Hundreds of thousands of activists in South Korea took to the streets in central Seoul on Saturday to stage a demonstration against Japan's decision to discharge treated radioactive water from the tsunami-wrecked Fukushima nuclear power plant into the ocean.

The march came after Japan's Asahi Shimbun daily, earlier this week, reported that Tokyo is planning to begin discharging the water into the ocean as early as late August, citing unidentified government sources.

"If it is discarded, radioactive substances contained in the contaminated water will eventually destroy the marine ecosystem," said Choi Kyoungsook of Korea Radiation Watch, an activist group that organised the protest.

"We are opposed... because we believe the sea is not just for the Japanese government, but for all of us and for mankind."

Demonstrators held up signboards saying "Keep It Inland" and "Protect the Pacific Ocean!" while singing songs and listening to rally organisers.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/maui-wildfires-hawaii-attorney-general-opens-probe-as-death-toll-nears-70-624746">Maui wildfires: Hawaii attorney general opens probe as death toll climbs to 80</a>

Last month, Japan's nuclear regulator permitted plant operator Tokyo Electric Power to begin releasing the water into the ocean, which as per &nbsp;Japan and the International Atomic Energy Agency is safe, but neighbouring countries have raised concerns that it may contaminate food.

"There is talk that the dumping of contaminated water is on the summit agenda. The governments of South Korea, the U.S., and Japan should view it an environmental disaster, rather than a political issue, and agree to block it... for future generations," Choi Kyoungsook of Korea Radiation Watch said.

<h2>Biden to host Japan, South Korean leaders</h2>

United States President Joe Biden is set to host &nbsp;Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol for a trilateral summit at Camp David in Maryland on Aug. 18, the White House said in a statement.

"The three leaders will discuss expanding trilateral cooperation across the Indo-Pacific and beyond – including to address the continued threat posed by (North Korea) and to strengthen ties with ASEAN and the Pacific Islands," White House spokesperson Karine Jean-Pierre said in a statement.

At Camp David, a storied presidential retreat in the mountains of western Maryland, the three leaders will "advance a shared trilateral vision for addressing global and regional security challenges, promoting a rules-based international order, and bolstering economic prosperity," Jean-Pierre said.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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Hundreds of thousands of activists in South Korea took to the streets in central Seoul on Saturday to stage a demonstration against Japan's decision to discharge treated radioactive water from the tsunami-wrecked Fukushima nuclear power plant into the ocean.

Hundreds of thousands of activists in South Korea took to the streets in central Seoul on Saturday to stage a demonstration against Japan's decision to discharge treated radioactive water from the tsunami-wrecked Fukushima nuclear power plant into the ocean. The march came after Japan's Asahi Shimbun daily, earlier this week, reported that Tokyo is planning to begin discharging the water into the ocean as early as late August, citing unidentified government sources. "If it is discarded, radioactive substances contained in the contaminated water will eventually destroy the marine ecosystem," said Choi Kyoungsook of Korea Radiation Watch, an activist group that organised the protest. "We are opposed... because we believe the sea is not just for the Japanese government, but for all of us and for mankind." Demonstrators held up signboards saying "Keep It Inland" and "Protect the Pacific Ocean!" while singing songs and listening to rally organisers. Also read: Maui wildfires: Hawaii attorney general opens probe as death toll climbs to 80 Last month, Japan's nuclear regulator permitted plant operator Tokyo Electric Power to begin releasing the water into the ocean, which as per Japan and the International Atomic Energy Agency is safe, but neighbouring countries have raised concerns that it may contaminate food. "There is talk that the dumping of contaminated water is on the summit agenda. The governments of South Korea, the U.S., and Japan should view it an environmental disaster, rather than a political issue, and agree to block it... for future generations," Choi Kyoungsook of Korea Radiation Watch said. Biden to host Japan, South Korean leaders United States President Joe Biden is set to host Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol for a trilateral summit at Camp David in Maryland on Aug. 18, the White House said in a statement. "The three leaders will discuss expanding trilateral cooperation across the Indo-Pacific and beyond – including to address the continued threat posed by (North Korea) and to strengthen ties with ASEAN and the Pacific Islands," White House spokesperson Karine Jean-Pierre said in a statement. At Camp David, a storied presidential retreat in the mountains of western Maryland, the three leaders will "advance a shared trilateral vision for addressing global and regional security challenges, promoting a rules-based international order, and bolstering economic prosperity," Jean-Pierre said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

South Korean activists protest against Japan's plan to release treated Fukushima water into ocean

India beat Japan 5-0 in the Asian Championships Trophy Hockey Tournament final at the Mayor Radhakrishnan Stadium on Friday. India will take on Malaysia on Saturday.

Asian Championships Trophy: India storm into final after beating Japan 5-0 | WION Pulse

Scientists in Japan are working to realise the dream of every dentist to revolutionise the dental care industry—potential tooth re-growth treatment.

Clinical trials for a potential treatment are set to begin in July 2024, thanks to decades of research in the field. And if those trials turn out to be successful, we can expect therapeutic drugs to hit the market as early as 2030.

<h2>Japanese scientists targeting anodontia patients</h2>

A team at the Medical Research Institute at Kitano Hospital in Japan is going to conduct the trials. Initially, they want to target children with anodontia, a rare genetic condition which prevents the growth of teeth among babies.&nbsp;

In the next step, the researchers will target adult humans facing similar problems, and then those having regular dental issues like gum disease and growing of teeth in an abnormal way.

"The idea of growing new teeth is every dentist's dream," Katsu Takahashi, head of the dentistry and oral surgery department at Kitano Hospital, told The Mainichi. "I've been working on this since I was a graduate student. I was confident I'd be able to make it happen."

<h2>The science behind the treatment</h2>

Initially, scientists were able to establish a connection between a specific gene named USAG-1 and limitations on tooth growth in mice.&nbsp;

Subsequently, the researchers progressed to experiments aimed at blocking the expression of USAG-1.

They discovered an antibody that could safely block a portion of USAG-1's activity in mice, leading to tooth growth without significant adverse effects.

Watch:&nbsp;Nuclear Fusion: A carbon-free source of energy

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Now, the next step involves investigating if these same chemical responses can yield positive results in humans.

Experts believe there could be a chance that this new drug could stimulate the development of a third set of teeth in humans, following baby teeth and mature adult teeth.

<h2>It’s all-natural</h2>

What sets this approach apart, as highlighted by the researchers in a recent scientific assessment, is that tooth growth is triggered naturally through a process referred to as bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) signalling.

Our bodies are autonomously carrying out this process, eliminating the need for intricate stem cell manipulation.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/us-to-rollout-repurposed-antibiotic-to-prevent-stis-624579">Also read:&nbsp;US to rollout repurposed antibiotic to prevent STIs</a>

Additionally, the team anticipates that advancements in scanning technology, like mass spectrometry, could facilitate the identification of biomarkers indicating those who would derive the greatest benefit from the treatment.

"Anti-USAG-1 antibody treatment in mice is effective for tooth regeneration and can be a breakthrough in treating tooth anomalies in humans," wrote the researchers in their assessment.

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Scientists in Japan are working to realise the dream of every dentist to revolutionise the dental care industry—potential tooth re-growth treatment. Clinical trials for a potential treatment are set to begin in July 2024, thanks to decades of research in the field.

