at 18:00 (JST), January 19

20260119180000_english_1.mp3

 00:00:10 話者 1

Welcome back to NHK Newsline. Here's the latest we have for you at this hour.

WILDFIRE SUBSIDES IN CENTRAL JAPAN

Firefighters say a wildfire that broke out on Saturday in central Japan has largely subsided.

Fire crews and Japan's Self-Defense Forces personnel resumed operations on Monday after suspended work, suspending work overnight.

On Sunday, helicopters dropped water on the fire in the northern part of Fujieda City in Shizuoka Prefecture.

The fire department says about five and a half hectares of forest have been burned as of 9 a.m. on Monday.

There have been no reports of injuries or damage to buildings.

Fujieda City has opened an evacuation center, but says no residents have been forced to evacuate.

TEPCO DELAYS REACTOR RESTART OVER ALARM ISSUE

Tokyo Electric Power Company is postponing the restart of one of its nuclear reactors.

TEPCO workers found an error with some of the alarm settings during a test just days before it was set to come online.

Kashiwazaki-Kariwa nuclear plant's reactor number six was set to resume operations on Tuesday.

On Saturday, staff were conducting a test that involved removing control rods, which regulate the amount of power that's generated.

But an alarm that was supposed to sound stayed silent.

TEPCO says it determined that staff had not enabled a setting that triggers a warning when two or more control rods are removed.

Testing continued from Sunday evening, and TEPCO says it reviewed the process to determine whether the reactivation could happen on the original timeline.

The utilities firm announced on Monday that the restart has been temporarily postponed.

This was set to be TEPCO's first reactor restart since the 2011 earthquake and tsunami critically damaged another facility, the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant.

CHINA POPULATION SHRINKS FOR FOURTH STRAIGHT YEAR

The Chinese government says its population has declined for a fourth consecutive year.

It says the number of births has also fallen to its lowest point since modern record-keeping began in 1949.

The National Bureau of Statistics says there were 1.404 billion people in mainland China at the end of last year. That figure was down almost 3.4 million from a year earlier.

The tally marked the fourth straight year of decline since the population began falling in 2022, after growing for more than 60 years.

The number of people aged 65 and over reached more than 223 million.

They accounted for around 16 percent of the populace.

The number of births came in at nearly 8 million, down about 1.6 million from the previous year.

Local media say this was even lower than the nadir marked in 2023.

One of the world's most populous countries is facing social problems, such as labor shortages caused by a rapidly aging population and declining birth rate.

The country abolished its one-child policy in 2016, and couples are now allowed to have up to three children.

49% OF JAPAN FIRMS SEE TOUGH GOING FOR BUSINESS WITH CHINA

An NHK survey of 100 major Japanese firms has found that nearly half of the respondents think the outlook for business with China is tough.

71 companies responded to the survey between December 12 and January 8.

49 percent said the outlook is tough for this year.

Another 49 percent said it would remain unchanged.

The survey had a multiple-choice question about specific concerns.

Restrictions on human exchanges topped the list with 46 percent.

Forty percent of the respondents cited fears that sales in China would decline due to boycotts of Japanese products and other reasons.

Another 40 percent were worried that exports of rare earths and other critical minerals would be restricted.

China announced this month that it will tighten export controls to Japan over items that can be used for both military and civilian purposes.

The restrictions are affecting the production of magnets at this Japanese company.

It imports alloys that contain rare-earth metals from a Chinese supplier.

These are used for a wide range of products, including motors and car-mounted sensors.

Deliveries are being delayed for two to three months, and the firm can only obtain about one-third of what it used to buy.

The Chinese side says obtaining government approval is taking time.

00:04:48 話者 2

The supplier told us it may not be able to handle orders from Japan for the time being.

00:04:55 話者 1

An expert offers an insight about China's move.

00:05:01 話者 3

Until recently, China's leaders seemed to exercise self-restraint to avoid damaging business relations with Japan.

But the announcement of export controls that cover rare-earth metals may indicate the hardliners are winning.

00:05:17 話者 1

Which is a bit worrying.

In the NHK survey, nearly a third of the respondents indicated they would try to reduce reliance on China, while less than 15 percent hope to strengthen cooperation.

BUSINESS

Now let's see what's happening in the world of business.

Here is Ramin Mellegard from the BizDesk.

00:05:39 話者 4

Thank you very much indeed.

CHINA SAYS GDP GREW 5.0% IN 2025 TO MEET TARGET

And we're pretty much staying with China.

Now, China says its economy grew and inflation adjusted 5% in 2025 from the year before, meeting the government's target.

The National Bureau of Statistics released the gross domestic product data on Monday.

Beijing had set the annual growth target at around 5%.

GDP grew at the same rate in 2024.

Industrial production was solid, but budget-conscious consumers kept growth in retail sales at a modest level of 3.7%.

Investment in plant, real estate and other fixed assets fell 3.8%.

Now, in the October-December quarter, GDP grew 4.5% year-on-year or slower than the 4.8% in the previous three months.

China's economic outlook is clouded by a slump in domestic demand, as well as persistent fears of a resurgence in trade friction with the United States.

