Japanese former adult film star Rae Lil Black has ignited a social media frenzy in Malaysia with videos of herself breaking fast at mosques in Kuala Lumpur while wearing traditional Muslim clothing. Watch to know more!

Japanese ex-adult film star announces conversion to Islam after Malaysia trip

Just days before the yearly rounds of salary talks at Japan's top firms reach their end in the spring, data showed that real earnings dipped in January following two months of small rises.

Inflation drops Japan's real wages

According to official media, North Korea has launched its first operational "tactical nuclear attack submarine" and added it to the fleet that presides over the seas between the Korean Peninsula and Japan.

North Korea: Korea Releases Pictures Of The Nuclear Powdered Submarines | WION

Japan faces a deep economic dilemma. While its workforce is shrinking, those who remain are demanding the highest pay raise since 1993. This puts Japan in a tricky position—caught between a cost crunch and a worker crunch.

Japan unions demand biggest pay hike since 1993

Japan is currently experiencing a sustained period of inflation after decades of battling deflation, which has caused significant economic challenges. Watch this report for more details!

Japan faces prolonged inflation after decades of deflation

Japanese Prince Hisahito, who could well become emperor one day if the country's succession laws are not changed, told his first press conference on Monday that he would strive to fulfil his royal duties. He is second in line behind his father Crown Prince Akishino, who is Emperor Naruhito's younger brother. Naruhito's daughter, 23-year-old Aiko, is not eligible as Japanese law stipulates that only male members of the royal family can ascend the throne.
 Watch to know more!

Japan's Prince Hisahito Vows To Fulfil Royal Duties At Maiden Press Conference

Japan is facing an unprecedented caregiver shortage amidst a rapidly aging society. In response, the country is leveraging artificial intelligence and robotics to enhance elderly care. By implementing AI solutions, Japan aims to alleviate the strain on human caregivers while providing high-quality, reliable support for seniors. This article examines the rise of caregiving robots, the future implications for the industry, and how AI technology can effectively address the care gap.

AI Robots: The future of caregiving in an ageing Japan

Japan’s birth rate has hit a record low, marking a 5% decline from the previous year. This extends a 9-year streak of falling births, according to Japan’s health ministry. Meanwhile, deaths reached a record-high 1. 62 million, causing the country’s largest-ever annual population decline.

Japan’s births drop 5% in 2024 to record 720,988

Japan&rsquo;s birthrate has plunged to a new low, with only 720,988 babies born in 2024, marking the ninth consecutive year of decline, according to data released by the health ministry on February 27.
Despite government efforts to reverse the trend, the number of births dropped by 5 per cent from the previous year. Meanwhile, deaths in the country surged to a record 1.62 million, meaning that more than two people died for every newborn. The widening gap between births and deaths underscores the country&rsquo;s deepening demographic crisis.&nbsp;
Also Read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-whose-health-is-improving-slept-well-vatican-8761887" aria-label="Pope's health is improving, 'slept well': Vatican">Pope's health is improving, 'slept well': Vatican</a>
<h2>South Korea shows signs of reversal &nbsp;</h2>
While Japan struggles to curb its population decline, neighbouring South Korea recorded its first fertility rate increase in nine years. The country&rsquo;s birthrate rose from 0.72 in 2023 to 0.75 in 2024, an early indication that policy interventions may be making an impact.
South Korea&rsquo;s government has focused on initiatives such as childcare support, work-life balance measures, and affordable housing to encourage families to have more children. Experts believe these steps, along with corporate policies promoting family life, played a role in the slight uptick.
Also Read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/andrew-tristan-tate-fly-to-us-on-private-jet-trump-administration-pressure-romania-to-lift-their-travel-ban-8761885" aria-label="Andrew, Tristan Tate fly to US on private jet: Did Trump admin pressure Romania to lift their travel ban?">Andrew, Tristan Tate fly to US on private jet: Did Trump admin pressure Romania to lift their travel ban?</a>
<h2>Marriage trends linked to falling birthrate &nbsp;</h2>
Japan&rsquo;s fertility rate stood at 1.20 births per woman in 2023. Experts point to declining marriages as a key factor in the shrinking birthrate.
Although marriages saw a slight increase of 2.2 per cent in 2024, reaching 499,999, this comes after years of sharp declines, including a 12.7 per cent drop in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Economist Takumi Fujinami from the Japan Research Institute warned that the effects of this decline could continue into 2025. In Japan, births outside of marriage remain rare, making the falling marriage rate a direct contributor to the low birthrate.&nbsp;
<h2>Challenges ahead for Japan</h2>
Despite implementing various policies to boost birth rates, Japan has yet to see any significant improvement. Experts warn that unless major structural issues&mdash;such as economic stability, job security, and gender equality&mdash;are addressed, the population decline will continue.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

Trending: While Japan struggles to curb its population decline, neighbouring South Korea recorded its first fertility rate increase in nine years.

