at 18:30 (JST), November 30

Asian View
"Asian View" is a five-minute news segment broadcast by NHK WORLD-JAPAN. It features the latest news and deep analysis from Japan and the rest of Asia. Listen to "Asian View" and get the latest information from a region that's playing an increasingly important role in the world.





https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/upld/medias/en/radio/news/20231130183000_english_1.mp3


Key words : eight people on board yokota
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20231130_06/

The Japanese government is considering taking swift action following the reported crash of an Osprey in the country's southwest. Possible moves include a request for the temporary suspension of flights of the US military transport aircraft in Japan.

The aircraft reportedly crashed into waters off Yakushima Island in Kagoshima Prefecture on Wednesday afternoon. So far, what appears to be wreckage has been spotted near the site, and a person has been confirmed dead after being rescued from the sea.

The US Air Force Special Operations Command said eight people were on board the aircraft, which belongs to the US Yokota Air Base in Tokyo. Japan's coast guard and others are continuing search and rescue operations.

Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio said on Wednesday night that the government will do its utmost to save lives. He added that he will seek cooperation with the US military to figure out what actually happened and will consider taking action.

Sources close to the matter say possible government action includes asking the US side to temporarily suspend Osprey flights in Japan.

The government plans to make its final decision after getting information from the US on what led to the incident.

Key words : verted
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20231129_38/

A US Osprey military aircraft carrying six people on board has crashed into the waters off southwestern Japan. One person is confirmed dead. A rescue effort by the Japanese coast guard is underway.

The crash occurred just before 3 p.m. local time on Wednesday near the island of Yakushima.

Japan's defense ministry says US officials are calling the incident an attempted emergency water landing.

According to an eyewitness, the aircraft appeared to roll over mid-flight before descending vertically towards the water.

The eyewitness said, "It was like the so-called inverted flight. After it turned over, a fire broke out from the propeller on the left wing. There was an explosion right after that. Then the aircraft went straight down without gliding.

Japan's coast guard spotted what appeared to be wreckage from the aircraft.

Defense Ministry officials say the aircraft is a CV-22 Osprey which belongs to the US Yokota Air Base in Tokyo. They say it was likely heading to the US Kadena Air Base in Okinawa.

The US deployed the Ospreys to Japan in 2018. CV-22s are mainly used to transport special forces. They have been involved in a number of serious accidents.

In 2010, an Osprey crash-landed in Afghanistan, killing 4 soldiers.

In 2012, a crash during a training mission injured five crew members in Florida.

In August last year, the aircraft were grounded by the US over a safety issue - but the flights were eventually resumed.

Key words : philippines negotiation
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20231129_08/

The Philippine government and the country's communist rebels have agreed to resume peace negotiations aimed at ending one of the longest armed conflicts in Asia.

The two sides announced on Tuesday that they reached the agreement under the mediation of Norway.

In a joint statement, they say that cognizant of "the foreign security threats facing the country, the parties recognize the need to unite as a nation in order to urgently address these challenges."

Previous talks were terminated by then-Philippine president Rodrigo Duterte six years ago.

The government and the New People's Army -- the military wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines -- have been engaged in fighting since the 1960s. The conflict is said to have killed more than 40,000 people.

The government is believed to be trying to stabilize the domestic situation to focus on external security threats, with China's growing assertiveness in the South China Sea in mind.

Key words : north soldier demilitarized
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20231129_19/

North Korean soldiers in the Joint Security Area of the Demilitarized Zone that separates North and South Korea are carrying handguns in violation of a 2018 agreement aimed at reducing inter-Korean military tension.

The move follows the North Korean defense ministry's announcement last week that its military is no longer bound by the 2018 deal.

Sources close to the South Korean military say North Korean soldiers stationed in the area in Panmunjom resumed carrying pistols late last week.

The JSA has been disarmed under the 2018 agreement.

South Korea's Yonhap News Agency said the South could rearm itself in the JSA if the current situation continues.

The sources also point out that North Korea has recently removed covers on the muzzles of artillery guns on the Yellow Sea coast in the west side of the Korean Peninsula, suggesting their combat readiness. They say the number of these guns has increased from one or two previously to 10 or more.

The South Korean military earlier said the North is putting guard posts back near the military demarcation line separating the two Koreas.

South Korea partially suspended the 2018 deal on November 22 in protest of the North's launch of a spy satellite the day before. Pyongyang in response said on Thursday last week that it will restore all military measures it froze under the agreement.

Key words : motor show thailand
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20231130_13/

A major motor show opens on Thursday in Thailand, where Chinese automakers are hoping their electric vehicles will reduce Japanese brands' market dominance.

A media preview for the Thailand International Motor Expo was held on Wednesday. Forty manufacturers from Japan, China and elsewhere are showcasing their models at the 12-day event.

Major Chinese carmaker Changan Automobile unveiled its new electric SUV and sedan. The company has announced plans to start EV production in Thailand in 2025 and roll out more electric models.

Leading Chinese EV maker BYD, and Guangzhou Automobile Group's EV brand, Aion, also have plans for local production.

The Thai government subsidizes customers' purchases of EVs made in the country.

About 58,000 electric vehicles were newly registered in Thailand in the first 10 months of this year. That's a more-than eightfold increase from the same period last year.

Japanese automakers currently have an 80-percent share of the overall Thai auto market.

Honda has already announced plans to build EVs in Thailand and production is due to start in December.

Key words : sri lanka debts
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20231129_37/

Japan and other countries working to restructure Sri Lanka's external debts have reached a basic agreement with the South Asian country.

Sri Lanka has suspended external debt repayments since April last year. Fiscal policy failures and other factors triggered a sharp depreciation of the country's currency and price rises.

In April this year, Japan, France and India took the initiative in launching a framework for talks to help Sri Lanka. Seventeen creditor countries have been discussing changes in repayment conditions.

Japan's Vice Minister of Finance for International Affairs, Kanda Masato, told reporters on Wednesday that with the latest deal, the creditors reached a basic agreement with the Sri Lankan government on extending deadlines and lowering interest rates.

Kanda said the process will be highly transparent and fair. Details have yet to be announced.

China, Sri Lanka's biggest creditor, took part in the framework only as an observer. China earlier announced it had agreed with the Sri Lankan government on conditions for debt restructuring separately from the framework.

Kanda said that he heard China's deal is similar to their latest agreement, expressing hope for close cooperation with Beijing.

Key words : christmas diving
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20231129_03/

Christmas is coming to one of the major diving spots in Japan. Divers have installed an underwater Christmas tree in the town of Kushimoto, Wakayama Prefecture, western Japan, ahead of the holiday season.

An association of diving service operators sets up an undersea Christmas tree every year as part of efforts to reinvigorate the local community.

Eight divers, some of them wearing Santa Clause costumes, on Tuesday headed to a diving spot about 200 meters from Cape Shionomisaki, the southernmost point of Honshu, Japan's largest island.

They used sandbags and ropes to fix the 3-meter-tree, decorated with ribbons and bells, on the seabed 18 meters below surface.

Association member Michii Hiroyuki says he hopes that divers will enjoy the underwater Christmas tree that can only be enjoyed around this time of year.

The tree will be in place until December 25.

at 18:30 (JST), November 29

Asian View
"Asian View" is a five-minute news segment broadcast by NHK WORLD-JAPAN. It features the latest news and deep analysis from Japan and the rest of Asia. Listen to "Asian View" and get the latest information from a region that's playing an increasingly important role in the world.





https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/upld/medias/en/radio/news/20231129183000_english_1.mp3


Key words : russia withdraw expo
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20231129_06/

Russia says it will withdraw from the 2025 World Exposition in Osaka.

The Russian representative made the announcement at a general meeting of the Paris-based Bureau International des Expositions on Tuesday.