The Chinese Communist Party is expected to announce stronger stimulus measures to boost local demand.

BOJ LIKELY TO KEEP INTEREST RATE UNCHANGED, DISCUSS WEAK YEN

The Bank of Japan is expected to leave its interest rate unchanged at a meeting later this week.

Now, the agenda is likely to include the weak yen's impact on the economy, as well as the pace of future rate hikes.

The central bank is holding its first policy meeting of the year for two days from Thursday.

The BOJ's key rate is currently around 0.75%.

It raised the rates by a quarter percentage point at the last meeting in late December.

Bank watchers say officials want more time to monitor the effect of that rate hike on households and businesses.

The officials will also compile their latest outlook on the economy and price trends.

They are expected to upgrade the economy's gross rate based on the latest government policy.

December's rate hike came amid concern the yen's weakness would further accelerate inflation.

The Japanese currency has continued to depreciate since then.

It reached the 159 yen range against the dollar at one point, the weakest since July 2024.

Central bank officials are concerned the weak yen trend could drive prices higher and slow consumer spending.

10-YEAR JGB YIELD HITS 27-YEAR HIGH ON FISCAL CONCERNS

The yield on the 10-year Japanese government bond rose to a 27-year high on Monday.

Investors are concerned about the growing prospect of a tax cut that could worsen Japan's fiscal health.

The benchmark yield briefly climbed to 2.275 percent, the highest since February 1999.

Yields rise when prices fall.

Many lawmakers in ruling and opposition parties have mentioned the possibility of a rate cut in the consumption tax following an expected snap general election early next month.

NIKKEI 225 FALLS ON PROFIT-TAKING, STRONGER YEN

Meanwhile, Tokyo's benchmark Nikkei 225 stock index fell for the third straight day to end down 0.65% at 53,583.

Monday's decline was due to profit-taking and the stronger yen.

Investors sold auto and other export-related shares as the yen appreciated to the 157 range against the dollar.

Analysts say there was a mood of caution about currency intervention by the Japanese government and the central bank.

The Nikkei set all-time closing highs twice last week.

It topped the 54,000 mark for the first time on Wednesday.

That was on expectations.

Prime Minister Takeichi Sanae will introduce stimulus policies.

LAWSON USING IMPORTED RICE IN SUSHI ROLLS AS COSTS SOAR

Major Japanese convenience store chains are preparing to stock sushi rolls called ehomaki that are traditionally eaten in early February for good luck, but soaring costs have prompted some changes to ingredients in a bid to avoid raising product prices.

Lawson will use US-grown rice for about 10% of the grain contained in Ehomaki that will be sold at some outlets in and around Tokyo.

The chain has seen the cost of the rice it buys surge by roughly 100% compared with fiscal 2022.

A lot of ingenuity went into developing this product because we think customers want something affordable to enjoy the special occasions.

But not all products have been spared the impact of surging material costs.

Lawson says the prices of some popular items have increased by around 10% compared with a year earlier.

JAPANESE FIRMS HELPING UKRAINE OVERCOME DESTRUCTION

Russia's invasion of Ukraine has left a trail of devastation in the country.

Estimates place the cost of reconstruction at over $500 billion, a figure likely to climb as the war continues.

The recovery is going to require an international effort that includes private companies.

We look at some Japanese firms that are set to have an impact.

00:10:45 話者 5

One of the biggest obstacles to Ukraine's reconstruction are dangerous weapons that are hidden from sight, landmines. There are vast numbers in the country.

Ukrainian officials say that mines and unexploded ordnance cover about 23% of the nation's territory.

The invisible killers have already taken a grim toll.

From the start of the war through October, mines have claimed the lives of 467 civilians and injured more than 1,100.

An annual conference on mines in Ukraine was held in Tokyo this year.

Japanese companies took part in a related event, hoping to make a difference.

This firm develops AI and other technology.

It has teamed up with institutions like the Kyiv Polytechnic Institute in Ukraine.

They are experimenting with drones that have high-definition cameras and magnetic sensors to detect mines.

The system can operate in areas where Internet infrastructure has been destroyed.

It uses peer-to-peer communication between smartphones to share the locations of mines with workers removing the devices, as well as citizens.

00:12:01 話者 2

Even if there's a ceasefire, it's still too dangerous to go to certain areas of Ukraine.

00:12:07 話者 5

Land mines are also having a major impact on Ukraine's core industry: agriculture.

The explosive devices have rendered vast swathes of farmland unusable.

A Japanese firm believes its alternative cultivation method may provide a workaround.

It doesn't require dirt or irrigation infrastructure.

00:12:31 話者 2

Tomato seedling roots grow on the film.

00:12:35 話者 5

Crops are grown on a thin film that controls moisture.

a method that was used in tsunami-hit areas after the 2011 Great East Japan earthquake.

00:12:46 話者 2

Our technology allows vegetables to be cultivated even with Russian landmines and unexploded ordnance remaining in the country.

00:12:54 話者 5

Ukrainian farmers and agriculture officials have shown a keen interest in the system.

00:13:00 話者 6

I think this technology allows to save areas, maybe to save money.

