Battle of Okinawa

Nobel-winning Japanese novelist Kenzaburo Oe, a leading liberal voice who defended the disenfranchised and challenged the conformity of modern society, has died aged 88.

"He died of old age in the early hours of March 3," publisher Kodansha said in a statement yesterday, adding that a family funeral has already been held.

The Shuri Palace, which is part of UNESCO's World Heritage Sites, has burned almost completely in a big fire that broke out that night, world agencies have reported.

20 firefighting teams are involved in the extinguishing of the fire. The castle is not inhabited and there have been no reports of any injuries. Police officers are investigating the cause of the fire.

In a twist, Moonlight has turned out the winner of the Best Picture category at the Oscars night, after was erroneously read out as the best film.

La La Land's team came out to the floor to grab its award to celebrate its seventh Oscar out of 14 nomination only to learn the wrong envelope had been opened to read the already announced award for Emma Stone as best female actress.