Whether consciously or subconsciously, Taylor Swift has let her mega-hit "Bad Blood" strike a chord in a world caught up in Cold War II.

In Asia, Swift's tour stops are highly selective, with only Japan and Singapore seen fit to connect with her Pacific fans.

Understated are the geopolitical factors that have led to the exclusion of countries like the People's Republic of China and Taiwan. Unmentioned is, of course, the crisis-ridden Strait.

As for Hong Kong, its absence from Swift's tour schedule reflects the fading allure of the once-vibrant city, currently overshadowed by the influence of the Chinese Communist Party.

The international pop sensation is attuned to geopolitics, now more than ever. She can't afford to be otherwise.

Author: renqiulan