SEOUL, Singapore, 22 January 2026-/African Media Agency(AMA)/- Bigo Live, one of the world’s fastest-growing social live streaming platforms with over 600 million registered users across over 150 countries, has announced the seventh edition of its annual flagship event, the BIGO Awards Gala. Themed “SEOUL LIGHTS, BIGO NIGHTS,” the highly anticipated ceremony will take place at KBS Hall in Seoul on Friday, 23 January 2026, celebrating the passion and creativity of its global community of content creators over the past year.
BIGO Awards Gala 2026
This year’s theme, “SEOUL LIGHTS, BIGO NIGHTS” captures the spirit of the event, where the energy of Bigo Live’s creators will illuminate Seoul. The Gala will honour the dedication and talent of the platform’s creators and families, turning each moment into a shared celebration that is both unique and unforgettable. Seoul was selected as the host city for this year’s BIGO Awards Gala as it stands at the intersection of creativity, technology and culture, reflecting the vibrant and globally connected community that Bigo Live continues to build.
The star-studded event will welcome over 1,200 global guests, including those from Asia, Europe, the Middle East, North and South America, and Africa. The festivities will begin with a public red-carpet event, offering a first glimpse into the energy and vibrancy of the event
“Seoul’s dynamic energy is the perfect backdrop for our 2026 Gala,” said a spokesperson from Bigo Live. “‘SEOUL LIGHTS, BIGO NIGHTS’ is more than a theme, it’s a reflection of how our creators illuminate the platform with their talent and passion. We are thrilled to bring our global community together in this vibrant city to celebrate their achievements and the powerful connections they’ve built.”
The ceremony will honour over 200 content creators and families for their outstanding contributions over the past year, with winners receiving a trophy and in-app rewards, with select honourees also featured on prominent digital billboards in Gangnam’s high-profile media district, extending recognition beyond the platform.
The evening will also feature a diverse lineup of captivating performances, from live music to band shows by international artists, including special appearances by South Korean girl groups FIFTY FIFTY and tripleS, creating an immersive atmosphere where global creativity meets a shared rhythm.
As the night pulses with excitement, Bigo Live will also unveil an exclusive blind-box collection featuring its friendly mascot, mini-Dinos, bringing an extra spark of surprise to the night.
For viewers worldwide, the BIGO Awards Gala 2026 will be broadcast live on Bigo Live’s Music Live House channel (Bigo ID: music) and the official Bigo.tv website. The live broadcast will begin with the Red Carpet at 3:00 pm (GMT+9), followed by the Gala Ceremony at 7:00 pm (GMT+9). Viewers in the live room can vote for their favourite content creators and families during the gala night for three special awards: “MOST POPULAR BROADCASTER,” “MOST POPULAR FAMILY,” and “GALA STAR.”
To join Bigo Live’s global community and tune into the BIGO Awards Gala 2026, download the Bigo Live app or visit the official website. Follow Bigo Live on Facebook and Instagram for latest updates.
About Bigo Live Bigo Live is one of the world’s fastest-growing livestreaming social communities where users broadcast in real-time to share life moments, showcase their talents, and interact with people from around the world. Bigo Live has more than 600 million users in over 150 countries. Launched in March 2016, Bigo Live is owned by BIGO Technology, which is based in Singapore. https://www.bigo.sg/
Still figuring out your updated beauty routine in 2026? Now’s the perfect opportunity to stock up on new, popular products to help you glow up from the inside out. You don’t need to pay full price for great finds because Amazon’s Winter Sale is still marking down seasonal items, including beauty essentials that will upgrade your collection.
From now through January 11, you’ll find discounts on everything from celeb-loved skincare brands to trendy K-beauty makeup staples to refreshing hair perfumes. Yep, some are even approved by A-listers like Khloé Kardashian, Kyle Richards and more. Score the best beauty deals on TruSkin, Shark, Neutrogena and the like, starting as low as $5. Add them to your cart and watch your hair, makeup and skincare goals unfold one day at a time.
