2024年3月31日日曜日

at 18:00 (JST), March 31

https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/upld/medias/en/radio/news/20240331180000_english_1.mp3


Key words : inspected apparently
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240331_07/

Japan's health ministry inspects plant over beni-koji health concern

Japan's health ministry and local officials have inspected a pharmaceutical factory that handles raw materials for dietary supplements containing the ingredient "beni-koji," or red yeast rice. The supplements are apparently linked to kidney diseases and other health damage.

The factory is operated by a subsidiary of Kobayashi Pharmaceutical in Wakayama Prefecture, western Japan.

A team of 17 health ministry and Wakayama Prefectural officials arrived at the plant on Sunday morning for an inspection in accordance with the Food Sanitation Act.

The plant, in Kinokawa City, inherited the manufacturing equipment from Kobayashi pharma's aging plant in Osaka City after it was shut down last December.

Spokesperson of Kobayashi Pharmaceutical Tomiyama Yuko on Sunday told reporters that the company will fully cooperate with the authorities during the on-site inspection.

On Saturday, health ministry and Osaka City officials inspected the Osaka plant where Kobayashi pharma has identified a substance known as puberulic acid in samples that were produced between April and October last year. A direct link between the substance, often generated from blue mold, and health damage is not clear yet.

The drugmaker says as of Friday, five people had died and 114 others were hospitalized after using the company's beni-koji supplements. Those affected are said to have developed kidney and other health problems. About 680 customers have either seen a doctor due to health issues or wish to do so.


Key words : taiwan food three people
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240331_10/

Taiwan media: 3 health complaints related to 'beni-koji' supplements reported

A Taiwanese media outlet has reported that three people in Taiwan have now complained of ill health after taking dietary supplements containing "beni-koji," or red yeast rice.

The beni-koji used in the supplements was produced by the Japanese drugmaker Kobayashi Pharmaceutical. Taiwan's Central News Agency carried the report on Saturday. It cited a senior official at Taiwan's principal consumer protection agency of food, drugs, medical devices and cosmetics.

The media quoted the Taiwan Food and Drug Administration official as saying that his organization was informed of three cases in which people said they experienced unexpected reactions.

One of the three cases had already been reported. A woman in her 70s who lives in the southern city of Kaohsiung was diagnosed with acute kidney failure in March of last year. She reportedly started taking a supplement made by a Taiwanese manufacturer three or four years ago.

Local media say one of the two new cases involves a woman in her 40s who lives in the central city of Taichung. She reportedly said she had been taking a supplement, made by another firm in Taiwan, from July through December 2022. A drop in her kidney function was apparently diagnosed this January.

Officials at the Taiwan Food and Drug Administration say they will direct experts to look into any possible link between those health complaints and the use of products containing Kobayashi pharma's beni-koji.


Key words : reportedly transfer fighter jet
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240331_05/

US approves new transfer of weapons to Israel, US media reports

US media outlets have reported that Washington approved the transfer of fighter jets and bombs to Israel, as it continues its military operations in Gaza.

Palestinian Foreign Ministry criticized the move, saying, "Demanding Netanyahu to stop killing civilians and supplying him with weapons is an unprecedented principled and moral contradiction."

The Washington Post reported on Friday that the US administration under President Joe Biden this month "quietly" authorized the transfer of bombs and fighter jets to Israel.

The arms package, worth several billion dollars, reportedly includes 25 F-35A fighter jets and more than 2,300 bombs.

The administration, reportedly, did not provide fresh notification to Congress as the transfer had already been approved years ago.

Washington keeps supplying weapons to Israel, despite its concern about further civilian casualties in Israel's planned ground offensive on the southern city of Rafah.

The Israeli military has continued its operations in central and northern parts of Gaza. It said on Saturday in a social media post that Hamas fighters were killed by air strikes and their compounds had been struck.

The health authority in Gaza on Saturday said at least 32,705 Palestinians have been killed including 82 people who were killed in the past 24 hours.


Key words : foreign ministry says release
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240331_03/

Experts from Japan, China discuss Fukushima Daiichi treated water release

The Japanese Foreign Ministry says experts from Japan and China have held talks in China regarding the release of treated and diluted water into the sea from the crippled Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant.

The ministry says the meeting was held in northeastern China's Dalian on Saturday. Japanese government officials, representatives from Tokyo Electric Power Company, which operates the plant, and representatives from a number of Chinese research institutes took part.

The meeting was held in response to an agreement reached at a Japan-China summit last November.
The leaders of the two countries agreed that they would find ways to resolve the issue through negotiation and dialogue.

This is the first time that the ministry has released information on the talks.

Sources say the participants exchanged opinions from technical points of view.

They say the Japanese participants provided explanations based on scientific evidence. The Japanese side reportedly described the system that is being used to monitor the release of the treated and diluted water. The sources say the Japanese participants also explained that they are committed to ensuring that the work is being done safely and with transparency.

In order to monitor the safety of the operation, the International Atomic Energy Agency has been conducting its own sampling survey in Fukushima since the plant's operator started releasing the water into the Pacific in August of last year.

The Japanese government plans to continue to hold bilateral talks of this kind. The government also intends to keep calling on China to lift the suspension that it imposed on seafood imports from Japan.


Key words : media outlet ohtani
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240331_08/

Ohtani Shohei's former interpreter still has unpaid gambling debts, source says

A US media outlet has reported major League Baseball star Ohtani Shohei's former interpreter still has gambling debts with a bookmaker.

The Orange County Register has quoted a source associated with Mathew Bowyer -- an alleged illegal bookmaker -- as saying Mizuhara Ippei still has unpaid gambling debts. Bowyer reportedly declined comment to the media when reached by phone on Wednesday.

The Orange County Register reports that Bowyer's relationship with Mizuhara began in 2021, when they met through a mutual friend in a hotel lobby in San Diego, California.

It says the friend introduced Mizuhara, who was placing a bet on his cell phone with another bookmaker, to Bowyer, saying, "This is the guy you need to be betting with."

It says Mizuhara started betting small amounts on international soccer, basketball and football, but never baseball. It also says as his losses grew, so did his bets, according to the source.

US media had reported that at least 4.5 million dollars was transferred from Ohtani's bank account to an associate of Bowyer's. Ohtani's lawyers have accused Mizuhara of wiring the money. Mizuhara told US media and others that the money was meant to repay his sports gambling debts.


Key words : human speech
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240331_01/

US firm develops generative AI capable of reproducing a human voice

US venture firm OpenAI says it has developed generative artificial intelligence technology that can recreate human speech by using a short recorded voice sample of the original speaker.

OpenAI revealed its newly-developed AI "Voice Engine" on Friday.

The company says "Voice Engine" uses a 15-second audio sample and inputted text to generate human speech. "Voice Engine" reads the inputted text in a voice that closely resembles the original speaker's.

The firm says the new model can also translate the AI-generated speech into foreign languages. The model can reportedly preserve the native accent of the original speaker as it does so.

OpenAI says the AI technology can be used to support people who have trouble speaking, due to disease or other reasons. The firm says businesses can also use the AI technology to transmit information to foreign countries.

But there is concern that this kind of chatbot could be used to spread fake information during election campaigns or in other situations.

