🎭 Is Lil Nas X mocking Christianity?

It’s Saturday, January 13 — people are talking about South Korea’s dog meat ban, Lil Nas X’s new song J Christ, and more.

As always, we’ve summarized and organized the different shades of perspective, so you can see the big picture quickly. Here at Shades we believe that seeing multiple points of view is the best way to stay informed.

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- Jeff (co-founder of Shades)

🐶 South Korea bans dog meat

Is South Korea's ban on dog meat a win for animal rights, or a loss of tradition?

🐶 South Korea has moved to ban dog meat, which was once a cultural norm. The Seattle Times says it reflects the country's growing pet culture.

🐶 And Euronews celebrates the ban: South Korea's decision is a beacon of hope for animal welfare.

🐶 But SCMP notes that the ban will upset many South Koreans. Tradition and livelihoods are in jeopardy.

🐶 The Telegraph disagreed with the ban, too: It panders to Gen Z's sensitivities. What's the real difference between dog meat and beef?

🐶 The Daily News had a different take: Good on South Korea for banning dog meat, but going completely meatless is the only civilized choice.

🎭 Is Lil Nas X mocking Christianity?

Is Lil Nas X's new music video “J Christ” artistry, or mockery?

🎭 Lil Nas X released a new music video for his song “J Christ” featuring biblical imagery. CNN says it's the latest example of the artist stirring up controversy.

🎭 Fox News reports that the single is earning Lil Nas X plenty of critics. Outraged Christians, including Christian rappers, say “J Christ” makes a mockery of the religion.

🎭 But UPROXX thinks we’re missing the point: Lil Nas X isn’t dissing Christianity, he's just recreating classic Renaissance art! Other artists have used similar religious imagery without such backlash.

🎭 Still, Pitchfork couldn't shake the feeling that the song was outrage bait: It seems intentionally designed to provoke and trigger people.

Quick hits

🏈 Alabama hired Kalen DeBoer to replace retired head coach Nick Saban. In 2 seasons, DeBoer led Washington to a 25-3 record. (Yahoo Sports)

❄ 38 people competed in the Siberian marathon and half-marathon events, held in Oymyakon, Russia at -62 degrees Fahrenheit. (Reuters)

💥 The US launched another strike against the Houthi rebels, who have promised a “strong and effective response”. (Reuters)

🇹🇼 Lai Ching-te was elected president of Taiwan. (Al Jazeera)

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