Japan’s birthrate has plunged to a new low, with only 720,988 babies born in 2024, marking the ninth consecutive year of decline, according to data released by the health ministry on February 27. Despite government efforts to reverse the trend, the number of births dropped by 5 per cent from the previous year. Meanwhile, deaths in the country surged to a record 1.62 million, meaning that more than two people died for every newborn. The widening gap between births and deaths underscores the country’s deepening demographic crisis. Also Read | Pope's health is improving, 'slept well': Vatican South Korea shows signs of reversal While Japan struggles to curb its population decline, neighbouring South Korea recorded its first fertility rate increase in nine years. The country’s birthrate rose from 0.72 in 2023 to 0.75 in 2024, an early indication that policy interventions may be making an impact. South Korea’s government has focused on initiatives such as childcare support, work-life balance measures, and affordable housing to encourage families to have more children. Experts believe these steps, along with corporate policies promoting family life, played a role in the slight uptick. Also Read | Andrew, Tristan Tate fly to US on private jet: Did Trump admin pressure Romania to lift their travel ban? Marriage trends linked to falling birthrate Japan’s fertility rate stood at 1.20 births per woman in 2023. Experts point to declining marriages as a key factor in the shrinking birthrate. Although marriages saw a slight increase of 2.2 per cent in 2024, reaching 499,999, this comes after years of sharp declines, including a 12.7 per cent drop in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic. Economist Takumi Fujinami from the Japan Research Institute warned that the effects of this decline could continue into 2025. In Japan, births outside of marriage remain rare, making the falling marriage rate a direct contributor to the low birthrate. Challenges ahead for Japan Despite implementing various policies to boost birth rates, Japan has yet to see any significant improvement. Experts warn that unless major structural issues—such as economic stability, job security, and gender equality—are addressed, the population decline will continue. (With inputs from agencies)

Japan’s population crisis deepens as births hit record low

Several cities in Japan have seen record snowfall this month, causing traffic disruption and fatalities. 
The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) has warned people to stay vigilant of avalanches, icy roads, and freezing of water pipes in those areas.

Japan faces strong snowfall, avalanche risk

Intense snowfall persists along the Sea of Japan coast, with warnings in effect for traffic disruptions and snow-related accidents through Monday, February 24. Watch this report for more details!

Sea of Japan coast blanketed by heavy snow

Japan’s inflation is gaining momentum, with January’s consumer price index expected to rise to 4 percent, up from 3.6 percent in December. This positions Japan as the fastest-inflating economy among g-7 nations. A key driver of inflation is food prices, particularly fresh produce.

BOJ under pressure as Japan leads G-7 inflation

Heavy snow hit Japan as a cold front brought more wintry weather to the country's central regions.
In Niigata prefecture, parts of which have already seen over 10 ft of snow this winter, roads and buildings were blanketed by heavy snow.

Japan: Niigata blanketed by 10 feet of snow

US President Donald Trump floated new universal tariffs of 25% on autos, drugs, and chips, saying they could come as early as April. With this proposal, Trump escalated his tariff rhetoric. In response, India has called for a bilateral meeting with the US To discuss trade ties. Japan has raised auto tariff concerns with the US, seeking concessions. In the report, we look at if Trump's tariff strategy as leverage to negotiate deals is working.

Trump's escalates tariff threat with new 25% universal taxes

A severe snowstorm hits Japan, covering cars, streets, and trees with thick snow. Traffic faces major disruptions as snowplows work to clear the roads. The Japan Meteorological Agency warns of up to 70 cm of snow, creating hazardous conditions throughout the region.

Japan's meteorological agency warns of severe snowfall

Japan will now allow Taiwan to be listed as a place of origin in its family registry. Taiwan welcomed the decision, while China strongly urged Japan to adhere to the One-China principle.

Japan to allow Taiwan as place of origin in family registry

Japan to allow Taiwan to be listed in family records

Japan is set fresh climate targets pledging to slash greenhouse gas emissions by 60 percent in the next decade from 2013 levels. Japan's environment ministry said that it aims to slash emissions 60 percent by the 2035 fiscal year, which starts in April.