OpenAI said, "We recognize that generating speech that resembles people's voices has serious risks, which are especially top of mind in an election year."

The company says it does not plan to widely release the technology for the time being, because of the possible risks.
It says it still needs to take steps to prevent the technology from being misused. It cited the generation of the voices of celebrities as one type of misuse.


Key words : prices food and drink
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240331_06/

Prices of 2,800 food items to rise in April in Japan

Prices of food and drinks in Japan will rise in April reflecting increasing labor and transportation costs.

A survey of 195 food and beverage makers nationwide by a private research firm Teikoku Databank shows that the prices of 2,806 items will increase next month. Some will cost the same but the volume will be reduced.

It is a 48.1 percent drop from the number of items of which prices were increased a year ago. Last April, prices of 5,404 items were raised. But the increase this April is the largest since the beginning of the year.

Over 2,000 of them are frozen food and other processed food, including hams and sausages. Price increases are also planned for nearly 370 condiments such as broth products and ketchup, and about 290 alcoholic and other beverages.

The average rate of increase is about 23 percent in yen terms. It shows a moderate rising trend from one or two years ago.

Teikoku Databank says that the makers are passing labor costs on as wages rise.

Transport costs are also expected to rise as a cap on drivers' work hours will be imposed from April and that will worsen the driver shortage and possibly shrink the nation's shipping capacity.

The research firm expects more increases in the coming months, which stem from higher import costs due to the weaker yen and rising raw material costs because of global climate problems.


2024年3月30日土曜日

at 18:00 (JST), March 30

https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/upld/medias/en/radio/news/20240330180000_english_1.mp3


Key words : factory osaka
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240330_10/

Authorities raid factory in Osaka over 'beni-koji' supplements health scare

Japanese authorities have raided a factory in Osaka City, western Japan, in an investigation into the widespread health concerns caused by supplements containing "beni-koji" fermented rice.

Sixteen officials from the health ministry and the city entered Kobayashi Pharmaceutical's Yodogawa factory under the Food Sanitation Act on Saturday morning.

The plant was already shut down due to aging degradation, but had produced beni-koji until last December.

The company says the ingredient was made in 2023 at the factory for the product that caused health complaints.

The ministry says the firm has confirmed in its investigation the presence of "puberulic acid," an unintended substance, in a batch of the products. The substance can be produced from blue mold.

The firm says it is not clear if the substance has any effect on human bodies. But the officials are apparently looking into how it was mixed in the products during the production process.

Tomiyama Yuko, chief of Kobayashi Pharmaceutical's investor relations, said the firm intends to sincerely deal with the matter and fully cooperate with the investigation.

The drugmaker said that as of Friday, there were five deaths and 114 reports of hospitalizations among users of the beni-koji supplements. Those affected are said to have developed kidney problems and other health issues.

The company is investigating the link between the supplement and the deaths.


Key words : Saturday marks hong kong
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240330_07/

Businesses in Hong Kong wary a week after implementation of security legislation

Saturday marks one week since Hong Kong's new national security legislation took effect. Some international businesses there are raising concerns about how the legislation will be applied.

The legislation came into effect on March 23 after the Legislative Council unanimously passed it. The legislation prohibits acts that endanger national security, including theft of state secrets, espionage and external interference.

The Hong Kong government maintains that the legislation creates a good business environment by safeguarding national security. But there are concerns that information acquired by businesses could be deemed state secrets.

The president of the German Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong, Johannes Hack, told NHK that the legislation has yet to have any significant impact.

He said the definition of state secrets can be broad, and that businesses will need to keep a close watch on how the legislation is implemented.

He also said it's important for Hong Kong to strike the right balance between openness and security to maintain its attractiveness as an international business hub.

He expressed hope for continued dialogue with the Hong Kong government over concerns and questions about the legislation's implementation.


Key words : radio free
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240330_11/

US-backed Radio Free Asia announces closure of Hong Kong bureau

The US government-backed Radio Free Asia says it has closed its Hong Kong bureau, citing concerns about the safety of its staff and reporters in the territory under the new national security legislation.

The Washington-based radio station made the announcement on Friday, a week after the legislation took effect in Hong Kong.

In a statement, the RFA president said the actions of Hong Kong authorities "raise serious questions about our ability to operate in safety with the enactment" of the national security legislation.

The legislation prohibits espionage, external interference and the theft of state secrets.

US, European and other critics say the law's definitions are broad and vague. They fear it could be used arbitrarily to harm business operations and media reporting.

The RFA had been airing unique reports on political and social affairs related to Hong Kong and mainland China. Authorities in Hong Kong had been accusing such reports of being slanderous.

The media outlet says it "will shift to using a different journalistic model reserved for closed media environments," and expressed its intention to continue to air reports in Hong Kong, mainland China and elsewhere.

Local media are reporting that RFA staff in Hong Kong will move to other places, such as Taiwan or Washington.

An increasing number of people believe it is a sign of tightened restrictions on free speech in the territory.


Key words : israel send hostage
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240330_08/

Israel approves renewed talks with Hamas

Israel says it will send a delegation for negotiations with Hamas in the days to come, as Israel's prime minister approves the resumption of ceasefire and hostage release talks.

The Israeli prime minister's office made the announcement in a statement issued on Friday.

It said Benjamin Netanyahu has "approved the next round of talks -- in the coming days -- in Doha and Cairo, with guidelines for moving forward in the negotiations."

Hamas has not objected to negotiations with Israel, increasing the likelihood that the talks will resume.

Qatar and others have been acting as mediators.

On Monday, Hamas effectively rejected proposals by Israel and mediators by reiterating its demand for a permanent ceasefire.

Israel dismissed the Palestinian group's demand, and negotiators suspended the talks.

Meanwhile, Israeli forces continued to carry out air raids across the Gaza Strip. Local media on Friday said at least 20 people, including women and children, were killed in intense Israeli bombings on Gaza City in the north as well as in the southern part of the enclave.

Gaza health authorities said on the same day that 71 people had been killed in the previous 24 hours, bringing the total death toll from the Israeli offensive to 32,623.


Key words : syria airstrike
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240330_02/

Over 30 people killed in airstrikes in Syria

Government officials in Syria say Israeli airstrikes have killed dozens of people in the northern province of Aleppo.

A defense ministry statement on Friday says civilians and military personnel are among the dead.

The Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights says 36 soldiers were killed.

The Observatory says it's the largest ever death toll sustained by government forces in a single Israeli attack on Syrian territory.

The strikes targeted a weapons depot used by the Shia militant group Hezbollah, which has sought to support the Islamic group Hamas.

Reuters news agency quoted security sources as saying five Hezbollah fighters were killed.

Israeli forces refrained to comment when NHK asked if they were involved in the attacks.


Key words : giant huawei
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240330_03/

Huawei posts strong profits despite US trade restrictions

Chinese telecom giant Huawei Technologies has reported that its profits more than doubled last year, despite US trade restrictions.

The firm released its annual report for 2023 on Friday.

Revenue jumped 9.6 percent from a year earlier to 704.1 billion yuan, or 97.5 billion dollars. Net profit rose 2.4-fold to 86.9 billion yuan, or 12 billion dollars.

The US government tightly controls trade between American companies and Huawei, citing concerns about national security.

