-
Japanese politician Shigeru Ishiba is contemplating releasing a message on WWII, amid internal party tensions and his declining influence. His decision reflects his stance on historical remembrance and current political pressures, with potential implications for Japan's diplomatic relations and internal party unity. The timing remains uncertain as he monitors party developments.
-
South Korean authorities are probing allegations that the Unification Church, led by Han Hak-ja, attempted to influence politics through bribery involving high-profile figures, including the wife of former President Yoon Suk-yeol and a conservative lawmaker. Several arrests have been made, and investigations continue as of September 23, 2025.
-
Recent political developments in France, Japan, and the US have heightened market volatility. France's bond risk rose after a government resignation, Japan's yen plunged amid a new prime minister's election, and gold prices hit record highs amid inflation fears. These events signal increased economic uncertainty.
-
Komeito has ended its 26-year coalition with the LDP over disagreements on political funding and scandals. The move complicates Japan's political landscape as Takaichi seeks to become prime minister amid a fragmented parliament and opposition negotiations. The coalition's collapse impacts legislative prospects and market confidence.
-
Japan's PM warns of military response to China over Taiwan, prompting Taiwan to ease food import restrictions and show solidarity. Beijing dismisses Taiwan's claims, escalating regional tensions amid economic and military pressures.
-
Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi departs for Malaysia to attend ASEAN and APEC summits, plans to meet US President Trump, and emphasizes promoting the 'Free and Open Indo-Pacific' policy amid regional tensions and diplomatic sensitivities. She also refrains from visiting Yasukuni Shrine during the autumn festival to avoid diplomatic fallout.
-
Former Japanese Prime Minister Tomiichi Murayama, known for his historic 1995 apology for wartime actions, died at 101. His passing occurs as Sino-Japanese relations face turbulence, with recent political gestures by Japan reigniting historical tensions. Murayama's legacy of apology and reconciliation remains central to regional diplomacy.
-
Yoshihide Suga's successor, Takaichi, 64, is Japan’s first female leader, promising a rightward shift with a focus on security, economic growth, and conservative social policies. Her election follows a turbulent political landscape, including a weakened LDP and regional security concerns, with her leadership likely to influence Japan’s domestic and foreign policies.
-
Japan's newly elected Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi embarks on her first international trip, including meetings with U.S. President Trump and regional leaders. She faces economic challenges, regional security issues, and complex relations with China, amid her conservative stance and upcoming summits in South Korea and Kuala Lumpur.
-
President Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping are set to meet in South Korea amid ongoing trade tensions, tariffs, and export restrictions. Both sides signal a tentative easing, with hopes for a short-term détente that could influence global markets and regional diplomacy. The meeting follows recent signals of cooperation and mutual interest.
-
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has announced her intention to nominate Donald Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize, citing his efforts in brokering ceasefires and peace agreements. The move follows praise from US and Japanese officials, amid mixed domestic reactions and ongoing regional tensions.
-
U.S. officials, including Hegseth, visited Japan to discuss increasing Japan's defense spending and military capabilities amid regional threats. Japan plans to raise its defense budget to 2% of GDP earlier than scheduled, with the U.S. supporting this shift. The talks also covered military cooperation and regional security concerns.
-
Japan's new prime minister, Takaichi, and South Korea's Lee met at the Apec summit, emphasizing future cooperation despite historical tensions. Both leaders avoided contentious issues, focusing on economic and security ties amid regional challenges and US involvement. The relationship remains pragmatic but cautious.
-
Japanese courts have dismissed lawsuits challenging the constitutionality of the recent Upper House election, despite widening vote-value disparities. The courts urge the Diet to address the issue, with some rulings acknowledging the disparity as problematic but not yet unconstitutional.
-
As of November 27, 2025, diplomatic tensions between Japan and China have intensified following Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's statement that a Chinese attack on Taiwan could threaten Japan's survival and justify a military response. China condemned the remarks, accusing Japan of militarism and colonial aggression, while Japan advances missile deployments near Taiwan. Taiwan supports Japan's security measures amid ongoing Chinese military pressure.
-
Japan's ambassador to the UN rebutted Chinese accusations after Japanese Defense Minister Takaichi suggested Japan could militarily respond if China attacks Taiwan. Beijing responded with diplomatic and economic measures, including travel bans and import restrictions. The dispute highlights regional security concerns amid rising Chinese military activity near Taiwan.