Japan aims for 73% emissions cut by 2040

Japan set fresh climate targets,...

Pledging to slash greenhouse gas emissions by 60 percent in the next decade from 2013 levels...

Japan's environment ministry said that it aims to slash emissions 60 percent by the 2035 fiscal year, which starts in April

Japan pledges 60% emissions cut by 2035

Japan is all set to turn to nuclear power more than a decade after the triple meltdown at the Fukushima Daiichi power plant, The Guardian reported on Wednesday (Feb 12) citing a draft strategic energy plan, reportedly to be approved by the cabinet this month. The move comes as the nation said it is struggling to reach its emissions targets and bolster its energy security.&nbsp;
The report mentioned that the trade and industry ministry signalled it was ditching attempts to lessen Japan's reliance on nuclear power which started after the Fukushima disaster.&nbsp;
Also read: <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-grants-musk-veto-power-over-federal-hirings-orders-agencies-to-comply-with-doge-directives-in-sweeping-executive-order-8712476" aria-label="Trump grants Musk veto power over federal hirings, orders agencies to comply with DOGE directives">Trump grants Musk veto power over federal hirings, orders agencies to comply with DOGE directives</a>&nbsp;
Japan, on March 11, 2011, was hit by a magnitude-9.0 earthquake, which was centred in the Pacific Ocean about 80 kilometres east of the city of Sendai. The disaster wiped out 120,000 buildings and led to a partial meltdown at the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant.&nbsp;
According to the US Geological Survey, it was the largest earthquake ever recorded in Japan and the fourth largest recorded worldwide since 1900. As per the data released officially, the number of those confirmed dead or listed as missing from the 2011 disaster was about 18,500. Another estimate is at least 20,000.&nbsp;
Also read: <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-pm-narendra-modi-and-us-vp-jd-vance-discuss-us-india-energy-collaboration-over-coffee-8712402" aria-label="Indian PM Narendra Modi and US VP JD Vance discuss US-India energy collaboration over coffee">Indian PM Narendra Modi and US VP JD Vance discuss US-India energy collaboration over coffee</a>&nbsp;
Japan had 54 nuclear reactors providing nearly 30 per cent of the nation's energy before the disaster and according to the International Energy Agency, only 14 of those have been switched back on, with nuclear providing less than nine per cent of power in 2023.&nbsp;
The latest Strategic Energy Plan by the government reportedly called for a "maximisation" of nuclear power and dropped a reference to "reducing reliance" on nuclear energy. The nation has set a target for nuclear to provide a 20 per cent share of the nation's grid by 2040.&nbsp;
Also read: <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-defends-growing-influence-in-trump-20-administration-describes-doge-as-unelected-fourth-branch-of-govt-donald-trump-8712396" aria-label="Elon Musk defends growing influence in Trump 2.0 administration, describes DOGE as 'unelected' fourth branch of govt">Elon Musk defends growing influence in Trump 2.0 administration, describes DOGE as 'unelected' fourth branch of govt&nbsp;</a>
As quoted by ABC News, a visiting researcher at Tokyo's Institute for Future Initiatives, Parul Bakshi, said that the invasion of Ukraine and subsequent disruption of global energy markets also helped highlight the risk of Japan's heavy reliance on imported fossil fuels.&nbsp;
Also read: <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-president-volodymyr-zelensky-says-open-to-land-swap-with-russia-to-end-war-donald-trump-vladimir-putin-8712366" aria-label="Volodymyr Zelensky changes stance, says Ukraine open to land swap with Russia">Volodymyr Zelensky changes stance, says Ukraine open to land swap with Russia</a>&nbsp;
She said, "So while Japan is not heavily reliant on Russia for gas &hellip; Japan is re-evaluating how it perceives energy security."&nbsp;
As quoted by The Guardian, Aileen Smith, executive director of the Kyoto-based group Green Action said, "Nuclear plants are not where the Japanese government should be investing its money. Many nuclear plants are old, and the technology they use is even older. The costs of retrofitting are high, so even operating existing plants is no longer commercially viable."&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

World | Japan aims to expand nuclear power over a decade after the Fukushima disaster to enhance energy security and meet emissions targets, as per a new strategic energy plan.