Export restrictions on semiconductors dealt a blow to the company's smartphone business. But last year, Huawei released new models powered by a Chinese chip.

Revenue at Huawei's consumer unit, which sells smartphones and other devices, surged more than 17 percent from the previous year.

Revenue at the firm's automotive solutions arm rose 2.3-fold.

Huawei Rotating Chairman Ken Hu says the company has managed to grow despite a challenging few years.


Key words : learned contest
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240330_09/

Japanese student book report contest flags, drops entries written with AI

NHK has learned that the organizer of a Japanese book report contest for students has excluded at least 10 entries for containing sentences generated with artificial intelligence.

The contest was started over half a century ago, with entries submitted through elementary to senior high schools nationwide.

The organizer, Japan School Library Association, said there were about 2.6 million entries this academic year.

Association officials said they identified multiple works that apparently had not been written by the entrants themselves. The officials said that among them were at least 10 that the entrants admitted using generative AI to write.

In dropping those entries, the association noted that its application guidelines stipulate that the works should not contain plagiarized material or other improper citations.

Generative AI is expected to have an impact on education. It can be used for proofreading, sharpening ideas, and other purposes.

The association said that it believes only a small number of people are improperly using the technology.

The association said it plans to consider how AI can be used in tandem with the principle that students write book reports in their own words.


2024年3月29日金曜日

at 18:00 (JST), March 29

https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/upld/medias/en/radio/news/20240329180000_english_1.mp3


Key words : news conference containing apology
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240329_23/

Drug maker offers apology for health scare caused by 'beni-koji' supplements

A Japanese drug maker has offered an apology for the widespread health concerns caused by its supplements containing "beni-koji" red yeast rice.

Kobayashi Pharmaceutical on Friday held its first news conference since deaths were reported among users of the products, which are now subject to a recall.

President Kobayashi Akihiro expressed his condolences for the deceased customers and their family members. He added he is deeply sorry for causing concern and anxiety to many people over the issue that has developed into a social problem.

The Osaka-based firm was initially informed of suspected health damage in January, but did not go public for more than two months.

President Kobayashi said the company is seriously reflecting on the severe criticism it has faced over the time lapse, and is deeply remorseful.

The drug maker said that as of Thursday night, there were five deaths and 114 reports of hospitalizations among users of the beni-koji supplements. Those affected are said to have developed kidney problems and other health issues.

Kobayashi Pharmaceutical has launched a probe into what it calls an "unintended substance" that may have gotten into the ingredients of the supplements.

A senior company official said "the structure of the substance" has been coming to light in the past week.

The official said the company will investigate the cause of the health problems jointly with government institutions, by providing data to the government and others.

The health ministry and the agency in charge of consumer affairs have launched a joint Japanese language hotline to respond to inquiries by consumers and businesses.

The number is 03-3595-2760. The call center will operate from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. every day, including weekends and national holidays.


Key words : president appropriate
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240329_01/

Japan health ministry to ask firms to conduct inspection amid beni-koji concerns

Japan's health ministry says it will ask about 200 companies to conduct self-inspections in response to growing concerns about health supplements containing "beni-koji." That is rice fermented with red yeast.

The Kobayashi Pharmaceutical products are reportedly linked to four deaths and dozens of hospitalizations.

A panel of experts convened by the ministry met Thursday and recommended the measure.

The government says it will ask companies that received Kobayashi's "beni-koji" material to conduct self-inspections.

Japanese Chief Cabinet Secretary Hayashi Yoshimasa said earlier that the government will work to ensure food safety.

He said: "We've provided information to the World Health Organization and foreign governments. We'll keep doing so in an appropriate and timely manner to maintain public trust in Japanese food products."

Kobayashi Pharmaceutical held a shareholders' meeting behind closed doors on the same day. Its president apologized and said the firm will investigate the cause.

One shareholder said, "It's a problem that the company is causing people so much trouble."

Another shareholder said, " I hope the cause of this will be discovered soon and that the many people taking the company's other products feel safe."

"Beni-koji" is taken in pill form by people wanting to lower their cholesterol, or for other health reasons.

The company says some manufactured between last April through December could contain an "unintended substance." It says that substance could be the cause.

The company says more than 90 people who consumed the products were hospitalized after developing kidney problems.

Nihon University School of Medicine Professor Abe Masanori examined three of those patients from November last year to last month.

He said none of them had chronic disease before they started ingesting Kobayashi Pharmaceutical's "Benikoji CholesteHelp" around last spring.

He added, "In one case, if the patient had not been undergoing regular blood and urine tests, her condition could have advanced to a point where it was detected only when it was terminal.

Abe says he was concerned about the product and contacted Kobayashi Pharmaceutical last month, explaining the patients' symptoms in detail.


Key words : osaka city ordered
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240329_21/

'Beni-koji' supplement concerns spreading overseas

Concerns about a Japanese drug maker's health supplements containing "beni-koji," or rice fermented with red yeast, are also spreading overseas.

Five deaths have been reported in Japan in association with the products manufactured by Osaka-based Kobayashi Pharmaceutical. The patients reportedly developed kidney problems and other health issues.

In China, Kobayashi Pharmaceutical's supplements and other products are widely known. Chinese state-run media outlets have been extensively covering the related news and the topic has gathered attention on social media as well. The company announced it has suspended the sales of its products marketed online in China. It is also calling on customers to stop taking the supplements, adding that it will recall them voluntarily.

In Taiwan, local media outlets reported that a woman in her 70s, who lives in the southern city of Kaohsiung, was diagnosed with acute kidney failure in March last year after starting to take a supplement containing "beni-koji" three or four years ago.

The reports said the woman took the supplement that was manufactured by a Taiwanese company with Kobayashi Pharmaceutical's ingredients.

Local health authorities said it remains unclear whether the supplement induced the health problem. They added that they found records showing that the ingredient was imported to Taiwan. More than 30 local businesses are recalling products containing the ingredient.

As for Hong Kong, Kobayashi Pharmaceutical said its products containing beni-koji have not been sold. It added that it will recall products bought in Japan.

In Vietnam, the health ministry is warning the public not to take the supplements on the government's official website. It is also calling on people to report to authorities if they find the products. The ministry officials say the supplements have not been officially marketed in the country.

South Korea's Ministry of Food and Drug Safety said the three Kobayashi Pharmaceutical products, which Japan's Osaka City has ordered to be recalled, have not been imported to the country. It said it has not received any reports about the health problem. The ministry has urged online marketers to warn against the products and refrain from selling them.


Key words : government decided sector
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240329_12/

Japan to add 4 more sectors to specified skilled foreign worker program

The Japanese government has decided to add four more sectors to its specified skilled worker program to attract foreign workers in fields that have labor shortages.

The Cabinet reached the decision on Friday on the program that additionally grants residency status to non-Japanese workers with expert skills.

The program currently covers 12 sectors, including nursing care, construction and agriculture. The four new fields are auto transportation, railroads, forestry and timber.

Bus and taxi drivers as well as train drivers and conductors will now be able to apply for the program. A high-level of Japanese language proficiency is a requirement for those jobs because they involve communication and safety management skills.

The government aims to accept up to 820,000 foreign workers in the 16 sectors in the five years from the fiscal year that begins in April.