Scientists in Japan are working to realise the dream of every dentist to revolutionise the dental care industry—potential tooth re-growth treatment. Clinical trials for a potential treatment are set to begin in July 2024, thanks to decades of research in the field. And if those trials turn out to be successful, we can expect therapeutic drugs to hit the market as early as 2030. Japanese scientists targeting anodontia patients A team at the Medical Research Institute at Kitano Hospital in Japan is going to conduct the trials. Initially, they want to target children with anodontia, a rare genetic condition which prevents the growth of teeth among babies. In the next step, the researchers will target adult humans facing similar problems, and then those having regular dental issues like gum disease and growing of teeth in an abnormal way. "The idea of growing new teeth is every dentist's dream," Katsu Takahashi, head of the dentistry and oral surgery department at Kitano Hospital, told The Mainichi. "I've been working on this since I was a graduate student. I was confident I'd be able to make it happen." The science behind the treatment Initially, scientists were able to establish a connection between a specific gene named USAG-1 and limitations on tooth growth in mice. Subsequently, the researchers progressed to experiments aimed at blocking the expression of USAG-1. They discovered an antibody that could safely block a portion of USAG-1's activity in mice, leading to tooth growth without significant adverse effects. Watch: Nuclear Fusion: A carbon-free source of energy × Now, the next step involves investigating if these same chemical responses can yield positive results in humans. Experts believe there could be a chance that this new drug could stimulate the development of a third set of teeth in humans, following baby teeth and mature adult teeth. It’s all-natural What sets this approach apart, as highlighted by the researchers in a recent scientific assessment, is that tooth growth is triggered naturally through a process referred to as bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) signalling. Our bodies are autonomously carrying out this process, eliminating the need for intricate stem cell manipulation. Also read: US to rollout repurposed antibiotic to prevent STIs Additionally, the team anticipates that advancements in scanning technology, like mass spectrometry, could facilitate the identification of biomarkers indicating those who would derive the greatest benefit from the treatment. "Anti-USAG-1 antibody treatment in mice is effective for tooth regeneration and can be a breakthrough in treating tooth anomalies in humans," wrote the researchers in their assessment. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Japan: Scientists developing drug to regrow teeth, trials to begin in July 2024

The Malabar Navy Exercise, traditionally staged in the Indian Ocean, will be held off the coast of Sydney on Friday by India, Japan, the United States, and Australia. This will be the first time the war games have been held in Australia. On their journey to Sydney, Japanese and Indian navy ships made stops in the Pacific Island nations of Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea, underscoring the strategic significance of the area at a time when China and the United States are at odds.

Navy vessels from India, Japan and US reach Australia

Tourism-related stocks in Japan and South Korea surged on Thursday (August 10) after China announced it would relax Covid pandemic-era restrictions on tour groups travelling to dozens of countries, the Financial Times reported. On Thursday, the Chinese tourism ministry said it was lifting restrictions on group travel to 78 countries which included Japan, South Korea, the United States (US), and the United Kingdom (UK).&nbsp;

As per the Financial Times report, shares in department stores in Tokyo climbed sharply, while those of Japan Airport Terminal rose by more than nine per cent. Kyoritsu Maintenance, which runs a hotel chain favoured by mainland Chinese tourists, gained over 11 per cent, the report added.&nbsp;

In South Korea's capital city Seoul, shares in Lotte Tour Development rose to nearly 30 per cent, and shares in Paradise Group were rallying more than 18 per cent. Shares of AmorePacific, a cosmetics conglomerate, increased seven per cent.&nbsp;

The report also said that airline stocks in China, Japan and South Korea, rose between one and five per cent.&nbsp;

Since the onset of the pandemic in 2020, China had mostly closed its borders to international travel for almost three years. However this year, the government resumed flights to 62 countries, 10 fewer than before.&nbsp;

On Thursday, South Korea's Culture and Tourism Minister Park Bo-gyoon said the resumption of Chinese tour groups would breathe new life into airline and retail sectors damaged by the pandemic.&nbsp;

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Tourism-related stocks in Japan and South Korea surged on Thursday (August 10) after China announced it would relax Covid pandemic-era restrictions on tour groups travelling to dozens of countries, the Financial Times reported.

Tourism-related stocks in Japan and South Korea surged on Thursday (August 10) after China announced it would relax Covid pandemic-era restrictions on tour groups travelling to dozens of countries, the Financial Times reported. On Thursday, the Chinese tourism ministry said it was lifting restrictions on group travel to 78 countries which included Japan, South Korea, the United States (US), and the United Kingdom (UK). As per the Financial Times report, shares in department stores in Tokyo climbed sharply, while those of Japan Airport Terminal rose by more than nine per cent. Kyoritsu Maintenance, which runs a hotel chain favoured by mainland Chinese tourists, gained over 11 per cent, the report added. In South Korea's capital city Seoul, shares in Lotte Tour Development rose to nearly 30 per cent, and shares in Paradise Group were rallying more than 18 per cent. Shares of AmorePacific, a cosmetics conglomerate, increased seven per cent. The report also said that airline stocks in China, Japan and South Korea, rose between one and five per cent. Since the onset of the pandemic in 2020, China had mostly closed its borders to international travel for almost three years. However this year, the government resumed flights to 62 countries, 10 fewer than before. On Thursday, South Korea's Culture and Tourism Minister Park Bo-gyoon said the resumption of Chinese tour groups would breathe new life into airline and retail sectors damaged by the pandemic. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Stocks surge in Japan, S Korea after China announces relaxation in curbs for group tour to 78 nations

Nearly 42 per cent&nbsp;of adult Japanese women might end up never having children in their lifetimes, which could further pose a threat to the future of the country's social security program, the Nikkei newspaper reported citing a forthcoming government research estimate.

Further, Japan's National Institute of Population and Social Security Research estimated that 33.4&nbsp;per cent&nbsp;of the women born in the year 2005 may end up not having a child under a moderate scenario. Even in the most optimistic case, the rate will only be &nbsp;24.6 per cent.

On the other hand, men face an even higher probability of not being married than women with the likelihood of as many as half of 18-year-olds not having children ever, reported Nikkei citing research's estimate.

<h2>Self-fulfilment over kids</h2>

Similar trends are being witnessed and are likely to rise in developed economies such as the United States and Europe where people are deviating from the norm of bearing kids and are rather shifting focus towards self-fulfilment.

In Western countries, nearly 10&nbsp;per cent&nbsp;to 20&nbsp;per cent&nbsp;of women born in the year 1970 never had children, whereas, in Japan, the figures are slightly higher with 27 per cent, which are further expected to double if US and Europe percentages stay at their same respective levels.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/threat-from-wagner-poland-a-nato-ally-deploys-more-troops-on-belarus-border-623873">Threat from Wagner? Poland, a NATO ally, deploys more troops on Belarus border</a>

This trend has slightly plummeted in countries like the United Kingdom and Germany where measures are being taken to create a work-life balance which has encouraged couples to opt for at least one child.

Japan has also been making attempts through initiatives like work-style reforms to create more suitable conditions for prospective parents. However, factors like uncertainty about the future and stagnant wages have impacted the youth's decision of getting married.&nbsp;

"There needs to be an urgent discussion on building a social safety net in every area -- including pensions, medical care, nursing care and living assistance -- that does not disadvantage people without family, along with funding," Nikkei quoted social security expert Takashi Oshio, a professor at Hitotsubashi University's Institute of Economic Research, as saying.

(With inputs from agencies)

 
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Nearly 42 per cent of adult Japanese women might end up never having children in their lifetimes, which could further pose a threat to the future of the country's social security program, the Nikkei newspaper reported citing a forthcoming government research estimate.