The representative said there has been insufficient communication with the organizers, but did not elaborate further on the reason for the withdrawal.

The official spoke after Secretary General of the Japan Association for the 2025 World Exposition Ishige Hiroyuki briefed the attendees on preparations for the event.

Russia's decision may be a reaction to responses by Japan and Western nations over Moscow's invasion of Ukraine.

Japan's government said earlier this month that Mexico and Estonia withdrew from the 2025 Expo, while nine countries, including Denmark, expressed their intention to participate.

Russia's exit means 159 countries and regions are now expected to take part.

The BIE general assembly also voted to award the World Expo 2030 to Saudi Arabia's capital Riyadh.

Key words : china rule of law
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20231129_04/

Chinese President Xi Jinping has announced a plan to create a stronger rule of law to help protect the interests of foreign companies and provide more support for foreigners in the country.

State-run CCTV reported that Xi gave a speech on Monday at a meeting of the Communist Party leadership on strengthening foreign-related legal system development.

He said that developing such a system is an urgent task as the country promotes "high-standard opening-up."

He stressed the need to "safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of foreign-funded enterprises" and provide more convenience to foreigners living in China.

He is believed to be trying to stem the decline in foreign investment amid an uncertain outlook for the Chinese economy.

But it remains unclear how much the plan will help China attract foreign firms, as the country introduced revised counterespionage legislation in July in a sign that it puts priority on ensuring national security.

Xi emphasized that "the fundamental purpose of advancing law-based governance in foreign-related affairs is to safeguard the interests of the country and the people."

He also highlighted the need to nurture "law firms of international prestige" to protect China's overseas interests.

Key words : 41 workers rescued 16
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20231129_05/

All 41 workers who were trapped for 16 days in a collapsed tunnel in northern India have been rescued.

Reuters and other media outlets reported the rescue on Tuesday.

Part of the tunnel under construction in the state of Uttarakhand caved in on November 12.

Efforts to get the workers out had suffered setbacks as more sections of the tunnel collapsed.

Rescuers removed rubble for about 60 meters from the entrance and inserted a steel pipe through which the workers came out.

They were treated at a hospital, but they are said to be in good health.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi posted a message on social media, saying that he salutes the spirit of all the people associated with this rescue operation.

The cause of the collapse remains unknown, but some people blame poor safety management.

Local authorities are investigating the accident.

Key words : japanese-american
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/videos/20231107162904724/

Japanese-American musicians uplift disaster survivors, find connection

A group of Japanese-American musicians has been treating survivors of a major earthquake and tsunami in Japan to free live music as part of a years-long effort. As NHK World's Sugimoto Orie reports, the performers feel a special connection to their audience.

at 18:30 (JST), November 28

Asian View
"Asian View" is a five-minute news segment broadcast by NHK WORLD-JAPAN. It features the latest news and deep analysis from Japan and the rest of Asia. Listen to "Asian View" and get the latest information from a region that's playing an increasingly important role in the world.





https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/upld/medias/en/radio/news/20231128183000_english_1.mp3


Key words : spy satellite exercise
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20231127_22/

North Korea has described its launch of a military spy satellite as an exercise of its right to self-defense.

The country's foreign ministry on Monday issued a statement about the device.

The document was released Monday through the state-run Korean Central News Agency ahead of a UN Security Council emergency meeting later in the day. The gathering was held to address North Korea's launch of the satellite last Tuesday.

The North Korean statement cites the repeated deployment of US nuclear-powered aircraft carriers and other vessels in waters near the Korean Peninsula.

It calls the satellite's deployment "a legitimate and just exercise of the right to self-defense aimed at correctly seeing through and thoroughly coping with the grave military moves of the US and its followers."

It adds that "to make it crystal-clear that the US and the West's outrageous and illegal interference in the internal affairs of independent sovereign countries," North Korea will "squarely, unhesitatingly and perfectly exercise its sovereign rights including satellite launch."

North Korea has announced its plan to launch more spy satellites, although such actions are in violation of UN Security Council resolutions.

Key words : fighting myanmar
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20231127_10/

Myanmar's military appears to be losing ground one month after ethnic minority militants launched joint attacks against it.

The attacks began October 27 in the eastern state of Shan and have allowed the militants to take control of some towns and military posts near Myanmar's border with China.

Myanmar's military seized power in a coup in 2021.

State-run media said 120 trucks carrying goods from China were seen burning Thursday after being attacked by the minority group's drones.

Two days later, Chinese forces announced they started drills partly based on a scenario in which the border between the two countries had been closed.

Pro-democracy forces are also working with the ethnic militants to expand the fighting. More than 250 military members and their families have reportedly surrendered.

Nakanishi Yoshihiro, an associate professor at Kyoto University, says it had been difficult for ethnic minorities and pro-democracy forces to coordinate their operations, but they are working together this time to launch offensives against the military. He says the military does not seem to have enough power to hit back, and its areas of control have been decreasing little by little.

Key words : health authorities china
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20231127_11/

Health authorities in China say a recent surge in respiratory illnesses in the country's north is mainly due to the influenza virus.

The National Health Commission told a news conference on Sunday that multiple other pathogens are also among the respiratory diseases reported since mid-October.

The authorities said that in addition to the flu, the rhinovirus, a common cold virus, is prevalent among children aged 1 to 4. They also said mycoplasma pneumonia, which causes such symptoms as fever and cough, is also widespread among those aged 5 to 14, while COVID-19 is among the primary illnesses for people aged 15 to 59.

Health officials are calling on people to take thorough anti-infection measures, including getting vaccinated and wearing masks.

Last Wednesday, the World Health Organization asked China for information on an increase in respiratory illnesses and clusters of child pneumonia.

The Chinese side responded that they have not detected any novel or unusual pathogens.

Key words : north guard post bilateral deal
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20231127_23/

The South Korean military says North Korea is putting guard posts back near the military demarcation line separating the two Koreas. The North had previously removed the posts under a 2018 bilateral deal aimed at easing tensions between them.

The South's military said on Monday it confirmed the move, which likely started on Friday.

It released photos showing North Korean soldiers standing near the post, transporting heavy firearms.

The development followed Pyongyang's announcement on Thursday that it would resume "all military measures" suspended under the deal.

It was responding to South Korea's resumption of reconnaissance activities near the military demarcation line, suspending part of the 2018 agreement.

Seoul had taken this step in response to North Korea's launch of what it called a military spy satellite last Tuesday.

Key words : researcher red light
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20231127_13/

A group of researchers in Japan has started a clinical trial to help prevent the progression of adults' high myopia, or severe short-sightedness, with red-light therapy.

Researchers led by Professor Ohno-Matsui Kyoko of Tokyo Medical and Dental University are conducting the trial of the therapy.

Severe myopia is said to cause deformed eyeballs as it progresses. The condition raises risks of retinal detachment or glaucoma, which could lead to sight impairment or loss.

The group says repeatedly exposing the eyes to red light is expected to help thicken the membrane covering retina, thereby helping to prevent progression of eyeball deformation and myopia.

The trial involves 30 people aged 18 or older who have high myopia. The group plans to apply red light for three minutes twice a day over a duration of two months, and study the therapy's effectiveness and safety.

The group says it is the first such trial for adults, even though the therapy has been approved for children in some countries abroad.

Ohno-Matsui says it has been difficult to treat severe myopia progression leading to loss of sight. She says it would be a breakthrough if the therapy's effectiveness is confirmed as the treatment could be used even at home.

Key words : health ministry panel
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20231128_03/

A Japanese health ministry panel has said a coronavirus vaccine developed by Daiichi Sankyo can be used for inoculations in Japan. It would be the first Japanese-made COVID shot available for practical use.

The panel of experts held a meeting on Monday. The experts said they confirmed the vaccine's effectiveness, and that they have no serious concerns over its safety.