17 Last-Chance Beauty Deals to Shop During Amazon’s Winter Sale
Skincare Deals
1. A-Lister Vitamin C: Whether you’re looking to combat acne marks or get a head start of wrinkles, this TruSkin Vitamin C Serum is one to get! Approved by celebs like Khloé Kardashian, the formula features a blend of hyaluronic acid and vitamin E to treat a wide number of skin concerns — was $30, now $19!
2. Go-to Eye Masks: On a mission to part ways with puffy under eyes? These Kyle Richards-approved Grace & Stella Under-Eye Masks helps reduce fine lines and wrinkles — was $22, now $15!
3. Worthwhile Splurge: Both Victoria Beckham and Suki Waterhouse are huge fans of skincare staples from Elemis. The brand’s Pro-Collagen Daily Facial Moisturizer is made with sun-blocking SPF 30 and skin-firming ingredients that tighten skin and boosts elasticity — was $145, now $98!
4. Drugstore Staple: Cetaphil is a skincare game-changer that shoppers can find in their favorite drugstore. Influencers like Nara Smith use the brand’s products. This fast-absorbing Face and Body Moisturizer strengthens the skin’s barrier without leaving behind an oily film — was $15, now $10!
5. ‘Miracle’ Pore Pads: Stubborn breakouts got you down? No worries. Kyle Richards calls these Medicube Toner Pads a “miracle” for unclogging pores while smoothing uneven skin tone — was $31, now $19!
6. Pucker Up: Want smooth, soft lips and skin? This Laneige Skincare and Lip Set features a cleanser, toner moisturizer and Sydney Sweeney‘s go-to lip sleeping mask — was $32, now $22!
7. Viral Cleanser: Combat adult acne with Proactiv’s tried-and-true Acne Cleanser. It uses benzoyl peroxide to clear gunk out of pores and soft exfoliating beads to remove dead skin cells — was $36, now $25!
8. Sun Protection: Sunscreen is just as important in the winter as it is in the summer. This Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry Touch SPF 70 hydrates skin and protects against sun damage — was $13, now $7!
9. TLC: Treat yourself to spa-level R&R with this Pure Daily Care NanoSteamer that’s loved by thousands of shoppers — was $50, now $34!
Hair Deals
10. Out for Growth: Whether you’re experiencing breakage or on a healthy hair journey, adding Viviscal’s Hair Growth Supplements to your lineup can help. Formulated with vitamin C, biotin, zinc and marine collagen, these supplements support hair growth and thickness in up to three months — was $35, now $24!
11. Instant Fix: Fill in thinning spots in a hurry with these Toppik Hair Building Fibers that blend in with your natural hair for a fuller appearance — was $47, now $28!
12. Luxe for Less: This Shark FlexStyle Air Styling & Drying System is the ultimate way to simplify and elevate your haircare routine. With a sleek, modern appearance and fast-drying design, you’ll be able to achieve your favorite hairstyles in no time — was $330, now $220!
13. Four-in-One: This hair dryer brush is super trendy. It features nylon pins and tufted bristles, so you’ll be able to dry and style your hair with minimal tangles — was $56, now $33!
14. Sweet Refresh: If you hate the smell of your hair after styling, get this Gisou Honey Infused Hair Perfume that delivers a delicate touch that’s sure to earn you compliments — was $44, now $31!
Makeup Deals
15. Trending Topic: Korean beauty is having the ultimate moment. This Kahi Wrinkle Bounce Multi Balm Stick works as a moisturizer, primer and makeup enhancer — was $24, now $15!
16. Set the Scene: The Laura Geller Baked Double Take Powder Foundation features buildable, sweat-resistant coverage that you’ll feel comfortable wearing for hours at a time — was $30, now $19!
17. Last but Not Least: Keep your skin in tip-top shape by using this Neutrogena Oil-Free Makeup Remover daily. With a non-greasy formula, this lightweight remover is strong enough to remove stubborn mascara — was $12, now $5!
Reality TV is one of the best indulgences around, and Netflix knows how to satisfy that particular guilty pleasure.
This December, Watch With Us is highlighting two great but very different reality shows. Is It Cake? Holiday is a spin-off of the popular baking show that sees bakers craft mind-boggling replicas out of confectionery.