Key words : talent agency two staff
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240329_10/

Former Johnny & Associates admits sexual abuse by two staff members

A Japanese firm previously known as Johnny & Associates says two staff members at the former talent agency sexually abused clients.

Smile-Up. made the announcement on its website late Thursday, admitting for the first time there were multiple perpetrators, other than the late founder of Johnny & Associates, Johnny Kitagawa.

Kitagawa was found to have sexually abused his agency's talent. Smile-Up. is currently compensating victims.

The admission came after British public broadcaster BBC published an interview with Smile-Up. President Higashiyama Noriyuki.

A special investigative team of outside experts published a report last year and pointed out sexual abuse cases involving staff of Johnny & Associates.

Smile-Up. admitted to the allegations at a news conference, but did not reveal the number of perpetrators at that time.

The agency says it took strict measures against the two staff members by September. It says it has refrained from providing details of the abuse cases to protect the privacy of those involved.

Smile-Up. says it has not received any reports from people who say they were sexually abused by staff of the former agency. But the company says it will examine any claims and compensate the victims.


Key words : china economic forum Tatehata Kazuo
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/videos/20240329155656236/

China urges foreign investment at Boao Asia Forum

At an annual economic forum in China, the country's third-highest ranking official has appealed for more foreign investment. This cones as China's economic outlook is becoming increasingly unclear, amid a prolonged real estate slump. NHK World's Tatehata Kazuo explains.


Key words : international court
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240329_07/

ICJ orders Israel to do more in humanitarian assistance

The International Court of Justice has instructed Israel to take all necessary measures to make sure that people in the Gaza Strip receive humanitarian assistance.

The ICJ issued additional provisional measures for Israel on Thursday. It says the catastrophic living conditions of the Palestinians in the Gaza Strip have deteriorated further, and that "famine is setting in."

The court requests that Israel take all necessary and effective measures to ensure that urgently needed basic services and humanitarian assistance are delivered to Palestinians throughout Gaza.

The court says the measures, including increasing the capacity and number of land crossing points, should be taken in full cooperation with the United Nations.

South Africa earlier filed a complaint with the ICJ, saying Israel's military campaign is an act of genocide against residents of the Gaza Strip.

The court issued provisional measures in January, instructing Israel to make sure that humanitarian assistance is delivered to Gaza residents, among other requests.

The ICJ has no powers of enforcement. The court issued the additional provisional measures to make requests in stronger terms as it decided that the January order was not enough to address the worsening situation in Gaza.


Key words : palestinian kamikawa ask
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240329_03/

Japan FM meets UNRWA head in step towards resuming funding for agency

Japan's foreign minister has held talks with the head of the UN agency for Palestinian refugees as a step towards resuming the country's financial contribution to the organization.

Kamikawa Yoko met the commissioner-general of UNRWA, Philippe Lazzarini, in Tokyo on Thursday.

Japan suspended its funding to UNRWA in January following allegations that some of the agency's staff were involved in the deadly Hamas attacks on Israel last October. The United States and some European nations also put their funding on hold.

The Foreign Ministry said that Kamikawa asked Lazzarini to carry out effective structural reforms to ensure the transparency and traceability of UNRWA's fund flows as well as the neutrality of the agency's personnel.

Kamikawa said Japan's contribution to UNRWA is a valuable resource funded by taxpayers. She said it is important to strengthen the agency's governance to ensure that Japan's assistance is not used for terrorist activities.

Lazzarini outlined his agency's plan to reinforce its governance. He said UNRWA will establish a new framework with Japan on management and monitoring to ensure the transparency and traceability of projects. He added that this will involve the active participation of the agency's Japanese staff.

The Foreign Ministry said Kamikawa expressed appreciation for UNRWA's action plan and the two sides "confirmed that they will advance final coordination about necessary efforts to resume Japan's contribution."

Lazzarini told reporters after the talks that the meeting was "very constructive." He pledged to strengthen his agency's risk management.


Key words : canada
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240329_25/

UNRWA chief expresses hope Japan will resume funding amid crisis in Gaza

The head of the United Nations' refugee agency for Palestinians has expressed hope that Japan will resume funding for the organization amid a deepening humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip.

Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini of the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East, or UNRWA, spoke to the media on Friday during his visit to Japan.

Major donor countries, including Japan, suspended funding for UNRWA following allegations that some of its staff were involved in the deadly Hamas attacks on Israel last October.

Lazzarini said it has become a "race against the clock" to reverse the "unfolding starvation and famine" taking place in Gaza.
He said the lack of funding for UNRWA is unsettling, not only for the communities it is supporting, but also for the agency's staff.

He said that "with the unprecedented humanitarian crisis in Gaza, obviously it's important that an agency like UNRWA, having the biggest footprint in Gaza, be able to continue to operate."

Canada, Sweden, France and others announced this month that they will resume funding for UNRWA. Therefore, Japan's decision is being closely watched, as it was organization's sixth largest contributor.

Lazzarini referred to the agency's 70 years of partnership with Japan.

He expressed hope that Tokyo will resume its financial contributions, and also provide political support to the agency.
Regarding the United States, UNRWA's top donor, Lazzarini said the US has informed the agency that there will be no funding until March 2025, and that this will have an impact on the organization's activities.

Lazzarini said he will redouble his efforts to reach out to new donors in Southeast Asia and elsewhere to seek their cooperation.


Key words : weather Yuumi Hirano
#N/A


2024年3月28日木曜日

at 18:00 (JST), March 28

https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/upld/medias/en/radio/news/20240328180000_english_1.mp3


Key words : north orbit
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240328_21/

South Korean media: N.Korea may be preparing next spy satellite launch

South Korean media say North Korea is making preparations to launch a second military satellite from a site in its northwestern region. Pyongyang says it successfully launched its first spy satellite in November.

The Yonhap News Agency on Thursday quoted South Korean military sources as saying that a covering was set up recently at the Sohae satellite launching station.

The report said the North is apparently preparing to launch another spy satellite because it set up a similar cover when assembling a rocket in the past. The cover is believed to have been used to avoid monitoring by US reconnaissance satellites.

The news agency also said it has been confirmed that a combustion test of an engine for a three-stage rocket has been carried out.

A spokesperson for South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff told a news conference on Thursday that while there are activities for an additional military satellite launch by the North, there are no signs of an imminent launch as of now.

North Korea's five-year defense program calls for operations of reconnaissance satellites. Following what it called a successful launch of the Malligyong-1 satellite in November, Pyongyang says it will launch three more this year.

South Korea plans to put its second reconnaissance satellite into orbit by using a US private-sector rocket in early April. A view is growing in the country that the North may go ahead with a second launch before then.


Key words : russia communities
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240328_N02/

Russian authorities target migrants in wake of Moscow concert hall attack

Russian leaders are trying to "identify and punish" those responsible for Friday's terrorist attack at a concert hall on the outskirts of Moscow. They have blamed Ukraine and its Western allies for being involved, but they are also toughening their policy towards migrants.

Islamic State militants claimed responsibility for the attack, which killed 143 people and wounded more than 300. Authorities charged four men who are believed to be from Tajikistan.

Local media say security services have been conducting raids over the past few days on migrant communities, particularly those from Central Asia. They quote human rights lawyers as saying they have received more than 1,000 calls for help from people who have been detained or tortured.