I think definitely we can get good yield of vegetables.

00:13:14 話者 5

However, significant challenges remain.

Russian attacks on power plants have crippled the energy supply.

Heating is essential for the firm's high-tech system.

Company executives are already working on a low-tech solution: stoves and firewood.

It shows how organizations are pulling out all the stops to help Ukraine find the path to recovery.

00:13:40 話者 2

Governments from various countries, including Japan, are trying to contribute to Ukraine's economic recovery.

I believe private companies, like ours, can also play a major role in making a positive impact.

MARKETS

00:13:55 話者 4

Okay, let's go to checking the markets.

♪

And that's all for business news.

TECH COMPANIES, OFFICIALS GATHER TO TALK SUBSEA CABLE NETWORK

00:14:29 話者 1

Now to Hawaii, where officials and experts from around the world have gathered for a conference about undersea cables.

Well, the cables are drawing major interest around the world as AI use skyrockets and keeping the network safe is more important to investors than ever before.

The Pacific Telecommunications Council holds the event annually, but a growing challenge has made this year's even more vital.

Artificial intelligence is using more and more data. And the subsea cable system that forms the backbone of the internet is already feeling the squeeze.

Companies at the conference are looking to expand and secure the cable network as a result.

On opening day Sunday, one speaker suggested working with governments could reduce the amount of time needed to lay new cables.

A participant said the conference helped him learn more about the industry.

They have discussed all the emerging issues regarding the submarine cables worldwide, and it gave us a new perspective of.

00:15:34 話者 6

The things that are coming in the future.

PROTECTING THE UNDERSEA CABLE NETWORK THAT PROPS UP THE INTERNET

00:15:38 話者 1

And for more on this, I earlier spoke with NHK World's Komiya Lisa, who's at the conference. Lisa, what have you been hearing so far?

00:15:52 話者 6

People here are talking about the challenges facing the world's digital infrastructure.

Subsea cables are vital to internet connectivity.

As you mentioned, with the rapid growth of AI, there's more demand on the current infrastructure.

But even without that sudden extra demand, having an undersea cable system is already complicated.

It's expensive to maintain, and repairing it is a difficult task.

Four years ago, there was an undersea volcanic eruption near Tonga.

It shed light on threats that could knock us offline.

So people here are talking about how to prepare for natural disasters that could damage the cables.

00:16:32 話者 1

Well, it seems like protecting these cables is essential for us to continue living in this digital age.

00:16:41 話者 6

Exactly. These fiber optic cables create a network that spans the globe.

They have become essential for international digital communication, including for social media sites and video streaming platforms.

There are already 1.5 million kilometers of cable on the seafloor, enough to circle the Earth more than 35 times.

At the core of the cable are bundles of optical fibers as thin as human hair.

They're protected by a thick layer of metal and resin.

They lie as far as 8,000 meters below the ocean's surface.

Laying these cables requires technology and enormous funding, so it's not an easy feat.

Increased demand for data means more need to lay cables.

Traditionally, telecom giants took on the job.

But in the US, major IT companies like Google and Meta are ramping up their investments.

China is also getting into the game, and it looks like intense international competition is unfolding.

Meanwhile, there have been several recent incidents where the cables seem to have been damaged on purpose in the seas near Taiwan and northern Europe.

So protecting them in a rapidly challenging industry, rapidly changing industry, is going to pose yet another challenge.

00:18:08 話者 1

What is Japan's role in this subsea cable world?

00:18:15 話者 6

Japan has plans to protect its subsea infrastructure.

Japan is an island country and those cables account for 99 percent of its international communication.

An official from Japan's internal affairs ministry is here in Hawaii this week to talk about those challenges with other countries and companies.

He will promote a Japanese company that manufactures subsea cables.

EUROPEAN LEADERS SEEK DIALOGUE AMID TRUMP GREENLAND THREATS

00:18:41 話者 1

Eight European nations are standing firm amid trade threats from the United States over Greenland.

US President Donald Trump has threatened them with tariffs for resisting his effort to buy the autonomous territory from Denmark for security reasons.

On Sunday, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Norway, Sweden and the United Kingdom issued a statement.

They say the tariff threats undermine transatlantic relations and risk a dangerous downward spiral.

They added that they are ready to engage in a dialogue based on the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity.

They also push back against Trump's claims that Denmark cannot defend Greenland's vast Arctic space.

They point to recent joint exercises conducted involving a multinational force of European troops.

They say they are committed to strengthening Arctic security as a shared transatlantic interest as NATO members.

On Saturday, Trump announced that imports from the eight nations will face a 10 percent tariff from February.

He says the rate will rise to 25 percent from June unless they make a deal over Greenland.

EU leaders plan to meet in Belgium on Thursday to discuss the situation.

EU, SOUTH AMERICAN BLOC INK FREE TRADE DEAL

The EU and the South American economic bloc, known as Mercosur, have signed a major trade agreement after more than 25 years of negotiation.

The deal will create a free trade zone with a population of more than 700 million if it takes effect.

The signing ceremony took place on Saturday in Paraguay, a Mercosur member.

