Shigeru Ishiba began moving into the Japanese prime minister's official residence in central Tokyo on Saturday despite the paranormal tales about the building that witnessed military rebellions, according to Reuters. Ishiba dismissed the concerns that the residence is haunted by spirits that had tried to depose previous leaders.

Japan’s Ishiba Moves Into 'Haunted' PM House, ‘I’m Not Particularly Afraid’

On Friday, the Japanese Cabinet approved a record-breaking 8.7 trillion yen ($55 billion) defense budget for 2025. The funding aims to enhance Japan's strike-back capabilities with long-range cruise missiles and the deployment of Tomahawks, strengthening its defenses against escalating threats from China, North Korea, and Russia.

Japan: Cabinet Approves Draft Budget With Record Defense Needs

Japan Airlines on Thursday reported a Cyber attack according to the public broadcaster NHK problems with the Airlines baggage check-in system had delayed more than a dozen flights at several Japanese airports but thankfully there were no Mass cancellations or major disruption. It has said its systems returned to normal with same day ticket sales resuming after the Cyber attack delayed some domestic and international flights. Watch this report for more details!

The Rising Threat Of Cyberattacks: How Vulnerable Are We?

Japan Airlines on Thursday reported a cyberattack which it said could impact domestic and international flights, but later announced it had identified and addressed the cause. Watch this report for more details!

Japan Airlines hit by cyber attacks, 14 flights delayed

Washington, United States
The US Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and Japan’s National Police Agency have said that a North Korean hacking group, TraderTraitor, stole cryptocurrency worth $308 million from Japan-based exchange DMM Bitcoin earlier this year in May.
TraderTraitor, known to be a part of Lazarus Group, targets multiple employees from the same organisation at the same time. The infamous Lazarus Group is allegedly linked to Pyongyang authorities and has been accused of hacking into Sony Pictures for mocking North Korean leader Kim Jong Un in the film The Interview.
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“The theft of cryptocurrency worth $308 million US dollars from the Japan-based cryptocurrency company DMM by North Korean cyber actors,” the FBI stated in a statement on Monday (Dec 23).
The North Korean cyber actors facilitated a “targeted social engineering” operation in which they pretended to be LinkedIn recruiters and contacted an employee at a Japan-based enterprise cryptocurrency wallet software company Ginco in late March.
They then sent a malicious code under the guise of a pre-employment test on a GitHub page, which allowed hackers to gain access to their system and impersonate the employee.
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In late May, the hackers manipulated a legitimate transaction request by a DMM employee. According to the FBI, the attack led to losses of 4,502.9 BTC, worth $308 million, which were transferred to TraderTraitor-controlled wallets.
“The FBI, National Police Agency of Japan, and other U.S. government and international partners will continue to expose and combat North Korea’s use of illicit activities—including cybercrime and cryptocurrency theft—to generate revenue for the regime,” the FBI added in its statement. 
According to a 2020 US military report, North Korea’s cyber-warfare agency, Bureau 121, has over 6,000 members operating from several countries. The program can be tracked back to at least the mid-1990s.
(With inputs from agencies)

The North Korean cyber actors facilitated a “targeted social engineering” operation in which they pretended to be LinkedIn recruiters and contacted an employee at a Japan-based enterprise cryptocurrency wallet software company Ginco in late March



Washington, United States The US Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and Japan’s National Police Agency have said that a North Korean hacking group, TraderTraitor, stole cryptocurrency worth $308 million from Japan-based exchange DMM Bitcoin earlier this year in May. TraderTraitor, known to be a part of Lazarus Group, targets multiple employees from the same organisation at the same time. The infamous Lazarus Group is allegedly linked to Pyongyang authorities and has been accused of hacking into Sony Pictures for mocking North Korean leader Kim Jong Un in the film The Interview. Also read | Luxury brands to consider accepting crypto payments as bitcoin soars “The theft of cryptocurrency worth $308 million US dollars from the Japan-based cryptocurrency company DMM by North Korean cyber actors,” the FBI stated in a statement on Monday (Dec 23). The North Korean cyber actors facilitated a “targeted social engineering” operation in which they pretended to be LinkedIn recruiters and contacted an employee at a Japan-based enterprise cryptocurrency wallet software company Ginco in late March. They then sent a malicious code under the guise of a pre-employment test on a GitHub page, which allowed hackers to gain access to their system and impersonate the employee. Also read | Honda-Nissan merger: What you need to know In late May, the hackers manipulated a legitimate transaction request by a DMM employee. According to the FBI, the attack led to losses of 4,502.9 BTC, worth $308 million, which were transferred to TraderTraitor-controlled wallets. “The FBI, National Police Agency of Japan, and other U.S. government and international partners will continue to expose and combat North Korea’s use of illicit activities—including cybercrime and cryptocurrency theft—to generate revenue for the regime,” the FBI added in its statement. According to a 2020 US military report, North Korea’s cyber-warfare agency, Bureau 121, has over 6,000 members operating from several countries. The program can be tracked back to at least the mid-1990s. (With inputs from agencies)

North Korean cyber actors behind $308 million cryptocurrency heist, say US and Japan

The US&nbsp;Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and Japan’s National Police Agency have said that a North Korean hacking group, TraderTraitor, stole&nbsp;cryptocurrency worth $308 million from Japan-based exchange DMM Bitcoin earlier this year in May.

TraderTraitor, known to be a part of Lazarus Group, targets multiple employees from the same organisation at the same time. The infamous Lazarus Group is allegedly linked to Pyongyang authorities and has been accused of hacking into Sony Pictures for mocking North Korean leader Kim Jong Un in the film The Interview.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/luxury-brands-to-consider-accepting-crypto-payments-as-bitcoin-soars-785112">Luxury brands to consider accepting crypto payments as bitcoin soars</a>

“The theft of cryptocurrency worth $308 million US dollars from the Japan-based cryptocurrency company DMM by North Korean cyber actors,” the FBI stated in a statement on Monday (Dec 23).

The North Korean cyber actors facilitated a “targeted social engineering” operation in which they pretended to be LinkedIn recruiters and contacted an employee at a Japan-based enterprise cryptocurrency wallet software company Ginco in late March.

They then sent a malicious code under the guise of a pre-employment test on a GitHub page, which allowed hackers to gain access to their system and impersonate the employee.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/honda-nissan-merger-what-you-need-to-know-786402">Honda-Nissan merger: What you need to know</a>

In late May, the hackers manipulated a legitimate transaction request by a DMM employee. According to the FBI, the attack led to losses of 4,502.9 BTC, worth $308 million, which were transferred to TraderTraitor-controlled wallets.