The Japanese pharmaceutical company applied in September for approval of the vaccine targeting the Omicron XBB.1.5 coronavirus subvariant.

Officials say the vaccine will be sent to municipalities across the country as early as December, after it gets formal approval from the health ministry.

Japan has been using vaccines developed by foreign firms such as Pfizer and Moderna. Daiichi Sankyo's earlier vaccine targeting the conventional type of coronavirus strain was not used for inoculations, despite gaining approval in August.

The ministry earlier said it agreed to purchase 1.4 million doses of the XBB.1.5-adapted vaccine from Daiichi Sankyo, after it gave the greenlight to the firm's plan to manufacture and sell it.

Key words : visitor escape
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20231128_17/

The main features of a new theme park being built in Okinawa, southwestern Japan, have been announced.

The company planning the facility in the north of the subtropical prefecture said on Monday it will be called "Junglia."

The park is scheduled to open in the summer of 2025.

Company officials say visitors will be able to take balloon rides and enjoy panoramic views of the forest and the sea. There will also be a safari experience in which visitors escape from a lifelike dinosaur in an off-road vehicle.

The theme park will extend over 60 hectares on the site of a former golf course, making it one of the largest in the country.

The planning firm says it wants to contribute to revitalizing Okinawa's economy and help turn the prefecture into a top tourist destination in Asia.

at 18:30 (JST), November 27

Asian View
"Asian View" is a five-minute news segment broadcast by NHK WORLD-JAPAN. It features the latest news and deep analysis from Japan and the rest of Asia. Listen to "Asian View" and get the latest information from a region that's playing an increasingly important role in the world.





https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/upld/medias/en/radio/news/20231127183000_english_1.mp3


Key words : since 2019
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20231126_11/

The foreign ministers of Japan, China and South Korea have agreed to speed up laying the groundwork for the first three-way summit of their leaders since 2019.

Japan's Foreign Minister Kamikawa Yoko and her Chinese and South Korean counterparts, Wang Yi and Park Jin, held the first three-way foreign ministerial meeting in four years in Busan, South Korea, on Sunday.

They talked for about an hour and a half.

Kamikawa opened the meeting by acknowledging that the three neighbors sometimes face difficult issues. But she added that she wanted the meeting to serve as an opportunity to broaden cooperation.

The three ministers agreed that for the sake of regional and global peace and prosperity, it's important to promote pragmatic cooperation with a forward-looking perspective.

They also agreed to promote cooperation in six areas, including the economy and trade, and peace and security.

The ministers also exchanged views on North Korea's launch of what it claims to be a military spy satellite.

Kamikawa said Pyongyang should fully implement UN Security Council resolutions for the complete denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula.

Turning to the Israel-Hamas conflict, the ministers agreed that improving the humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip is important, and diplomatic efforts must continue.

Kamikawa told reporters after the meeting that she will continue to work with Wang and Park to achieve concrete results in the next three-way summit as the international community faces a turning point after experiencing major challenges and changes.

A planned joint news conference and dinner were canceled. Japanese government sources said the timing was not good for the Chinese side.

Key words : kim inspected
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20231125_11/

A North Korean newspaper says leader Kim Jong Un has inspected photos taken by the country's new reconnaissance satellite of "major target areas" in South Korea.

Saturday's edition of the Rodong Sinmun, the ruling Workers' Party paper, said Kim reviewed the operational preparations for the satellite at the control center of the National Aerospace Technology Administration on Friday.

The paper said the photos were taken while the satellite was passing over the Korean Peninsula after 10:00 a.m. on Friday. They reportedly include images of Pyeongtaek in the central part of South Korea and Osan near Seoul, where US military bases are located.

The paper also mentioned a plan for the satellite to photograph "the enemy region" on Saturday morning.
Kim was said to have visited the control center the day after Tuesday's launch, where he observed aerial imagery of the US Andersen Air Force Base in Guam.

North Korea has yet to release any of these photos.

Pyongyang has indicated the new reconnaissance satellite will start operating on December 1. But South Korea's intelligence agency says it will not be able to determine the satellite's capabilities unless Pyongyang releases images.

Key words : joint sea philippines
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20231127_08/

The Philippine military says it is conducting its first joint sea and air patrols with Australia in the South China Sea. The move is seen as an effort to keep China in check, amid the country's increasing maritime assertiveness.

The Philippines' armed forces announced on Sunday that the inaugural "Maritime Cooperative Activity" started in the country's exclusive economic zone.

The exercises will continue for three days through Monday. Four vessels and five aircraft from the Philippines are taking part with one frigate and one reconnaissance plane from Australia.

A senior Philippine military official said that during a maritime patrol on Saturday, a Chinese vessel tailed them.

The official also said two Chinese fighter jets encircled a Philippine aircraft participating in the exercise on Sunday morning.

The official added there was no dangerous approach or radio warning from the Chinese side.

The Philippines and Australia signed a strategic partnership in September and are deepening security cooperation.

The Philippine military conducted three-day joint patrols with the US military in the South China Sea and other areas until Thursday last week.

Key words : decision exports
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20231127_18/

Concerns are mounting among Japanese companies over China's decision to restrict exports of graphite, a key material used in the production of lithium-ion batteries.

China accounts for a large share of the global graphite supply. It announced last month that it will restrict exports from December 1 to protect its national security and economic interests.

Tokyo-based Fuji Graphite Works imports the mineral from China to process it and supply manufacturers.

All of the spheroidal graphite the firm needs to produce lithium-ion batteries comes from China.

Fuji Graphite is concerned that import procedures may take longer after the restrictions start and this may affect its output schedule.

So the firm has imported one-and-a-half times more graphite from China than usual in November to increase its stocks.

The company says it will continue to import graphite from China, but may consider increasing shipments from Africa.

Fuji Graphite Works CEO Sugawara Takeshi says " It normally takes about 10 days to two weeks to get imported products. But it may take one or two months with the restrictions. So we are making an early start. We plan to take steps to avoid inconveniencing our clients."

Another major Japanese company, Mitsubishi Chemical Group, is considering procuring graphite for lithium-ion batteries from Australia and elsewhere to compensate for any shortage of supplies from China.

An expert in Chinese politics, Eto Naoko, says Beijing's ulterior motive for the graphite restriction "is to make the world aware of the risk that if relations with China deteriorate, the flow of graphite will be stopped."

She says it could also be a ploy by China to gain the upper hand with global sales of its electric cars.

Eto says it is crucial that Japanese firms diversify their supply chains.

Key words : chinese authorities social media
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20231126_09/

Chinese authorities are tightening their control on social media accounts and closely monitoring the ones which carry opinions on social issues as the country's economy remains lackluster almost one year after the end of the zero-COVID policy.

The policy, which included lockdowns, was lifted abruptly following street protests against the government's policy.
They took place in various parts of the country including Beijing and Shanghai in November last year.

Young people held up blank sheets of paper, expressing their dissatisfaction with the government.

In Shanghai, protesters gathered on November 26 through 27 of last year, demanding the end to the zero-COVID policy and the change in the government.

It is rare to have such in-person protests in China.

Then, the Chinese government abruptly ended the zero-COVID policy and street protests seem to have stopped.

But the recovery of the country's economy has been slow. The employment situation is difficult, especially for young people, real estate markets are in a dire situation and the future of the economy is uncertain.

The government in Beijing remains on the alert, fearing people's dissatisfaction will turn into criticism against the government.

Last November, the authorities detained many protesters.

NHK interviewed one online who was detained in Shanghai and left China later.

He was detained on November 27 last year while he was protesting in Shanghai.

He was questioned at a police station and claimed some officers beat him.

Following the detention, his online activities were watched. He felt stifled without freedom of speech and emigrated abroad in October this year.