The regional bloc, which is also known as the Southern Common Market, includes Brazil and Argentina.

The European Union is seeking to diversify its trade network amid tariffs rolled out by President Trump's administration.

This agreement sends a very strong message to the world.

It reflects a clear and deliberate choice. We choose fair trade over tariffs.

We choose a productive, long-term partnership over isolation.

Some EU nations are strongly opposed to the deal, citing a possible influx of lower-priced agricultural imports from South America.

BEYOND THE CLASSROOM: KIDS FINDING THEIR PLACE IN SOCIETY

In Japan, the number of children unable to attend elementary school and junior high school for various reasons topped 350,000 last fiscal year, a record high.

While teachers and parents struggle to get them back on track, an NPO is giving them a new way to reconnect with society.

NHK World's Kimura Hono has the story.

00:21:44 話者 7

This is a free school for working, an NPO-run program supporting elementary and junior high students who are not attending regular school.

This program is tailored for children who are out of school or struggling to attend.

In this third session, more than 100 elementary and junior high students took part.

A core value of the program is having a little courage.

Each child sets a personal goal and stick visit for four days.

Representative Shio Yamariyo launched this project after his own childhood experience of school refusal and the fear of being left behind by society.

00:22:35 話者 2

In the case of school refusal, opportunities to gain life experience decrease.

Therefore, I strongly believe early exposure to society can help students set goals for themselves and see new viewpoints.

00:22:51 話者 7

Two middle school students tried their hands at some cafe bar.

I was so nervous, I couldn't sleep.

If I mess up, I'll get flustered and my face will turn red.

00:23:02 話者 1

So I want to do my best.

00:23:06 話者 7

They learn how to make chiffon cake.

At least I did my best.

00:23:18 話者 1

I was really nervous about working with people I'd just met, but I'm glad we got along well.

00:23:24 話者 7

At first, the girls seemed a bit awkward about even making eye contact.

00:23:29 話者 3

But by the end, they cheerfully said bye-bye, so I guess it turned out OK.

00:23:34 話者 7

This time, 16 stores volunteered to take them in after showing they understood the needs to support children who refused to go to school.

Even adults meeting the children for the first time discovered something new.

00:23:53 話者 1

I wanted to tell them to value the things they like and find enjoyable, but the children already had a clear idea of that themselves.

00:24:05 話者 7

After the workplace experience, they are paid in gift certificates.

This helps them develop a sense of self-esteem.

00:24:16 話者 2

I believe many children who refuse to attend school share the same quiet anxiety about whether they will ever be able to shine, work, and find their place in society.

By meeting adults who help them realize, I can earn money, or I can work, and through the experience of working itself, I hope they can build real confidence.

00:24:37 話者 7

Students attending the event appear to have realized

that their place in life does not have to be determined by school and school alone.

Kimura Hono, NHK World.

WEATHER

00:24:51 話者 1

Now let's get our weather update. 

Heavy snow is expected to pile up in parts of northern Japan as cold weather kicks in this week. Our meteorologist, Jetsimo Nare, has the details.

00:25:02 話者 3

Hi there, we're getting a round of some of our coldest temperatures for the season so far as a cold blast is coming in from the north.

And already we've seen some big numbers in just three hours.

5 to 7 centimeters of snowfall has been reported across northern parts of Japan.

Let us take a look at this following video.

This is coming out of Akita where already snow started falling there.

And we can see up to 7 centimeters in that region.

And it is coming with some strong winds as well.

Gusts of over 50 kilometers per hour were reported, making

it a little bit of a blizzard in that region.

Some trains are expected to be canceled in the prefecture on Tuesday, and residents have been urged to just bank in more time if you're going to be traveling and also make sure you're safe at all the times, especially if you're going to be along highly elevated areas.

A lot easier to slip going downhill in those parts.

Look at this map here.

We can see a lot of sea effect snow coming in across this western side of Japan.

So all these prefectures along the Sea of Japan side are going to be

be hit with a lot of snowfall, but it's not going to stop there.

Even parts where it usually doesn't snow so much in the Pacific side, you could also start seeing some snowfall.

Then Hokkaido and Tok regions will be seeing up to 50 centimeters.

These are the conditions you should watch out for.

And like I mentioned, blizzards could be a bit of a concern.

Driving late at night, make sure you have your lights on, drive safely, keep following distance pretty safe and make sure you are careful.

Power outages quite likely because a lot of snowfall will pile up on the trees and the branches could topple over, fall into power lines leading to power outages.

So have your cell phone charged, have your flashlights ready if you need them.

And if you look at the rest of Northeast Asia, cool weather for Beijing, Seoul,

Also into those sub zeros.

Another area that's seeing very cold weather is across Europe, particularly towards Eastern Europe.

If you were in Kyiv, you might have seen temperatures dropping to about minus 16 for you there.

And in fact, temperatures for Monday going into Tuesday, look at this minus 11.

So a bit of cold weather coming your way there.

Please bundle up, get warm and stay safe.

♫～　3-DAY FORECAST　～♫

00:27:41 話者 1

That's all we have for this edition of NHK Newsline. We'll have more for you soon.

