvati, went to the doctor with period pain, backaches or bladder infections and were told they had cancer and the only solution was an urgent hysterectomy. She was 26 when she had the operation. Years later, she suffers from crippling pain and appears decades older. Her daughter had to stop going to school and start working the cane plantations to help the family survive. Other women were pushed into having the operation by cane cutting contractors, who are reluctant to hire women who menstruate. There is a belief

Behind Bars: CPDRC, Philippines | Investigate Asia Cebu, Philippines: a city divided between tourists and those struggling to survive. Many encounter gangs, drugs, and violence early, with some ending up at the Cebu Provincial Detention and Rehabilitation Center. Here, convicts serve sentences while others wait for years in pretrial detention. Day shifts start at seven, and everyone — including staff — is strictly checked. Guards like Cristopher Somoza face murderers, traffickers, and drug smugglers daily. Inmates run their own community, led by Lionel, known as Bosyo, with his bodyguards, the Menaria, enforcing order. Fifty-three women are also imprisoned, some serving long sentences, others waiting years for a verdict. Despite strict separation from male inmates, relationships like Salomeo and Flor’s exist, though physical contact is minimal. Counting procedures are three times daily; any discrepancies lead to strict punishments, including the feared solitary confinement. At night, only five guards oversee nearly a thousand prisoners, leaving them largely to their own devices — until a large-scale raid by a national elite unit exposes shocking realities. ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ Welcome to Investigate Asia

Taiwan: Prep for War | Investigate Asia Across Taiwan, ordinary civilians are quietly preparing for a war they hope will never come. Teachers, engineers, and parents stockpile supplies, practice drills, and learn survival skills—not as soldiers, but as citizens determined to endure. This documentary follows Taiwan’s emerging “war preppers,” a growing network confronting the reality of modern conflict. Through up-close access and unfiltered conversations, it explores how people balance everyday life with preparation, facing the question: how do you survive when the shadow of war looms over your home? ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ Welcome to Investigate Asia - Explore the diverse landscapes of Asia through in-depth documentaries that delve into the region's politics, economy, culture, and history. From ancient traditions to modern innovations, our content offers a unique perspective on the forces shaping Asia today. Join us on a journey to better understand one of the world’s most dynamic and influential regions. Whether you're a history enthusiast or curious about global affairs, this channel is your gateway to discovering Asia.

Red Zones - World’s Toughest Places | Myanmar Civil War | Investigate Asia In the remote hills of Karenni—Myanmar’s smallest ethnic state—a new generation of ordinary youth is abandoning civilian life to join the armed resistance against a brutal, decades-old military regime. Lacking formal military backgrounds, these tech-savvy young men and women are transforming into guerrilla fighters under the banner of groups like the Karenni Nationalities Defence Force (KNDF).To counter a much larger, better-equipped army, these insurgents rely on irregular warfare, strict organization, and clandestine smuggling networks to transport vital weapons and medical supplies past military blockades. This film explores their high-stakes journey into modern guerrilla warfare, questioning how long this resourceful, idealistic army can survive the harsh jungle elements and makeshift weaponry. A Quintus Original Production ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ Welcome to Investigate Asia - Explore the diverse landscapes of Asia through in-depth documentaries that delve into the region's politics, economy, culture, and history. From ancient traditions to modern innovations, our content offers a unique perspective on the forces shaping Asia today. Join us on a journey to better understand

Asia Exposed: Landscape of Forgotten Faces | Investigate Asia A landscape photographer wants to dig out the ugly truth behind the glitzy modern architecture he normally captures. He unveils the devastating effects of modernization on people, shooting babies with birth defects in the dangerously polluted Shanxi Province in China. ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ Welcome to Investigate Asia - Explore the diverse landscapes of Asia through in-depth documentaries that delve into the region's politics, economy, culture, and history. From ancient traditions to modern innovations, our content offers a unique perspective on the forces shaping Asia today. Join us on a journey to better understand one of the world’s most dynamic and influential regions. Whether you're a history enthusiast or curious about global affairs, this channel is your gateway to discovering Asia.

Prison Drugs Lords | Investigate Asia Drug lords rule the roost at the New Bilibid Prison. A 300-strong multi-agency taskforce assemble outside the prison for a massive raid. ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ Welcome to Investigate Asia - Explore the diverse landscapes of Asia through in-depth documentaries that delve into the region's politics, economy, culture, and history. From ancient traditions to modern innovations, our content offers a unique perspective on the forces shaping Asia today. Join us on a journey to better understand one of the world’s most dynamic and influential regions. Whether you're a history enthusiast or curious about global affairs, this channel is your gateway to discovering Asia.