Tajikistan's embassy has warned its citizens in Russia to avoid public gatherings. Kyrgyzstan's foreign ministry is telling its people to "temporarily refrain" from traveling there.

Still, Russian leaders say it is "extremely difficult to believe" Islamic militants have the capabilities to organize such an attack by themselves.

Foreign ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova said at a news conference on Wednesday that Western leaders are placing all the blame on the Islamic State group, but they are "behind these banned terrorist organizations."

Russian authorities say Ukraine, the US and the UK were behind the attack. British Foreign Minister David Cameron said on social media that those claims are "utter nonsense."


Key words : still a lot of questions attack
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/videos/20240328154425573/

What is ISIS-K and why did it target Russia?

ISIS-K has claimed responsibility for a deadly attack at a concert hall near Moscow. Officials inside Russia are pinning the blame on the West. Middle East expert Professor Tanaka Koichiro speaks to NHK on ISIS-K's motives, and the potential impact of Russia's narrative on a global scale.


Key words : two more people early 2022
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240328_13/

Two more deaths reported in Japan of people who took 'beni-koji' supplements

Japanese drug maker Kobayashi Pharmaceutical says two more people have died after taking its health supplements that contain "beni-koji" ingredients. "Beni-koji" is rice fermented with red yeast.

Thursday's announcement brings to four the number of people who died after taking the supplements. More than 100 others have been hospitalized after developing kidney problems.

The company says one of the newly identified two took the supplements around 2021, and the other in early 2022.

Their families reported that they showed possible symptoms of kidney disease.

The company says products manufactured from April through December last year may contain an "unintended substance" that caused the deaths and illnesses. It has launched a detailed investigation.

The city of Osaka on Wednesday issued an administrative order to Kobayashi Pharmaceutical to recall three types of "beni-koji" supplements.


Key words : Kishida recieved a report
#N/A


Key words : health ministry convene expert
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240328_15/

Japan's health ministry to convene expert panel on 'beni-koji' supplements

Japan's health ministry will convene a panel of experts on Thursday to look into the widespread health problems caused by "beni-koji" supplements.

The supplements made by Japanese drug maker Kobayashi Pharmaceutical contain extracts of red yeast-fermented rice.

Four people who took them have died after developing kidney problems. Another 106 have been hospitalized.

Kobayashi Pharmaceutical officials will explain to the panel about products which have already been recalled. Doctors and experts in nutrition science and pharmacology, will make recommendations on what to do about the company's products made with "beni-koji" that have not been recalled.

The ministry will consider measures in the light of the experts' opinions.


Key words : government two years ago motion
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240328_09/

Japan govt. report analyzes how quake caused bullet train derailment in 2022

A government report on the derailment of a bullet train in northeastern Japan two years ago says the rocking motions of a major earthquake are believed to have made most of its wheels come off the tracks.

The Japan Transport Safety Board released its report on the March 2022 incident on Thursday. A magnitude 7.4 earthquake off northeastern Japan caused the Tohoku Shinkansen bullet train to derail in Miyagi Prefecture, injuring six passengers. Services on the line were disrupted for about two months.

The board's report says the bullet train stopped after a foreshock activated an emergency brake. It says the main shock caused 60 of the 68 sets of wheels to come off the tracks.

The report says experiments and simulations were conducted by a research institute at the request of the board and the train operator, East Japan Railway Company.

The report also says the air spring systems to absorb shaking motions were significantly deformed by the tremor. It says the deformation caused air to be released and this contributed to the derailment.

The train also had metal guides attached to the wheel hubs to prevent them from moving too far from the tracks. But the report says the guides on 12 of these hubs failed to work, causing a deviation of up to 1 meter.

The report points to the need for more sophisticated measures to prevent derailments to ensure the safety of Shinkansen bullet trains.


Key words : espn says 4.5 million joint
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240328_11/

US Dept. of Homeland Security, IRS probing Ohtani's ex-interpreter, ESPN says

US sports channel ESPN says the Department of Homeland Security and tax authorities are jointly investigating Mizuhara Ippei, the former interpreter for Major League Baseball star Ohtani Shohei.

Mizuhara was dismissed by the Los Angeles Dodgers last week following allegations he was involved in illegal gambling.

US media had reported that about 4.5 million dollars was transferred from Ohtani's bank account to an alleged illegal bookmaker. Ohtani has said Mizuhara accessed his account and wired the money to the bookmaker without his permission.

ESPN reports that the department confirmed on Tuesday that Homeland Security Investigations Los Angeles is working with the Internal Revenue Service to investigate Mizuhara.

The IRS is also investigating Mizuhara and bookmaker Mathew Bowyer. ESPN says HSI is conducting a joint federal probe with IRS Criminal Investigation Los Angeles Field Office.

ESPN says the agency did not provide further details on the ongoing investigation or if it had been contacted by Ohtani's representatives.


Key words : world weather Jonathan Oh
#N/A


2024年3月27日水曜日

at 18:00 (JST), March 27

https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/upld/medias/en/radio/news/20240327180000_english_1.mp3


Key words : foreign exchange
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240327_15/

Yen falls to lowest against dollar since 1990

On the Tokyo foreign exchange market, the Japanese yen briefly fell below the 151.94-per-dollar mark on Wednesday for the first time since July 1990.

Investors are increasingly selling the yen and buying the dollar.

The remarks of a BOJ policy board member are also having an influence. He said in a speech that he thinks the relaxed monetary environment will continue for the time being.


Key words : weaken suzuki
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240327_19/

Yen falls to lowest against dollar since 1990

The Japanese yen briefly fell to the 151.97-per-dollar level on Wednesday for the first time since July 1990.

Investors are increasingly selling the yen and buying the dollar. The remarks of a BOJ policy board member are also having an influence. He said in a speech that he thinks the relaxed monetary environment will remain in place for the time being.

The yen has continued to weaken against the dollar since the BOJ monetary decision on March 19.

Japanese Finance Minister Suzuki told reporters he's watching the market closely and has not ruled out any options in terms of a decisive response. Market sources say there is growing sense of caution among traders who are wary of government intervention to keep the yen in check.


Key words : health ministry second death
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240327_04/

Govt. discovers second death linked to health supplements

Japan's health ministry says a major Japanese drug maker has reported the second death of a person who had taken its health supplements containing red yeast rice, or "beni-koji."

Osaka-based Kobayashi Pharmaceutical issued a voluntary recall last week for three products containing the ingredient.

The move came after the revelation that some people have developed kidney disease or other health issues after consuming one of those products.

The health ministry questioned the drug maker on Tuesday and published their findings. It had been earlier found that one supplement user died.

The ministry said details of the second death are not yet known. But it said it confirmed a doctor's written comment saying the person's kidney was damaged.

The questioning also found that Kobayashi Pharmaceutical has been contacted by about 3,000 supplement users voicing their health concerns.

The company also told the ministry that 106 people have been hospitalized so far, but it has not yet confirmed whether there is any link between the red yeast rice in question and health problems.

Ministry officials suspect the three products the company has been recalling contain harmful substances.

The ministry has sent a notification to the Osaka city government to urge local officials to take measures such as ordering the company to dispose of the products in accordance with the Food Sanitation Act.