Thanks for watching.

at 18:00 (JST), January 18

20260118180000_english_1.mp3

 00:00:12 (Maria Sato)

Hello. Glad to have you with us on NHK Newsline. I'm Maria Sato in Tokyo.

TRUMP SLAPS TARIFFS ON 8 EUROPEAN NATIONS OVER GREENLAND

US President Donald Trump says Denmark and seven other European countries will be subject to tariffs until his country is allowed to buy Greenland.

Trump insists the Danish autonomous territory is crucial for US national security.

Denmark is strongly resisting the takeover plan and has the support of other European nations.

On Saturday, thousands of protesters rallied against Trump's demand in Nuuk, the capital city of Greenland.

00:00:50 (Protester 1)

We are here for show, Mr. Trump, and we will have Greenland to the Greenlandic. 

And not for the United States.

00:00:59 (Protester 2)

We are worried and just want to be ourselves and live our life here.

00:01:07 (Maria Sato)

Greenland's Prime Minister Jens Fredrik Nielsen also took part in the protest.

Nielsen posted on social media that the protest was powerful and dignified.

He said many people showed a sense of community and responsibility through the demonstrations. A rally was also held in the Danish capital of Copenhagen.

00:01:28 (Protester 3)

Even if we are Danish and live in Denmark, we feel a lot of solidarity and are really angry about the whole situation.

00:01:38 (Maria Sato)

But on the same day, Trump wrote on social media that starting on February 1st, any and all goods sent to the US from the eight nations will be charged a 10-percent tariff.

The countries targeted include Denmark, Britain, France and Germany.

Trump added that in June, the tariff will jump to 25 percent.

He says the tariff will remain in effect until a deal is reached for the total purchase of Greenland.

The proposed tariff rates are thought to be in addition to ones currently in effect.

Trump says the targeted countries have journeyed to Greenland for purposes unknown and caused the situation very dangerous.

This is believed to be a reference to those countries agreeing to send personnel to Greenland for Danish military exercises.

US media outlets say Trump is escalating his drive to take charge of the territory.

EUROPEAN LEADERS REACT TO TRUMP'S TARIFF PLAN

Now, European leaders have reacted with surprise and criticism to Trump's plan to levy new tariffs on eight nations over the Greenland issue.

Danish Foreign Minister Lars Ruger Rasmussen said Trump's announcement comes as a surprise.

He said the purpose of the increased military presence in Greenland, to which the president refers, is to enhance security in the Arctic.

He added that his country agreed with the US on that point.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said applying tariffs on allies for pursuing the collective security of NATO allies is completely wrong.

He indicated that Britain will discuss the issue directly with the US.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President Antonio Costa issued a joint statement.

They said tariffs will undermine relations between Europe and the US.

They added Europe will remain united, coordinated, and committed to upholding its sovereignty.

NASA'S ARTEMIS MOON ROCKET REACHES LAUNCH PAD

A large rocket scheduled to blast off with four astronauts for a trip around the moon has reached its launch pad at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in the US state of Florida.

The rocket will send the first crewed mission on a test flight as part of the US-led Artemis lunar exploration program.

Japan is among the countries participating in the international project.

The roughly 98-meter-long rocket traveled about six kilometers on a massive crawler transporter from the assembly building on Saturday.

The launch is expected to happen as early as February 6.

The mission will bring humans out of the Earth's orbit and toward the moon for the first time since the Apollo 17 lunar landing in 1972.

00:04:37 (Reid Wiseman/Commander of NASA's Artemis II mission)

For this crew, we've been on this journey for about two and a half years.

And we just, we truly look at that and see teamwork, how amazing that will look and seeing Earth rise, those sorts of things.

00:04:49 (Maria Sato)

The crew members are expected to conduct docking tests and emergency drills to prepare for a future lunar landing.

WAR IN UKRAINE
MANY YOUNG MEN LEAVE UKRAINE FOR POLAND

The number of young Ukrainian men leaving the country has increased sharply since the government started allowing them to do so in August.

This could contribute to the shortage of soldiers.

Polish border guards say Ukrainian men aged between 18 and 22 entered Poland about 156,000 times during the final four months of last year.

Before that, most men aged 18 to 60 were barred from leaving the country, as a general mobilization order was issued in response to Russia's invasion.

The Ukrainian government says the easing of the ban is aimed at giving young people opportunities to study abroad so they can contribute to developing the country.

This 22-year-old man fled Ukraine for Sweden after the measure took effect.

He says he wanted to avoid being drafted by the army.

00:05:56 (Y*** A***/22-year-old man)

I don't want to come back in Ukraine because I think it will be unsafe for about maybe 20 or 40 years.

00:06:06 (Maria Sato)

This expert on Ukraine's demographic issues says there could be grave consequences for the country's future.

00:06:16 (Oleksandr Hladun/Expert)

The loosening of measures could undermine Ukraine's demographic and economic potential. Some young men will return in the future

But it is now impossible to predict how many.

00:06:30 (Maria Sato)

Economic activities in Ukraine are already affected by the outflow of young men.

A restaurant owner says he was forced to close one of his locations because he didn't have enough young employees.

