Oct 08 (FRANCE 24 English) - In the 1970s and 1980s, North Korea organised a kidnapping campaign in "enemy" countries. As one of its closest neighbours, Japan became a prime target.
The programme, decided at the highest level of the Communist state, was likely intended to train North Korean spies in foreign languages and customs. It was a long wait until 2002, when the dictatorship in Pyongyang officially recognised some of the kidnappings.
The impact of rising prices is being felt at summer festivals, with essential items like ice shavings and goldfish scooping seeing significant price increases.
Japan's northern Akita Prefecture experienced a torrential deluge Friday, causing major flooding and the collapse of a bridge in Kamikoani Village.
Theft of air conditioner outdoor units has surged as Japan's heatwave continues, leaving some businesses unable to run critical cooling systems.
As power harassment allegations against the governor of Hyogo Prefecture continue to swirl, it has been revealed that another prefectural employee has passed away, with the prefecture delaying a formal announcement of the death by 3 months.
Osaka has topped the 'Japan Urban Power Rankings' for the fourth consecutive year. Conducted by Mori Building's think tank, the ranking evaluates 136 cities across Japan in six categories, including economy, culture, and environment.
As power harassment allegations against the governor of Hyogo Prefecture continue to swirl, it has been revealed that another prefectural employee has passed away, with the prefecture delaying a formal announcement of the death by 3 months.
Russia's Foreign Ministry has announced a ban on entry for 13 top executives from Japanese companies in response to Japan's sanctions over the Ukraine invasion.
A model of the next-generation fighter jet jointly developed by Japan, the UK, and Italy has been unveiled at an airshow in the UK.
The founder of the anti-whaling organization Sea Shepherd, who was wanted by Japan, has been detained in Greenland, an autonomous territory of Denmark.
Japan disbanded its military following its defeat in World War II and adopted a pacifist constitution that prohibits the country from engaging in war. (South China Morning Post)
The Japanese government is considering revising the policy that reduces pensions for those working past age 65. However, a significant proposal to extend the pension premium payment period from age 60 to 65 has been deferred.
The leaders' meeting of the 'Pacific Islands Summit,' involving Japan and Pacific island nations, was held in Tokyo, resulting in the adoption of a leaders' declaration emphasizing future cooperation.
A lawmaker in Ōkawara Town, Miyagi Prefecture, has come under fire after an elementary school student's essay revealed that he was playing a smartphone game during an assembly session.