The health ministry will hold a meeting of relevant ministry officials on Wednesday to discuss this matter. It also plans to convene an investigative committee of experts as early as later this week.


Key words : beni-koji lower
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240327_02/

Kobayashi Pharmaceutical: Supplement user died this year

A major Japanese drug company says a person who had been taking one of its health supplements containing red fermented rice, has died of kidney disease.

More than 70 people who had been using its products have now been confirmed or reported to be hospitalized.

Kobayashi Pharmaceutical on Friday issued a voluntary recall for "Benikoji ColesteHelp" and other products. The dietary supplement is aimed at lowering cholesterol.
Red fermented rice, also known as, beni-koji is the key ingredient. The company has sold more than a million packages since 2021.
Kobayashi Pharmaceutical announced on Tuesday that a customer who had bought the supplement for about three consecutive years died earlier this year.
It says it suspects a causal relationship between "Benikoji ColesteHelp" and the death, though the official cause is still unknown.
Some red fermented rice can produce a toxin called citrinin which can damage the kidneys.

The company said on Friday that citrinin has not been detected in the supplement in question.

This food safety expert says it's possible that a highly toxic substance was for some reason mixed into the product.
University of Tokyo Professor emeritus Karaki Hideaki says companies that handle microorganisms or fungi have very strict protective measures in place so that there is no contamination from outside.
Karaki says he believes the situation could be caused by either an unexpected accident, or human involvement.

Japan's chief cabinet secretary says the government plans to conduct a hearing with Kobayashi Pharmaceutical about its response, and will take proper action based on the results.


Key words : analyzing 18 unintended ingredient
#N/A


Key words : austin met washington
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240327_14/

US conveys concerns to Israel over Rafah ground operations

US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has conveyed his concern to his Israeli counterpart about Israel's plan for a ground offensive in the southern Gaza city of Rafah.

Austin met with Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant in Washington on Tuesday. The two discussed alternative approaches to the planned military operation.

Referring to the situation in the Gaza Strip, the US defense secretary described the number of civilian casualties as "far too high" and the amount of humanitarian aid as "far too low."

Austin also said, "The safety of the 1.5 million Palestinian civilians in Rafah is also a top priority of the United States."

He added that "operations in Rafah should not proceed without a credible and implementable plan that ensures the safety of and humanitarian support for civilians."

Gallant said the US and Israel need to join hands in their military and diplomatic efforts to increase pressure on the Islamic group Hamas, such as through hostage release negotiations.

Israeli forces are intensifying attacks on several hospitals in the enclave where they say Hamas fighters have based their operations.

The Palestine Red Crescent Society said on Tuesday that Al-Amal hospital in the southern city of Khan Younis "has stopped working completely."

On the same day, Gaza health authorities said the Israeli military is also stepping up its encirclement of the enclave's largest Al-Shifa hospital.


Key words : coast guard bridge
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240327_12/

Six missing workers presumed dead in US bridge collapse accident

The US Coast Guard says the six people missing after a bridge collapsed in the eastern state of Maryland are now presumed dead. It has suspended search and rescue operations.

Coast Guard officials said on Tuesday evening that it's unlikely that those missing are still alive, given the length of time that had passed since the accident.

A large cargo ship rammed into one of the columns supporting the bridge in Baltimore in the early hours of Tuesday. A major portion of the bridge collapsed.

The Port of Baltimore has been closed. Its entrance is being blocked by the damaged structure. The port is one of the United States' leading shipping hubs. For the past 13 years it has handled more automobile cargo than any other port in the country.

President Joe Biden held an emergency news conference on the same day. He noted that 15,000 jobs depend on the port. He said, "We are going to do everything we can to protect those jobs and help those workers."

Biden said he is sending the Army Corps of Engineers to speed up efforts to clear the channel before ship traffic can resume.

US media outlets report that in the meantime, many vessels are expected to use other ports in New York or elsewhere on the east coast, which could affect the local economy and logistics.


Key words : defense ministry chinese drone
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240326_38/

Chinese drone spotted over Sea of Japan for 1st time

Japan's Defense Ministry says it has spotted a Chinese military drone flying over the Sea of Japan for the first time.

Ministry officials said the WZ-7 reconnaissance drone was detected on Tuesday morning.

The ministry is keeping a close watch as the Chinese military is believed to be expanding its drones' flight zones.

The aircraft is thought to have first traveled over either Russia or North Korea. It reportedly flew away in the direction of the continent after circling over the Sea of Japan.

Japan's Air Self-Defense Force scrambled fighter jets, but the drone didn't violate Japan's airspace.

The Defense Ministry said Chinese military drones have previously been spotted over areas around Okinawa Prefecture.


Key words : learned haneda
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240327_13/

Japan Coast Guard Haneda station to resume flying planes

NHK has learned that the Japan Coast Guard will allow personnel at its base in Tokyo's Haneda Airport to operate its aircraft from Thursday.

A plane of the base was recently involved in a fatal collision at Haneda Airport. On January 2, it collided with a Japan Airlines jet on the airport's runway.

Everyone on board the passenger jet was evacuated safely, but five of the six crew on the coast guard plane were killed.

Since then, the Japan Coast Guard has suspended use of airplane for personnel deployed at Haneda Air station, in order to review safety measures and provide staff with psychological care.

Sources close to the matter said operation is now set to be resumed after safety was confirmed and care support provided.

Since early this month, coast guard pilots stationed at the air station have received training at Chitose Air Station in Hokkaido, northern Japan.

Only one of four coast guard planes deployed at Haneda is currently in operation, after one was lost in the accident and the remaining two placed under maintenance. The coast guard plans to use planes from nearby air stations if necessary.

It resumed helicopter operations at Haneda on March 1.


Key words : cherry blossom delay
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/videos/20240327161248128/

Arrival of Japan's cherry blossoms unpredictable

People across Japan are still awaiting the arrival of the elusive cherry blossoms. NHK meteorologist Jonathan Oh examines what's behind the delay, and what makes the season so hard to predict.


Key words : weather Tsietsi Monare
#N/A


2024年3月26日火曜日

at 18:00 (JST), March 26

https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/upld/medias/en/radio/news/20240326180000_english_1.mp3


Key words : ohtani no involvement
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240326_13/

Ohtani denies any involvement in sports gambling

Major League Baseball's Ohtani Shohei has spoken to the media for the first time about his former interpreter's alleged illegal sports gambling.

The Japanese superstar said he had no involvement in Mizuhara Ippei's betting.

Ohtani spoke in front of about 100 reporters. The Los Angeles Dodgers' manager, Dave Roberts, and senior executives of the team were also present.

Ohtani said that he never bet on baseball or any other sport. He also said that he never asked anyone to do so on his behalf. The star stressed that he has never used a bookmaker to bet on sports, and he said that he was never asked to help pay someone else's gambling debts.

US tax authorities have launched an investigation into the alleged illegal gambling, and MLB has also started a probe.

US sports outlet ESPN reported last week that Mizuhara racked up massive debts by placing bets with an illegal bookmaker. It said four and a half million dollars had been transferred to the bookmaker from an account in Ohtani's name.

Ohtani said he did not know that Mizuhara was addicted to gambling. He also denied agreeing to pay off his debts.