Nearly 42 per cent of adult Japanese women might end up never having children in their lifetimes, which could further pose a threat to the future of the country's social security program, the Nikkei newspaper reported citing a forthcoming government research estimate. Further, Japan's National Institute of Population and Social Security Research estimated that 33.4 per cent of the women born in the year 2005 may end up not having a child under a moderate scenario. Even in the most optimistic case, the rate will only be 24.6 per cent. On the other hand, men face an even higher probability of not being married than women with the likelihood of as many as half of 18-year-olds not having children ever, reported Nikkei citing research's estimate. Self-fulfilment over kids Similar trends are being witnessed and are likely to rise in developed economies such as the United States and Europe where people are deviating from the norm of bearing kids and are rather shifting focus towards self-fulfilment. In Western countries, nearly 10 per cent to 20 per cent of women born in the year 1970 never had children, whereas, in Japan, the figures are slightly higher with 27 per cent, which are further expected to double if US and Europe percentages stay at their same respective levels. Also read: Threat from Wagner? Poland, a NATO ally, deploys more troops on Belarus border This trend has slightly plummeted in countries like the United Kingdom and Germany where measures are being taken to create a work-life balance which has encouraged couples to opt for at least one child. Japan has also been making attempts through initiatives like work-style reforms to create more suitable conditions for prospective parents. However, factors like uncertainty about the future and stagnant wages have impacted the youth's decision of getting married. "There needs to be an urgent discussion on building a social safety net in every area -- including pensions, medical care, nursing care and living assistance -- that does not disadvantage people without family, along with funding," Nikkei quoted social security expert Takashi Oshio, a professor at Hitotsubashi University's Institute of Economic Research, as saying. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Over 40% of adult Japanese women may end up never having children: Report

78 years have passed since the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Listen to the horrific tales of the survivors of these two cities. What exactly happened in 1945 in Japan? Revisit the nuclear age with Oppenheimer -The father of the atomic bomb. Has the world learned any lessons? The risk of nuclear annihilation continues to haunt the world. Watch WION Wideangle.

What exactly happened in 1945 in Japan? | Revisit the nuclear age with Oppenheimer

Atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki: Lesser-known facts about the 1945 catastrophe

The United States has leveled a grave accusation against China. Japanese sensitive defense networks were allegedly hacked by Chinese military hackers, according to the US National Security Agency.

Chinese cyberattack on vital Japanese defence networks

A swath of Japanese regions, including the central areas, are now bracing for typhoon Khanun to approach near southwestern Japan. This is as the country's meteorological agency warns of damage from strong winds and heavy rainfall.

South Korea evacuates thousands of scouts ahead of typhoon

After meeting with Yoshimasa Hayashi, the prime minister of Japan, and Katsunobu Kato, the minister of health, labor, and welfare, Hossein Amirabdollahian had a meeting with Fumio Kishida on Monday in Tokyo.

Tokyo: Iran's foreign minister welcomed by Japanese PM Kishida

The Japanese government will start releasing ‘treated’ radioactive water from its tsunami-hit nuclear power plant as soon as late August, Japanese media reported Monday.

The Japanese daily reported that the process to release about 1.3m tones of treated water will start after Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida concludes his meetings with US President Joe Biden and South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol next week in the US.

The Japanese leader is expected to brief both leaders to address questions regarding the safety of the water.

The process of releasing the water is expected to take three to four decades to complete.

<h2>Japan says the water is safe</h2>

Earlier in July, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) gave its go-ahead to Japanese plans to release water into the ocean, off Fukushima.&nbsp;

Despite concerns raised by local fishermen and some East Asian nations, including China and Taiwan, the UN nuclear watchdog said the treated water doesn’t pose any threat to marine life.

Following that, Japan’s nuclear regulator last month granted approval for the release of water.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/radioactive-fukushima-fish-found-ahead-of-japans-release-of-treated-water-from-nuclear-plant-618788">Also read:&nbsp;Radioactive Fukushima fish found ahead of Japan`s release of treated water from nuclear plant</a>

Reuters reported that the water stored in huge tanks on the site has been filtered through Tepco’s advanced liquid processing system (Alps) to remove most radioactive elements except for tritium, an isotope of hydrogen that is difficult to separate from water.

<h2>Concerns raised by nearby nations</h2>

Nearby nations, especially China, have raised objections to the Japanese plans, saying the move will contaminate the seafood.

In fact, Chinese and Japanese officials reportedly traded barbs last week during an international nuclear nonproliferation meeting held in Vienna.&nbsp;

WATCH:&nbsp;Japan set to release contaminated Fukushima water into Pacific, angering China

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China raised objections to the IAEA’s report and questioned whether the data analysed by it was accurate.

China earlier had said that if Japan goes ahead with its plans to release the water, it will impose import restrictions on Japanese seafood by strengthening inspection measures.

Meanwhile, in South Korea, members of the civic group and some lawmakers, mainly from the opposition, held protests against Japan. However, the South Korean government backed the IAEA report&nbsp;and supported Tokyo’s plans.

<h2>Brief history</h2>

In 2011, a deadly earthquake jolted Japan and triggered a devastating tsunami. The massive waves damaged the Fukushima nuclear power plant and caused a nuclear meltdown.

To prevent further damage, seawater and boric acid were pumped into the plant, accumulating contaminated seawater.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Japanese government will start releasing ‘treated’ radioactive water from its tsunami-hit nuclear power plant as soon as late August, Japanese media reported Monday.

The Japanese government will start releasing ‘treated’ radioactive water from its tsunami-hit nuclear power plant as soon as late August, Japanese media reported Monday. The Japanese daily reported that the process to release about 1.3m tones of treated water will start after Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida concludes his meetings with US President Joe Biden and South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol next week in the US. The Japanese leader is expected to brief both leaders to address questions regarding the safety of the water. The process of releasing the water is expected to take three to four decades to complete. Japan says the water is safe Earlier in July, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) gave its go-ahead to Japanese plans to release water into the ocean, off Fukushima. Despite concerns raised by local fishermen and some East Asian nations, including China and Taiwan, the UN nuclear watchdog said the treated water doesn’t pose any threat to marine life. Following that, Japan’s nuclear regulator last month granted approval for the release of water. Also read: Radioactive Fukushima fish found ahead of Japan`s release of treated water from nuclear plant Reuters reported that the water stored in huge tanks on the site has been filtered through Tepco’s advanced liquid processing system (Alps) to remove most radioactive elements except for tritium, an isotope of hydrogen that is difficult to separate from water. Concerns raised by nearby nations Nearby nations, especially China, have raised objections to the Japanese plans, saying the move will contaminate the seafood. In fact, Chinese and Japanese officials reportedly traded barbs last week during an international nuclear nonproliferation meeting held in Vienna. WATCH: Japan set to release contaminated Fukushima water into Pacific, angering China × China raised objections to the IAEA’s report and questioned whether the data analysed by it was accurate. China earlier had said that if Japan goes ahead with its plans to release the water, it will impose import restrictions on Japanese seafood by strengthening inspection measures. Meanwhile, in South Korea, members of the civic group and some lawmakers, mainly from the opposition, held protests against Japan. However, the South Korean government backed the IAEA report and supported Tokyo’s plans. Brief history In 2011, a deadly earthquake jolted Japan and triggered a devastating tsunami. The massive waves damaged the Fukushima nuclear power plant and caused a nuclear meltdown. To prevent further damage, seawater and boric acid were pumped into the plant, accumulating contaminated seawater. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Japan plans to start releasing ‘treated’ radioactive water as soon as late August: Report

In Japan, the hit film Barbie has also been marred by controversy for using the Barbenheimer hashtag as a marketing tool. Watch the video to know more.

'Barbie' faces setback in Japan, online petition calls for ban on 'Barbenheimer' hashtag

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida hit out at Russian threats to use nuclear weapons as the nation marked 78th anniversary of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima on Sunday (August 6).

Japan was at the receiving end of only two instances of military use of atomic bomb during Second World War. About 140,000 people died in Hiroshima on August 6, 1945 and 74,000 died in Nagasaki just three days later. The United States had dropped the bomb on the Japanese cities.

"Japan, as the only nation to have suffered atomic bombings in war, will continue efforts towards a nuclear-free world," Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said at a ceremony in Hiroshima.

"The path towards it is becoming increasingly difficult because of deepening divisions in the international community over nuclear disarmament and Russia's nuclear threat," he said.

"Given this situation, it is all the more important to bring back international momentum towards realisation of a nuclear-free world," he said.

"Devastation brought to Hiroshima and Nagasaki by nuclear weapons can never be repeated," said Kishida, whose family comes from Hiroshima.

Kishida's latest comments have resembled those of United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres. The UN chief issued a statement on the Hiroshima anniversary saying "some countries are recklessly rattling the nuclear sabre once again, threatening to use these tools of annihilation."