He says that he changes addresses often while seeking refugee status.

He said that if more people, not just students and other young people, had taken part in protests last year, the movements could have promoted democracy in China.

He added that protests can occur again but the authorities are closely monitoring the situation. He said the government will squash such movements because it does not want foreign countries to know about them.

He said the government in Beijing does not mention the protests and that it conceals and is evasive about them just as it has done with historic events including Tiananmen square and others.

He stressed that the protests should not be hidden.

Key words : relatives japanese nationals
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20231126_13/

Relatives of Japanese nationals who were abducted by North Korea decades ago have again asked the government to take action and that North Korea let the abductees' aging parents see them again.

The relatives and their supporters held a rally in central Tokyo on Sunday. About 800 people took part, including Prime Minister Kishida Fumio.

Japan says at least 17 of its citizens were abducted by North Korean agents in the 1970s and '80s. Five were repatriated after a bilateral summit in 2002. The other 12 remain unaccounted for.

Yokota Takuya, who heads a group of abductees' families, spoke at the event. He is the brother of Yokota Megumi, who was 13 years old when she was abducted in 1977.

Yokota asked whether the government has been working seriously to resolve what he called a humanitarian issue. He said he wonders how it is able to deal with the reality that the abductees' parents are dying off.

Yokota urged the government to make an all-out effort and hold diplomatic talks with North Korea so a similar tragedy will not happen again and that all the abductees can return home. He said it is a matter of life and death.

Megumi's mother, Yokota Sakie, also spoke at the rally. She said she feels like her daughter is asking, "Why don't you help me?" The 87-year-old said the abduction issue involves human life and that she wants the government to bring those lives back to Japan.

Another speaker was Soga Hitomi, who was one of the five abductees repatriated 21 years ago. She spoke about her mother, Miyoshi, who was abducted with her and remains unable to return home.

Soga said her mother will turn 92 next month. She says she is always worried about her, wondering if she can eat and walk well in North Korea.

Kishida said in May that he wanted to start high-level talks under his direct supervision with a view to holding a summit with North Korea as soon as possible.

But there has been no visible progress since then. The relatives are becoming increasingly desperate as they feel that there is little time left.

The rally adopted a resolution calling on the government to achieve the immediate return of all abductees and urge the North to do what is needed to make that happen.

Key words : visitor imperial palace
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20231125_16/

People are getting a chance to enjoy the autumn foliage inside a section of the Imperial Palace in Tokyo that is usually closed to the public.

A 600-meter-long avenue that runs through the palace, Inui Street, is lined with about 70 maple trees of eight different varieties.

As soon as the gates opened at 9:00 a.m. on Saturday, a crowd of people who had been waiting began to file in.

The autumn foliage in the capital has yet to peak as temperatures this year have been warmer than usual.

The Imperial Household Agency says the leaves are expected to change color over the next week.

Visitors slowly walked along the avenue and took pictures.

A man in his 40s who came with his wife said, although the foliage has yet to peak, some of the changing leaves were still perfect, and that it was a refreshing experience.

A woman in her 50s visiting with friends from Tsuruoka City in the northeastern prefecture of Yamagata said she had never been inside the palace before, and that it is a lovely avenue.

She said as she walked along, she couldn't help but think that the Emperor also walks there.

Inui Street will remain open to the public through December 3.

at 18:00 (JST), November 26

https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/upld/medias/en/radio/news/20231126180000_english_1.mp3


Key words : second batch four thai
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20231126_06/

The second batch of hostages has been freed by the Islamic group Hamas.

Israel reported that the group released 13 Israelis and four Thai nationals.

Vehicles belonging to the International Committee of the Red Cross were seen at the Rafah crossing late on Saturday night. The crossing is situated on the border between the Gaza Strip and Egypt.

Hamas had delayed the transfer of the second group of captives. It announced that the handover would only take place when Israel allowed aid trucks to reach northern Gaza.

But a spokesperson for Qatar's foreign ministry issued a statement later. He said the obstacles that had delayed the release had been overcome. Egypt also reportedly participated in the negotiations.

The truce agreement between Israel and Hamas calls for the group to hand over 50 captives during a four-day pause in fighting.

The first set liberated by Hamas on Friday included 24 individuals. Thirteen Israelis were among them.

Israel permitted 39 Palestinian women and children to leave its prisons in exchange.

The Qatari spokesperson said 33 children and six women will be freed from Israeli prisons this time.

Key words : qatar obstacles overcome
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20231126_05/

A spokesperson for Qatar's foreign ministry announced on Saturday that a second batch of hostages will be freed by the Islamic group Hamas.

He said obstacles that delayed the release earlier have been overcome.

The group will reportedly hand over 13 Israelis and seven foreigners.

Egypt participated in the negotiations.

The move follows the release of 24 captives by Hamas on Friday. Thirteen Israelis were among them.

Israel permitted 39 Palestinian women and children to leave its prisons in exchange.

The Qatari spokesperson said 33 children and six women will be freed from Israeli prisons this time.

Hamas delayed the release of the second group of captives early on Saturday. It announced the handover would only take place when Israel allowed aid trucks to reach northern Gaza.

The truce agreement between Israel and Hamas calls for the group to free 50 hostages during a four-day pause in fighting.

Officials with the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs issued a press release on Friday.

They said 137 trucks carrying relief supplies had been offloaded in Gaza. They noted that it was the biggest humanitarian convoy to enter the Strip since October 7.

Key words : israel agreed 150 jailed
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20231125_05/

Israeli media outlets say 13 Israelis taken hostage by Hamas have now been released.

Hamas has agreed to release 50 women and children held in Gaza over the course of the four-day pause in fighting. Israel is set to free about 150 jailed Palestinians. Egypt and Qatar mediated the exchange amid the fighting in Gaza.

The Thai government earlier announced that it had confirmed the release of 12 Thai nationals.

Key words : people flock gas station
#N/A


Key words : israel rally all hostage
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20231126_08/

Demonstrators in Israel have called for the release of hostages held in the Palestinian territory of Gaza. Meanwhile pro-Palestinians rallied in New York.

In Israel's largest commercial hub of Tel Aviv, an organizer says about 100,000 people took part in a rally on Saturday, to mark exactly 50 days since the October 7 surprise attack by Hamas.

Relatives and supporters of hostages were on stage, holding pictures of their loved ones still held captive.
An Israeli singer sang a song that wishes their safe return. All the participants chanted for the immediate release of the hostages.

A woman whose 84-year-old mother was taken away said she is angry and sad. She said she is worried if her mother is getting the medications she needs.

On the delay of the hostage release announced by Hamas, she said Hamas is playing a game, which she likened to psychological terrorism. She said she expects the eventual release of all hostages but that everything is fluid.

Another participant said he hopes the hostages will be released even if the timing is delayed into the late hours. He said Hamas is trying to demoralize the families and to divide Israel but that they are committed to bringing all hostages back home.

Meanwhile, near the Central Park in New York, hundreds of people took part in a pro-Palestinian rally.

They condemned Israel's military operation in Gaza, hoisting placards and waving flags.

One of them called a four-day pause in the fighting too short. He said it is all a facade and that a four-day ceasefire is not a ceasefire.

A mother brought her child to the rally. She said children being killed in Gaza is one of most tragic things that ever happened. She said she had her child participate in the rally so that the child can see what it means to speak up for others.

The city was crowded with holiday shoppers as it is the Thanksgiving weekend but a large presence of police officers prevented major incidents.

Key words : multiple media cargo vessel
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20231126_04/

Multiple media outlets reported on Saturday that a cargo vessel had come under attack by a suspected Iranian drone in the Indian Ocean.

Outlets including the Associated Press quoted a US defense department official as saying that a Malta-flagged container ship was attacked on Friday by what appeared to be a Shahed drone.