Asia Exposed: Child Sex Exploitation | Investigate Asia The illegal child sex exploitation trade in Cambodia is seen through the eyes and lenses of a family photographer. ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ Welcome to Investigate Asia - Explore the diverse landscapes of Asia through in-depth documentaries that delve into the region's politics, economy, culture, and history. From ancient traditions to modern innovations, our content offers a unique perspective on the forces shaping Asia today. Join us on a journey to better understand one of the world’s most dynamic and influential regions. Whether you're a history enthusiast or curious about global affairs, this channel is your gateway to discovering Asia.

Love and Sex in India | Investigate Asia It’s the birthplace of the Kama Sutra and Bollywood romances but in real life, kissing in the street or just talking about sex in India is considered obscene. In a place where 90% of marriages are arranged and the bride’s family must pay a large dowry, young girls are taught that society considers them a burden. Millions of baby girls are abandoned or illegally aborted. A series of brutal rapes and murders have led to claims of a ‘rape culture’ in India. We investigate the role of India’s system of castes and customs and hear from a lawyer who defends parents who have murdered their children in ‘honour’ crimes. We also meet openly gay Prince Manvendra who fights for his love and for his society to become more accepting and educated in a country where homosexuality is illegal. From forbidden love stories to arranged marriages and spectacular weddings where the bride and groom only just met, we follow the epic stories of young couples in India. This documentary first aired 2018 ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬

Istanbul: The Two Faces of Turkey | Investigate Asia Is Istanbul still Turkey’s most European city? The only city in the world to straddle two continents, sometimes conservative, sometimes ultra-modern, the city of a thousand faces has thousands of stories to tell. In his 20 years in power, President Erdogan has changed the culture of the country. He has financed dozens of historical TV series, which glorify the Ottoman Empire and are a hit on public television. In the country’s cultural capital, bars and nightclubs are gradually being replaced by oriental pastry stores, shopping malls dedicated to Islamic fashions have emerged and provocative artists are closely monitored. The authorities are focusing on tourism from the Middle East rather than European visitors. But many people refuse to be silenced. Singer Aisu, who is so provocative she has trouble finding radio stations willing to play her songs, now reaches her audience via social media. Meanwhile satirical cartoonist, Tunay, who has seen his friends imprisoned, continues to depict Erdogan as an old sultan. This documentary first aired in July 2024. ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬

Dirty Deals in Pattaya: The Dark Side of Sex Tourism in Thailand | Investigate Asia In 2023, Luck Films reported on the ways paedophiles were exploiting post-COVID poverty in Thailand to abuse children. In this documentary, we return to the place where it all began, checking in with stories that have continued since the first film aired and examining whether any real reform is happening – or is even on the horizon. Luck Films uncovered the case of a German suspect arrested for child abuse in Pattaya who was able to flee to Germany by paying a bribe. After the film aired, Frankfurt prosecutors took him into custody. He admitted on camera to taking a minor to his room “to have sex” but denied any abuse. The revelations sparked political outrage in Thailand, leading to a government inquiry. However, it remains to be seen whether tangible reforms will be implemented. Despite TUI removing Pattaya hotels from its program, this follow-up film – Dirty Deals in Pattaya – reveals how child exploitation still persists in luxury hotels. ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ Welcome

China Dissidents | Investigate Asia From harassing relatives back home to disrupting protests and spying on critics in other countries, China is one of the most aggressive governments in targeting dissidents abroad. We follow three dissidents in America as they continue their fight for democracy. Juntao Wang, a primary organiser of the 1989 Tiananmen Square protests and one of the world’s most renowned Chinese dissidents, has led the Democratic Party of China for more than a decade from its New York headquarters. But, wherever he goes, pro-Beijing mobs often follow. While showing support for Taiwan’s democracy, his group is violently attacked. Artist Weiming Chen, who criticises the Chinese government through his sculptures, has been spied on and had his work burned down. Meanwhile, asylum seeker Chunyan Wang, forced into exile after her house was appropriated by the Chinese government, is constantly surveilled. She takes her protest directly to the Chinese Vice Premier during US-China trade talks. But her attempts to hand him a petition lead to her being arrested and tried for a criminal conviction, facing ten years in prison

Tokyo by Night: Secret Japan | Investigate Asia Hyperactive and frenetic by day, Tokyo transforms by night, revealing a totally different side of Japanese society. We come across eccentric characters who speak of a Japan that is mysterious and inaccessible to foreigners. A world where traditions are expressed but so are the flaws and failings of Japanese society. In Kabukicho, the capital’s red-light district, the latest trend is “hosts” clubs. Here, young men are paid to keep customers company and to flirt with them. The one rule: no sex! An astonishing business born from the immense loneliness experienced by the Japanese. The job may be lucrative, but the young hosts are worn down by the night-shifts and the astronomical quantities of alcohol they guzzle down each night. Equally disconcerting for Westerners, the phenomenon of “Idols” sees hundreds of groups of very sexy singers and dancers idealised by the Japanese. They view them as their virtual girlfriends. Asuka is one of Tokyo’s most respected nightlife personalities. She is ‘Mama-San’, an heiress to the Geisha tradition. She runs the city’s most exclusive