Additionally, Squid Game: The Challenge returns for its second season, based on the Korean Netflix sci-fi phenomenon.
Netflix offers a wide range of reality TV that caters to various tastes and interests. Whether you’re looking for lowbrow or, well, slightly less lowbrow entertainment, you’re sure to find something.
The Trump administration is eying more cities even as it builds up a National Guard presence near Chicago and fights a lawsuit by Los Angeles. Federal immigration authorities arrested nearly 500 workers they said were in the U.S. illegally at a South Korean battery maker’s Georgia construction site. An Idaho pastor is gaining influence among national Republicans and expanding his presence in Washington, D.C.
The father of the eight-year-old boy who has killed in the shooting at Annunciation Church and School in Minneapolis has spoken publicly about his son. A top advisor toHealth Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has been selected to serve as acting Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. And, the leaders of North Korea, China and Russia will gather together for the first time at a Chinese military parade in Beijing next week.
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p class=”readrate”>Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Daniel Burke, Diane Webber, Kate Bartlett, Lisa Thomson and Adam Bearne. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange. Our Executive Producer is Jay Shaylor.
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p class=”readrate”>And our special thanks to our colleagues at WWNO for hosting us this week, especially operations director Garrett Pittman and news director Ryan Vasquez.
Cape Town’s restaurant scene is constantly evolving, with new eateries and foodie attractions making bold statements through their innovative cuisines, striking interiors, and unique experiences.
Explore Cape Town’s hottest new restaurants:
Marble Cape Town
Co-founders Chef David Higgs and entrepreneur Gary Kyriacou launched the much-anticipated Marble at the V&A Waterfront, blending their signature fire-focused philosophy with the city’s renowned seafood culture. Housed in the historic Union Castle building, the space reflects Cape Town’s natural elements-wind, sea, and earth, while floor-to-ceiling glass facades offer breathtaking 360° views of the city. Tuck into signature starters like snoek pâté with magwenya and lamb and beef tartare with pickled waterblommetjies. Or devour Marble’s celebrated wood-fired Chalmar ribeye, alongside new creations such as mussel paella and line fish with burnt leeks and roasted fish bone sauce. Dessert is inspired by the Mother City, including the famous granadilla lolly– guaranteed to make you jolly.
Location: 1 Dock Rd, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront. Website:bit.ly/4bM89S2
Amare
Amare, meaning “to love” in Latin, lives up to its name by celebrating its Mediterranean roots while adding a splash of coastal charm to everything. The minimalist aesthetic is inspired by the rugged coastlines of Andalucía and the sun-drenched vineyards of Tuscany. Located in Bantry Bay, Amare serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner with a curated menu that’s all about fresh, vibrant flavours. Popular picks include the Amare salad with cos lettuce, focaccia croutons, parmesan, and a poached egg drizzled with either anchovy or fynbos dressing and the flatbreads. For the main event, the chefs swear by the prawn linguine and the Chalmar beef. End with a warm chocolate torte with olive oil and salted lemon sorbet and their unique cocktails.
If you’re craving something different but still want to take in stunning city views, Bus is a must. This exciting new foodie experience lets you enjoy a 4 or 6-course meal crafted by award-winning chefs, all while aboard a luxury double-decker restaurant bus. The lunch and dinner set menu varies. Kick things off with a fresh bread selection, then indulge in a West Coast seafood bisque or zesty shrimp ceviche. For mains, tuck into juicy grilled venison kebabs or braised karoo lamb shoulder. Chocolate lovers will appreciate the crispy chocolate spring rolls with crème anglaise, citrus, and a drizzle of honey. Vegetarian options are available. As you roll through the city along the Atlantic Seaboard, you’ll savour each dish, perfectly paired with Michelangelo award-winning Cape wines or refreshing mocktails. And don’t worry about plates and cutlery flying around, everything is thoughtfully curated to make sure your experience is stress-free. Alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, as stipulated in the menu, are included in the price, which starts from R1250 per person.