“The FBI, National Police Agency of Japan, and other U.S. government and international partners will continue to expose and combat North Korea’s use of illicit activities—including cybercrime and cryptocurrency theft—to generate revenue for the regime,” the FBI added in its statement.&nbsp;

According to a 2020 US military report, North Korea’s cyber-warfare agency, Bureau 121, has over 6,000 members operating from several countries. The program can be tracked back to at least the mid-1990s.

(With inputs from agencies)

The US Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and Japan’s National Police Agency have said that a North Korean hacking group, TraderTraitor, stole cryptocurrency worth $308 million from Japan-based exchange DMM Bitcoin earlier this year in May.

The US Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and Japan’s National Police Agency have said that a North Korean hacking group, TraderTraitor, stole cryptocurrency worth $308 million from Japan-based exchange DMM Bitcoin earlier this year in May. TraderTraitor, known to be a part of Lazarus Group, targets multiple employees from the same organisation at the same time. The infamous Lazarus Group is allegedly linked to Pyongyang authorities and has been accused of hacking into Sony Pictures for mocking North Korean leader Kim Jong Un in the film The Interview. Also read | Luxury brands to consider accepting crypto payments as bitcoin soars “The theft of cryptocurrency worth $308 million US dollars from the Japan-based cryptocurrency company DMM by North Korean cyber actors,” the FBI stated in a statement on Monday (Dec 23). The North Korean cyber actors facilitated a “targeted social engineering” operation in which they pretended to be LinkedIn recruiters and contacted an employee at a Japan-based enterprise cryptocurrency wallet software company Ginco in late March. They then sent a malicious code under the guise of a pre-employment test on a GitHub page, which allowed hackers to gain access to their system and impersonate the employee. Also read | Honda-Nissan merger: What you need to know In late May, the hackers manipulated a legitimate transaction request by a DMM employee. According to the FBI, the attack led to losses of 4,502.9 BTC, worth $308 million, which were transferred to TraderTraitor-controlled wallets. “The FBI, National Police Agency of Japan, and other U.S. government and international partners will continue to expose and combat North Korea’s use of illicit activities—including cybercrime and cryptocurrency theft—to generate revenue for the regime,” the FBI added in its statement. According to a 2020 US military report, North Korea’s cyber-warfare agency, Bureau 121, has over 6,000 members operating from several countries. The program can be tracked back to at least the mid-1990s. (With inputs from agencies)

Japan is facing a growing personal debt crisis as borrowing accelerates amid rising interest rates and the increasing cost of living. Consumer loans in the country are growing at the highest rate in 16 years, with household borrowing exceeding income for the first time last year.

Japan Faces Debt Crisis As Borrowing Hits Record Highs

Tokyo, Japan 
<meta content="uuid9jgwZRdXXslV" name="uuid"/>In March 2025, Fukushima City, which is known for its stern 'rubbish' rules, is set to implement stricter waste disposal rules and regulations. As per the new rules, people and businesses who do not adhere to the new waste sorting and disposal rules might get their names posted online.
This move aims to manage improper waste disposal, which has terrorised the city with rubbish lathered everywhere and crows attracted to it, according to the Fukushima Waste Reduction Promotion Division.
"The improper disposal of waste is a major concern as it deteriorates the living environment of local residents," the department told the BBC. 
<h2>Setting standards</h2>
Although many Japanese cities inspect rubbish bags and some name offending businesses, Fukushima set a standard to be the first to extend this policy to people. The initiative further reflects Japan's long-term dedication and commitment to reducing landfill use and promoting recycling. 
Fukushima Mayor Hiroshi Kohata stated, "There is nothing illegal about publicising malicious waste generators who do not abide by the rules and do not follow the city's guidance and advisory."
<h2>Rubbish to be scrutinised </h2>
As of now, workers are pasting warning stickers on incorrectly sorted bags, which the resident must re-sort before the next collection.
According to the new rules, any unsorted rubbish left over for a week will be scrutinised privately by city workers who will then trace offenders through the mail. Offenders will first receive a verbal warning followed by a written advisory and later public revelation of their names on the city's website if they fail to defer.
Also Read: India annually generates over 3 lakh tonnes of waste from sanitary napkins and baby diapers: Report
<h4>Japan's nationwide push for recycling</h4>
&gt; Local authorities have initiated unique strategies to ensure compliance across the country.
&gt; The residents organise their waste into 45 categories in Kamikatsu as part of its zero-waste goal.
&gt; In Kagoshima people will have to write their names on rubbish bags.
&gt; In Chiba City an AI assistant was tested last year to help the residents with the waste organisation and disposal.
Although some privacy concerns have been brought up, the authorities ensured residents that inspections would be conducted privately.
The city aims to create a cleaner environment, instill a sense of responsibility, and proclaim cleanliness is next to godliness. 
(With inputs taken from agencies)

This move aims to manage improper waste disposal, which has terrorised the city with rubbish lathered everywhere with crows attracted to it, according to the Fukushima Waste Reduction Promotion Division.



Tokyo, Japan In March 2025, Fukushima City, which is known for its stern 'rubbish' rules, is set to implement stricter waste disposal rules and regulations. As per the new rules, people and businesses who do not adhere to the new waste sorting and disposal rules might get their names posted online. This move aims to manage improper waste disposal, which has terrorised the city with rubbish lathered everywhere and crows attracted to it, according to the Fukushima Waste Reduction Promotion Division. "The improper disposal of waste is a major concern as it deteriorates the living environment of local residents," the department told the BBC. Setting standards Although many Japanese cities inspect rubbish bags and some name offending businesses, Fukushima set a standard to be the first to extend this policy to people. The initiative further reflects Japan's long-term dedication and commitment to reducing landfill use and promoting recycling. Fukushima Mayor Hiroshi Kohata stated, "There is nothing illegal about publicising malicious waste generators who do not abide by the rules and do not follow the city's guidance and advisory." Rubbish to be scrutinised As of now, workers are pasting warning stickers on incorrectly sorted bags, which the resident must re-sort before the next collection. According to the new rules, any unsorted rubbish left over for a week will be scrutinised privately by city workers who will then trace offenders through the mail. Offenders will first receive a verbal warning followed by a written advisory and later public revelation of their names on the city's website if they fail to defer. Also Read: India annually generates over 3 lakh tonnes of waste from sanitary napkins and baby diapers: Report Japan's nationwide push for recycling > Local authorities have initiated unique strategies to ensure compliance across the country. > The residents organise their waste into 45 categories in Kamikatsu as part of its zero-waste goal. > In Kagoshima people will have to write their names on rubbish bags. > In Chiba City an AI assistant was tested last year to help the residents with the waste organisation and disposal. Although some privacy concerns have been brought up, the authorities ensured residents that inspections would be conducted privately. The city aims to create a cleaner environment, instill a sense of responsibility, and proclaim cleanliness is next to godliness. (With inputs taken from agencies)

Japan to set a new standard with stricter 'rubbish' rules by March 2025

In March 2025, Fukushima City, which is known for its stern 'rubbish' rules, is set to implement stricter waste disposal rules and regulations. As per the new rules, people and businesses who do not adhere to the new waste sorting and disposal rules might get their names posted online.