ASIA EXPOSED: Rhino Horn Consumption | Investigate Asia A food photographer delves deep into the multi-million dollar illegal trade of rhino horns in Vietnam. He investigates the core of the matter, where he finds a shocking link between a magical medicine and the death of thousands of rhinos in South Africa every year. ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ Welcome to Investigate Asia - Explore the diverse landscapes of Asia through in-depth documentaries that delve into the region's politics, economy, culture, and history. From ancient traditions to modern innovations, our content offers a unique perspective on the forces shaping Asia today. Join us on a journey to better understand one of the world’s most dynamic and influential regions. Whether you're a history enthusiast or curious about global affairs, this channel is your gateway to discovering Asia.

Love and Sex in Japan | Investigate Asia In the land of the Rising Sun, love and relationships are in danger. A quarter of all Japanese aged 30 to 40 are virgins and 50% of the population admits to not having sex regularly. Unsurprisingly, this has led to birth rates plummeting. 30% of Japan’s population could disappear by 2060. But what are the reasons for this detachment from the world of love and sex? Tough jobs, stress, money problems… not exactly an ideal environment for finding love. The country has developed a unique industry from this phenomenon, with the trend of ‘solo weddings’ emerging: young women in wedding dresses pose in front of the camera for their big day… except, they’re not actually marrying anyone. Paradoxically, Japan is also one of the largest producers of porn movies in the world, with many men seeming to prefer manga heroines to women their age. As Japanese men and women slowly lose the skill of connecting, courses are flourishing teaching the art of seduction. Documentary first aired 2016 ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ Welcome to

Fake Food | Investigate Asia A photojournalist from Beijing travels to the city of Changsha to uncover the truth and seek evidence against the unscrupulous food industry that produces and sells fake food products to unknowing consumers. An issue which has brought about tragic and mammoth health repercussions to a nation of a billion people. This documentary first aired in 2014 ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ Welcome to Investigate Asia - Explore the diverse landscapes of Asia through in-depth documentaries that delve into the region's politics, economy, culture, and history. From ancient traditions to modern innovations, our content offers a unique perspective on the forces shaping Asia today. Join us on a journey to better understand one of the world’s most dynamic and influential regions. Whether you're a history enthusiast or curious about global affairs, this channel is your gateway to discovering Asia.

Turkmenistan: The World's Strangest Dictatorship | Investigate Asia Since 1991, Turkmenistan has been ruled by an equally bizarre and ruthless dictatorship. Much like North Korea, the heads of state wield absolute power and have the freedom to act on a whim. The Berdymukhamedov family has ruled Turkmenistan for two generations. The capital, Ashgabat, is a monument to megalomania and is listed as the world’s most expensive city. Every one of its buildings is constructed entirely of white marble and only white cars are allowed on its pristine, deserted streets. The city holds the record for the largest star-shaped building, the largest horse-shaped stadium and the highest concentration of fountains. Turkmenistan is famous for its countless absurd rules. There is a compulsory 11pm curfew and the country is scattered with museums and immense golden statues glorifying the Berdymukhamedov regime. The dictator delights in singing songs that he himself has composed praising the country. He also enjoys administering justice in public, like on national TV, where he humiliates and sentences ministers accused of corruption. To uncover the secrets of this reclusive dictatorship

The Manila Drug Plague | Investigate Asia A corporate photographer takes his camera into the world of drug addiction, on the streets of Manila. ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ Welcome to Investigate Asia - Explore the diverse landscapes of Asia through in-depth documentaries that delve into the region's politics, economy, culture, and history. From ancient traditions to modern innovations, our content offers a unique perspective on the forces shaping Asia today. Join us on a journey to better understand one of the world’s most dynamic and influential regions. Whether you're a history enthusiast or curious about global affairs, this channel is your gateway to discovering Asia.