Location: The bus leaves from The Commodore Hotel on Portswood Road. Website: www.buscuisine.co.za/
Libertino
Libertino isn’t your typical Italian restaurant. Here, handmade pasta (don’t miss the pasta window!) and Neapolitan pizzas meet disco vibes and a sun-soaked terrace, adding a touch of seduction to late-night dinners. Beyond the alluring aesthetic, the seasonal menu, which includes Sicilian-style prawns, rigatoni aubergine, ravioli, a selection of pizzas, and tiramisu, showcases the freshest local ingredients. Every strand of pasta is rolled by hand, pizza dough stretched from scratch, and cheeses made in-house. Perfect for a night out with friends, and with both half and full portions, everyone can try a bit of everything on the menu.
At Konnichiwa at The Pullman Cape Town, you don’t have to worry about making a reservation. The new sushi spot operates a no-reservations policy, perfect for when you’re out exploring the local attractions.
This quaint eatery serves fresh, made-to-order sushi, prepared by Shokunin (chef) Ernest Tsosane and his team. The menu blends classic favourites such as sashimi and nigiri with Rainbow Rolls and Wagyu Aburi. For something unique, the new-style sashimi introduces citrus-infused seafood options, adding extra depth. Pair your sushi with a selection of wines and cocktails while you take in the bustling city views.
Location: 22 Riebeek St, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town. Website: bit.ly/41M4tv1
Seebamboes
Anouchka Horn and Neil Swart, the duo behind Belly of the Beast and Galjoen, are back at it with their latest culinary adventure, Seebamboes. Perched on the mezzanine above Galjoen, this intimate spot flips the idea of ‘surf and turf’ on its head, turning it into something playful, surprising, and seriously delicious. The set tasting menu is all about pushing boundaries, blending sea and land ingredients in creative, unexpected ways. With just a handful of seats available each night, the experience feels exclusive. Think high tables, tall chairs, and a striking rectangular window framing an unexpected view of Table Mountain behind the chefs. As always, sustainability and local sourcing are at the heart of it all, with bold flavours and inventive combinations stealing the show.
Get a taste of Hawaii at Kumu Aloha in De Waterkant, Cape Town’s first-ever Hawaiian restaurant. Indulge in mouthwatering dishes like macadamia nut crab cake Benedict, Elvis French toast, Huli Huli chicken, and Hawaiian-crusted fish.
For those with a sweet tooth, the Maui Wowee crème brûlée is sure to impress. The menu constantly evolves, ensuring the vibrant flavours of Hawaii remain front and centre.
With both indoor and outdoor seating, the restaurant is brimming with Hawaiian charm, making every visit feel like an escape to Hawaii. Pair your meal with cocktails inspired by the island at the Tiki bar.
@love_capetown Cape Town has a new restaurant! Tambourine on Harrington Street is a sustainable dining experience, serving small plates and delicious cocktails. Ingredients are sourced from small-scale farmers, the dairy comes from family-run producers, and everything on your plate, including the pasta and bread, is made from scratch. They cook over an open fire and use local and organic produce wherever possible. Even their food waste doesn’t go to waste…it’s composted! Will you be trying @Tambourine? #capetown#capetowntiktok#capetownfoodie#restaurant#tambourine♬ Tambourine – Edited Version – Eve
Tambourine on Harrington Street is a sustainable dining experience, serving small plates and delicious cocktails. Ingredients are sourced from small-scale farmers, the dairy comes from family-run producers, and everything on your plate, including the pasta and bread, is made from scratch. Everything is cooked over an open fire, with local and organic produce wherever possible. Even their food doesn’t go to waste…it’s composted!
Location: 104 Harrington St, District Six. Website: tambourine.co.za/
Seoul Pocha
Seoul Pocha takes inspiration from pojang-macha, a type of street-side restaurant in Korea. Here, you can enjoy a full Korean BBQ experience, where you prepare your meat at the table, accompanied by a variety of side dishes. Other menu items include ramen, jjampong, bibimbap, and sharing options.
Located in Hout Bay, Veldt is a braai eatery, deli and smokehouse that celebrates the bold flavours of the city. The menu features wood-fired and smoked dishes made from organic, grass-fed meats, including premium cuts such as Karoo lamb. The deli offers a selection of smoked meats, cured cuts, dairy, fresh organic produce, raw honey, and small-batch ferments. Be sure to try their signature smoked mayonnaise and other in-house condiments.