In March 2025, Fukushima City, which is known for its stern 'rubbish' rules, is set to implement stricter waste disposal rules and regulations. As per the new rules, people and businesses who do not adhere to the new waste sorting and disposal rules might get their names posted online. This move aims to manage improper waste disposal, which has terrorised the city with rubbish lathered everywhere and crows attracted to it, according to the Fukushima Waste Reduction Promotion Division. "The improper disposal of waste is a major concern as it deteriorates the living environment of local residents," the department told the BBC. Setting standards Although many Japanese cities inspect rubbish bags and some name offending businesses, Fukushima set a standard to be the first to extend this policy to people. The initiative further reflects Japan's long-term dedication and commitment to reducing landfill use and promoting recycling. Fukushima Mayor Hiroshi Kohata stated, "There is nothing illegal about publicising malicious waste generators who do not abide by the rules and do not follow the city's guidance and advisory." Rubbish to be scrutinised As of now, workers are pasting warning stickers on incorrectly sorted bags, which the resident must re-sort before the next collection. According to the new rules, any unsorted rubbish left over for a week will be scrutinised privately by city workers who will then trace offenders through the mail. Offenders will first receive a verbal warning followed by a written advisory and later public revelation of their names on the city's website if they fail to defer. Also Read: India annually generates over 3 lakh tonnes of waste from sanitary napkins and baby diapers: Report Japan's nationwide push for recycling > Local authorities have initiated unique strategies to ensure compliance across the country. > The residents organise their waste into 45 categories in Kamikatsu as part of its zero-waste goal. > In Kagoshima people will have to write their names on rubbish bags. > In Chiba City an AI assistant was tested last year to help the residents with the waste organisation and disposal. Although some privacy concerns have been brought up, the authorities ensured residents that inspections would be conducted privately. The city aims to create a cleaner environment, instill a sense of responsibility, and proclaim cleanliness is next to godliness. (With inputs taken from agencies)

Japan's second and third largest automakers are in talks to deepen their partnership, which could include a full merger. The discussion is aimed at creating a formidable domestic rival to Toyota, the world's largest automaker. Watch in for more details!

Japanese Automakers Honda & Nissan Explore Alliance

Tokyo, Japan
Space One, which is aiming to become Japan's first private firm to put a satellite into orbit, on Wednesday (Dec 18) said that its latest launch attempt for its rocket KAIROS has failed.
<h2>What happened?</h2>
Space One in a statement said that the rocket terminated its flight.
"Kairos was launched... but the rocket terminated its flight after judging that the achievement of its mission would be difficult," it said. The company also said that the details were under investigation.
Also read | <a data-ved="2ahUKEwjVsIWAt7CKAxUi3TQHHa2OLs8QxfQBKAB6BAgPEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japanese-private-rocket-firm-space-one-halts-second-launch-attempt-minutes-before-liftoff-783905" jsname="YKoRaf" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Japanese private rocket firm Space One halts second launch attempt minutes before liftoff</a>
According to AFP news agency, television footage of the launch showed the slim white colour rocket blasting off and soaring to the skies before spiralling downwards in the distance.
There was no dramatic blast.
Watch video here:
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Video: Japanese startup company Space One's Kairos No. 2 rocket launch ended in failure today. The company announced after liftoff that it determined continued flight was not feasible so they initiated "flight termination measures."<a href="https://t.co/SbDOHjhMwS">pic.twitter.com/SbDOHjhMwS</a> <a href="https://t.co/0QITL0Ou3U">https://t.co/0QITL0Ou3U</a>
— Jeffrey J. Hall ???? (@mrjeffu) <a href="https://twitter.com/mrjeffu/status/1869209336863695112?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2024</a></blockquote>
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This was the company's second failed launch attempt. In this attempt, the Kairos rocket was supposed to carry five satellites into orbit, including one from the Taiwan Space Agency and others designed by Japanese students and corporate ventures. 
<h2>Kairos' failures to launch</h2>
Previously, in March 2024, the 18-metre (60-foot) solid-fuel rocket Kairos, carrying a small government test satellite, blasted off from the Space One launch pad. However, just seconds later, a technical problem was detected and a self-destruct instruction was transmitted to the rocket. Soon after, the rocket erupted in flames with hundreds of spectators gathered nearby witnessing the dramatic scene.
Also read | <a data-ved="2ahUKEwjVsIWAt7CKAxUi3TQHHa2OLs8QxfQBKAB6BAgIEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japanese-firm-space-ones-kairos-rocket-launch-delayed-for-third-time-amid-weather-woes-784071" jsname="YKoRaf" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Japanese firm Space One's Kairos rocket launch delayed for third time amid weather woes</a>
Along with the two failed attempts, Space One's Kairos also has two postponements.
The Kairos rocket was scheduled to blast off from the company's launch pad, dubbed Spaceport Kii, in the rural western region of Wakayama on Saturday (Dec 13). However, just 20 minutes before the scheduled launch, it was called off and rescheduled for 24 hours later - Sunday, only for the launch to be called off again.
(With inputs from agencies)

"Kairos was launched... but the rocket terminated its flight after judging that the achievement of its mission would be difficult," said Space One in a statement



Tokyo, Japan Space One, which is aiming to become Japan's first private firm to put a satellite into orbit, on Wednesday (Dec 18) said that its latest launch attempt for its rocket KAIROS has failed. What happened? Space One in a statement said that the rocket terminated its flight. "Kairos was launched... but the rocket terminated its flight after judging that the achievement of its mission would be difficult," it said. The company also said that the details were under investigation. Also read | Japanese private rocket firm Space One halts second launch attempt minutes before liftoff According to AFP news agency, television footage of the launch showed the slim white colour rocket blasting off and soaring to the skies before spiralling downwards in the distance. There was no dramatic blast. Watch video here: Video: Japanese startup company Space One's Kairos No. 2 rocket launch ended in failure today. The company announced after liftoff that it determined continued flight was not feasible so they initiated "flight termination measures."pic.twitter.com/SbDOHjhMwS https://t.co/0QITL0Ou3U — Jeffrey J. Hall ???? (@mrjeffu) December 18, 2024 × This was the company's second failed launch attempt. In this attempt, the Kairos rocket was supposed to carry five satellites into orbit, including one from the Taiwan Space Agency and others designed by Japanese students and corporate ventures. Kairos' failures to launch Previously, in March 2024, the 18-metre (60-foot) solid-fuel rocket Kairos, carrying a small government test satellite, blasted off from the Space One launch pad. However, just seconds later, a technical problem was detected and a self-destruct instruction was transmitted to the rocket. Soon after, the rocket erupted in flames with hundreds of spectators gathered nearby witnessing the dramatic scene. Also read | Japanese firm Space One's Kairos rocket launch delayed for third time amid weather woes Along with the two failed attempts, Space One's Kairos also has two postponements. The Kairos rocket was scheduled to blast off from the company's launch pad, dubbed Spaceport Kii, in the rural western region of Wakayama on Saturday (Dec 13). However, just 20 minutes before the scheduled launch, it was called off and rescheduled for 24 hours later - Sunday, only for the launch to be called off again. (With inputs from agencies)