Japan is all set to turn to nuclear power more than a decade after the triple meltdown at the Fukushima Daiichi power plant, The Guardian reported on Wednesday (Feb 12) citing a draft strategic energy plan, reportedly to be approved by the cabinet this month. The move comes as the nation said it is struggling to reach its emissions targets and bolster its energy security. The report mentioned that the trade and industry ministry signalled it was ditching attempts to lessen Japan's reliance on nuclear power which started after the Fukushima disaster. Also read: Trump grants Musk veto power over federal hirings, orders agencies to comply with DOGE directives Japan, on March 11, 2011, was hit by a magnitude-9.0 earthquake, which was centred in the Pacific Ocean about 80 kilometres east of the city of Sendai. The disaster wiped out 120,000 buildings and led to a partial meltdown at the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant. According to the US Geological Survey, it was the largest earthquake ever recorded in Japan and the fourth largest recorded worldwide since 1900. As per the data released officially, the number of those confirmed dead or listed as missing from the 2011 disaster was about 18,500. Another estimate is at least 20,000. Also read: Indian PM Narendra Modi and US VP JD Vance discuss US-India energy collaboration over coffee Japan had 54 nuclear reactors providing nearly 30 per cent of the nation's energy before the disaster and according to the International Energy Agency, only 14 of those have been switched back on, with nuclear providing less than nine per cent of power in 2023. The latest Strategic Energy Plan by the government reportedly called for a "maximisation" of nuclear power and dropped a reference to "reducing reliance" on nuclear energy. The nation has set a target for nuclear to provide a 20 per cent share of the nation's grid by 2040. Also read: Elon Musk defends growing influence in Trump 2.0 administration, describes DOGE as 'unelected' fourth branch of govt As quoted by ABC News, a visiting researcher at Tokyo's Institute for Future Initiatives, Parul Bakshi, said that the invasion of Ukraine and subsequent disruption of global energy markets also helped highlight the risk of Japan's heavy reliance on imported fossil fuels. Also read: Volodymyr Zelensky changes stance, says Ukraine open to land swap with Russia She said, "So while Japan is not heavily reliant on Russia for gas … Japan is re-evaluating how it perceives energy security." As quoted by The Guardian, Aileen Smith, executive director of the Kyoto-based group Green Action said, "Nuclear plants are not where the Japanese government should be investing its money. Many nuclear plants are old, and the technology they use is even older. The costs of retrofitting are high, so even operating existing plants is no longer commercially viable." (With inputs from agencies)

Japan to expand nuclear power over a decade after Fukushima disaster: Report

Gold smuggling cases are surging in Japan on the back of the rising price of the precious metal and the recovery of overseas tourists following the COVID-19 pandemic. Watch this report for more details!

Japan: Gold smuggling cases surge by 30%

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has accused the U.S. of forming a NATO-like military bloc in the region, warning of dire consequences. He vowed to expand and modernize North Korea’s nuclear arsenal in response to growing alliances between the U.S., South Korea, and Japan.

Kim Jong Un warns US over military bloc plans in Asia

US President Donald Trump meets Japan's Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, discussing energy exports, security, and trade. Trump announces record US natural gas exports to Japan, while both leaders agree to counter China’s regional influence.

Trump, Japan PM Ishiba strengthen ties with energy, security & trade deals

Each winter, hundreds of thousands of tourists visit to see the spectacle of Japan's snow monkeys bathing in the hot springs of Jigokudani Park. With the rise in footfall of tourists, the monkeys have become the region's biggest attraction, raising concerns for their welfare.

Japan's bathing macaques draw record tourists

Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba is set to meet US President Donald Trump, marking a crucial moment in the US-Japan alliance. Watch this report for more details!

Japanese PM Shigeru Ishiba to meet Trump

Several parts of Japan have been blanketed by heavy snowfall, drawing skiers and snowboarders to Mt. Isola. Eyewitness videos show long lines for cable cars as winter sports enthusiasts take advantage of the fresh snow.

Heavy snowfall hits Japan as skiers and snowboarders flock to Mt. Isola for winter adventure.

Northern Japan witnessed record-breaking snowfall - disrupting traffic, causing airport closures, and delaying deliveries. Watch this report for more details!

Northern Japan hit by heavy snow

Japan celebrates the Setsubun Festival with a unique tradition of throwing beans to drive away evil spirits and bring in good fortune for the year ahead. The lively event is marked by vibrant rituals and cultural significance, offering a glimpse into Japanese customs and beliefs.