Mezza Luna is a family-run restaurant in Durbanville serving authentic Italian cuisine. Everything is made from scratch, showcasing Italian favourites, from fresh pasta and classic lasagna to wood-fired pizza.
The restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Mezza Luna also has its own caffè next to the restaurant, serving coffee and a tempting selection of pastries.
Location: Cobble Walk Shopping Centre, Verdi Blvd, Sonstraal Heights. Website: mezzaluna.co.za/
Pure Good Café
The V&A Waterfront’s newest hot spot, Pure Good Café, is flipping the script on eco-eating – and it’s anything but boring. Located right next to Africa Padel, the café is decked out in an aesthetic like you’ve never seen before. We’re talking furniture and décor made entirely from upcycled, second-hand, or landfill-bound items. Over 98% of the café was built using salvaged materials. The food? Affordable and Pure Good.
Location: Marina Road, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront. Website: puregood.co.za/
Russian President Vladimir Putin thanked North Korean troops for fighting Ukrainian forces in Russia’s Kursk region, after Pyongyang officially confirmed its involvement in the war on Monday.
Putin expressed gratitude to North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and praised the “heroism, excellent training and dedication” of North Korean soldiers, who fought “shoulder to shoulder with Russian soldiers, defending our Motherland as their own”, he said in a statement from the Kremlin on Monday.
North Korea’s acknowledgment of the troop deployment came just two days after Russia announced it had fully reclaimed the Kursk region, at the border with Ukraine.
Ukraine had seized territory in the Kursk area after a surprise incursion launched in August 2024. Ukrainian officials deny Russia’s claim that it has fully recaptured the region.
“The operation to liberate Kursk by repelling the adventurous invasion of Russia by Ukraine was successfully concluded”, Pyongyang said in a statement carried by state media.
The troops “made an important contribution in annihilating and wiping out the Ukrainian neo-Nazi occupiers by displaying mass heroism, unmatched bravery and self-sacrifice”, the statement read, reclaiming Russia’s baseless narrative, used as a justification for the invasion, that Ukraine needed to be “denazified.”
US, South Korean and Ukrainian intelligence have said that North Korea dispatched between 10,000 and 12,000 soldiers in Ukraine last autumn.
The deployment marked North Korea’s first participation in a major armed conflict since the end of the Korean War in 1953.
Kim Jong Un decided to send troops to Russia under a mutual defence treaty signed with President Putin in June 2024, according to North Korean state media.
The treaty requires both nations to use all available means to provide immediate military assistance if either is attacked.
North Korea did not confirm how many soldiers it had sent to Russia or how many had died. In March, South Korea’s military assessed that around 4,000 North Korean soldiers had been killed or wounded in Russia’s war against Ukraine.
Senate Republicans are promising no drama for Trump’s cabinet nominees in hearings this week. Do Democrats have anything to say about that? Plus, L.A. neighborhoods remain on lockdown after wildfires, and anti-corruption officials arrest South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol.
Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Ryland Barton, Jason Breslow, Gigi Douban, Ally Schweitzer and Lisa Thomson. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas, Iman Ma’ani and Lilly Quiroz. We get engineering support from Arthur Laurent and our technical director is Stacey Abbott.
President-elect Donald Trump has asked the Supreme Court to delay implementation of the law banning TikTok. Western officials say North Korean soldiers are dying in high numbers along the Ukrainian front. The FDA says Zepbound is no longer in shortage, raising its cost.
Syrian rebels continue their push south in an effort to take more territory as government forces fail to hold them back. Plus, there are calls for the South Korean president to resign after he tried to declare martial law. And, Pope Francis promotes 21 men as new cardinals.
Tambourine on Harrington Street is a sustainable dining experience, serving small plates and delicious cocktails.
Ingredients are sourced from small-scale farmers, the dairy comes from family-run producers, and everything on your plate, including the pasta and bread, is made from scratch. They cook over an open fire and use local and organic produce wherever possible. Even their food waste doesn’t go to waste…it’s composted! Will you be trying @Tambourine? 