Japanese space firm's Kairos rocket fails again: Falls from sky in latest setback. Watch video here

Tokyo, Japan
Japanese space firm Space One KAIROS, aiming to become the nation's first private firm to put a satellite into orbit, postponed its second attempt on Sunday (Dec 14) by two days — a third in total. The company's first attempt ended in a mid-air explosion in March of this year and the second one on Saturday was postponed just minutes before the launch.
<h2>What happened?</h2>
According to local media, including national broadcaster NHK, weather conditions forced the postponement of the rocket launch for the second day running.
Tokyo-based Space One's Kairos rocket was originally scheduled to blast off from the company's launch pad, dubbed Spaceport Kii, in the rural western region of Wakayama at 11 am (0200 GMT). However, just 20 minutes before the scheduled launch, it was called off and rescheduled for 24 hours later - Sunday at 11 am.
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"During the final decision-making process for the launch, we analysed the weather conditions and determined that the wind speeds above an altitude of 10 kilometres (6.2 miles) were so strong that it was not suitable for launch," said Space One executive Kozo Abe on Saturday. 
In this attempt, the Kairos rocket was supposed to carry five satellites into orbit, including one from the Taiwan Space Agency and others designed by Japanese students and corporate ventures.
<h2>Kairos' first failed attempt</h2>
In March 2024, the 18-metre (60-foot) solid-fuel rocket Kairos, carrying a small government test satellite, blasted off from the Space One launch pad. 
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However, just seconds later, a technical problem was detected and a self-destruct instruction was transmitted to the rocket. Soon after, the rocket erupted in flames as hundreds of spectators gathered nearby and witnessed the dramatic scene.
If it had been successful, the company would have become the first private Japanese firm to put a satellite into orbit.
(With inputs from agencies)

According to local media, including national broadcaster NHK, weather conditions forced the postponement of the rocket launch for the second day running



Tokyo, Japan Japanese space firm Space One KAIROS, aiming to become the nation's first private firm to put a satellite into orbit, postponed its second attempt on Sunday (Dec 14) by two days — a third in total. The company's first attempt ended in a mid-air explosion in March of this year and the second one on Saturday was postponed just minutes before the launch. What happened? According to local media, including national broadcaster NHK, weather conditions forced the postponement of the rocket launch for the second day running. Tokyo-based Space One's Kairos rocket was originally scheduled to blast off from the company's launch pad, dubbed Spaceport Kii, in the rural western region of Wakayama at 11 am (0200 GMT). However, just 20 minutes before the scheduled launch, it was called off and rescheduled for 24 hours later - Sunday at 11 am. Also read | Japanese private rocket firm Space One halts second launch attempt minutes before liftoff "During the final decision-making process for the launch, we analysed the weather conditions and determined that the wind speeds above an altitude of 10 kilometres (6.2 miles) were so strong that it was not suitable for launch," said Space One executive Kozo Abe on Saturday. In this attempt, the Kairos rocket was supposed to carry five satellites into orbit, including one from the Taiwan Space Agency and others designed by Japanese students and corporate ventures. Kairos' first failed attempt In March 2024, the 18-metre (60-foot) solid-fuel rocket Kairos, carrying a small government test satellite, blasted off from the Space One launch pad. Also read | Plane crash that killed Malawi's VP Chilima caused by weather and human error: Report However, just seconds later, a technical problem was detected and a self-destruct instruction was transmitted to the rocket. Soon after, the rocket erupted in flames as hundreds of spectators gathered nearby and witnessed the dramatic scene. If it had been successful, the company would have become the first private Japanese firm to put a satellite into orbit. (With inputs from agencies)

Japanese firm Space One's Kairos rocket launch delayed for third time amid weather woes

Japan's economy is facing mounting challenges as bankruptcy filings continue to rise. According to private-sector data from Tokyo Shoko research, japan is on track to surpass 10,000 bankruptcies by the end of 2024, marking the highest number since 2013. With 9,164 bankruptcies already recorded by November, this figure has already exceeded last year's total. Watch in for more details!

Economic Recovery In Japan At Risk As Bankruptcy Filings Surge

Japan's bankruptcy filings this year are set to surpass 10,000 and hit the highest since 2013, private-sector data by Tokyo Shoko Research (TSR) showed on Monday. Watch for more details!

Economic Recovery in Japan at Risk as Bankruptcy Filings Surge

The record-high increase in base salary for regular workers in Japan is proof that the economy is showing signs of improvement.&nbsp;

This is fuelling market expectations of a rate hike from the Bank of Japan. The increase in wages is in response to weak household spending.&nbsp;

According to Friday's report by the labour ministry, full-time workers' base pay rose 2.8 per cent from a year ago. This is the largest growth for similar data going back to 1994.&nbsp;

Regular worker's wages are a more reliable indicator of salary trends. This does not include incentives or overtime and so does not suffer from sampling errors.&nbsp;

However, earnings in actual currency did not change, which was a first in three months and better than what economists had predicted. Market players are keeping an eye on pay patterns to predict when the Bank of Japan will hike interest rates next.&nbsp;

Pay changes are a major factor in attaining a good economic development cycle. The outcome had little effect on the value of the yen. Whether a rate hike by the central bank occurs in December or January is still a matter of debate among economists and market participants.&nbsp;

The next policy decision from the central bank is expected on December 19th. The chief Japan economist at JP-Morgan securities, Ayako Fujita, predicts a rate hike in December. Fujita said, "We can judge that data so far has been on track and supports a BOJ rate hike though the bank will also consider other data including data from the US."&nbsp;

The record-high increase in base salary for regular workers in Japan is proof that the economy is showing signs of improvement. This is fuelling market expectations of a rate hike from the Bank of Japan.

The record-high increase in base salary for regular workers in Japan is proof that the economy is showing signs of improvement. This is fuelling market expectations of a rate hike from the Bank of Japan. The increase in wages is in response to weak household spending. According to Friday's report by the labour ministry, full-time workers' base pay rose 2.8 per cent from a year ago. This is the largest growth for similar data going back to 1994. Regular worker's wages are a more reliable indicator of salary trends. This does not include incentives or overtime and so does not suffer from sampling errors. However, earnings in actual currency did not change, which was a first in three months and better than what economists had predicted. Market players are keeping an eye on pay patterns to predict when the Bank of Japan will hike interest rates next. Pay changes are a major factor in attaining a good economic development cycle. The outcome had little effect on the value of the yen. Whether a rate hike by the central bank occurs in December or January is still a matter of debate among economists and market participants. The next policy decision from the central bank is expected on December 19th. The chief Japan economist at JP-Morgan securities, Ayako Fujita, predicts a rate hike in December. Fujita said, "We can judge that data so far has been on track and supports a BOJ rate hike though the bank will also consider other data including data from the US."

