Asia Times: The Evolution of a Regional News Powerhouse
In the landscape of English-language journalism covering the Asia-Pacific region, Asia Times stands as a significant entity with a complex history of transition. From its origins as a print newspaper in Thailand to its current status as a digital-first news portal based in Hong Kong, the publication has evolved to meet the demands of a global audience.
The Origins of Asia Times
The story begins in 1995 with the launch of the Asia Times print newspaper based in Bangkok. This original iteration operated under the domain asiatimes.com until it ceased operations in mid-1997. The print edition was owned by Sondhi Limthongkul, a prominent Thai media mogul and leader of the People's Alliance for Democracy, who eventually sold his business interests.
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The Transition to Digital: Asia Times Online
Early in 1999, a new entity emerged at atimes.com known as Asia Times Online. This digital venture was established by a group of contributors and reporters from the original print edition who sought to maintain the publication policy and editorial outlook of their predecessor. The new publishing company, Asia Times Holdings Limited, was incorporated and registered in Hong Kong.
By 2006, the publication's influence had grown significantly. The New York Times recognized Asia Times Online as one of the most prominent English-language regional publications covering the Asian continent.
Modernization and Global Expansion
To keep pace with the changing digital media landscape, the site underwent two major transformations in recent years. In October 2016, the portal was relaunched with a new design and logo under the leadership of editor Uwe Parpart, with Cecil Ho—the former chief financial officer of ReOrient Group Limited—serving as an executive.
A second major relaunch occurred in February 2019. This update introduced a refreshed web design, support for multiple languages, and a return to the original domain, asiatimes.com. During this transition, the word "Online" was dropped from the brand name, simply becoming Asia Times.
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Current Operational Structure
Today, Asia Times operates as a sophisticated news network. The organization maintains two primary newsrooms and social media hubs located in Bangkok and Hong Kong. These central hubs are supported by a global network of bureaus situated in Seoul, Beijing, Singapore, and New York.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Current Domain | asiatimes.com |
| Registration Location | Hong Kong |
| Main Newsrooms | Bangkok and Hong Kong |
| Supporting Bureaus | Seoul, Beijing, Singapore, and New York |
| Key Figures | Sondhi Limthongkul (Original Owner), Uwe Parpart (Editor), Cecil Ho (Executive) |
Key Facts
- Founded: Print edition launched in 1995; digital successor launched in 1999.
- Ownership: Originally owned by Thai media mogul Sondhi Limthongkul.
- Corporate Base: Asia Times Holdings Limited is registered in Hong Kong.
- Global Reach: Maintains bureaus in four major cities: New York, Beijing, Seoul, and Singapore.
- Evolution: Transitioned from a print newspaper to "Asia Times Online" and finally to the current "Asia Times" digital portal.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the relationship between the original print newspaper and the current website?
The current website is the successor to the Bangkok-based print newspaper launched in 1995. It was created by former contributors to maintain the original publication's editorial outlook and policy.
Where is Asia Times currently based?
The publishing company, Asia Times Holdings Limited, is registered in Hong Kong. The organization operates main newsrooms in both Hong Kong and Bangkok.
Who are the key figures associated with Asia Times?
Key figures include original owner Sondhi Limthongkul, editor Uwe Parpart, and executive Cecil Ho.
Which cities host Asia Times bureaus?
Beyond its main hubs in Bangkok and Hong Kong, Asia Times has bureaus in Seoul, Beijing, Singapore, and New York.
When did the site move back to the asiatimes.com domain?
The site returned to the asiatimes.com domain during its most recent relaunch in February 2019.