"In the face of these threats, the global community must speak as one. Any use of nuclear weapons is unacceptable," Guterres said.

At a ceremony, thousands of people that included survivors, relatives and foreign dignitaries from a record 111 countries offered prayers for those who were killed or wounded in the bombing. They called for world peace.

Russia and Belarus were not invited to the ceremony for the second straight year because of the Ukraine crisis.

Participants, many dressed in black, offered a silent prayer at 8:15 am (2315 GMT Saturday) when the first nuclear weapon used in wartime was dropped.&nbsp;

Earlier this year, Prime Minister Kishida hosted the G7 summit in the city.

Kishida has tried to move nuclear disarmament up the global agenda, taking leaders of wealthy democracies to Hiroshima's peace park memorials and museum.

However, there is little appetite in political arenas to reduce stockpiles and Russia has been repeatedly issuing thinly veiled warnings that it could use nuclear weapons in Ukraine. Reported North Korean missile tests and stalling efforts towards non-proliferation have made the progress towards a nuclear weapons-free world difficult.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida hit out at Russian threats to use nuclear weapons as the nation marked 78th anniversary of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima on Sunday (August 6).

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida hit out at Russian threats to use nuclear weapons as the nation marked 78th anniversary of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima on Sunday (August 6). Japan was at the receiving end of only two instances of military use of atomic bomb during Second World War. About 140,000 people died in Hiroshima on August 6, 1945 and 74,000 died in Nagasaki just three days later. The United States had dropped the bomb on the Japanese cities. "Japan, as the only nation to have suffered atomic bombings in war, will continue efforts towards a nuclear-free world," Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said at a ceremony in Hiroshima. "The path towards it is becoming increasingly difficult because of deepening divisions in the international community over nuclear disarmament and Russia's nuclear threat," he said. "Given this situation, it is all the more important to bring back international momentum towards realisation of a nuclear-free world," he said. "Devastation brought to Hiroshima and Nagasaki by nuclear weapons can never be repeated," said Kishida, whose family comes from Hiroshima. Kishida's latest comments have resembled those of United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres. The UN chief issued a statement on the Hiroshima anniversary saying "some countries are recklessly rattling the nuclear sabre once again, threatening to use these tools of annihilation." "In the face of these threats, the global community must speak as one. Any use of nuclear weapons is unacceptable," Guterres said. At a ceremony, thousands of people that included survivors, relatives and foreign dignitaries from a record 111 countries offered prayers for those who were killed or wounded in the bombing. They called for world peace. Russia and Belarus were not invited to the ceremony for the second straight year because of the Ukraine crisis. Participants, many dressed in black, offered a silent prayer at 8:15 am (2315 GMT Saturday) when the first nuclear weapon used in wartime was dropped. Earlier this year, Prime Minister Kishida hosted the G7 summit in the city. Kishida has tried to move nuclear disarmament up the global agenda, taking leaders of wealthy democracies to Hiroshima's peace park memorials and museum. However, there is little appetite in political arenas to reduce stockpiles and Russia has been repeatedly issuing thinly veiled warnings that it could use nuclear weapons in Ukraine. Reported North Korean missile tests and stalling efforts towards non-proliferation have made the progress towards a nuclear weapons-free world difficult. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

On Hiroshima bombing anniversary, Japan decries Russian nuclear threat

China has become the leading exporter of automobiles in the first six months of 2023, topping Japan within half a year as Chinese electric cars witnessed an increase in sales worldwide, according to a report by Nikkei Asia.

The report mentioned that major Chinese automakers exported 2.14 million vehicles from January to June. As per data obtained from the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers (CAAM), the number of exports has risen by almost 76 per cent for the year, while the Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association indicated that Japan remained at 2.14 million with an increase in exports by 17 per cent.

China was already ahead of Japan, with higher exports the January-March quarter. The rise in exports comes with the development of the electronic vehicle (EV) industry and its increasing demand in European and Russian markets.

From January to June, China’s exports of new energy vehicles, such as EVs, plug-in hybrids, and fuel cell cars, more than doubled to account for 25 per cent of the nation’s overall automobile exports. While its top Chinese rival BYD exported more than 80,000 vehicles, Tesla exported more than 180,000 vehicles using its Shanghai facility as an export hub for Asia.

During the same time, China exported 287,000 automobiles to Russia, which included gasoline-powered cars, as per customs data compiled by CAAM. After Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, South Korean, Japanese, and European automakers reduced their presence in Russia. To fill this need, Chinese brands have entered the Russian market.

Belgium, a crucial European transit hub that is electrifying its auto fleet, and Mexico, where demand for gasoline-powered vehicles is strong, were also high on the list of destinations for Chinese exports.

China had the most car sales for newly manufactured vehicles in 2022 with a total of 26.86 million vehicles sold globally. EV sales in Japan as a whole, including gasoline-powered vehicles, hit 5.36 million, exceeding the country’s total new vehicle sales of 4.2 million.

According to a 2027 prediction by American company AlixPartners, 39 per cent of new car sales in China will be electric vehicles. That would surpass the predicted 23 per cent global EV uptake.

Government incentives for EV sales have significantly increased demand in China. Chinese manufacturers like BYD are anticipated to sell 65 per cent of the nation’s electric vehicles by 2030.

Chinese automakers are able to increase their export competitiveness with an increase in domestic supply for lithium-ion-batteries, influencing the performance and prices of EVs.

“After 2025, Chinese automakers are likely to take a significant share of Japan's major export markets, including the U.S.”, Nikkei Asia quoted Tomoyuki Suzuki, the managing director at AlixPartners in Tokyo as saying.

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China has become the leading exporter of automobiles in the first six months of 2023, topping Japan within half a year as Chinese electric cars witnessed an increase in sales worldwide, according to a report by Nikkei Asia.

China has become the leading exporter of automobiles in the first six months of 2023, topping Japan within half a year as Chinese electric cars witnessed an increase in sales worldwide, according to a report by Nikkei Asia. The report mentioned that major Chinese automakers exported 2.14 million vehicles from January to June. As per data obtained from the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers (CAAM), the number of exports has risen by almost 76 per cent for the year, while the Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association indicated that Japan remained at 2.14 million with an increase in exports by 17 per cent. China was already ahead of Japan, with higher exports the January-March quarter. The rise in exports comes with the development of the electronic vehicle (EV) industry and its increasing demand in European and Russian markets. From January to June, China’s exports of new energy vehicles, such as EVs, plug-in hybrids, and fuel cell cars, more than doubled to account for 25 per cent of the nation’s overall automobile exports. While its top Chinese rival BYD exported more than 80,000 vehicles, Tesla exported more than 180,000 vehicles using its Shanghai facility as an export hub for Asia. During the same time, China exported 287,000 automobiles to Russia, which included gasoline-powered cars, as per customs data compiled by CAAM. After Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, South Korean, Japanese, and European automakers reduced their presence in Russia. To fill this need, Chinese brands have entered the Russian market. Belgium, a crucial European transit hub that is electrifying its auto fleet, and Mexico, where demand for gasoline-powered vehicles is strong, were also high on the list of destinations for Chinese exports. China had the most car sales for newly manufactured vehicles in 2022 with a total of 26.86 million vehicles sold globally. EV sales in Japan as a whole, including gasoline-powered vehicles, hit 5.36 million, exceeding the country’s total new vehicle sales of 4.2 million. According to a 2027 prediction by American company AlixPartners, 39 per cent of new car sales in China will be electric vehicles. That would surpass the predicted 23 per cent global EV uptake. Government incentives for EV sales have significantly increased demand in China. Chinese manufacturers like BYD are anticipated to sell 65 per cent of the nation’s electric vehicles by 2030. Chinese automakers are able to increase their export competitiveness with an increase in domestic supply for lithium-ion-batteries, influencing the performance and prices of EVs. “After 2025, Chinese automakers are likely to take a significant share of Japan's major export markets, including the U.S.”, Nikkei Asia quoted Tomoyuki Suzuki, the managing director at AlixPartners in Tokyo as saying. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

China leads world in automobile exports, surpasses Japan 

Here, we bring you a quick round-up of all the latest news and top headlines from all across the globe: Japan has not yet decided on a date to begin the release of Fukushima water the treated radioactive water from the tsunami-wrecked Fukushima nuclear power plant.