Japan base pay gains by record, keeps door open for BOJ hike

#GRAVITAS | The cat gifted by Russian President Vladimir Putin to Norihisa Satake, the governor of Japan’s Akita prefecture, has now passed away. Watch this video to find out more

Siberian Cat 'Mir' Was Putin's Gift To Japan | GRAVITAS | WION

A journalist, Dong Yuyu, was jailed for seven years on Friday (Nov 29) for espionage, his family confirmed to BBC. The 62-year-old former state media journalist from China was detained in 2022 and was reportedly active in the journalism sector of the US and Japan and also used to regularly meet foreign diplomats.&nbsp;

He was arrested when he was having lunch with a Japanese diplomat in Beijing in February 2022.&nbsp;

The diplomat was also arrested at that time but later&nbsp;released after the Japanese government protested the arrest.&nbsp;

During his arrest, Yuyu was serving as the senior staff member of the Guangming Daily. It is one of the five major newspapers linked to the ruling Communist Party in the country.&nbsp;

Yuyu's family said in a statement to BBC that according to a court judgement, two other Japanese diplomats Dong met with were named as "agents of an espionage organisation", which is the Japanese embassy.

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"We are shocked that the Chinese authorities would blatantly deem a foreign embassy an 'espionage organization'," his family said, according to BBC.&nbsp;

"Today’s verdict is a grave injustice not only to Yuyu and his family but also to every freethinking Chinese journalist and every ordinary Chinese committed to friendly engagement with the world,” they further added.

The court where he was sentenced bared diplomats to attend the hearing and journalists were asked to leave, Reuters reported.&nbsp;

"Chinese authorities must reverse this unjust verdict, and protect the right of journalists to work freely and safely in China," Beh Lih Yi, Asia programme manager at the Committee to Protect Journalists told Reuters.

Watch | Taiwan President's Planned Hawaii, Guam Visit Has China Furious

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"Dong Yuyu should be reunited with his family immediately," he further added.&nbsp;

Yuyu has been a professor at various Japanese universities and a Nieman fellow at Harvard University in 2007.

“In the past, the Chinese court system has selected Western holidays to release news as it is a time when the public is focused on other matters,” the US National Press Club told BBC.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A journalist, Dong Yuyu, was jailed for seven years on Friday (Nov 29) for espionage, his family confirmed to BBC. The 62-year-old former state media journalist from China was detained in 2022 and was reportedly active in the journalism sector of the US and Japan and also used to regularly meet foreign diplomats.

A journalist, Dong Yuyu, was jailed for seven years on Friday (Nov 29) for espionage, his family confirmed to BBC. The 62-year-old former state media journalist from China was detained in 2022 and was reportedly active in the journalism sector of the US and Japan and also used to regularly meet foreign diplomats. He was arrested when he was having lunch with a Japanese diplomat in Beijing in February 2022. The diplomat was also arrested at that time but later released after the Japanese government protested the arrest. During his arrest, Yuyu was serving as the senior staff member of the Guangming Daily. It is one of the five major newspapers linked to the ruling Communist Party in the country. Yuyu's family said in a statement to BBC that according to a court judgement, two other Japanese diplomats Dong met with were named as "agents of an espionage organisation", which is the Japanese embassy. Also read | US fined Indian-origin neurosurgeon over $2 million for medicare fraud "We are shocked that the Chinese authorities would blatantly deem a foreign embassy an 'espionage organization'," his family said, according to BBC. "Today’s verdict is a grave injustice not only to Yuyu and his family but also to every freethinking Chinese journalist and every ordinary Chinese committed to friendly engagement with the world,” they further added. The court where he was sentenced bared diplomats to attend the hearing and journalists were asked to leave, Reuters reported. "Chinese authorities must reverse this unjust verdict, and protect the right of journalists to work freely and safely in China," Beh Lih Yi, Asia programme manager at the Committee to Protect Journalists told Reuters. Watch | Taiwan President's Planned Hawaii, Guam Visit Has China Furious × "Dong Yuyu should be reunited with his family immediately," he further added. Yuyu has been a professor at various Japanese universities and a Nieman fellow at Harvard University in 2007. “In the past, the Chinese court system has selected Western holidays to release news as it is a time when the public is focused on other matters,” the US National Press Club told BBC. (With inputs from agencies)

China sentences state media journalist Dong Yuyu for 7 years in jail on spy charges

Japan's space ageny&nbsp;halted the Epsilon S rocket's engine combustion test after a fire broke out at the test site on Tuesday (Nov 26).

No injuries were reported in the explosion at the time of writing this.

The fire broke out at the Tanegashima Space Centre&nbsp;in the remote Kagoshima region of southwestern Japan and in the footage, flames were seen erupting after the test started, which was followed by a massive explosion.

The fire erupted when a solid-fuel Epsilon S rocket was being tested at the Japan space agency.

White fumes and balls of fire were seen rising from the Tanegashima Space Centre, in the footage of national broadcaster NHK.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/europes-proba-3-satellites-to-soon-be-mated-with-indias-pslv-rocket-778370">Europe's Proba-3 satellites to soon be mated with India's PSLV rocket</a>

"There was an abnormality during today's combustion test. We are trying to assess what happened," said the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) in a statement, while speaking to AFP news agency.

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🇯🇵 | During the testing of the Epsilon S rocket engine in Japan, a major fire broke out. No reports of casualties have been received. According to media sources, the fire ignited 30 seconds after the test began. 
 
®️ Channel 16 International<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Japan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Japan</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Rocket?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Rocket</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EpsilonS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EpsilonS</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Fire?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Fire</a>… <a href="https://t.co/zxWrMzY7Cq">pic.twitter.com/zxWrMzY7Cq</a>
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"No injuries have been reported at this point. The cause is also under investigation," it added.

<h2>Orange flames rise from rocket engine moments before explosion</h2>

According to NHK, the fire started amid a combustion test which began around 8:30 am (2330 GMT) and the media was present nearly 600 metres (yards) away.

Watch:&nbsp;China Sends Three Astronauts To Tiangong Space Station

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According to NHK, a large explosion occurred nearly 30 seconds later and something ablaze flew towards the sea.

It was reported by the Sankei Shimbun that orange flames had burst out from the engine of the rocket which was placed on a horizontal platform just before the explosion.