Ohtani added that he was not even aware of Mizuhara's gambling until he attended a team meeting that was held in the clubhouse after the MLB season opener in South Korea. He said that Mizuhara has been stealing money from his account and telling lies.
Ohtani's news conference lasted just over 10 minutes. He left without taking any questions.


Key words : Los Angeles Times
#N/A


Key words : ease its strict
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240326_10/

Japan will allow fighter jets being developed with UK, Italy to be exported

Japan has decided to ease its strict defense export rules to allow the next-generation fighter jet that it is developing with Britain and Italy to be exported under certain conditions.

The decision, which was made by the government at a Cabinet meeting on Tuesday, is in line with an agreement between the main ruling Liberal Democratic Party and its coalition partner Komeito.

The government says that Japan must develop a fighter plane that has the capabilities needed to cope with the country's security environment. It also says a fighter plane needs to be developed to prevent negative impacts on national defense.

The government says it realized a mechanism was needed that would allow it to transfer the fighter jets to third nations.

It says the ruling coalition will hold discussions before the jets are exported. It also notes that each individual export will require Cabinet approval.

The government held a Cabinet meeting of the National Security Council on Tuesday. During the meeting, the guidelines for implementing the country's three principles on the transfer of defense equipment abroad were revised.

The revised guidelines say that exports will be limited to the next-generation fighters. They also say the fighters can only be transferred to countries that have signed defense deals with Japan and are not involved in active conflicts.

Defense Minister Kihara Minoru told reporters he believes Japan can demonstrate that it is determined to maintain its postwar status as a peace-loving nation by using a strict process to make decisions.

He said that the government's decision will give Japan the standing to make the same contributions that Britain and Italy make.

He added that Japan will thoroughly discuss the matter with its two partners, so that a fighter jet suitable for the country's security environment can be developed.

Referring to the development schedule, Kihara said that the three countries are working on the fighter's design right now.

He added that they will work together, so decisions about the specifications and performance of the aircraft can be made in five years.


Key words : zelenskyy deadly sick and
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240326_18/

Zelenskyy reacts to Putin's implication of Ukraine being behind terror attack

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has again dismissed a view expressed by Russian President Vladimir Putin that Ukraine may have played a role in last Friday's deadly attack on a concert hall near Moscow.

Putin said on Monday that the attack was carried out by radical Islamists, but added that the atrocity may be linked to a series of attempts by "those who have been at war with our country since 2014 by the hands of the neo-Nazi Kyiv regime," referring to Ukraine.

On the same day, Zelenskyy said Putin accused Ukraine again. He called Putin "a sick and cynical creature" and said, "everyone is a terrorist to him, except for himself."

Gunmen stormed the concert hall on Friday night, killing at least 139 and injuring 182 others. Four suspected attackers have been indicted.

The Amaq news agency, which is linked to the Islamic State group, has said the group claims responsibility for the attack. The United States and France have also echoed the view and dismissed any Ukrainian involvement.

Observers say Putin aims to step up his offensive in Ukraine and keep in check dissidents inside Russia by claiming that Ukraine may have been involved in the attack.


Key words : granted 303
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240326_14/

Japan recognizes record high 303 refugees, mostly from Afghanistan

Japan recognized a record high 303 people as refugees last year.

The Immigration Services Agency says 13,823 foreign nationals applied for refugee status in 2023. That marked an increase of more than 10,000 from the previous year, partly due to eased border controls following the coronavirus pandemic.

The number of people granted refugee status increased by 101 from the year before and was the highest since records began in 1982.

By country, 237 refugees were from Afghanistan, where the Taliban seized power in 2021. Twenty-seven were from Myanmar, where clashes between the military and prodemocracy groups are continuing, and six were from Ethiopia.

In addition, 1,005 people were given permission to stay in Japan on humanitarian grounds, although they were not granted refugee status.

As of the end of February, 647 people were recognized under a system that started in December to protect people fleeing from wars.

Justice Minister Koizumi Ryuji said he hopes to make efforts to be able to more securely, swiftly and stably protect people who should be protected.


Key words : it worker
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240326_12/

Japan police warn of fraudulent N.Korean IT workers' tactics

Japan's National Police Agency has released details of the tactics employed by North Korean IT workers who use forged identities to obtain work from Japanese firms.

A United Nations report says income earned by North Korean IT workers dispatched abroad is bankrolling the country's nuclear and missile development programs.

Japan is one of the countries where North Korean engineers are allegedly gaining contracts or engaging in malicious cyber activities by posing as Japanese nationals.

The National Police Agency issued the advisory on the detailed tactics, along with the Foreign Ministry, Finance Ministry, and the Economy, Trade and Industry Ministry.

The advisory says many North Korean IT workers live in China, Russia, Southeast Asia and elsewhere.

They are said to open accounts on online job platforms, forging their nationalities and claiming to be freelancers seeking wide-ranging jobs, such as producing websites and software.

The advisory says North Korean workers typically speak broken Japanese, decline to communicate face-to-face via online video conferencing, and offer to handle work at prices that are lower than normal.

It also says the names used on the online platforms may differ from those on bank accounts to which payments are to be deposited.

The National Police Agency says investigators in Japan have so far uncovered three cases of illegal money transfers and other crimes, allegedly involving North Korean IT engineers.

The agency says outsourcing work and making payments to North Korean workers could violate Japanese law. It is urging firms and other entities to thoroughly conduct identity checks before agreeing contracts.


Key words : benikoji
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240326_21/

Japanese drug maker reports death of person who took 'beni-koji' supplement

Major Japanese drug maker Kobayashi Pharmaceutical has disclosed that a person who consumed one of its dietary supplements died of kidney disease earlier this year.

The Osaka-based company suspects a causal link between the product and the death and is conducting an investigation.

The supplement called "Benikoji CholesteHelp" contains a type of yeast-fermented rice called "beni-koji." The company is recalling three types of dietary supplements which contain this ingredient, due to reports of kidney illness and other health problems. It is calling on people to stop using them.

Kobayashi Pharmaceutical says it was informed by the deceased person's family that the person purchased "Benikoji CholesteHelp" over a period of about three straight years from April 2021.

Officials say the company received more than 3,000 e-mails after it announced reports of health problems on Friday. They say the family e-mailed the company on Saturday night, but were unable to confirm that they received the message until Monday. They say they plan to meet with the family on Tuesday to confirm details.

The company also plans to look into another 26 people who have been hospitalized due to health problems.

Food manufacturers are voluntarily recalling products which contain the "beni-koji" ingredient that was used in the recalled supplements. Kobayashi Pharmaceutical has sold the ingredient through a subsidiary.


Key words : Kobayashi Pharmaceutical unknown substance
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/videos/20240326184802625/

Japanese drugmaker recalls products over possible health risks

Kobayashi Pharmaceutical says it's recalling supplements containing an ingredient called 'Beni-koji', a red fermented rice. The move follows reports of kidney disease in those who ingested the product, resulting in at least 26 hospitalizations and one death.


Key words : weather Jonathan Oh
#N/A


2024年3月25日月曜日

at 18:00 (JST), March 25

https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/upld/medias/en/radio/news/20240325180000_english_1.mp3


Key words : Kishida face-to-face
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240325_19/

North Korea says Japan PM Kishida wants summit with Kim Jong Un

The sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un says Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio recently conveyed his intention to meet Kim face-to-face for summit talks as soon as possible.

