How many countries in asia?

As of my last knowledge update in January 2022, Asia is the largest and most populous continent on Earth, and it is home to a large number of countries. There are 49 recognized countries in Asia. However, it’s important to note that the political landscape can change over time, so I recommend checking the most up-to-date information from a reliable source to confirm the current number of countries in Asia in 2023, as geopolitical changes can occur.