India under Modi: The New Hindu Superpower | Investigate Asia What if the next world superpower was India, not China? With its 1.4 billion inhabitants, India is already the most populous country in the world. Under the leadership of Narendra Modi, India has embraced both ultra-productivity and ultra-nationalism. Everything that happens in the world happens in India on a much larger scale. In the past decade, Modi has transformed and reshaped the country: for the better according to his supporters, for the worse according to his opponents. India is now the fifth largest economy in the world and has democratized access to technology. No one can deny the scale of the country’s social, political and cultural transformation. Slowly but surely, Modi is positioning India as a counter- balance to the West. He has silenced his opponents, rewritten the national narrative to the point of erasing whole swathes of its own history and created a new apartheid. But India, which often seems so distant and far removed from our preoccupations, has also become the magnifying glass of global challenges. The strategic

Asia Exposed: Under-aged Smoking | Investigate Asia Join photographer Marrysa Tunjung Sari as she explores the devastating effects and implications of under-aged smoking in Indonesia; where government figures estimate that 25 percent of kids over the age of 3 have tried cigarettes and 3 percent are regular smokers. ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ Welcome to Investigate Asia - Explore the diverse landscapes of Asia through in-depth documentaries that delve into the region's politics, economy, culture, and history. From ancient traditions to modern innovations, our content offers a unique perspective on the forces shaping Asia today. Join us on a journey to better understand one of the world’s most dynamic and influential regions. Whether you're a history enthusiast or curious about global affairs, this channel is your gateway to discovering Asia.

Asia Exposed: A Journey Behind Bars | Investigate Asia In the Philippines, a fashion photographer who is used to shooting snazzy designer clothes and mingling with celebrities and supermodels is taken to a prison where the inmates are the only models available, and their uniform is the only thing they are allowed to wear. ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ Welcome to Investigate Asia - Explore the diverse landscapes of Asia through in-depth documentaries that delve into the region's politics, economy, culture, and history. From ancient traditions to modern innovations, our content offers a unique perspective on the forces shaping Asia today. Join us on a journey to better understand one of the world’s most dynamic and influential regions. Whether you're a history enthusiast or curious about global affairs, this channel is your gateway to discovering Asia.

Habitats of the World: The City That Tried to Build a Perfect World | Investigate Asia Auroville, a utopian community in southern India founded in the 1960s, is built on the ideals of unity and human harmony. Its visionary architecture blends with communal living, from distinctive homes and gardens to the iconic Matrimandir. Residents share how life unfolds in a city designed for cooperation and shared purpose, showing how architecture can shape not just spaces, but the way people live together. ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ Welcome to Investigate Asia - Explore the diverse landscapes of Asia through in-depth documentaries that delve into the region's politics, economy, culture, and history. From ancient traditions to modern innovations, our content offers a unique perspective on the forces shaping Asia today. Join us on a journey to better understand one of the world’s most dynamic and influential regions. Whether you're a history enthusiast or curious about global affairs, this channel is your gateway to discovering Asia.

Habitats of the World: The Sacred City on the Edge of Decay | Investigate Asia Varanasi, one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities, is a place where life and death coexist daily. Narrow, winding streets are packed with homes, temples, and shrines, many of them centuries old and slowly crumbling under the weight of time. Along the ghats of the sacred Ganges River, families perform daily rituals while the city’s residents navigate the challenges of modern life in a place steeped in ancient tradition. This episode explores the resilience of the people who live here, the intimate connections between the city’s spiritual and physical landscapes, and the delicate balance between devotion and survival. From floating funeral pyres to crowded markets, from centuries-old temples to tiny riverside homes, Varanasi is a city where every corner tells a story of endurance, faith, and the human spirit. ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ Welcome to Investigate Asia - Explore the diverse landscapes of Asia through in-depth documentaries that delve into the region's politics, economy, culture, and history. From ancient traditions to modern innovations, our content

Earth on Edge: Indonesia | Investigate Asia In 2004, the tsunami that devastated Southeast Asia did not spare the province of Aceh, north of the island of Sumatra, and killed nearly 170,000 people. It’s a catastrophe still very present in the collective memory of the inhabitants. Beyond the one-time disasters, the country is hit hard by the consequences of global warming, with torrential rains that cause flooding. While 40% of the city is below sea level and the capital is sinking, the government has launched a colossal project to save Jakarta: constructing a giant waterfront dike. ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ Welcome to Investigate Asia - Explore the diverse landscapes of Asia through in-depth documentaries that delve into the region's politics, economy, culture, and history. From ancient traditions to modern innovations, our content offers a unique perspective on the forces shaping Asia today. Join us on a journey to better understand one of the world’s most dynamic and influential regions. Whether you're a history enthusiast or curious about global affairs, this channel is your gateway to discovering Asia.

Habitats of the World: The Bamboo Houses of the Adi Tribe | Investigate Asia We are heading to the small village of Ponging in the state of Arunachal Pradesh, a region in northeast India that is also spread over Bhutan, Burma, and Tibet. The Adi people, called the men of the hills, have learned to both survive and thrive off of bamboo, which is what their homes are made of in beautifully intricate patterns. ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ Welcome to Investigate Asia - Explore the diverse landscapes of Asia through in-depth documentaries that delve into the region's politics, economy, culture, and history. From ancient traditions to modern innovations, our content offers a unique perspective on the forces shaping Asia today. Join us on a journey to better understand one of the world’s most dynamic and influential regions. Whether you're a history enthusiast or curious about global affairs, this channel is your gateway to discovering Asia.