Japan: Fukushima water release | China ravaged by rain and flood

In pics | Japan marks 78th anniversary of world's first atomic bomb attack in Hiroshima

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on Friday (August 4) apologised for mishaps over government plan to intergrate people's tax and social security data into a single identification card. The premier has seen his approval ratings plummet to their lowest since he took office.

Adding to his troubles, one of Kishida's members of parliament has resigned as a deputy minister amid allegation that he had accepted bribes from a company.

"I apologise for the concerns that have spread among the public," Kishida said at a news conference held in a bid to ease concern over the identification card plan.

Public frustrations with the push for a single "My Number" card system have mounted after errors in its implementation came to light.

Such errors have involved people's health insurance information being linked to wrong social security account and welfare payments were even made to the wrong persons.

A Yomiuri newspaper poll in July found that the public approval rating for the Kishida administration had dipped to a low of 35%. The same poll found 52% of respondents did not support the government.

Earlier on Friday, prosecutors in Tokyo raided the office of ruling Liberal Democratic Party lawmaker Masatoshi Akimoto on suspicion that he took bribes of tens of millions of yens, reported public broadcaster NHK.

The foreign ministry later announced that Akimoto had stepped down from his post as a vice minister.

Kishida declined to comment directly on Akimoto in his press conference saying that the investigation was ongoing. But Kishida said that he was "very disappointed that the situation has turned into one that sows distrust among the public."

Asked about the possibility that the alleged bribes accepted from a renewable energy company might be perceived as exploiting Japan's energy policy, Kishida said only that the government's policy on energy was "unwavering".

Reuters reported that calls to Akimoto's office went unanswered. Government spokesperson Hirokazu Matsuno declined to comment, saying that Akimoto had not spoken to him about the issue.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on Friday (August 4) apologised for mishaps over government plan to intergrate people's tax and social security data into a single identification card.

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on Friday (August 4) apologised for mishaps over government plan to intergrate people's tax and social security data into a single identification card. The premier has seen his approval ratings plummet to their lowest since he took office. Adding to his troubles, one of Kishida's members of parliament has resigned as a deputy minister amid allegation that he had accepted bribes from a company. "I apologise for the concerns that have spread among the public," Kishida said at a news conference held in a bid to ease concern over the identification card plan. Public frustrations with the push for a single "My Number" card system have mounted after errors in its implementation came to light. Such errors have involved people's health insurance information being linked to wrong social security account and welfare payments were even made to the wrong persons. A Yomiuri newspaper poll in July found that the public approval rating for the Kishida administration had dipped to a low of 35%. The same poll found 52% of respondents did not support the government. Earlier on Friday, prosecutors in Tokyo raided the office of ruling Liberal Democratic Party lawmaker Masatoshi Akimoto on suspicion that he took bribes of tens of millions of yens, reported public broadcaster NHK. The foreign ministry later announced that Akimoto had stepped down from his post as a vice minister. Kishida declined to comment directly on Akimoto in his press conference saying that the investigation was ongoing. But Kishida said that he was "very disappointed that the situation has turned into one that sows distrust among the public." Asked about the possibility that the alleged bribes accepted from a renewable energy company might be perceived as exploiting Japan's energy policy, Kishida said only that the government's policy on energy was "unwavering". Reuters reported that calls to Akimoto's office went unanswered. Government spokesperson Hirokazu Matsuno declined to comment, saying that Akimoto had not spoken to him about the issue. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Japan: PM Fumio Kishida apologises for ID card fiasco

In Japan, on Wednesday (August 2nd), hundreds of thousands were left without electricity as Typhoon Khanun packed with powerful winds and lashing rain, approached&nbsp;the island nation.

<h2>Fatalities reported due to 'very strong' typhoon</h2>

As per news agency AFP, two person were reportedly killed as Typhoon Khanun, which has been described by the Japanese weather agency as "very strong" brought maximum sustained wind speeds of 180 kilometre (around 112 miles) an hour.

Due to the typhoon, hundreds of flights to Okinawa and other islands in the area were cancelled, leaving thousands of tourists enjoying their holiday in the region's topical beach resorts stranded.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/typhoon-doksuri-battered-china-braces-for-more-calamitic-climatic-conditions-621968">Typhoon Doksuri-battered China braces for more calamitous climate</a>

On Wednesday, more than 400 flights were cancelled on Wednesday, which affected more than 65,000 passengers.

Hoping to make their way back home, tourists were seen queueing at Okinawa's main Naha airport.

"We haven't been able to secure a hotel and we don't know when the return flight can be booked," said a tourist, Minako Kawakami talking to local daily Okinawa Times.&nbsp;

According to Okinawa's power company, nearly 35 per cent of the total families in the region or 220,580 households were left with no electricity early on Wednesday.

<h2>Evacuation efforts</h2>

Across Okinawa and the southern part of the Kagoshima region, an evacuation warning was put in place. As per the Fire and Disaster Management Agency, they've urged more than 690,000 residents to move to safety.

Public broadcaster NHK reported that a 90-year-old man died after getting trapped under a collapsed bridge on Tuesday evening. As per the report, strong winds were probably the cause. Another fatality&nbsp;was also reported from Okinawa, however, the exact cause of death is yet to be disclosed.

Further, 41 people were reported injured in Okinawa and Kagoshima prefectures, reports The Guardian.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/climate-change-chile-argentina-face-scorching-heat-wave-in-middle-of-winter-621920">Climate change: Chile, Argentina face scorching heatwave in middle of winter</a>

The Japan Meteorological Agency has also warned of flooding and landslides in some parts of the main island of Okinawa.

At around 2300 GMT, the typhoon was about 70 kilometres south of Okinawa's remote Kumejima island. It was moving west-northwest, reported the Japan Meteorological Agency, adding that it was expected to cross to eastern China later in the week.

(With inputs from agencies)

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In Japan, on Wednesday (August 2nd), hundreds of thousands were left without electricity as Typhoon Khanun packed with powerful winds and lashing rain, approached the island nation.

In Japan, on Wednesday (August 2nd), hundreds of thousands were left without electricity as Typhoon Khanun packed with powerful winds and lashing rain, approached the island nation. Fatalities reported due to 'very strong' typhoon As per news agency AFP, two person were reportedly killed as Typhoon Khanun, which has been described by the Japanese weather agency as "very strong" brought maximum sustained wind speeds of 180 kilometre (around 112 miles) an hour. Due to the typhoon, hundreds of flights to Okinawa and other islands in the area were cancelled, leaving thousands of tourists enjoying their holiday in the region's topical beach resorts stranded. Also read | Typhoon Doksuri-battered China braces for more calamitous climate On Wednesday, more than 400 flights were cancelled on Wednesday, which affected more than 65,000 passengers. Hoping to make their way back home, tourists were seen queueing at Okinawa's main Naha airport. "We haven't been able to secure a hotel and we don't know when the return flight can be booked," said a tourist, Minako Kawakami talking to local daily Okinawa Times. According to Okinawa's power company, nearly 35 per cent of the total families in the region or 220,580 households were left with no electricity early on Wednesday. Evacuation efforts Across Okinawa and the southern part of the Kagoshima region, an evacuation warning was put in place. As per the Fire and Disaster Management Agency, they've urged more than 690,000 residents to move to safety. Public broadcaster NHK reported that a 90-year-old man died after getting trapped under a collapsed bridge on Tuesday evening. As per the report, strong winds were probably the cause. Another fatality was also reported from Okinawa, however, the exact cause of death is yet to be disclosed. Further, 41 people were reported injured in Okinawa and Kagoshima prefectures, reports The Guardian. Also read | Climate change: Chile, Argentina face scorching heatwave in middle of winter The Japan Meteorological Agency has also warned of flooding and landslides in some parts of the main island of Okinawa. At around 2300 GMT, the typhoon was about 70 kilometres south of Okinawa's remote Kumejima island. It was moving west-northwest, reported the Japan Meteorological Agency, adding that it was expected to cross to eastern China later in the week. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Typhoon Khanun leaves 2 dead, 41 injured in Japan; over 220,000 homes sans power

With heat records being shattered all over the world, Tokyo swelters as heatwave grips Japan.