The fire which broke out on Tuesday was not the first time setbacks were experienced by JAXA in its rocket programmes.

In February, JAXA had a successful blast-off of the H3, which was its new flagship rocket and was being called a rival to SpaceX's Falcon 9.

(With inputs from agencies)

Japan's space ageny halted the Epsilon S rocket's engine combustion test after a fire broke out at the test site on Tuesday (Nov 26). No injuries were reported in the explosion at the time of writing this.

Japan's space ageny halted the Epsilon S rocket's engine combustion test after a fire broke out at the test site on Tuesday (Nov 26). No injuries were reported in the explosion at the time of writing this. The fire broke out at the Tanegashima Space Centre in the remote Kagoshima region of southwestern Japan and in the footage, flames were seen erupting after the test started, which was followed by a massive explosion. The fire erupted when a solid-fuel Epsilon S rocket was being tested at the Japan space agency. White fumes and balls of fire were seen rising from the Tanegashima Space Centre, in the footage of national broadcaster NHK. Also Read: Europe's Proba-3 satellites to soon be mated with India's PSLV rocket "There was an abnormality during today's combustion test. We are trying to assess what happened," said the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) in a statement, while speaking to AFP news agency. 🇯🇵 | During the testing of the Epsilon S rocket engine in Japan, a major fire broke out. No reports of casualties have been received. According to media sources, the fire ignited 30 seconds after the test began. ®️ Channel 16 International#Japan #Rocket #EpsilonS #Fire… pic.twitter.com/zxWrMzY7Cq — Channel 16 News (@C16News) November 26, 2024 × "No injuries have been reported at this point. The cause is also under investigation," it added. Orange flames rise from rocket engine moments before explosion According to NHK, the fire started amid a combustion test which began around 8:30 am (2330 GMT) and the media was present nearly 600 metres (yards) away. Watch: China Sends Three Astronauts To Tiangong Space Station According to NHK, a large explosion occurred nearly 30 seconds later and something ablaze flew towards the sea. It was reported by the Sankei Shimbun that orange flames had burst out from the engine of the rocket which was placed on a horizontal platform just before the explosion. The fire which broke out on Tuesday was not the first time setbacks were experienced by JAXA in its rocket programmes. In February, JAXA had a successful blast-off of the H3, which was its new flagship rocket and was being called a rival to SpaceX's Falcon 9. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch: Massive fire breaks out at Japan rocket test site, launch suspended

Japan's teenage girls have been getting involved in a new but bizarre make-up trend in which hot melt glue is used to create tear droplets on the face, the South China Morning Post reported.&nbsp;

The trend is being criticised for its absurdity in both China and Japan and has been called "ridiculous" because of its resemblance to snot and sperm.

As reported by the Japanese show Ninosan, the style is called “3D teardrop make-up” and has recently become very popular among secondary school girls in Japan.

<h2>What is the tear-drop make-up?</h2>

The make-up involves using hot melt&nbsp;glue to create shapes of teardrops which stick to the face and give the appearance of tears rolling down the cheeks.

In this makeup process, hot glue is extruded on a smooth surface like a plastic sheet and not applied directly to the skin.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-eu-agency-says-dangerous-and-banned-chemicals-found-in-hundreds-of-cosmetic-products-772894">EU agency says dangerous and banned chemicals found in hundreds of cosmetic products</a>

After the glue cools down and solidifies, it is removed carefully, and fake eyelash glue is used to attach it to the face.

Japanese firm Rika Shiiki, which promotes such products, said that the trend is prevalent among secondary school girls in Japan. The trend has become so popular in Japan that it has led to a shortage of hot melt glue in a few areas.

The manufacturers of hot melt glue have issued a warning against it being used for cosmetic purposes because the chemical substance can lead to allergic reactions or skin irritation.

<h2>Make-up trend faces backlash</h2>

The trend faced a lot of criticism from Japanese as well as Chinese people who called it "ridiculous" and "bizarre" after the Chinese media shared it.

“Wait, doesn’t this hot glue tear makeup look suspiciously like sperm?,” said one Japanese viewer.

“Seriously? Are secondary school girls really into this kind of inappropriate trend now?” wrote another.&nbsp;

“This looks more like snot than tears. It’s disgusting, not cute at all," third commentator.

(With inputs from agencies)

Japan's teenage girls have been getting involved in a new but bizarre make-up trend in which hot melt glue is used to create tear droplets on the face, the South China Morning Post reported.

Japan's teenage girls have been getting involved in a new but bizarre make-up trend in which hot melt glue is used to create tear droplets on the face, the South China Morning Post reported. The trend is being criticised for its absurdity in both China and Japan and has been called "ridiculous" because of its resemblance to snot and sperm. As reported by the Japanese show Ninosan, the style is called “3D teardrop make-up” and has recently become very popular among secondary school girls in Japan. What is the tear-drop make-up? The make-up involves using hot melt glue to create shapes of teardrops which stick to the face and give the appearance of tears rolling down the cheeks. In this makeup process, hot glue is extruded on a smooth surface like a plastic sheet and not applied directly to the skin. Also Read: EU agency says dangerous and banned chemicals found in hundreds of cosmetic products After the glue cools down and solidifies, it is removed carefully, and fake eyelash glue is used to attach it to the face. Japanese firm Rika Shiiki, which promotes such products, said that the trend is prevalent among secondary school girls in Japan. The trend has become so popular in Japan that it has led to a shortage of hot melt glue in a few areas. The manufacturers of hot melt glue have issued a warning against it being used for cosmetic purposes because the chemical substance can lead to allergic reactions or skin irritation. Make-up trend faces backlash The trend faced a lot of criticism from Japanese as well as Chinese people who called it "ridiculous" and "bizarre" after the Chinese media shared it. “Wait, doesn’t this hot glue tear makeup look suspiciously like sperm?,” said one Japanese viewer. “Seriously? Are secondary school girls really into this kind of inappropriate trend now?” wrote another. “This looks more like snot than tears. It’s disgusting, not cute at all," third commentator. (With inputs from agencies)

Japan's teens are creating tear-like droplets using hot melted glue in a bizarre make-up trend

Japan unveils a $140 billion plan aimed at combating inflation and stimulating growth in key sectors of its economy.

Japanese Worried About Water Pollution Caused By US Bases

Japan Rolls Out $140 Billion Plan To Tackle Inflation and Boost Key Sectors

Japanese citizens express concern over water pollution linked to U.S. military bases, fearing environmental and health impacts.

Japanese Citizens Worried About Water Pollution Caused By U.S. Bases

Japan's Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba faced criticism from netizens in the country after he was seen greeting other leaders in the APEC forum summit in Peru while remaining seated.&nbsp;

The behaviour of the prime minister was called out by the people for "bad manners".