Habitats of the World: The Village Where the Roof Is the Road | Investigate Asia We travel to Northern Iran, in the lush, mountainous region of Masuleh — a striking contrast to the arid deserts that define much of the country. Nestled within the green slopes of the Alborz Mountains, this centuries-old village is renowned for its unique architecture and rich cultural heritage. Here, homes are built into the steep terrain in such a way that the roof of one house serves as the courtyard or walkway for the one above it, creating a cascading network of pedestrian paths that link the entire village together. Life in Masuleh unfolds along these rooftops, where markets, conversations, and daily routines take place above the forested valleys below. This documentary explores the rhythms of life in Masuleh, the traditions that have endured for generations, and the delicate balance between preserving the past and adapting to modern times. ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ Welcome to Investigate Asia - Explore the diverse landscapes of Asia through in-depth documentaries that delve into the region's politics, economy, culture, and

Habitats of the World: The Volcanic Village of Iran | Investigate Asia With a history spanning nearly a millennium, Kandovan’s 1,000 residents maintain a unique way of life. The stone homes, originally built for protection and to benefit from fertile land, have been adapted over time with modern features. Their architecture, rooted in nature, tells a story of resilience and labor, with the name “Kandovan” symbolizing the hardships of carving these dwellings from volcanic tuff. Despite the challenges of their environment, the community thrives, connected by their shared heritage and proximity. The enduring bond between the people and their mountains ensures this singular way of life continues to flourish. Kandovan, located in Iran’s Azerbaijan province at 2,300 meters above sea level, is the world’s only still-inhabited troglodyte village. ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ Welcome to Investigate Asia - Explore the diverse landscapes of Asia through in-depth documentaries that delve into the region's politics, economy, culture, and history. From ancient traditions to modern innovations, our content offers a unique perspective on the forces shaping Asia today. Join us on a journey to better

Giant Pop-Up Constructions: Ice Festival | Investigate Asia Structures 15 meters high and 25 meters wide - made out of snow. For 70 years now, every winter, Sapporo, Japan, has hosted one of the largest snow festivals in the world: Sapporo Snow Festival. Each team has three weeks to create works of art the size of an apartment building from a few hundred tons of loose snow. Even a small mistake or a rise in temperature of 1°C - 2° C can cause an entire structure to collapse. Failure is not an option. Perfectionism is a national trait. There’s a lot at stake: circa two million visitors from all over the world are expected. The Japanese military traditionally build the largest and most elaborate sculpture at the festival. In over fifteen thousand man-hours, Major Ling and 80 soldiers are rebuilding the royal palace in Warsaw. They need 300 tons of snow. But there is a problem: in the event’s 70 year history, snowfall has been at its lowest this year. And this despite the fact that Sapporo is one of

Habitats of the World: Fortress Village, China | Investigate Asia This documentary takes viewers to Fujian Province, on the southeast coast of China, home to the Hakka people. Descended from the Han, who migrated from northern China over a thousand years ago to escape invasions by Central Asian nomads, the Hakka settled in this mountainous region of fertile plains. Here, they built the tulous—impressive communal homes made of rammed earth. These fortress-like structures were designed for both living and defense, offering protection to entire clans while fostering a close-knit community. The towers stand as a testament to the Hakka people’s ingenuity and their deep connection to the land that sustains them. ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ Welcome to Investigate Asia - Explore the diverse landscapes of Asia through in-depth documentaries that delve into the region's politics, economy, culture, and history. From ancient traditions to modern innovations, our content offers a unique perspective on the forces shaping Asia today. Join us on a journey to better understand one of the world’s most dynamic and influential regions. Whether you're a history enthusiast or curious

North Korea vs USA: A Nuclear Chicken Game | Investigate Asia "The Trap of Kim". The escalation of tensions between Pyongyang and Washington continues, plunging the world into fear of a nuclear war. Update on the geopolitical issues of this conflict. ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ Welcome to Investigate Asia - Explore the diverse landscapes of Asia through in-depth documentaries that delve into the region's politics, economy, culture, and history. From ancient traditions to modern innovations, our content offers a unique perspective on the forces shaping Asia today. Join us on a journey to better understand one of the world’s most dynamic and influential regions. Whether you're a history enthusiast or curious about global affairs, this channel is your gateway to discovering Asia.