Tokyo heat smashes 150-year trend, extreme weather bakes globe

Will China soon resemble the Japan of the 1990s analysts at JP Morgan definitely feel that way.

China on its way to become Japan of 1990s

Typhoon Khanun wreaked havoc in Japan, with most rampage from winds being reported in the popular tourist destination Okinawa. Over 200,000 households have no&nbsp;electricity while one person is reportedly dead and 25 others were injured.

The slow-moving typhoon is moving northwest at 15 kph (9.3 mph), posing a higher risk of damage as it remains in the area for a longer duration.

The storm has flipped cars in parking lots, and has flooded the streets, disrupted phone and internet connections.&nbsp;

A total of 951 flights were cancelled on Tuesday and Wednesday, while 35 ferry lines suspended operations, Japan’s transport ministry said.

The power outages affected more than 34 per cent of households in Okinawa and also impacted areas in Kagoshima prefecture, Reuters reported.

Major courier companies Yamato Holdings and SG Holdings’ Sagawa Express halted all parcel deliveries to Okinawa from other areas in Japan due to transport disruption.

<h2>China to be impacted next?</h2>

The typhoon is expected to move towards China's Zhejiang and Fujian provinces and then potentially head towards Kyushu, Japan's third-largest island, authorities announced.&nbsp;

As a precaution, authorities began evacuating nearly 700,000 people from Okinawa.

Typhoon Khanun hits Okinawa during peak tourist season.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/doksuris-aftermath-and-typhoon-khanuns-threat-ravage-chinas-provinces-621273">Doksuri's aftermath and Typhoon Khanun's threat ravage China's provinces</a>

While Okinawa is frequently hit by typhoons, it typically experiences them later in the year.&nbsp;

However, the current storm coincides with the peak summer tourist season, affecting the area's bustling travel industry.&nbsp;

Okinawa also hosts a significant portion of US forces in Japan. The personnel on Kadena Air Base have been urged to take necessary precautions.

Also watch |&nbsp;Typhoon Doksuri: At least 11 killed and 27 missing as heavy rain pelts Beijing

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Typhoon Khanun's arrival follows Typhoon Doksuri, which recently struck northern China, causing severe damage and affecting rice production in the Philippines.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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Typhoon Khanun wreaked havoc in Japan, with most rampage from winds being reported in the popular tourist destination Okinawa. Over 200,000 households have no electricity while one person is reportedly dead and 25 others were injured.

Typhoon Khanun wreaked havoc in Japan, with most rampage from winds being reported in the popular tourist destination Okinawa. Over 200,000 households have no electricity while one person is reportedly dead and 25 others were injured. The slow-moving typhoon is moving northwest at 15 kph (9.3 mph), posing a higher risk of damage as it remains in the area for a longer duration. The storm has flipped cars in parking lots, and has flooded the streets, disrupted phone and internet connections. A total of 951 flights were cancelled on Tuesday and Wednesday, while 35 ferry lines suspended operations, Japan’s transport ministry said. The power outages affected more than 34 per cent of households in Okinawa and also impacted areas in Kagoshima prefecture, Reuters reported. Major courier companies Yamato Holdings and SG Holdings’ Sagawa Express halted all parcel deliveries to Okinawa from other areas in Japan due to transport disruption. China to be impacted next? The typhoon is expected to move towards China's Zhejiang and Fujian provinces and then potentially head towards Kyushu, Japan's third-largest island, authorities announced. As a precaution, authorities began evacuating nearly 700,000 people from Okinawa. Typhoon Khanun hits Okinawa during peak tourist season. Also read | Doksuri's aftermath and Typhoon Khanun's threat ravage China's provinces While Okinawa is frequently hit by typhoons, it typically experiences them later in the year. However, the current storm coincides with the peak summer tourist season, affecting the area's bustling travel industry. Okinawa also hosts a significant portion of US forces in Japan. The personnel on Kadena Air Base have been urged to take necessary precautions. Also watch | Typhoon Doksuri: At least 11 killed and 27 missing as heavy rain pelts Beijing × Typhoon Khanun's arrival follows Typhoon Doksuri, which recently struck northern China, causing severe damage and affecting rice production in the Philippines. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Millions affected as Typhoon Khanun wreaks havoc in Japan, to head towards China

15 people have died in Japan and South Korea due to extreme heat. At least 20 have been killed in China due to typhoon Doksuri. Is this climate karma catching up? Molly Gambhir tells you more

Gravitas: 15 die in Japan & South Korea due to extreme heat

The biggest hassle when you're travelling language while abroad. For this barrier, Japan seems to have a solution.

Reduced lost in translation: Talk in your language at Shinjuku station in Japan

Different parts of the world have been battered by extreme climatic conditions.&nbsp;While some regions are slapped with heavy rains and subsequent floods, other parts of the world are facing extreme heat. The situation in some Asian nations is also worsening as at least 12 people have died from heat-related causes in South Korea.&nbsp;

Local reports in Japan mentioned that a 13-year-old girl died from heatstroke on her way back from a school club. The Mainichi reported that the school had suspended the club gatherings an hour early due to concerns about the heat. According to the report, the school said that the students had taken breaks "every 20-25 minutes to rehydrate".&nbsp;

A report by The Guardian mentioned that the death toll since Friday reached three after an elderly couple was found dead in their home in Tokyo. Police believe they died of heatstroke amid temperatures reaching 35.7C in the city. The deteriorating situation comes weeks after Japan set a target to halve the number of heat-related deaths by 2030.&nbsp;

Opinion:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/russia-must-stop-using-food-as-a-weapon-621418">Russia must stop using food as a weapon</a>&nbsp;

The Japan Times published a detailed report on heat-related deaths. Citing official statistics, it said that the number of heatstroke-related deaths increased from an average of 201 people a year between 1995 and 1999, to an average of 1295 from 2018 to 2022.

According to the report, the health ministry data showed that elderlies were most impacted.&nbsp;

Watch this report:&nbsp;

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Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/relief-for-australia-as-great-barrier-reef-stays-off-unesco-danger-list-621258">Relief for Australia as Great Barrier Reef stays off UNESCO danger list</a>&nbsp;

Meanwhile, at least 20 people died and several were missing as heavy rainfall continued to batter Beijing. In China, the Doksuri typhoon forced officials to evacuate more than 52,000 people from the capital city. The authorities sealed over 100 mountain roads as a precautionary move.&nbsp;

Long-term shifts in temperatures and weather patterns are indications of climate change. These changes are either natural or because of human activities, such as the excessive burning of fossil fuels like coal, oil and gas.&nbsp;

<h2>Concrete, asphalt and urban heat islands = heatwaves&nbsp;</h2>

As quoted by news agency Reuters, Dr Kevin Foster, who directs the Arizona Burn Center in Phoenix, said that it only takes a fraction of a second to suffer a pretty serious burn. Asphalt and concrete in direct sunlight can often reach surface temperatures as high as 82 Celsius on the hottest days.&nbsp;

The report further mentioned that doctors have treated numerous patients who suffered burns from falling on the ground or touching surfaces that were much hotter than the recorded air temperature due to the elevated temperatures in Phoenix.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Different parts of the world have been battered by extreme climatic conditions. While some regions are slapped with heavy rains and subsequent floods, other parts of the world are facing extreme heat.