The official said the assault damaged the ship, but didn't injure any of its crew.

The Associated Press reported that the vessel is owned by a Singapore-based shipping firm that is controlled by an Israeli billionaire. The US official reportedly said Washington continues to closely monitor the situation.

On November 19, a cargo ship operated by a Japanese firm was seized in the Red Sea by the Houthi rebel group in Yemen.

The Iran-backed group had threatened to continue targeting Israeli-linked vessels.

Key words : ukraine air force conducted
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20231126_01/

Ukraine's air force says Russia conducted its largest drone attack since the beginning of its invasion, targeting mainly the capital, Kyiv.

The air force said on Saturday that Russia launched 75 Iranian-made suicide drones against at least six areas, including Kyiv. It said 74 of them were destroyed by air defenses.

Ukraine's defense ministry said more than 60 drones were shot down over the capital and surrounding region.

Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko said at least five people, including an 11-year-old child, were injured as falling debris from downed drones damaged several buildings.

The energy ministry said the assault caused power outages in 77 residential buildings and 120 other structures in Kyiv.

The attacks coincided with the day commemorating the 1932-33 famine known as the Holodomor, which was allegedly inflicted upon Ukraine by Soviet leader Joseph Stalin.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy noted in a social media post that Russia launched the attack on the day of the Holodomor commemoration. Zelenskyy called the attack an act of "willful terror." He added that Russia's leadership "appears to be proud of its ability to kill people."

Zelenskyy wrote, "Our warriors shot down the majority of the drones, but not all of them." He vowed to continue to strengthen the country's air defenses.

Ukraine is becoming increasingly wary that as winter approaches Russia will conduct drone and missile attacks on energy infrastructure.

Key words : japan asked regrettable
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20231126_10/

Japan's foreign minister has asked her South Korean counterpart to review a court ruling ordering Tokyo to pay damages to those referred to as wartime comfort women. Kamikawa Yoko called the ruling extremely regrettable.

Kamikawa and Foreign Minister Park Jin met for about 90 minutes on Sunday morning at a hotel in Busan, South Korea.

Kamikawa took up the issue of Thursday's court decision. A South Korean high court reversed a lower court ruling that dismissed a demand for compensation filed by a group of former comfort women. She urged Park to take action to rectify what she describes as the state of violation of international law.

On North Korea's recent launch of what it claims to be a military spy satellite, the two ministers were in lockstep to condemn Pyongyang and reaffirmed the need for a coordinated response by Tokyo, Seoul, and Washington.

Tokyo is seeking closer cooperation with Seoul in security, as their strained relations have shown early signs of improvement while clarifying its stance on pending issues such as the comfort women.

Kamikawa is set to take part in a meeting of the foreign ministers of Japan, China and South Korea. They are meeting in person for the first time in four years.

She is expected to discuss their countries' cooperation and regional issues with the counterparts and propose a trilateral summit in the near future.

South Korean government sources report that Park said Seoul respects the 2015 bilateral agreement on those referred to as comfort women.

The sources say Park responded to Kamikawa's reaction to a court ruling during their meeting earlier in the day. The 2015 deal confirms that the issue involving the women had been resolved "finally and irreversibly."

The sources also say Park said both nations should work to restore the reputation and dignity of those affected by the issue and find a way to build future-oriented bilateral relations.

Key words : rugby london
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20231126_07/

A friendly rugby match has been held in southwest London honoring a Japanese rugby-loving diplomat who was killed in Iraq 20 years ago.

Ambassador Oku Katsuhiko played the sport in Japan and also in the United Kingdom for the University of Oxford, where he studied.

Reg Clark, the host of the friendly match called the Oku Memorial Trophy, met Oku at Oxford. They got to play rugby together after they graduated.

Clark has been hosting friendly matches of Japanese and British players every year since 2005. This year, the match took place on Saturday, with many Japanese living in the UK taking part as well as British players.

Clark received the Order of the Rising Sun from Japan this year for his contribution to promoting understanding between Japan and the UK through rugby and education.

Clark said he felt quite emotional about it.

He said Oku was a dynamic, forceful and skillful player.

Clark explained that rugby players in London got together and played in memory of Oku in 2005. It was enjoyable and emotional and they decided to do it every year.

He said that "It has become a big event for the Japanese community in London. So we continue to do it mostly because we enjoy it and mostly because we're convinced that Ambassador Oku would like us to remember him in this way."

Key words : visitor imperial palace
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20231125_16/

People are getting a chance to enjoy the autumn foliage inside a section of the Imperial Palace that is usually closed to the public.

A 600-meter-long avenue that runs through the palace, Inui Street, is lined with about 70 maple trees of eight different varieties.

As soon as the gates opened at 9:00 a.m. on Saturday, a crowd of people who had been waiting began to file in.

The autumn foliage in Tokyo has yet to peak as temperatures this year have been warmer than usual.

The Imperial Household Agency says the leaves are expected to change color over the next week.

Visitors slowly walked along the avenue and took pictures.

A man in his 40s who came with his wife said, although the foliage has yet to peak, some of the changing leaves were still perfect, and that it was a refreshing experience.

A woman in her 50s visiting with friends from Tsuruoka City in the northeastern prefecture of Yamagata said she had never been inside the palace before, and that it is a lovely avenue.

She said as she walked along, she couldn't help but think that the Emperor also walks there.

Inui Street will remain open to the public through December 3.

Key words : bath industry
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20231126_03/

Capybaras at a zoo north of Tokyo have enjoyed a hot bath with floating apples amid freezing temperatures.

Each year at this time, an outdoor bath is drawn for capybaras at Nasu Animal Kingdom in Tochigi Prefecture to help them cope with the cold. The giant rodents indigenous to South America are sensitive to cold weather.

On Saturday, six capybaras were given a special treat: some 100 apples to eat while soaking in the bath. They wasted no time munching on the apples.

Many visitors were seen taking photos of the animals, some of which appeared to be dozing in the hot water after filling their stomachs.

A man visiting with his family said it was so cold that he felt envious of the capybaras. He added that he was amazed at their appetite.

The apple bath event will be held again on Sunday, which is "Good Bath Day" as established by a Japanese bath industry group.

at 18:00 (JST), November 25

https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/upld/medias/en/radio/news/20231125180000_english_1.mp3


Key words : four-day pause underway red cross
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20231125_08/

Hamas has released 24 hostages, including 13 Israelis, as a four-day pause in the conflict with Israel got underway.

A Qatari foreign ministry spokesperson said on Friday the International Committee of the Red Cross had received the freed civilians. Qatar has been mediating between the two sides.

The spokesperson said some of the freed Israelis have dual citizenship. Ten other former hostages are from Thailand, and one is from the Philippines.

Qatar's foreign ministry also said Israel has released 39 Palestinian women and children from prison as part of the deal.

Hamas has agreed to free 50 hostages held in the Gaza Strip in phases.

The Israel Defense Forces said on Friday the released hostages had arrived in Israel.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that he and his staff are committed to the return of all those abducted. He said it is one of the goals of the war and Israel will achieve all its goals.

No fighting has been reported in the Gaza Strip since the pause began on Friday morning. But Israeli troops remain deployed in Gaza.

Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant told local media that the pause in the fighting would be short, and the war would continue for two more months.

Key words : Biden welcomed beginning
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Key words : united nations office
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20231125_17/

A four-day pause in the fighting between Israel and Hamas entered the second day on Saturday with both sides expected to release more hostages and prisoners.

On Friday, the Palestinian Islamic group Hamas released 24 hostages, including 13 Israelis, as the pause in the conflict with Israel got underway.

Israel freed 39 Palestinian women and children who had been detained in prison in Israel.