Habitats of the World: Kyoto, Japan | Investigate Asia We journey to Kyoto, Japan’s former imperial capital and one of the last cities where centuries-old traditions still shape daily life. Tucked between temples and quiet alleyways, wooden townhouses known as machiya preserve the architectural and cultural soul of old Japan. These narrow homes, with their inner gardens, sliding paper doors, and tatami floors, are more than just buildings — they are living reflections of Japanese aesthetics, rituals, and family life. As modernity surrounds them, a few residents continue to live in these traditional homes, preserving a way of life rooted in harmony, restraint, and deep respect for the past. With host and philosopher Philippe Simay, this episode invites us inside the walls of a Kyoto machiya to experience the beauty and philosophy of a home where space, silence, and nature all speak. ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ Welcome to Investigate Asia - Explore the diverse landscapes of Asia through in-depth documentaries that delve into the region's politics, economy, culture, and history. From ancient traditions to modern innovations, our content offers a unique

Maldives: Overtourism and Sharia! | Investigate Asia The Maldives archipelago, comprising idyllic islands lost in the Indian Ocean, is a fragile paradise. Because of global warming, 80% of its land surface could eventually be submerged. Tourism also has harmful effects, such as the accumulation of waste that pollutes the transparent lagoons. It should also be mentioned that the Maldives is an Islamic state enforcing one of the strictest Sharia laws in the world in those islands closed to tourists ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ Welcome to Investigate Asia - Explore the diverse landscapes of Asia through in-depth documentaries that delve into the region's politics, economy, culture, and history. From ancient traditions to modern innovations, our content offers a unique perspective on the forces shaping Asia today. Join us on a journey to better understand one of the world’s most dynamic and influential regions. Whether you're a history enthusiast or curious about global affairs, this channel is your gateway to discovering Asia.

Habitats of the World: Floating Village of Myanmar | Investigate Asia We travel to Myanmar's stunning Inle Lake, where life flows harmoniously with the water. Here, we meet the children who call this unique aquatic world their home. Surrounded by floating gardens and stilted wooden houses, their lives are intertwined with the lake’s rhythms, offering a remarkable glimpse into human adaptation and ingenuity. The episode delves into how the people of Inle Lake have ingeniously shaped their environment, building entire villages on water and cultivating crops on floating islands. Through the eyes of the children, we experience their daily routines, from navigating narrow waterways in small boats to learning traditional skills passed down through generations. This journey reveals not only the beauty and challenges of life on Inle Lake but also the resilience and creativity of its inhabitants. It’s a story of cultural preservation, environmental adaptation, and the unique bond between people and their natural surroundings. ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ Welcome to Investigate Asia - Explore the diverse landscapes of Asia through in-depth documentaries that delve into the region's politics, economy

Habitats of the World: Nepal | Investigate Asia We travel to Lo Manthang, a remote walled city in Nepal’s Upper Mustang region. Set on the windswept Tibetan Plateau, this ancient settlement is home to unique mud-brick houses, built to withstand the harsh climate and high altitude. Shaped by centuries of Tibetan Buddhist tradition, the architecture of Lo Manthang reflects both resilience and cultural continuity in one of the most isolated places on Earth. ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ Welcome to Investigate Asia - Explore the diverse landscapes of Asia through in-depth documentaries that delve into the region's politics, economy, culture, and history. From ancient traditions to modern innovations, our content offers a unique perspective on the forces shaping Asia today. Join us on a journey to better understand one of the world’s most dynamic and influential regions. Whether you're a history enthusiast or curious about global affairs, this channel is your gateway to discovering Asia.

The Megacity of Micro Homes | Habitats of the World: Tokyo | Investigate Asia Tokyo, a city rebuilt from scratch twice in the 20th century, is a place of striking contrasts: colossal urban sprawl interspersed with ingenious micro homes. Faced with extreme population density and limited space, many residents have embraced "micro-architecture" to create intimate living spaces in this vast metropolis. In Shibuya, a family lives in a 3-meter-wide, three-story home ingeniously nestled between a parking lot and a building. This 89-square-meter house offers tranquility amidst Tokyo’s hustle and bustle. Elsewhere, a young woman describes how her family’s 60-square-meter home necessitates carrying out some daily activities, like reading, outside—a lifestyle epitomized by Tokyo’s vibrant manga cafés. Architect Manabu Maya showcases the possibilities of micro-living, presenting one of Tokyo’s smallest houses at just 16 square meters. These homes, scattered throughout the city, redefine the urban landscape with creativity and playfulness, offering a human-scale counterpoint to Tokyo's towering standardization. The city is enormous and chaotic, yet Tokyo’s micro homes reveal how people reclaim space to create intimate, livable environments in one of

Red Princess | Investigate Asia In 2011, the world was introduced to a young Kim Yo-Jong at the funeral of her father, Kim Jong II. Within a decade, she has gone from political obscurity to establishing herself as the number two of the Pyongyang regime, likely to replace her brother and current leader Kim Jong-Un. This film presents a compelling portrait of Kim Yo-Jong, a person of interest in the Asian geopolitical sphere. ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ Welcome to Investigate Asia - Explore the diverse landscapes of Asia through in-depth documentaries that delve into the region's politics, economy, culture, and history. From ancient traditions to modern innovations, our content offers a unique perspective on the forces shaping Asia today. Join us on a journey to better understand one of the world’s most dynamic and influential regions. Whether you're a history enthusiast or curious about global affairs, this channel is your gateway to discovering Asia.