Different parts of the world have been battered by extreme climatic conditions. While some regions are slapped with heavy rains and subsequent floods, other parts of the world are facing extreme heat. The situation in some Asian nations is also worsening as at least 12 people have died from heat-related causes in South Korea. Local reports in Japan mentioned that a 13-year-old girl died from heatstroke on her way back from a school club. The Mainichi reported that the school had suspended the club gatherings an hour early due to concerns about the heat. According to the report, the school said that the students had taken breaks "every 20-25 minutes to rehydrate". A report by The Guardian mentioned that the death toll since Friday reached three after an elderly couple was found dead in their home in Tokyo. Police believe they died of heatstroke amid temperatures reaching 35.7C in the city. The deteriorating situation comes weeks after Japan set a target to halve the number of heat-related deaths by 2030. Opinion: Russia must stop using food as a weapon The Japan Times published a detailed report on heat-related deaths. Citing official statistics, it said that the number of heatstroke-related deaths increased from an average of 201 people a year between 1995 and 1999, to an average of 1295 from 2018 to 2022. According to the report, the health ministry data showed that elderlies were most impacted. Watch this report: × Also read: Relief for Australia as Great Barrier Reef stays off UNESCO danger list Meanwhile, at least 20 people died and several were missing as heavy rainfall continued to batter Beijing. In China, the Doksuri typhoon forced officials to evacuate more than 52,000 people from the capital city. The authorities sealed over 100 mountain roads as a precautionary move. Long-term shifts in temperatures and weather patterns are indications of climate change. These changes are either natural or because of human activities, such as the excessive burning of fossil fuels like coal, oil and gas. Concrete, asphalt and urban heat islands = heatwaves As quoted by news agency Reuters, Dr Kevin Foster, who directs the Arizona Burn Center in Phoenix, said that it only takes a fraction of a second to suffer a pretty serious burn. Asphalt and concrete in direct sunlight can often reach surface temperatures as high as 82 Celsius on the hottest days. The report further mentioned that doctors have treated numerous patients who suffered burns from falling on the ground or touching surfaces that were much hotter than the recorded air temperature due to the elevated temperatures in Phoenix. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Climate change: Heat-related deaths rise in Japan and South Korea

Spain coach Jorge Vilda says his "angry" players can shake off the mental scars of a 4-0 mauling from Japan and be a force in the knockout stages of the Women's World Cup.

The sixth-ranked Spanish were left shellshocked by a Japan side who topped Group C with a brilliant counter-attacking display in Wellington on Monday, handing the Europeans their heaviest defeat in 11 years.

Vilda is confident his squad laden with world-class quality will regroup for a last-16 clash with Switzerland in Auckland on Saturday.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-womens-wc-nigeria-enter-last-16-despite-0-0-stalemate-with-ireland-621103">Nigeria enter last 16 despite 0-0 stalemate with Ireland</a>

"I have no doubt whatsoever that our team is going to react, that the attitude against Switzerland is going to be a different attitude," he said.

"It's the round of 16 at the World Cup and no one should lose hope.

"Mentally, of course, this has done some damage. It hurts, they are angry and I'm convinced that they'll be ready to compete. We will see in five days' time.

"We're not accustomed to this in my time with the team."

Vilda ruefully admired how well Japan coped with his team's trademark possession game, which had been effective in comfortable group wins over Zambia and Costa Rica.

Despite operating with about three-quarters of possession, Spain rarely threatened the goal, while they were repeatedly stung by Japan on the break.

"They got to the ball before we did and they closed every possible space that we had," Vilda said.

"Every time they took the ball away from us they had a counter-attack. They started a counter-attack with very little effort."

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Spain coach Jorge Vilda says his "angry" players can shake off the mental scars of a 4-0 mauling from Japan and be a force in the knockout stages of the Women's World Cup.

Spain coach Jorge Vilda says his "angry" players can shake off the mental scars of a 4-0 mauling from Japan and be a force in the knockout stages of the Women's World Cup. The sixth-ranked Spanish were left shellshocked by a Japan side who topped Group C with a brilliant counter-attacking display in Wellington on Monday, handing the Europeans their heaviest defeat in 11 years. Vilda is confident his squad laden with world-class quality will regroup for a last-16 clash with Switzerland in Auckland on Saturday. Also Read: Nigeria enter last 16 despite 0-0 stalemate with Ireland "I have no doubt whatsoever that our team is going to react, that the attitude against Switzerland is going to be a different attitude," he said. "It's the round of 16 at the World Cup and no one should lose hope. "Mentally, of course, this has done some damage. It hurts, they are angry and I'm convinced that they'll be ready to compete. We will see in five days' time. "We're not accustomed to this in my time with the team." Vilda ruefully admired how well Japan coped with his team's trademark possession game, which had been effective in comfortable group wins over Zambia and Costa Rica. Despite operating with about three-quarters of possession, Spain rarely threatened the goal, while they were repeatedly stung by Japan on the break. "They got to the ball before we did and they closed every possible space that we had," Vilda said. "Every time they took the ball away from us they had a counter-attack. They started a counter-attack with very little effort." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

FIFA Women's WC: Spain 'angry' after 0-4 mauling by Japan, says coach

While the world is celebrating Barbenheimer, there's a controversy brewing in Japan over the two films- Barbie and Oppenheimer. Warner Bros Japan has criticised its American counterpart for a social media incident involving the two films. Warner Bros Japan has reacted to posts on the Barbenheimer event on Twitter, now known as X.&nbsp;

The term Barbenheimer was coined as both the films were released on the same day in most countries across the world.&nbsp; 
 
In Japan, Barbie is set for an August 11 release while Oppenheimer's release date is not known.

The film is a biopic about theoretical physicist J Robert Oppenheimer, whose efforts to build the world's first atomic bombs resulted in the deaths of over 200,000 Japanese people in 1945, when the Americans attacked the cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki in Japan.&nbsp; 
 
“We consider it extremely regrettable that the official account of the American headquarters for the movie Barbie reacted to the social media postings of Barbenheimer fans,” Warner Bros Japan wrote in a statement posted on Twitter.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/barbenheimer-dissecting-the-hype-around-barbie-and-oppenheimer-wion-podcast-619360/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

&nbsp;

 
“We take this situation very seriously. We are asking the US headquarters to take appropriate action. We apologise to those who were offended by this series of inconsiderate reactions. Warner Bros Japan." 
 
Barbie's official Twitter account reacted to a fan-made poster of the Barbenheimer event. The poster showed Barbie sitting on Oppenheimer's shoulders with what looks like a nuclear explosion in the background. As a reaction to the post, the Barbie Twitter handle wrote, "It’s going to be a summer to remember."

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/critically-speaking-margot-robbies-barbie-is-funny-and-clever-618237/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

&nbsp;

 
Twitter has added a community note to the post, offering historical context. “At 8:15 a.m. on August 6, 1945 (Showa 20), an atomic bomb was dropped on Hiroshima for the first time in human history. The particular nature of the damage caused by the atomic bombs is that mass destruction and mass murder occurred instantaneously and indiscriminately,” the note read. 
 
The post has not gone down well with many in Japan who are only promoting Barbie and not Oppenheimer for obvious reasons.&nbsp; 
 
There has been some controversy about the depiction of the bombing in the film as well. Christopher Nolan's Oppenheimer has been massively successful both critically and commercially. The film recently passed the $400 million mark worldwide.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-oppenheimer-review-nolans-visually-stunning-epic-fuses-genius-and-guilt-618110">Oppenheimer review: Nolan's visually stunning epic fuses genius and guilt</a> 
 
Greta Gerwig's Barbie is on its way to becoming the year’s second billion-dollar hit, having made a little under $800 million worldwide so far.

&nbsp;

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While the world is celebrating Barbenheimer, there's a controversy brewing in Japan over the two films- Barbie and Oppenheimer. Warner Bros Japan has criticised its American counterpart for a social media incident involving the two films.