TAIWAN: CHINESE DRONE VIOLATES AIRSPACE OVER REMOTE ISLAND

Taiwan's defense ministry says a Chinese reconnaissance drone violated its airspace over an island in the South China Sea that it effectively controls.

The ministry says a Chinese military drone entered airspace over the Taiwan-controlled Pratis Island on Saturday morning. Both refer to it as Dongsha Island.

The drone was flying at an altitude outside the range of Taiwan's anti-aircraft weapons.

After Taiwan issued a warning, it left four minutes after its airspace violation.

The ministry says such highly provocative and irresponsible actions seriously undermine regional peace and stability.

It says Taiwan will continue to patrol and monitor the situation.

The Chinese military, which covers the South China Sea, has defended the action.

It argued it was routine flight training that's completely legitimate and lawful.

China is increasing pressure on Taiwan by flying military jets and sending government ships around the island, where Taiwan's coast guard and military are stationed.

YOUNG ARCHERS MARK COMING OF AGE IN KYOTO

Turning 20 years old is a special milestone for all Japanese. Young archers in Kyoto have celebrated becoming adults by shooting their first arrows of the year.

The annual event took place at the Sanju Sangyendo Temple on Sunday.

The new adults lined up in a row and steadied their breath breathing.

before releasing their arrows toward targets 60 meters away.

00:08:35 (archer 1)

I couldn't do very well because it was cold.

Now that I'm 20, I feel a sense of responsibility on my shoulders.

00:08:48 (archer 2)

I appreciate the value of giving my all to even a single task.

I want to make great strides and contribute to society.

00:09:01 (Maria Sato)

The main hall of the temple is a national treasure. Master archers are said to have competed there in the Edo period, which spanned the 17th to 19th centuries.

Those were the headlines for this hour.

WEATHER

♫～　3-DAY FORECAST　～♫

And that's all for this hour on NHK Newsline. I'm Maria Sato in Tokyo.

Do stay with us on NHK World Japan.

checked.

at 18:00 (JST), January 17

20260117180000_english_1.mp3

 00:00:13 (Maria Sato)

Hello, glad to have you with us on NHK Newsline. I'm Maria Sato in Tokyo.

TRUMP BACKS VENEZUELA'S INTERIM PRESIDENT TO AVOID CHAOS

US President Donald Trump says he has opted to work with Venezuela's interim president to avoid chaos.

He cites the breakdown in order following the 2003 ouster of Saddam Hussein during the Iraq War.

00:00:32 (Donald Trump/US President)

If you ever remember a place called Iraq where everybody was fired, every single person, the police, the generals, everybody was fired and they ended up being ISIS.

NOBEL COMMITTEE: PEACE PRIZE WINNER STATUS CAN'T BE TRANSFERRED

00:00:47 (Maria Sato)

Trump was responding to a reporter who asked why he supports Delsey Rodriguez, the vice president under the administration of President Nicolas Maduro, over opposition leader Maria Corina Machado.

Trump met Machado at the White House on Thursday, where she presented him with her 2025 Nobel Peace Prize medal.

00:01:08 (Donald Trump/US President)

Well, she offered it to me. I thought it was very nice. 

She said, you know, you've ended eight wars.

And nobody deserves this prize more in history than you do.

00:01:19 (Maria Sato)

Trump said he was very impressed with Machado, and he called her a very fine woman.

He said they would talk again one day.

NOBEL COMMITTEE: PEACE PRIZE WINNER STATUS CAN'T BE TRANSFERRED

Now, the Norwegian Nobel Committee says the winner of the Nobel Peace Prize does not change, even if the medal comes into someone else's possession.

The committee released a statement on Friday saying the medal is a physical symbol that confirms an individual or organization has been awarded the Nobel Peace Prize.

It said a laureate cannot share the prize with others, nor transfer it once it has been announced. The committee went on to say that it does not comment on laureates' subsequent statements, decisions, or actions.

It said there are no restrictions on what a laureate may do with the medal, and that the laureate is free to keep, give away, sell or donate the item.

IRANIAN PROTESTS
IRAN MEDIA: 3,000 PEOPLE ARRESTED

Iranian state media say as many as 3,000 people have been detained in the recent crackdown on protesters.

Some Iranian government officials are now reportedly calling for even tougher measures.

The Tasnim news agency, which is affiliated with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, says the detainees have been linked to the killing of civilians and damaging property, and that some have ties to Israel.

The protests broke out late last month over soaring prices, fueled largely by economic sanctions imposed by Western countries.

The New York Times says around 3,000 people have been killed, including security personnel.

Iran's state media says President Masoud Pezeskian told his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, that the US and Israel are being behind the protests.

US President Trump has been threatening to take military action against Iran.

00:03:17 (Karoline Leavitt/White House Press Secretary)

The president and his team are closely monitoring this situation, and all options remain on the table for the president.

00:03:25 (Maria Sato)

But the US news website Axios reports that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu asked Trump to hold off on any strikes against the country.

It says Israel needs more time to prepare for possible retaliation.

