Flights between South America and East Asia are very time consuming and expensive; they generally require a connection in Europe or North America, numerous connections, and long layovers.
Every year or so I have done a search for direct flights between South America and East Asia, or between South America and Southeast Asia. There always seems to be rumors of a direct flight, or some airline has a plan, but never multiple airlines competing on this route, nor are there extensive plans.
SE Travel is fairly quiet on this issue; just this question about Mexico comes close, but travel between Mexico to South America is a fairly long haul.
I always hope to see a flight from Manila or Tokyo to Lima, but it never seems to materialize. The question: Any news about a direct flight between SE Asia & East Asia and South America?
Edit: I want to note that Mexico is part of North America; I am specifically asking for direct flights to/from the South American continent.