Japan Commemorates 30th Anniversary of Kobe Earthquake
On January 17, 2025, the city of Kobe and its surrounding areas observed the 30th anniversary of the catastrophic Great Hanshin Earthquake, which struck on January 17, 1995. This devastating natural disaster registered a magnitude of 7.3 and resulted in the loss of over 6,400 lives, leaving many families and communities forever changed.
At precisely 5:46 a.m., the time the earthquake hit, residents and victims' families participated in a moment of silence to reflect on the tragedy and honor those who lost their lives. This annual commemoration serves not only as a remembrance but also as a reminder of the importance of disaster preparedness in a country that frequently faces seismic activity.
In other significant news, China reported a continued decline in its population for the third consecutive year in 2024, with official statistics revealing a decrease of 1.39 million individuals, bringing the total population to approximately 1.408 billion. The demographic shift is attributed to an aging population, with the percentage of citizens aged 65 and older rising to 15.6%.
Meanwhile, in the world of sports, Terunofuji, the sole yokozuna in sumo wrestling, announced his retirement, concluding a career marked by numerous injuries. The 33-year-old athlete, who has won 10 championships in the top division, faced challenges in his recent matches, ultimately ending with a record of 2-3 in the New Year Grand Sumo Tournament.
In political developments, a staff member of the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) in Tokyo has been charged in connection with a funding scandal, highlighting ongoing issues within the party ahead of crucial elections. The 72-year-old staff member, responsible for accounting within the Tokyo metropolitan assembly, faces allegations of failing to accurately report income from fundraising events.
Furthermore, the Japanese government has initiated a compensation process for victims of forced sterilization procedures conducted under a now-repealed eugenics protection law. This move aims to address the historical injustices faced by those subjected to such surgeries, which have been widely recognized as significant human rights violations.
In the automotive sector, Toyota Motor Corporation is contemplating a restructuring of its domestic production to mitigate risks associated with natural disasters and labor shortages. The company is exploring the possibility of relocating some of its manufacturing operations to regions outside its traditional base in central Japan, with plans to increase production capacity by 200,000 units in both the Tohoku and Kyushu regions.
On the media front, Fuji Television Network has publicly apologized regarding its handling of a sexual misconduct scandal involving prominent TV host Masahiro Nakai. The network's president announced the establishment of an investigation panel to address the situation, emphasizing the need to prioritize the well-being of those involved.
Lastly, China has announced the resumption of group tours to Taiwan, specifically for residents of Shanghai and Fujian Province, as part of efforts to enhance normal interactions across the Taiwan Strait. This decision is aimed at meeting the expectations of the Taiwanese public and revitalizing the tourism sector.