IRANIAN PROTESTS
IRAN'S EX-CROWN PRINCE SEEKS TRANSITION OF POWER

Meanwhile, Iran's former crown prince has called for surgical strikes on assets of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and other targets to help topple the country's Islamic leadership.

Reza Pahlavi has been living in the United States for many years.

His father, Mohammad Reza Shah Pahlavi, who was pro-American, was ousted from power in 1979 during the Islamic Revolution.

The monarch left Iran and died the following year.

Speaking at a news conference in Washington on Friday, Pahlavi called for Iran's current Islamic establishment to be removed, saying its 47 years of exported terror, nuclear threats, and regional chaos must end.

And he expressed willingness to lead the transition to an interim government.

00:04:35 (Reza Pahlavi/Former Iranian crown prince)

The way we have proposed the process to go is that the minute the regime collapses,

The transitional government takes control.

00:04:44 (Maria Sato)

Pahlavi reportedly met secretly with US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff last weekend to discuss the ongoing anti-government protests across Iran.

US President Trump said in an interview with Reuters news agency on Wednesday that he does not know whether Iran would accept Pahlavi's leadership.

The Pahlavi dynasty ruled Iran in an autocratic manner.

This has raised questions of how much support the former crown prince has with pro-democracy Iranians and his influence in the country.

31 YEARS SINCE GREAT HANSHIN-AWAJI EARTHQUAKE

People in Japan are marking 31 years since the Great Hanching-Awaji earthquake.

The disaster devastated the western city of Kobe and surrounding areas claiming more than 6,400 lives.

A park in Kobe fell silent on Saturday at 5:46 a.m., the exact time of the quake.

People have been gathering since Friday.

Many say they want to move forward while passing on lessons from the disaster.

So they've used bamboo lanterns to form the date of the quake in the Japanese word for weave.

00:06:11 (paticpant)

My parents both died aged 36 in the quake. I want people to remember the disaster.

I hope I can pass on the memories.

00:06:22 (Maria Sato)

A civic group in Hyogo Prefecture says there are just 37 memorial events this year.

The number of people who did not experience the quake is rising, posing questions about how to preserve the memories of those who did.

STUDENTS FROM JAPAN'S QUAKE-HIT NOTO JOIN OECD EVENT

High school students from Japan's Noto Peninsula have joined a session of the Organization of Economic Cooperation and Development in France.

They spoke about the earthquake that devastated their communities on New Year's Day in 2024.

Six students from the cities of Wajima and Suzu attended the meeting on Friday in a suburb of Paris.

One student said he helps with a mobile gym that provides elderly people with a chance to exercise.

He said the idea came from the awareness that there are fewer places for exercise as a result of open areas being used for temporary housing.

Some of the students said communities with declining populations need measures to attract tourists, but they also must think of how they should continue living there.

They said rebuilding alone is not enough.

00:07:36 (Nishi Kotono/Student)

Many people around the world face hardships when recovering from disasters.

At least, by spreading the word, we might make a difference.

00:07:45 (Andreas Schleicher/Director for Education and Skills, OECD)

It's good to have a group of young people who really actively want to shape the future, rather than just prepare for the next disaster.

MITSUBISHI IN MAJOR US NATURAL GAS DEAL

00:07:59 (Maria Sato)

Mitsubishi Corporation is buying about 7.5 billion dollars worth of natural gas assets in the United States. The deal is one of the biggest ever by a Japanese trading house.

President and CEO Nakanishi Katsuya says the move comes during a period of heightened geopolitical risk.

00:08:22 (Nakanishi Katsuya/President and CEO, Mitsubishi Corporation)

Having upstream assets in US natural gas production is highly significant for Japan's energy security.

00:08:32 (Maria Sato)

Mitsubishi has agreed to acquire all equity interests in Athon.

The US producer has development projects in the southern states of Texas and Louisiana.

Peak annual production, when converted to liquefied natural gas, is expected to be about 18 million tons. That's about one-quarter of Japan's yearly demand.

The Trump administration wants Japan to buy more American energy.

Mitsubishi is considering ways to expand sales channels in the US and increase LNG exports to Asia.

Those were the headlines for this hour.

♫～　3-DAY FORECAST　～♫

And that's all for this hour on NHK Newsline. I'm Maria Sato in Tokyo.

Do stay with us on NHK World Japan.

checked.

at 18:00 (JST), January 16

20260116180000_english_1.mp3

 00:00:10 話者 1/Kanako Sachno

Welcome back to NHK Newsline. I'm Kanako Sachno.

FORMER S.KOREAN PRESIDENT YOON GETS 5-YEAR PRISON SENTENCE

Former South Korean President Yoon Sun-yeol has been sentenced to five years in prison.

It's the first legal blow in the aftermath of his martial law declaration in late 2024 and his subsequent ouster.

Yoon still faces more sentencing for other charges, which could carry even harsher consequences. 

Joining us from outside the court with the latest is NHK World's Kim Chan-ju.

Chan-ju, what was the reaction to the decision?

00:00:45 話者 2/Kim Chan-ju

Yoon's critics are celebrating the sentence, although some online have said this was too lenient.

