Japan warns Unification Church over murky child adoption practice

TOKYO, Jan 23 (Kyodo) - The Japanese government on Monday issued an administrative guidance to the Unification Church demanding it comply with the law amid allegations that it has arranged for child adoption between believers' families without authorization.

The religious group, which has been under scrutiny since former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe was fatally shot last year by the son of an adherent, says in one of its publications that it is a "beautiful tradition" of the group to give up a child for adoption by childless families.

The adoption mediation law stipulates that permission from a prefectural government is required for the mediation business. If unauthorized mediation recurs, violations of the law are suspected regardless of whether the service is remunerated. ...continue reading

Former Official Involved in Ikebukuro Car Crash Dies in Prison at 93

Kozo Iizuka, a former senior official convicted in a 2019 car crash in Ikebukuro, Tokyo, that killed two people and injured nine others, has died at the age of 93. Iizuka passed away in October, reportedly due to natural causes.

Hyogo governor denies illegality in election campaign

The Governor of Hyogo Prefecture in western Japan has expressed his view that there were no illegalities in his election campaign. The remark came as some are accusing him of violating the public offices election law over the use of a PR company in the campaign. (NHK)

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Wake Held for Princess Yuriko of Mikasa

A wake for Princess Yuriko of Mikasa was held at her residence within the Akasaka Estate, attended by members of the Imperial family, including Princess Aiko, the eldest daughter of the Emperor and Empress.

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Hyogo governor denies illegality in election campaign

Elon Musk Highlights Japanese 'Wabi-Sabi' in Social Media Post

Elon Musk, the incoming head of the newly established Efficiency Ministry under President-elect Trump, has vowed to reduce $500 billion in government waste annually. Musk, known for his admiration of Japanese culture, sparked speculation on October 21st with a social media post simply stating "Wabi-Sabi" in Japanese, prompting questions about his intentions.

Japan's Agriculture Ministry Urges Nationwide Action to Combat Avian Flu

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Trump's Victory: The End of Traditional Media in America?

"Harris is merely the runner-up; her media 'cheerleaders' are licking their wounds and will take longer to recover. After all, they were the ones who worked hardest to bring down Trump—yet, after eight years of effort, they’re weaker and more embarrassed than ever before," wrote Elle Purnell, an editor at The Federalist and one of the few traditional media figures who staunchly support Trump.

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Geopolitical risks in the Middle East have rapidly escalated since the October 2023 attack on Israel by Hamas. In addition to Israel’s bombardment of Gaza, a regional war has grown likelier due to Iran–Israel tensions. This poses serious concerns for Japan’s energy security, which depends on Middle Eastern oil supply. (East Asia Forum)

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