The AFP news agency and other media outlets have quoted an Israeli official as saying that 14 Israeli hostages will likely be released on Saturday in exchange for 42 Palestinian detainees.

Israeli media say that authorities in Israel expect Hamas to begin the second round of hostage releases at 4 p.m. on Saturday, local time.

The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, or OCHA, said on Friday that 137 trucks carrying relief supplies were offloaded in Gaza making it the biggest humanitarian convoy since October 7.

But it remains uncertain how many people will be able to get access to the goods.

Some Palestinian evacuees were seen returning to their homes to meet their families or collect personal items.

The Israeli military has been telling people taking shelter in southern Gaza not to return to northern areas.

Key words : us space force orbiting assigned
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20231125_09/

The US Space Force has assigned a satellite number to an object recently launched by North Korea, confirming that it is orbiting the Earth.

The assigned number, 58400, is listed on the satellite-tracking "Space Track" website operated by the Space Force. According to the website, the time it takes the object to complete an Earth orbit is about 90 minutes.

North Korea has announced that it successfully launched a reconnaissance satellite for the first time on Tuesday. It is called Malligyong-1.

South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff said on Wednesday that the object appeared to have entered into planned orbit.

US military officials are expected to work with their South Korean counterparts and others to analyze whether the satellite is functioning or what capabilities it has.

Key words : kim target area
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20231125_11/

A North Korean newspaper says leader Kim Jong Un has inspected photos taken by the country's new reconnaissance satellite of "major target areas" in South Korea.

Saturday's edition of the Rodong Sinmun, the ruling Workers' Party paper, said Kim reviewed the operational preparations for the satellite at the control center of the National Aerospace Technology Administration on Friday.

The paper said the photos were taken while the satellite was passing over the Korean Peninsula after 10:00 a.m. on Friday. They reportedly include images of Pyeongtaek in the central part of South Korea and Osan near Seoul, where US military bases are located.

The paper also mentioned a plan for the satellite to photograph "the enemy region" on Saturday morning.
Kim was said to have visited the control center the day after Tuesday's launch, where he observed aerial imagery of the US Andersen Air Force Base in Guam.

North Korea has yet to release any of these photos.

Pyongyang has indicated the new reconnaissance satellite will start operating on December 1. But South Korea's intelligence agency says it will not be able to determine the satellite's capabilities unless Pyongyang releases images.

Key words : top diplomats
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20231125_12/

The top diplomats of Japan, the United States and South Korea have strongly condemned North Korea over its recent launch of a spy satellite.

Japan's Foreign Minister Kamikawa Yoko and her US and South Korean counterparts, Antony Blinken and Park Jin, held talks by phone early Saturday, Japan time.

During the 20-minute talk, they said North Korea's satellite launch on Tuesday is a flagrant violation of UN Security Council resolutions which prohibits any launch using ballistic missile technology.

They once again shared the view that ballistic missile launches by North Korea constitute a grave and imminent threat to the regional security and pose a clear and serious challenge to the international community.

The ministers reaffirmed that they will work closely together toward the complete denuclearization of the North. They also cited efforts such as the enhancement of regional deterrence and responses at the UN Security Council.

They also discussed the Israel-Hamas conflict. Kamikawa expressed her respect to the US and other related countries for their efforts to help realize a pause in the conflict and the release of hostages.

Kamikawa told reporters that she expects Israel and Hamas will implement the deal of allowing the release of hostages and the pause of fighting to continue.

Key words : chancellor
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20231125_14/

The German government is struggling to draw up a budget plan following a court ruling that found the decision to reallocate pandemic funds unconstitutional.

Earlier this month, Germany's constitutional court ruled that reallocating unused funds secured in the 2021 supplementary budget for pandemic measures to projects to tackle climate change was unconstitutional. The court noted that the government should maintain fiscal discipline.

The ruling suggested that some current government spending could also be deemed unconstitutional.

The parliamentary budget committee has postponed a vote on the 2024 budget.

In a video message on Friday, Chancellor Olaf Scholz explained why drawing up a supplementary budget for this year and a budget plan for next year is difficult.

Germany has a self-imposed "debt brake" that restricts its structural budget deficit to the equivalent of 0.35 percent of gross domestic product. The rule was designed to maintain fiscal discipline based on lessons learned from hyperinflation experienced after World War One.

The German government can suspend the debt brake mechanism and make massive public spending if the parliament considers it an emergency.

Sholtz expressed his intention to ask parliament to allow this year's supplementary budget to be exempted from the debt brake rule.

For the regular 2024 budget, it is uncertain whether the government will be able to secure funding.

Experts are concerned that a prolonged budget crisis could impact the German economy.

Key words : nissan
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20231125_13/

Japanese automaker Nissan Motor says it will make a new investment of up to 2 billion pounds, or about 2.5 billion dollars, in a plant in northern Britain to expand electric vehicle production.

Nissan President and CEO Uchida Makoto announced the plan at a news conference on Friday at the firm's Sunderland plant.

The money will be spent on manufacturing two new EV models as well as research and development.

The move comes as Nissan aims to shift its passenger car lineup in Europe to fully electric by 2030. Uchida said the company is making that vision happen with Friday's announcement.

The automaker apparently hopes to expand its market share in Europe as the continent speeds up the shift to EVs.

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, who visited the plant, welcomed Nissan's investment, saying it is "a massive vote of confidence in the UK's automotive industry."

In 2022, Britain's car production fell nearly 10 percent from the previous year, to a little over 770,000 units.

at 18:30 (JST), November 24

Asian View
"Asian View" is a five-minute news segment broadcast by NHK WORLD-JAPAN. It features the latest news and deep analysis from Japan and the rest of Asia. Listen to "Asian View" and get the latest information from a region that's playing an increasingly important role in the world.





https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/upld/medias/en/radio/news/20231124183000_english_1.mp3


Key words : seoul high court dismissed
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20231123_14/

A high court in South Korea has ordered the Japanese government to pay damages after overturning a lower court's dismissal of a lawsuit filed by a group of people referred to as wartime comfort women and their relatives.

The Seoul High Court handed down the decision on Thursday after reviewing an earlier judgement dismissing the claims of 16 plaintiffs. Those taking part in the suit each sought 200 million won, or about 150,000 dollars, in compensation for mental and physical pain.

In 2021, a lower court dismissed the case based on sovereign immunity and past top-court rulings. Sovereign immunity is a legal concept that holds that states are immune from civil rulings from foreign courts of law.

The court in Seoul determined that the concept does not apply in this case, ruling that the Japanese government is liable for damages as claimed by the plaintiffs.

In the ruling, the court claimed that "Under customary international law, it is reasonable to recognize the jurisdiction of South Korean courts."

It also said illegal acts carried out in the course of mobilizing so-called comfort women on the Korean Peninsula are apparent, and compensation should be paid.

No Japanese government official attended the proceedings. Tokyo takes the position that the lawsuit should have been dismissed on the basis of sovereign immunity.

The ruling will be finalized if the Japanese government does not appeal to South Korea's Supreme Court.
Japan's Vice Foreign Minister Okano Masataka lodged a protest with South Korean Ambassador to Japan Yun Duk-min, saying that the ruling was extremely regrettable.

Okano said that the Japanese government could never accept the ruling, which denied the sovereign immunity stipulated under international law and acknowledged the plaintiffs' claim.

He also said Tokyo maintains that the issue concerning property and claims between Japan and South Korea was settled completely and finally in 1965 when the two countries normalized bilateral ties.

He urged the South Korean government to take proper measures to correct what he referred to as a violation of international law.

Key words : security specialist
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20231124_09/

An expert urged greater unity in the global effort to combat cyberattacks by North Korea amid rising concern that IT workers around the world are helping the regime steal cryptocurrency.