In the footage, Ishiba was seen using his smartphone while remaining seated when other leaders like Malaysia's Anwar Ibrahim and Canadian counterpart Justin Trudeau reached out to him.&nbsp;

When the leaders reached out to him, PM Ishiba looked up and shook hands with them but did not stand up.

"So embarrassing," wrote one social media user in Japanese.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-pm-ishiba-says-held-phone-call-with-very-friendly-trump-774151">Japan PM Ishiba says held phone call with 'very friendly' Trump</a>

"It's not even about being prime minister. His attitude is unthinkable for an adult," said the other.&nbsp;

The prime minister's behaviour was called rude after another video in which he was seen dancing at the Asia-Pacific Economic Co-operation Forum summit's welcome ceremony went viral.

<h2>Japanese PM gets stuck in traffic, misses APEC group photo session</h2>

Japanese Prime Minister Ishiba also failed to participate in a group photo session that took place at the summit because he got stuck in a traffic jam and was late.&nbsp;

The photo session was carried out without Ishiba, as leaders like US President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping positioned themselves in the centre for the photograph.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Japan Parliamentary Elections: Yen falls To A Three-Month Low After Polls

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Speaking at a press conference, Japanese Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi said, "As the photo session was held at the end of the meeting, the absence did not affect the relationship-building process with the other leaders."

Ishiba, who took the position of prime minister in early October, "delivered his messages and demonstrated his presence firmly during the two-day gathering" of the Asia-Pacific Economic Co-operation forum, said Hayashi.

He added that Ishiba got caught in heavy traffic when he was coming back from the grave of former Peruvian President Alberto Fujimori in Lima.

(With inputs from agencies)

Japan's Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba faced criticism from netizens in the country after he was seen greeting other leaders in the APEC forum summit in Peru while remaining seated.

Japan's Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba faced criticism from netizens in the country after he was seen greeting other leaders in the APEC forum summit in Peru while remaining seated. The behaviour of the prime minister was called out by the people for "bad manners". In the footage, Ishiba was seen using his smartphone while remaining seated when other leaders like Malaysia's Anwar Ibrahim and Canadian counterpart Justin Trudeau reached out to him. When the leaders reached out to him, PM Ishiba looked up and shook hands with them but did not stand up. "So embarrassing," wrote one social media user in Japanese. Also Read: Japan PM Ishiba says held phone call with 'very friendly' Trump "It's not even about being prime minister. His attitude is unthinkable for an adult," said the other. The prime minister's behaviour was called rude after another video in which he was seen dancing at the Asia-Pacific Economic Co-operation Forum summit's welcome ceremony went viral. Japanese PM gets stuck in traffic, misses APEC group photo session Japanese Prime Minister Ishiba also failed to participate in a group photo session that took place at the summit because he got stuck in a traffic jam and was late. The photo session was carried out without Ishiba, as leaders like US President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping positioned themselves in the centre for the photograph. Watch: Japan Parliamentary Elections: Yen falls To A Three-Month Low After Polls Speaking at a press conference, Japanese Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi said, "As the photo session was held at the end of the meeting, the absence did not affect the relationship-building process with the other leaders." Ishiba, who took the position of prime minister in early October, "delivered his messages and demonstrated his presence firmly during the two-day gathering" of the Asia-Pacific Economic Co-operation forum, said Hayashi. He added that Ishiba got caught in heavy traffic when he was coming back from the grave of former Peruvian President Alberto Fujimori in Lima. (With inputs from agencies)

Japan PM greets people while being seated at APEC Summit, faces criticism for 'bad manners'

Once celebrated for its economic boom and cultural influence, Japan now faces a somber reality: foreign men are flocking to Tokyo, drawn by its burgeoning sex trade.

Tokyo Sees Influx in Sex Tourism as the Economy Weakens | GRAVITAS

Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba expressed "serious concerns" over the situation in the South China Sea to Chinese President Xi Jinping in their first in-person talks, Tokyo's foreign ministry said Saturday.

But the pair agreed to work to expand cultural exchanges and continue high-level dialogue on the economy, both Tokyo and Beijing said after the talks on the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in Peru.

The meeting comes after Ishiba kept his job as prime minister in a parliamentary vote this week despite having led the ruling coalition to its worst election result in 15 years.

Relations between Japan and China have worsened as Beijing builds up its military capacity in the region and Tokyo boosts security ties with the United States and its allies.

Ishiba "conveyed serious concerns over the Chinese military's growing activity" to Xi, the Japanese foreign ministry said.

He stressed that "the peace and stability of the Taiwan Strait is extremely important to Japan and the international community, while also expressing serious concerns over the situation surrounding the South China Sea, Hong Kong and Xinjiang".

China has ramped up military pressure on self-ruled Taiwan in recent years to pressure Taipei into accepting its claims of sovereignty, which the island's government rejects.

Beijing has also in recent months pressed its sweeping territorial claims in the East and South China Seas more stridently.

A chain of uninhabited islands claimed by Beijing but administered by Tokyo,&nbsp;known as the Senkaku in Japan and Diaoyu in China, have long been a point of tension between the neighbours.

Xi said he hoped Japan would work with China to "properly handle major issues of principle such as history and Taiwan" and "manage differences constructively," according to a statement from the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs.&nbsp;

China and Japan, "whose economic interests and industrial and supply chains are deeply intertwined," need to "pursue win-win cooperation and maintain the global free trade system as well as stable and unimpeded production and supply chains", Xi said.&nbsp;

Tokyo said they had agreed to "work towards realising mutual visits by respective foreign ministers, as well as the high-level dialogue on cultural exchange and economy".

Another recent flashpoint in bilateral ties was the fatal stabbing in September of a 10-year-old Japanese schoolboy in Shenzhen.&nbsp;

Ishiba urged Xi to "strengthen measures to ensure the safety of Japanese citizens" living in China, while Xi promised that the "safety of foreign nationals including Japanese people will be secured," Japan's foreign ministry said.

At APEC, Ishiba also met outgoing US President Joe Biden and held trilateral talks with Biden and South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol.

"We strongly oppose any unilateral attempts to change the status quo" in Asia-Pacific waters, the three leaders said in a joint statement, without mentioning China directly.

"We steadfastly oppose the dangerous use of coast guard and maritime militia vessels and coercive activities in the South China Sea," it said.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba expressed "serious concerns" over the situation in the South China Sea to Chinese President Xi Jinping in their first in-person talks, Tokyo's foreign ministry said Saturday.

Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba expressed "serious concerns" over the situation in the South China Sea to Chinese President Xi Jinping in their first in-person talks, Tokyo's foreign ministry said Saturday. But the pair agreed to work to expand cultural exchanges and continue high-level dialogue on the economy, both Tokyo and Beijing said after the talks on the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in Peru. The meeting comes after Ishiba kept his job as prime minister in a parliamentary vote this week despite having led the ruling coalition to its worst election result in 15 years. Relations between Japan and China have worsened as Beijing builds up its military capacity in the region and Tokyo boosts security ties with the United States and its allies. Ishiba "conveyed serious concerns over the Chinese military's growing activity" to Xi, the Japanese foreign ministry said. He stressed that "the peace and stability of the Taiwan Strait is extremely important to Japan and the international community, while also expressing serious concerns over the situation surrounding the South China Sea, Hong Kong and Xinjiang". China has ramped up military pressure on self-ruled Taiwan in recent years to pressure Taipei into accepting its claims of sovereignty, which the island's government rejects. Beijing has also in recent months pressed its sweeping territorial claims in the East and South China Seas more stridently. A chain of uninhabited islands claimed by Beijing but administered by Tokyo, known as the Senkaku in Japan and Diaoyu in China, have long been a point of tension between the neighbours. Xi said he hoped Japan would work with China to "properly handle major issues of principle such as history and Taiwan" and "manage differences constructively," according to a statement from the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs. China and Japan, "whose economic interests and industrial and supply chains are deeply intertwined," need to "pursue win-win cooperation and maintain the global free trade system as well as stable and unimpeded production and supply chains", Xi said. Tokyo said they had agreed to "work towards realising mutual visits by respective foreign ministers, as well as the high-level dialogue on cultural exchange and economy". Another recent flashpoint in bilateral ties was the fatal stabbing in September of a 10-year-old Japanese schoolboy in Shenzhen. Ishiba urged Xi to "strengthen measures to ensure the safety of Japanese citizens" living in China, while Xi promised that the "safety of foreign nationals including Japanese people will be secured," Japan's foreign ministry said. At APEC, Ishiba also met outgoing US President Joe Biden and held trilateral talks with Biden and South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol. "We strongly oppose any unilateral attempts to change the status quo" in Asia-Pacific waters, the three leaders said in a joint statement, without mentioning China directly. "We steadfastly oppose the dangerous use of coast guard and maritime militia vessels and coercive activities in the South China Sea," it said. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

During meeting with Xi, Japan PM expresses concerns over South China Sea situation

Princess Mikasa, the oldest member of Japan's royal family and great aunt to the emperor, died aged 101 on Friday in a Tokyo hospital, the Imperial Household Agency said.

She had been hospitalised since March after suffering a stroke and pneumonia and had been recuperating there following treatment in intensive care.

Born&nbsp;Yuriko&nbsp;Takagi to an aristocratic family on June 4, 1923, the&nbsp;princess&nbsp;was 18 when she married the younger brother of wartime emperor Hirohito.

The couple had five children -- two girls and three boys. She gave birth to her first, a daughter, in 1944 during World War II.

The imperial couple's house burned down in an air raid and she was forced to stay in a shelter with her baby, according to Japan's Asahi Shimbun daily.

Hirohito -- who served as Japan's commander-in-chief during its brutal march across Asia in the 1930s and 40s -- surrendered in an August 1945 speech, after the United States dropped atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki.

Princess Mikasa's husband Prince Mikasa, who died in 2016 at 100, was in favour of the decision to end the war.

But young officers who disagreed would come regularly to the shelter to try and change his mind.

Princess Mikasa&nbsp;recalled that the atmosphere was "very frightening" with "heated arguments and tension, as if bullets were about to fly", the Asahi Shimbun said.

Having lost their home, the decades that followed were far from luxurious for the&nbsp;princess, who took on domestic duties as the family struggled financially.

"When I was raising my children, Japanese society was still in a difficult period," she said on her 100th birthday in a statement released by the Imperial Household Agency.

"I recall with deep gratitude how many people, including my husband, always supported me," the&nbsp;princess&nbsp;added.

All three of&nbsp;Princess&nbsp;Misaka's sons passed away before her, including one who died aged 47 while playing squash at the Canadian embassy.

Male-only succession rules mean that Japan's royal women cannot ascend to the throne and must forgo their imperial status if they marry outside the family.

Princess&nbsp;Misaka has three granddaughters who remain princesses, including Akiko, whose 2015 book was a hit in Japan, describing her studies at Oxford and an incident in which her diplomatic passport caused suspicion at an airport.

The 101-year-old's passing followed reports since early November that her condition had begun to deteriorate.

Current Emperor Naruhito's 18-year-old nephew Prince Hisahito is the only young heir to the throne. Naruhito's daughter&nbsp;Princess&nbsp;Aiko is barred from the throne under the Imperial Household Law, in place since 1947.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Princess Mikasa, the oldest member of Japan's royal family and great aunt to the emperor, died aged 101 on Friday in a Tokyo hospital, the Imperial Household Agency said.

Princess Mikasa, the oldest member of Japan's royal family and great aunt to the emperor, died aged 101 on Friday in a Tokyo hospital, the Imperial Household Agency said. She had been hospitalised since March after suffering a stroke and pneumonia and had been recuperating there following treatment in intensive care. Born Yuriko Takagi to an aristocratic family on June 4, 1923, the princess was 18 when she married the younger brother of wartime emperor Hirohito. The couple had five children -- two girls and three boys. She gave birth to her first, a daughter, in 1944 during World War II. The imperial couple's house burned down in an air raid and she was forced to stay in a shelter with her baby, according to Japan's Asahi Shimbun daily. Hirohito -- who served as Japan's commander-in-chief during its brutal march across Asia in the 1930s and 40s -- surrendered in an August 1945 speech, after the United States dropped atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Princess Mikasa's husband Prince Mikasa, who died in 2016 at 100, was in favour of the decision to end the war. But young officers who disagreed would come regularly to the shelter to try and change his mind. Princess Mikasa recalled that the atmosphere was "very frightening" with "heated arguments and tension, as if bullets were about to fly", the Asahi Shimbun said. Having lost their home, the decades that followed were far from luxurious for the princess, who took on domestic duties as the family struggled financially. "When I was raising my children, Japanese society was still in a difficult period," she said on her 100th birthday in a statement released by the Imperial Household Agency. "I recall with deep gratitude how many people, including my husband, always supported me," the princess added. All three of Princess Misaka's sons passed away before her, including one who died aged 47 while playing squash at the Canadian embassy. Male-only succession rules mean that Japan's royal women cannot ascend to the throne and must forgo their imperial status if they marry outside the family. Princess Misaka has three granddaughters who remain princesses, including Akiko, whose 2015 book was a hit in Japan, describing her studies at Oxford and an incident in which her diplomatic passport caused suspicion at an airport. The 101-year-old's passing followed reports since early November that her condition had begun to deteriorate. Current Emperor Naruhito's 18-year-old nephew Prince Hisahito is the only young heir to the throne. Naruhito's daughter Princess Aiko is barred from the throne under the Imperial Household Law, in place since 1947. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Japan's Princess Mikasa, great aunt to emperor, dies aged 101

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