Show Me Where you Live: Hanoi, Vietnam | Investigate Asia This documentary explores the unique tunnel houses of Hanoi, the vibrant capital of Vietnam. Located in the bustling heart of the old quarter, these remarkable homes ingeniously combine spaces for trade and family life within a single structure. Known as tunnel houses for their narrow and deep design, they are a creative solution to the challenges of limited urban space. Some of these homes rise up to five stories high, showcasing the adaptability and ingenuity of Hanoi’s architectural heritage. ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ Welcome to Investigate Asia - Explore the diverse landscapes of Asia through in-depth documentaries that delve into the region's politics, economy, culture, and history. From ancient traditions to modern innovations, our content offers a unique perspective on the forces shaping Asia today. Join us on a journey to better understand one of the world’s most dynamic and influential regions. Whether you're a history enthusiast or curious about global affairs, this channel is your gateway to discovering Asia.

Behind Bars: Osaka Prison, Japan | Investigate Asia Japan, one of the world’s most peaceful countries, enforces harsh punishments even for minor crimes, with murder punishable by life imprisonment or death. Osaka Prison houses around 1,100 inmates, over 30 serving life sentences, in cramped cells under strict rules and military-style discipline. Day shifts start at 7 a.m., with guards like Takeshi overseeing inmates as they march to work in the prison’s wood factory. Among them is Hiroto, serving life for murder and imprisoned for 41 years, living a daily routine defined by drill, isolation, and strict regulations. Talking, eating, sleeping, and even TV positions are tightly controlled, with brief free periods during lunch and sports. The rules serve both to punish and maintain control, as guards rely on martial arts rather than weapons. Meanwhile, inmates Taro and Kaito prepare for release, spending their final days in Nisshinryo, a special facility designed to ease prisoners back into normal life. ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ Welcome to Investigate Asia - Explore the diverse landscapes of Asia through in-depth documentaries that delve into the region's

The Rohingyas: Trapped in Exile | Investigate Asia Following massacres by the Burmese army in 2017, 740,000 Rohingya fled en masse to neighbouring Bangladesh, which confined them in the Cox’s Bazar refugee camp. Five years after this massive influx, Cox’s Bazar has become the most densely populated refugee camp in the world and the most dangerous too… threatened by floods, fires, and gang wars. Conditions are squalid but the alternative may be even worse. Two years ago, the government of Bangladesh decided to move some of these refugees to the isolated island of Bhasan Char in the Bay of Bengal. Located four hours away, this military base, nicknamed “prison island”, has been transformed into a reception camp for the Rohingyas. Already 23,000 have been relocated and Dhaka hopes to transport 100,000 in total. For the first time since the camp opened in December 2020, Bangladesh has allowed a Western team to travel there. The aerial images are striking: a horizon of identical barracks that inevitably evokes a detention camp. The island is vulnerable to cyclones and it is not certain

Green Cops Indonesia: Illegal Fishing | Investigate Asia Organised international criminals have been fishing illegally in Indonesian waters for years. Here, just like in the rest of the world’s oceans, one fish in four is caught illegally. If fishing continues at the current rate, the sea will be emptied by 2050. But Indonesia’s Minister of Marine and Fisheries has a novel approach to dealing with these pirates – blowing up and sinking their ships. She has already destroyed more than 200 ships. We join her on patrol. ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ Welcome to Investigate Asia - Explore the diverse landscapes of Asia through in-depth documentaries that delve into the region's politics, economy, culture, and history. From ancient traditions to modern innovations, our content offers a unique perspective on the forces shaping Asia today. Join us on a journey to better understand one of the world’s most dynamic and influential regions. Whether you're a history enthusiast or curious about global affairs, this channel is your gateway to discovering Asia.

Hong Kong Mixtape | Investigate Asia When the Chinese government imposes a law on Hong Kong that silences freedom of expression, a filmmaker joins with underground Asian artists to preserve and celebrate their culture, life and creativity amidst authoritarian rule. ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ Welcome to Investigate Asia - Explore the diverse landscapes of Asia through in-depth documentaries that delve into the region's politics, economy, culture, and history. From ancient traditions to modern innovations, our content offers a unique perspective on the forces shaping Asia today. Join us on a journey to better understand one of the world’s most dynamic and influential regions. Whether you're a history enthusiast or curious about global affairs, this channel is your gateway to discovering Asia.