Security specialist Takeuchi Maiko says it's important for countries hit by online assaults to stand together to strengthen sanctions on North Korea. The former member of a UN panel on sanctions against Pyongyang says online crimes have been successful for the country and helped it fund nuclear and missile development programs.

A United Nations panel report examining sanctions against North Korea from January through July shows its thefts of cryptocurrency rose to a record last year.

The report says North Korea stole an estimated 1.7 billion dollars' worth of cryptocurrency from companies across the world in 2022.

The report says IT workers such as system developers in various countries may be involved in North Korean cyberattacks. It says there is a company in Laos working to coordinate such technicians.

A network supporting North Korean cyberattacks is reportedly spreading mainly in Asia. Takeuchi said Japan should urge other countries to work together to prevent such hacking and other malicious cyber activity.

Key words : discovered cosmic ray
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20231124_06/

An international team of scientists says it has discovered the second most powerful cosmic ray ever recorded. Cosmic rays are high-energy subatomic particles that rain down on Earth from outer space. A calculation indicates that only 1 gram of the particle contains enough energy to destroy Earth.

The group of researchers from Japan, the United States and six other countries made the announcement this week. The group has regularly analyzed data from 507 cosmic ray detectors that started operating in the desert in the US state of Utah in 2008.

The group said it detected a cosmic ray with an estimated energy of 244 exa-electron volts in May 2021.

The team named the particle "Amaterasu" after the sun goddess in Japanese mythology. Its energy intensity is second only to that of the "Oh-My-God" particle, which was measured at about 320 exa-electron volts in 1991.

The team has sought to trace back the trajectory of the Amaterasu particle, but has so far failed to pinpoint its source. It said the particle could have been generated by the explosion of a massive star.

One of the team members, Osaka Metropolitan University Associate Professor Fujii Toshihiro, said the group finally detected the particle after arduous observations. He added that the group will continue its observations to determine the particle's source.

Key words : maui wildfire
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/videos/20231101102645773/

Okinawans rally around Lahaina

An Okinawan librarian, who also studies Okinawan emigration to Hawaii, reaches out to fellow Okinawans to support Lahaina fire victims. It is a way to repay a kindness Lahaina residents showed their island in the aftermath of WWII.

at 18:30 (JST), November 22

Asian View
"Asian View" is a five-minute news segment broadcast by NHK WORLD-JAPAN. It features the latest news and deep analysis from Japan and the rest of Asia. Listen to "Asian View" and get the latest information from a region that's playing an increasingly important role in the world.





https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/upld/medias/en/radio/news/20231122183000_english_1.mp3


Key words : north into orbit new-type
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20231122_09/

North Korea's space agency says the country has launched a rocket carrying a military reconnaissance satellite and put it successfully into orbit.

The National Aerospace Technology Administration made the announcement on Wednesday through the state-run Korean Central News Agency.

It disclosed that a new-type carrier rocket "Chollima-1" loaded with the satellite "Malligyong-1" blasted off from the Sohae Satellite Launching Ground in the country's northwest at 10:42 p.m. on Tuesday.

The report said the country's leader Kim Jong Un oversaw the launch on the spot.

Japan's top government spokesperson has issued a statement strongly condemning North Korea's latest launch.

In the statement, Matsuno Hirokazu said Pyongyang has repeated its launches in defiance of repeated calls from the international community to abandon its nuclear and missile development programs. He points out that the North carried out the latest launch outside the announced time frame.

Matsuno said that the series of provocations poses a serious and imminent threat to Japan's security, and that is extremely regrettable and absolutely unacceptable.

He said the launch violates United Nations Security Council resolutions and poses a serious challenge to the entire international society. He added that Japan had lodged a stern protest with North Korea, condemned the country in the strongest terms, and conveyed the anger of Japanese people.

Matsuno demanded again that the North follow the UN resolutions immediately and completely. He urged Pyongyang to take concrete measures toward the comprehensive solution to concerns and pending issues, including abduction, nuclear and missiles.

Matsuno also said that Japan will boost its efforts to gather and analyze information about North Korea's up-to-date moves, including its military cooperation with Russia.

He added that Japan will continue its measures against North Korea, including sanctions, and step up cooperation and collaboration with the United States, South Korea and other parties in the international community. He said Japan is mulling a quick and decisive response, including further discussions at the UN Security Council.

He said Japan, on the axis of its alliance with the US, will further promote the triparty cooperation with South Korea based on the agreement at the trilateral summit in August.

Matsuno said Japan will enhance its deterrence and response capabilities through fundamental improvement of its defense, including counterstrike capabilities based on its national security strategy.

Key words : north okinawa lifted
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20231122_03/

The Japanese government announced on Tuesday at 10:46 p.m., local time, that North Korea launched at least one missile.

It likely flew over Japan's southwestern prefecture of Okinawa toward the Pacific Ocean.

The government issued an evacuation alert, which was later lifted. The Self-Defense Forces took no steps to destroy the projectile.

The government advises the public to stay away from anything that could be debris. Any sightings of possible debris should be reported to authorities.

North Korea had warned of plans to launch what it calls an artificial satellite into orbit sometime between November 22 and 30.

In an extremely rare occurrence, the latest launch came more than one hour ahead of that timeframe.

South Korea's military says the projectile is what Pyongyang calls a military reconnaissance satellite.

The latest launch is North Korea's third attempt at putting a so-called satellite into orbit, after failures in May and August.

Key words : bbc self-defense
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20231121_25/

The BBC has included a former member of Japan's Ground Self-Defense Force who spoke out about sexual violence within her unit in its annual list of 100 women for 2023.

The British public broadcaster on Tuesday released its annual list of 100 inspiring and influential women around the world.

This year's list includes Gonoi Rina, who went public about the sexual abuse she suffered from multiple male colleagues in her unit.

The BBC says Gonoi "launched a public campaign calling for accountability, a tough task in a male-dominated society where sexual abuse survivors face a fierce backlash if they speak out."

The BBC says her case pushed the SDF to conduct an internal investigation, which led to more than 100 other complaints of harassment.

Included on the list is former US First Lady Michelle Obama, who has worked to ensure girls are given an education.

Human rights lawyer Amal Clooney is also on the list. She has worked on human rights issues, including crimes against humanity in Ukraine.

Key words : unesco
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20231121_30/

The Japan branch of a UNESCO advisory panel has again asked the Tokyo Metropolitan government and developers to respond to its heritage alert to stop a redevelopment project for the Meiji Jingu Gaien, a historic and lush park in the center of the capital.

The International Council on Monuments and Sites, or ICOMOS, issued the alert in September this year to Tokyo and businesses linked to the project. The project led by Mitsui Fudosan calls for the felling of 743 trees, all more than three meters tall.

It said "Jingu Gaien... represents an outstanding cultural heritage, unparalleled in the history of urban parks worldwide."

ICOMOS Japan held a news conference at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Buildings on Tuesday.

It asked for a response, saying the original deadline of October 10 had been missed.

ICOMOS says it is unusual for it to make a second request after issuing a heritage alert. The panel is asking Tokyo to redo its environmental assessment that led to the endorsement of the project.

ICOMOS Japan Director Ishikawa Mikiko described the lack of a formal response as extremely regrettable and a serious situation.

She suggested it is better for everyone to think about how to pass the huge green space to future generations.

The heritage alert is not legally binding. One operator of the project has complained it was issued unilaterally at ICOMOS's own discretion. Tokyo has countered that redevelopment procedures are being conducted properly in accordance with relevant laws.

