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South Korea's government boycotted a memorial service in Japan for wartime laborers at the Sado mines, marking a setback in improving bilateral relations. The decision stems from unresolved diplomatic tensions, particularly regarding Japan's acknowledgment of forced labor during its colonial rule over Korea.
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Aiko, the only child of Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako, faces a complex future as Japanese law requires her to renounce her royal status if she marries outside the imperial family. Public support for changing this law is growing, but conservative factions resist. Aiko continues her duties while working at the Japanese Red Cross Society.
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As Japan's year-end parties, or bonenkai, approach, a notable shift is occurring. Employees are increasingly opting for smaller gatherings with friends rather than traditional company-wide events, reflecting changing attitudes towards workplace socialization and personal preferences.
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U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin's recent visit to Japan emphasized the strengthening of military ties amid rising regional tensions from China and North Korea. Austin's discussions focused on defense cooperation and reaffirming the U.S. commitment to Japan's security, particularly in light of the upcoming Trump administration's policies.
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Nobuhiro Torii, 58, will be the first president from the firm's founding family since Nobutada Saji, 79, who served in the post from 2001 to 2014.
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Starting April 2025, Tokyo will introduce a four-day workweek for its 160,000 metropolitan government employees. This initiative aims to improve work-life balance, particularly for working mothers, amid Japan's ongoing demographic crisis and labor shortages. Governor Yuriko Koike emphasizes the need for flexible work arrangements to support families.
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Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts stated that Shohei Ohtani's return to pitching is 'very unlikely' following shoulder surgery. Ohtani, recovering from elbow surgery, is expected to play as a hitter in the upcoming season opener in Japan, but pitching remains uncertain.
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Japanese actress and singer Miho Nakayama has died at the age of 54. Found in her bathtub on December 6, 2024, her death has been ruled an accidental drowning. Nakayama was known for her role in the film 'Love Letter' and her successful J-pop career in the 1980s and 1990s.
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Recent court rulings have seen severe sentences handed down to multiple individuals for extensive sexual abuse of minors. David John Andrews received 27 years for 130 charges, while Duncan Bartlett was sentenced to 15 years for 35 offences. Both cases highlight the ongoing issue of child exploitation in the UK.
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General Motors announced on December 10, 2024, that it will cease funding its Cruise robotaxi division, redirecting resources to enhance its personal vehicle technology. This decision follows significant financial losses and increased competition in the autonomous vehicle market, marking a major shift in GM's strategy after nearly a decade of investment.
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Japan's Fisheries Agency has added fin whales to its legal hunting list, expanding commercial whaling after withdrawing from the International Whaling Commission in 2019. This season, 30 fin whales were caught, with a total quota of 60. The move has reignited debates over conservation and the sustainability of whaling in Japan.
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Japan's sake industry is evolving with innovative projects, including Asahi Shuzo's plan to brew sake in space by 2025. This initiative reflects a growing interest in sake tourism, as foreign visitors engage with traditional brewing methods and experiences, highlighting the cultural significance of sake in Japan.
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In 2024, pop music has seen significant shifts, with artists like Charli XCX and André 3000 redefining their sounds. Charli's album 'Brat' contrasts sharply with her previous work, while André's 'New Blue Sun' marks a departure from rap to ambient jazz. Laufey's rise in popularity also highlights a new wave of artists blending genres.
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The PGA of America has announced a new compensation package for Ryder Cup players, increasing their stipend from $200,000 to $500,000, with a focus on charity. U.S. captain Keegan Bradley plans to donate his entire share to charitable causes, reflecting ongoing discussions about player compensation in golf.
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Honda and Nissan are considering a merger under a holding company to enhance their competitiveness in the electric vehicle market. This strategic partnership follows their earlier collaboration on EV batteries and software, aiming to consolidate resources against larger rivals like Toyota.
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Nobuyuki Watanabe, the influential editor-in-chief of The Yomiuri Shimbun, passed away at 98 due to pneumonia. His leadership shaped Japanese media and politics, fostering ties with conservative leaders and advocating for constitutional revisions. Watanabe also owned the Yomiuri Giants baseball team, significantly impacting both journalism and sports in Japan.
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As the luxury travel sector rebounds, brands are diversifying offerings with festive collaborations. From extravagant Christmas trees in hotels to designer pop-ups, these partnerships enhance holiday experiences and attract tourists. Notable examples include Claridge's and Riggs Washington, DC, showcasing unique designer trees that reflect their creators' visions.