Tajikistan: In the Shadow of ISIS | Investigate Asia In March 2024, an Islamist commando group massacred 145 people in a concert hall on the outskirts of Moscow. The four assailants came from Tajikistan. For the past decade, this small ex-Soviet republic in Central Asia has been one of the main breeding grounds for jihadism. Why? In a basic shack, an hour’s drive south of the capital, lives Gulrakat. Her home has neither running water nor electricity. Like more than a million young Tajiks, her son, Dalerdzhon Mirzoyev, migrated to Russia to find work. But, in March 2024, Dalerdzhon was identified as the leader of the Moscow concert attack. Showing signs of obvious torture, he was paraded on TV. His mother still finds it hard to accept that her son became a jihadist. “How he could have fallen into this group, I don’t know. I think they tricked him because he doesn’t speak Russian well. Otherwise, he would have understood the danger and been able to save himself.” Now, she looks after his four young children, who will probably never

My Holidays in North Korea | Investigate Asia An unstable Soviet dictatorship, notorious for human rights abuses and known to be developing nuclear weapons, is probably the last place most people want to visit on holiday. But one travel agency, specialising in ‘danger tourism’, regularly organises trips in North Korea for tourists keen to meet ‘the last Soviets’. We join a group of three and travel around the country. Keen to experience first hand the realities of life in a totalitarian state, we even try to escape the official tour guide… ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ Welcome to Investigate Asia - Explore the diverse landscapes of Asia through in-depth documentaries that delve into the region's politics, economy, culture, and history. From ancient traditions to modern innovations, our content offers a unique perspective on the forces shaping Asia today. Join us on a journey to better understand one of the world’s most dynamic and influential regions. Whether you're a history enthusiast or curious about global affairs, this channel is your gateway to discovering Asia.

Uzbekistan by Train: Oases, Deserts and Soviet Ghost Towns | Investigate Asia Uzbekistan, a land of vast deserts and ancient oases, was a key hub of the Silk Road for centuries, where camels once ruled the trade routes. After Russian annexation, the Silk Road Express railway transformed the region, connecting the lush green valleys of the east with the arid deserts of the west. In Jangiabad, a fading Soviet-era mining town, the Olympic boxing team now trains in the performance-enhancing high-altitude air. Samarkand, with its iconic Registan Square, has become a tourist hotspot, even featuring a tourist police force led by twin officers Fatima and Zukhra. Explorers venture deep into the Hissar Mountains, seeking the legendary Timur Cave, said to have hidden Timur Lenk’s army. Meanwhile, Bukhara’s ancient Jewish community, one of the oldest in the world, struggles to survive after centuries of resilience amid persecution. Uzbekistan’s landscapes and stories reflect a captivating blend of history, legend, and transformation. ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ Welcome to Investigate Asia - Explore the diverse landscapes of Asia through in-depth documentaries that delve into the

Bhutan: The Dictatorship of Happiness | Investigate Asia Hidden away in the Himalayan foothills, Bhutan is a country reputed for its exquisite natural beauty and the importance its people place on individual happiness. The Bhutaneses’ acute environmental awareness has led it to being the only carbon-negative country in the world. To many, the small nation seems like a model for the rest of the world. But behind this idyllic façade there lies a more sinister reality. Buddhism is the only religion tolerated by the Wangchuck dynasty who have ruled the country for the last century. This ultra-conservative regime is closely intertwined with the Buddhist faith. The flocks of millionaires and Hollywood stars who arrive in Bhutan to work on their karma can only be accommodated thanks to the toil of terribly paid workers. This film explores the dynasty’s rule while also taking a look at the youthful counterculture movement which has emerged since the country’s exposure to the internet. ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ Welcome to Investigate Asia - Explore the diverse landscapes of Asia through in-depth documentaries that delve into the

Dangerous Cities: Bangkok | Investigate Asia Bangkok is a booming metropolis of over ten million people. Deemed by many travellers as the ultimate destination, Thailand’s captivating capital also lays claim to a darker statistic: one of the highest crime rates in all of Asia. It’s this shadowy, more violent side of the city that the filmmakers set out to expose. Amongst their observations: corruption. Widespread and deeply ingrained at every level of society. It’s so routine that many Thais see the bribes and ‘gifts’ they are subject to pay as a kind of unofficial tax, a simple way to try and make life easier for themselves. ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ Welcome to Investigate Asia - Explore the diverse landscapes of Asia through in-depth documentaries that delve into the region's politics, economy, culture, and history. From ancient traditions to modern innovations, our content offers a unique perspective on the forces shaping Asia today. Join us on a journey to better understand one of the world’s most dynamic and influential regions. Whether you're a history enthusiast or curious about global affairs, this channel