Key words : African-Canadian
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/radio/asianview/interviews/202311201652/

TEACHING KIDS THAT IT'S OK TO BE DIFFERENT

Kinota Braithwaite is an African-Canadian man who lives in Japan. One day, his biracial daughter Mio told him she was being bullied because of the color of her skin. This led Braithwaite to write a picture book about Mio’s experience and become a speaker on anti-racism and bullying issues in Japan, where diversity is an issue. We spoke with Braithwaite about his experience.

at 18:30 (JST), November 21

Asian View
"Asian View" is a five-minute news segment broadcast by NHK WORLD-JAPAN. It features the latest news and deep analysis from Japan and the rest of Asia. Listen to "Asian View" and get the latest information from a region that's playing an increasingly important role in the world.





https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/upld/medias/en/radio/news/20231121183000_english_1.mp3


Key words : coast guard notice other activities
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20231121_06/

Japan's Coast Guard says it has received notice from North Korea of a plan to launch what it claims is a satellite sometime between November 22 and November 30.

The notice specified areas where a projectile is likely to fall -- southwest of North Korea and the Pacific Ocean east of the Philippines. All of them are outside of Japan's exclusive economic zone.

The Coast Guard is urging vessels to be on the alert for any falling objects.

Under International Maritime Organization guidelines, member states are obliged to disclose in advance any plans for military drills or other activities that could pose a threat to vessels.

North Korea made unsuccessful attempts to launch a military spy satellite in May and August. It said it would try again in October, but it didn't follow through with that plan.

Similar notices were sent ahead of the two earlier launches. The Japan Coast Guard says possible time frames were given, and the launches came early in those windows.

Key words : learned singapore
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20231121_14/

NHK has learned that Japan, the United States and Singapore have joined forces to promote sustainable aviation fuel to cut CO2 emissions.
The three nations are participating in an international event in the United Arab Emirates.

The International Civil Aviation Organization is hosting a meeting in Dubai to discuss ways for international flights to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.

The three countries are expected to unveil their "green lane" initiative to push the use of sustainable aviation fuel, or SAF. The new eco-fuel is made from waste oil and plants.

The initiative would officially certify eco-friendly flights and airports could prioritize aircraft using the fuel for parking spots.

The three-nation team also aims to spark investment into companies that produce SAF.

Key words : landmine detector
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20231121_10/

Japan delivered landmine detectors and vehicles to Ukraine during a handover ceremony held in the Ukrainian capital of Kyiv on Monday.

The Russian military placed landmines across Ukraine after it invaded the country.

The handover ceremony was held at a square in front of the Saint-Sophia Cathedral, which is a World Heritage site located in central Kyiv.

Ukrainian officials were joined at the event by Japan's Ambassador to Ukraine, Matsuda Kuninori, State Minister for Foreign Affairs, Tsuji Kiyoto, and State Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry, Iwata Kazuchika.

Tsuji said landmines and unexploded shells must be removed, so residents can be safe, and so industries and people's livelihoods can be reconstructed.

Fifty mine detectors and 40 vehicles that will be used by the mine removal unit were displayed on the square.

The Japan International Cooperation Agency, or JICA, was involved in supplying them to Ukraine's State Emergency Service.

Japan also plans to give Ukraine an eco-friendly extinguishing agent that was developed by a company in the southwestern Japanese city of Kitakyushu. The agent is produced with ingredients that are used to make soap. It is expected to help put out flames caused by Russian attacks.

A Ukrainian official said the Japanese aid is very important for Ukrainian personnel in charge of landmine removal, as it will enable them to do their work effectively and precisely.

Key words : kyrgyz
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20231121_01/

Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov says his country will seek better relations with Japan through a regional cooperation framework proposed by Tokyo.

Japarov spoke to NHK in Tokyo on Monday during his first official visit to Japan.

Japarov thanked Japan for its long-running contributions to the development of Kyrgyzstan. He says his country is seeking a new form of cooperation with Japanese partners, expressing hope for deeper cooperation on modernizing its hydropower generation system and tackling climate change.

Japarov said preparations are underway for a summit in Kazakhstan next year involving Japan and five Central Asian nations. He said Kyrgyzstan is seeking to strengthen ties with Japan through the Japanese-proposed cooperation framework.

The former Soviet Union country has maintained close economic and security ties with Russia, despite its ongoing invasion of Ukraine. Kyrgyzstan has also expanded economic ties with China, which last year became the largest trading partner for the country.

Japarov stressed that his country remains neutral on conflicts taking place in the world. He said any conflicts should be peacefully resolved by diplomatic means under the Charter of the United Nations.

Japarov said Kyrgyzstan's trade and economic relations with its partners are affected by the current "complex" geopolitical situation and sanctions imposed by some countries. He added that his country is looking for a new logistics route, in light of Western sanctions on Russia.

Japarov also highlighted the importance of China's Belt and Road Initiative for his country. He said the initiative will allow Kyrgyzstan to make a foray into global markets as a transit country.

Key words : chinese defense
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20231121_03/

A Chinese defense ministry spokesperson has called Australia's claims of an unsafe encounter between Chinese and Australian warships "completely untrue."

In a statement released on Monday, the spokesperson says that Beijing has lodged formal representations with Australia over the issue.

The Australian defense ministry earlier issued a statement expressing its serious concerns to China's government following an "unsafe and unprofessional" interaction with a Chinese destroyer.

According to the statement, an Australian frigate was in international waters inside Japan's exclusive economic zone last Tuesday. When it stopped to conduct diving operations to clear fishing nets that had become entangled around its propellers, the Chinese vessel approached and used its sonar in a "manner that posed a risk to the safety of the Australian divers."

Australia's statement says the divers suffered minor injuries "likely due to being subjected to the sonar pulses from the Chinese destroyer."

The Chinese spokesperson urged Australia to "respect the facts, stop making reckless and irresponsible accusations against China." The spokesperson called on Australia to make efforts to "create a positive atmosphere for the sound development of relations between the two countries and two militaries."

China and Australia remain at odds over security issues, despite a recent improvement in economic relations.

Key words : takemi ban
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20231120_17/

Japan's health minister Takemi Keizo says he intends to soon ban an unregulated cannabis-like substance after it was detected in candy sold in Tokyo.

People in Tokyo and Osaka prefectures have complained of health problems after eating gummies produced by a firm in Osaka.

Last week, the health ministry's Narcotics Control Department inspected stores in the two prefectures.

Takemi told reporters on Monday that an unregulated substance, HHCH, which resembles a substance from cannabis, was detected in gummies sold at a Tokyo store.

He said he is mulling putting the substance on the list of designated drugs as soon as this week and banning its possession, use and distribution within 10 days after that.

The minister said he will also study listing substances with similar chemical compositions comprehensively as designated drugs, as substances other than HHCH also might emerge.

Takemi urged people not to consume the candies, which have become known as "cannabis gummies" because they are dangerous.

Key words : project manga
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20231120_33/

A project to create a new episode of Japanese manga legend Tezuka Osamu's Black Jack series with the help of generative AI has been completed and previewed to the media.

Tezka Macoto, the son of the late manga artist who headed the project, and Keio University professor Kurihara Satoshi, an expert on artificial intelligence, jointly met reporters at the university in Tokyo on Monday.

The "TEZUKA 2023" project kicked off in June to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the start of the Black Jack manga series, which centers on a genius surgeon who practices medicine without a license.

Tezka Macoto said the project's leaders are relieved the episode was completed as planned. He added he is happy for its creation, which was made possible through a collaboration between human art creators and AI.

He said he believes a very interesting episode has been made.

The team used generative AI models to come up with a basic storyline and to design a new character that appears in the work. The team members adjusted the basic ideas to come up with the final story while interacting with the generative AI models.

One of the members, film director Hayashi Kaizo, said artificial intelligence came up with ideas, including the title of the episode. He added the team conversed with the AI model, and had fun with its responses, which were weird when the questions were strange.

Reporters were shown the first five pages of the episode, in which the surgeon and his assistant are asked by a CEO of a company they are visiting to examine a patient, who is lying on a bed with multiple tubes attached to her.