While the world is celebrating Barbenheimer, there's a controversy brewing in Japan over the two films- Barbie and Oppenheimer. Warner Bros Japan has criticised its American counterpart for a social media incident involving the two films. Warner Bros Japan has reacted to posts on the Barbenheimer event on Twitter, now known as X. The term Barbenheimer was coined as both the films were released on the same day in most countries across the world. In Japan, Barbie is set for an August 11 release while Oppenheimer's release date is not known. The film is a biopic about theoretical physicist J Robert Oppenheimer, whose efforts to build the world's first atomic bombs resulted in the deaths of over 200,000 Japanese people in 1945, when the Americans attacked the cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki in Japan. “We consider it extremely regrettable that the official account of the American headquarters for the movie Barbie reacted to the social media postings of Barbenheimer fans,” Warner Bros Japan wrote in a statement posted on Twitter. “We take this situation very seriously. We are asking the US headquarters to take appropriate action. We apologise to those who were offended by this series of inconsiderate reactions. Warner Bros Japan." Barbie's official Twitter account reacted to a fan-made poster of the Barbenheimer event. The poster showed Barbie sitting on Oppenheimer's shoulders with what looks like a nuclear explosion in the background. As a reaction to the post, the Barbie Twitter handle wrote, "It’s going to be a summer to remember." Twitter has added a community note to the post, offering historical context. “At 8:15 a.m. on August 6, 1945 (Showa 20), an atomic bomb was dropped on Hiroshima for the first time in human history. The particular nature of the damage caused by the atomic bombs is that mass destruction and mass murder occurred instantaneously and indiscriminately,” the note read. The post has not gone down well with many in Japan who are only promoting Barbie and not Oppenheimer for obvious reasons. There has been some controversy about the depiction of the bombing in the film as well. Christopher Nolan's Oppenheimer has been massively successful both critically and commercially. The film recently passed the $400 million mark worldwide. Also read: Oppenheimer review: Nolan's visually stunning epic fuses genius and guilt Greta Gerwig's Barbie is on its way to becoming the year’s second billion-dollar hit, having made a little under $800 million worldwide so far.

Warner Bros Japan slams its American counterpart over a Barbenheimer post on social media 

Tokyo is sizzling in hot weather at the moment. A group of like-minded designers and engineers have come together to fight the heat. The ninth extreme heat countermeasures exhibition showcased cool technologies, gadgets and wearable solutions that solve problems related to extreme heat. From neck fans to portable air-conditioned backpacks, the event had it all.

Japan tries to fight the heat with cool gadgets

Japan's infamous Joker assailant who attempted to kill and burn innocent people on a train in Tokyo has been sentenced to 23 years in prison.&nbsp;

Tokyo District Court's Tachikawa branch found 26-year-old Kyota Hattori guilty of attempted murder and starting a fire on the train, while dressed as DC comic book villain, the Joker.&nbsp;

The incident took place in October 2021, on the day of Halloween, at around 8 pm on a Keio Line train, heading to Shinjuku Station.&nbsp;Hattori boarded the train, dressed in a purple suit, green shirt and a tie, leading to him being called the Joker.

Afterwards, he stabbed a passenger in his 70s whilst trying to kill 12 others by starting a&nbsp;fire. While the stabbed man sustained&nbsp;a critical condition, he survived and nobody died in the attack.&nbsp;

During a hearing last month, Hattori admitted to the stabbing and lighting the&nbsp;train carriage on fire, but denied the latter part of the indictment, saying there was no intent to murder when he lit up the coach.&nbsp;

“I don’t know if the arson can be considered attempted murder,” Hattori said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/delhi-16-year-old-girls-murder-caught-on-camera-accused-arrested-597940">Watch | Delhi: 16-year-old girl's murder caught on camera, accused arrested</a>

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At the time of his arrest, Hattori told the police that he "adores" the Joker character from the Batman films. He wanted to kill multiple people and receive the death penalty.&nbsp;Police said he made the plan to “stab and burn passengers on a crowded Halloween day on an express train that people couldn’t flee". He also&nbsp;told them he had spread lighter fluid on the train.

“He held a knife and started spreading liquid. He was committing this act without showing any emotion, just mechanically. I think that brought fear to everyone," one of the witnesses in the carriage&nbsp;said at the time.&nbsp;

<h2>Violent crimes in Japan&nbsp;</h2>

Violent crime is rare in Japan but Hattori's attack came a little more than a month after nine people were wounded in a similar train attack where the suspect handed himself to the police after fleeing the scene.&nbsp;

Earlier this month, another gruesome crime was reported&nbsp;in the country's northern city of Sapporo where a headless body of a man was discovered in one of the 'love hotel' rooms.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/beheaded-man-found-inside-japanese-love-hotel-woman-and-her-parents-arrested-619591">Also read |&nbsp;Beheaded man found inside Japan’s ‘love hotel’; woman and her parents arrested</a>

The naked and headless body of the victim slumped in a bathtub, was found by one of the hotel workers.&nbsp;None of his belongings were found in the room and the bed appeared unused.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Japan's infamous Joker assailant who attempted to kill and burn innocent people on a train in Tokyo has been sentenced to 23 years in prison. Tokyo District Court's Tachikawa branch found 26-year-old Kyota Hattori guilty of attempted murder and starting a fire on the train, while dressed as DC comic book villain, the Joker.

Japan's infamous Joker assailant who attempted to kill and burn innocent people on a train in Tokyo has been sentenced to 23 years in prison. Tokyo District Court's Tachikawa branch found 26-year-old Kyota Hattori guilty of attempted murder and starting a fire on the train, while dressed as DC comic book villain, the Joker. The incident took place in October 2021, on the day of Halloween, at around 8 pm on a Keio Line train, heading to Shinjuku Station. Hattori boarded the train, dressed in a purple suit, green shirt and a tie, leading to him being called the Joker. Afterwards, he stabbed a passenger in his 70s whilst trying to kill 12 others by starting a fire. While the stabbed man sustained a critical condition, he survived and nobody died in the attack. During a hearing last month, Hattori admitted to the stabbing and lighting the train carriage on fire, but denied the latter part of the indictment, saying there was no intent to murder when he lit up the coach. “I don’t know if the arson can be considered attempted murder,” Hattori said. Watch | Delhi: 16-year-old girl's murder caught on camera, accused arrested At the time of his arrest, Hattori told the police that he "adores" the Joker character from the Batman films. He wanted to kill multiple people and receive the death penalty. Police said he made the plan to “stab and burn passengers on a crowded Halloween day on an express train that people couldn’t flee". He also told them he had spread lighter fluid on the train. “He held a knife and started spreading liquid. He was committing this act without showing any emotion, just mechanically. I think that brought fear to everyone," one of the witnesses in the carriage said at the time. Violent crimes in Japan Violent crime is rare in Japan but Hattori's attack came a little more than a month after nine people were wounded in a similar train attack where the suspect handed himself to the police after fleeing the scene. Earlier this month, another gruesome crime was reported in the country's northern city of Sapporo where a headless body of a man was discovered in one of the 'love hotel' rooms. Also read | Beheaded man found inside Japan’s ‘love hotel’; woman and her parents arrested The naked and headless body of the victim slumped in a bathtub, was found by one of the hotel workers. None of his belongings were found in the room and the bed appeared unused. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Japan's Joker assailant sentenced to 23 years in prison

Sexist flyers were distributed to pregnant women in the city of Onomichi in Japan's Hiroshima prefecture. The flyers were titled "Advice from fathers to you" and mansplained women. When will Japan change its patriarchal ways? Priyanka Sharma5 brings you the details.

Gravitas: Japan's problematic advice to pregnant women

A man named Toco from Japan spent 2 million Yen to transform himself. He became a dog with a custom-made collie costume. Toco's dream of becoming an animal started since he was a kid. He conceals his face to hide his alter ego.

A Japanese man spends 2 Million Yen to become a dog

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