Japan’s Setsubun festival: A bean-throwing tradition to welcome fortune

Visitors at an innovative exhibition in Tokyo stepped into Japan's illustrious Samurai era, where advanced technology brought the iconic creations of renowned artist Hokusai to life. We leave you with these images of Japan's culture. Watch in for more details!

Tokyo launches Hokusai art exhibit

Japan scrambled jets in response to Russian bombers flying over international waters near its airspace. The incident has heightened tensions between the two nations amidst growing security concerns.

Russian bombers navigate international waters near Japan

The rescue operations to save a 74-year-old truck driver trapped in a massive sinkhole in Yashio City, Saitama Prefecture, intensified on Friday (Jan 31), as rescuers grapple with unstable ground conditions and the growing hazards of the situation.
The driver had stopped near an intersection in Saitama Prefecture when the sinkhole suddenly opened beneath the road, swallowing him with the truck on Jan 28.
A massive sinkhole, initially measuring 10 meters in width and 5 meters in depth, has dramatically expanded to twice its original size after merging with a nearby sinkhole.
Also read | <a href="Donald%20Trump%20criticises%20journalist%20after%20she%20grills%20him%20for%20&lsquo;blaming&rsquo;%20Democrats,%20DEI%20policies%20for%20Washington%20plane%20crash">Donald Trump criticises journalist after she grills him for &lsquo;blaming&rsquo; Democrats, DEI policies for Washington plane crash</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">Contact with driver lost&nbsp;</h2>
According to Yoshifumi Hashiguchi, an official from the Yashio Fire Department, the driver last communicated with rescue teams on the afternoon of the incident, but contact was lost as the truck became increasingly buried by soil and debris.
Rescue efforts are underway to retrieve a truck swallowed by a massive sinkhole. While cranes have managed to lift the loading platform, the driver remains trapped in the cabin, which is still submerged.
A drone was sent to explore potential access points for rescuers, but no advancements were made.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/morning-news-brief-black-boxes-recovered-in-us-plane-crash-indian-budget-session-begins-today-and-more-8676652">Morning news brief: 'Black boxes' recovered in US Plane Crash; Indian Budget session begins today, and more</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">What did the authorities say?</h2>
Local authorities said the collapse was triggered by a burst sewer pipe under the road that transports wastewater to a nearby treatment facility. The damage to the pipeline has prompted the prefecture to issue a directive for 1.2 million residents in the area to refrain from using water.
In response to the incident, Japan&rsquo;s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism said it has called for emergency inspections of similar infrastructure, particularly those connected to large-scale wastewater treatment plants.
(With inputs from agencies)

World news: Rescue efforts intensified in Yashio City as rescuers faced unstable ground while trying to save a -year-old truck driver trapped in a large sinkhole.

The rescue operations to save a 74-year-old truck driver trapped in a massive sinkhole in Yashio City, Saitama Prefecture, intensified on Friday (Jan 31), as rescuers grapple with unstable ground conditions and the growing hazards of the situation. The driver had stopped near an intersection in Saitama Prefecture when the sinkhole suddenly opened beneath the road, swallowing him with the truck on Jan 28. A massive sinkhole, initially measuring 10 meters in width and 5 meters in depth, has dramatically expanded to twice its original size after merging with a nearby sinkhole. Also read | Donald Trump criticises journalist after she grills him for ‘blaming’ Democrats, DEI policies for Washington plane crash Contact with driver lost According to Yoshifumi Hashiguchi, an official from the Yashio Fire Department, the driver last communicated with rescue teams on the afternoon of the incident, but contact was lost as the truck became increasingly buried by soil and debris. Rescue efforts are underway to retrieve a truck swallowed by a massive sinkhole. While cranes have managed to lift the loading platform, the driver remains trapped in the cabin, which is still submerged. A drone was sent to explore potential access points for rescuers, but no advancements were made. Also read | Morning news brief: 'Black boxes' recovered in US Plane Crash; Indian Budget session begins today, and more What did the authorities say? Local authorities said the collapse was triggered by a burst sewer pipe under the road that transports wastewater to a nearby treatment facility. The damage to the pipeline has prompted the prefecture to issue a directive for 1.2 million residents in the area to refrain from using water. In response to the incident, Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism said it has called for emergency inspections of similar infrastructure, particularly those connected to large-scale wastewater treatment plants. (With inputs from agencies)

Rescue efforts intensify in Japan to reach driver trapped in sinkhole for days

japan

Japan, News on Japan, stories on Japan, articles on Japan, Japan stories at Wion, Japan news, Japan latest news