Kim Yo Jong made the comment through the state-run Korean Central News Agency on Monday.

Kim said Kishida recently conveyed his intention "through another channel." The statement reiterated North Korea's position that an abduction issue has already been settled. Kim added that if Japan continues to interfere with the exercise of North Korea's sovereign rights and to dwell on the abduction issue, the prime minister would be criticized for a proposal that is "little short of a bid for popularity."

The Japanese government says at least 17 of its citizens were abducted by North Korean agents in the 1970s and 1980s. Five were repatriated after a bilateral summit in 2002, but the other 12 remain unaccounted for.

Kim also urged Kishida to make a political decision to improve bilateral relations sincerely and to become a good neighbor.

She also said it would be impossible for Kishida to meet the leadership of her country, even if he really wants to do so.

Kim Yo Jong said in February that a visit by Kishida to Pyongyang would only be possible if Tokyo does not make the abduction issue an obstacle to bilateral relations.


Key words : russian authorities 137 fire
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240325_04/

Moscow attack death toll rises to 137, Putin to convene security council

Russia's investigative committee says the death toll in Friday's mass shooting at a concert hall on the outskirts of Moscow has risen to 137.

Russia's health ministry says 180 people have been hospitalized and that 142 of them are receiving in-patient treatment.

The attack occurred on Friday evening in the city of Krasnogorsk, northwest of the capital. Gunmen opened fire on concertgoers in the music hall and the building went up in flames.

Russia designated March 24 as a day of nationwide mourning. President Vladimir Putin lit a candle at a church at his residence outside Moscow on Sunday to mourn the victims.

Russia's state media report that Putin is planning to hold a meeting of the security council to discuss responses to the deadly attack.

Russian authorities say they have detained 11 people, including four directly involved in the shooting. The authorities released a video showing the suspects being led to investigative committee headquarters.

The Amaq news agency, which is linked to the Islamic State militants, quoted sources as saying that the attack was carried out by the group's fighters. It released photos of four people it says were responsible for the attack.

A senior member of the lower house of Russia's National Assembly said on social media that two suspects had been detained in Russia's western region of Bryansk. He said that weapons, including a pistol, and passports from Tajikistan were found in the suspects' car.

Russia's presidential office says Putin talked over the phone with Tajik President Emomali Rahmon and agreed to intensify their joint counter-terrorism efforts.

Meanwhile, referring to 11 people who were detained, Putin said they attempted to escape and were heading towards Ukraine. He added that, according to information, "a window was prepared for them on the Ukrainian side to cross the state border."

An independent Russian media outlet reports that pro-Kremlin media have been directed by the Russian president's administration to spotlight the "Ukrainian trace" in discussions about the concert hall attack.

Ukraine has flatly denied any involvement in the attack. It is concerned that Russia may use the incident as a pretext to step up its offensive in Ukraine.


Key words : ohtani speak former team
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240325_08/

Ohtani to speak to media about gambling scandal involving his ex-interpreter

Los Angeles Dodgers superstar Ohtani Shohei says he will speak with the media on Monday for the first time since the team fired his interpreter, Mizuhara Ippei, over illegal gambling and theft allegations on Thursday.

Ohtani returned to Los Angeles after season-opening games in South Korea. He took part in a training session on Saturday that was closed to the public.

Ohtani and Will Ireton, who is temporarily serving as his interpreter, appeared at the clubhouse on Sunday afternoon before a game against the Los Angeles Angels, his former team.

Ohtani replied to calls from reporters, saying only, "tomorrow."

Asked by reporters about Ohtani's plan to speak to the media, Dodgers' Manager Dave Roberts said he believes it's the right thing to do.

The manager said, "I'm happy that he is going to speak to what he knows and give his thoughts on the whole situation." He added, "I think it will give us all a little bit more clarity."

Asked about possible distractions from the scandal, Roberts said once players are at the stadium, they just get back to work and do their thing.

He added athletes have a good ability to compartmentalize, and he doesn't anticipate anything different from the way his players are preparing.

Ohtani is expected to bat second as designated hitter in the lineup for the preseason game against the Los Angeles Angels on Sunday.

He will play at the Dodgers' home stadium for the first time since he joined the team.

The second game against the Angels will be held on Monday.


Key words : espn transferred formal
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240323_10/

MLB opens investigation into gambling scandal surrounding Ohtani, interpreter

Major League Baseball says it has opened an official investigation into alleged illegal gambling involving Japanese MLB star Ohtani Shohei and his interpreter, Mizuhara Ippei.

In a statement released on Friday, the operator of the top US baseball league said it has been gathering information since it learned about the allegations involving the two from the news media. MLB said its "Department of Investigations began their formal process investigating the matter."

The move follows US media reports that Mizuhara was found engaging in illegal gambling and that he was fired by the Los Angeles Dodgers, who employed him to interpret for Ohtani.

The US sports channel ESPN has reported that about 4.5 million dollars was transferred from Ohtani's bank account to an alleged illegal bookmaker.

ESPN says during an interview with Mizuhara, the interpreter initially said he asked Ohtani to help him pay off his debts, which had reportedly snowballed from gambling. But Mizuhara later retracted the statement. ESPN says Ohtani only became aware of the gambling issues involving him after Wednesday's season opener.

US tax authorities are investigating Mizuhara and the alleged illegal bookmaker.

ESPN says Ohtani's lawyers have asked the authorities for investigation and claimed their client had been the victim of a "massive theft."


Key words : Japan Bar Associations
view-source:https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/videos/20240325152918276/

Japan Bar Associations call for right to presence of counsel

In Japan, someone suspected of committing a crime does not automatically have the right to have a lawyer present when they are being interrogated by police or prosecutors. That has the Japan Federation of Bar Associations once again calling for a major change to the country's criminal justice system.


Key words : sumo makuuchi
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240325_12/

Takerufuji: Historic sumo victory 'beyond wildest dreams'

Japanese sumo wrestler Takerufuji says he never dreamed that he would get this far after becoming the first top-division rookie to win a tournament in 110 years.

Takerufuji won his first championship on Sunday, the final day of the Spring Grand Tournament. The Makuuchi division newcomer clinched his title in Osaka with 13 wins and two losses.

The 24-year-old wrestler held a news conference on Monday.

He says his performance was "beyond his wildest dreams" and he's truly glad he fought on through the last day of the 15-day tournament.

Takerufuji injured his right ankle on the 14th day and left the ring in a wheelchair.

He says his stablemate Terunofuji had encouraged him to keep going. The Yokozuna Grand Champion has won nine tournaments.

He says Terunofuji told him he could do it, and reminded him that he had set out to make memories, not records. He says he was told the opportunity would never repeat itself.

Takerufuji says, "A switch flipped and I was able to walk as if I had 'a second self.' " He says it was eerie.

Takerufuji says he was determined to stay in control of his feelings. He says he wanted to grasp the championship with his own hands and went into the final bout ready for action.

Takerufuji says a wrestler can never experience too many championships. He says he will work hard not to miss a chance, and will just have to believe in himself.

The last Makuuchi division rookie to win a championship was Ryogoku in 1914.