The court itself is under heavy security lockdown and there are via police deployed all around.

But the proceedings were broadcast live, so in essence, the whole country was given a front-row seat.

When the sentence was read, we heard hundreds of pro-Yoon supporters chant, Dismiss the case, release Yoon.

There was no major anti-Yoon demonstration, but some civil rights organizations had demanded Yoon receive what they call the maximum sentence.

So five years in prison might be a disappointment. 

Looking back, many South Koreans saw Yun's actions as a fundamental threat to their democratic way of life. They want to ensure it never happens again.

00:01:42 話者 1

And what was the reaction like inside the courtroom?

00:01:51 話者 2

It was pretty subdued. Yun and his legal team did not show very much emotion.

The special counsel had asked for a 10-year prison sentence for charges including obstructing investigators.

This trial involved Yoon's use of the presidential security service to prevent his detention last year.

Yoon had argued the investigation was unlawful and that the indictment should have been dismissed.

Yoon's lawyers have already protested the judge's decision in this case, saying they plan to appeal.

00:02:31 話者 1

Now, we also know Yoon is facing some more serious legal hurdles, including one case which could carry the death penalty. What can you tell us about what's next?

00:02:44 話者 2

That's right. As I mentioned, this was just one of many trials Yun is facing.

Another is for allegedly disrupting South Korea's constitutional order by declaring martial law. That one does carry the possibility of capital punishment.

Here's what the special counsel said on Tuesday.

00:03:06 話者 3

The defendant shows no remorse.

Therefore, it would be inappropriate to impose the minimum sentence.

The only other sentence allowed by law in this case is the death penalty.

00:03:19 話者 2

Now, this doesn't necessarily mean Yoon's fate is sealed.

Thirty years ago, another former president, Chun Doo-hwan, was given the death penalty for unlawfully declaring martial law. This was later reduced to life in prison.

South Korea has also not executed anyone since 1997, despite having dozens of people on death row.

We'll find out more when the sentencing Yoon's alleged insurrection case is handed down next month.

00:03:51 話者 1

Thanks for bringing us up to speed, Chan-ju.

NHK World's Kim Chan-ju reporting from Seoul.

JAPAN, ITALY AGREE TO COOPERATE ON ECONOMIC SECURITY, SPACE

The prime ministers of Japan and Italy have agreed to strengthen collaboration on economic security and set up a body to discuss cooperation in space.

Takaichi Sanae met her Italian counterpart Giorgio Meloni in Tokyo on Friday.

Japan and Italy marked the 160th anniversary of diplomatic ties this year.

The leaders also said they would elevate bilateral relations to a special strategic partnership and promote cooperation in a broad range of fields.

00:04:31 話者 11/Takaichi Sanae/Japanese Prime Minister

As the strategic environment surrounding the Indo-Pacific region becomes increasingly tough. Close collaboration between like-minded countries has become more important than ever for the peace and prosperity of the two countries and the region.

The summit was an opportunity to bring us and our countries closer.

00:04:52 話者 1

The two discussed security and confirmed that the Japanese Self-Defense Forces and the Italian military will engage in joint training.

Japan and Italy are working with Britain for the joint development of a next-generation fighter jet. Takaichi and Meloni agreed to accelerate cooperation on the initiative.

00:05:10 話者 12/Giorgia Meloni/Italian Prime Minister

The initiative is more than just a defense strategy is aimed at strengthening security in the Euro-Atlantic and Indo-Pacific regions.

Cooperation between the two countries is an effective answer to risks and threats we are facing now.

00:05:34 話者 1

The countries also agreed to cooperate on developing resilient supply chains for critical minerals.

The collaboration efforts will include energy and providing each other with liquefied natural gas in emergencies.

The leaders also agreed to launch a new consultative body to promote collaboration in space.

MACHADO SAYS SHE GAVE HER NOBEL PRIZE TO TRUMP

Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Carina Machado says she's given her Nobel Peace Prize medal to US President Donald Trump. Machado was last year's Nobel laureate.

She and Trump met for the first time in person at the White House on Thursday.

She told reporters after the meeting that she'd presented her medal to Trump in recognition of his commitment to the freedom of the Venezuelan people.

00:06:21 話者 12

First of all, I was very impressed by how clear he is, how he understands the situation in Venezuela, how he cares about what the Venezuelan people are suffering.

00:06:33 話者 1

Trump posted on social media, Maria presented me with her Nobel Peace Prize for the work I have done. Such a wonderful gesture of mutual respect. Thank you, Maria.

Trump has indicated he intends to work with Venezuela's interim president, Delsey Rodriguez, after a US military operation on January 3rd resulted in the capture of former president Nicolas Maduro.

Trump has said it would be difficult for Machado to become the leader of Venezuela.

US media say Machado's apparent attempt to win Trump's favour may not have achieved the results she was hoping for.

UN HOLDS EMERGENCY MEETING OVER IRANIAN PROTESTS

The UN Security Council held an emergency meeting on Thursday to address nationwide anti-government protests in Iran.

The protests have been fuelled by soaring inflation and have left many people dead or injured. The United States requested the meeting.

US Ambassador to the United Nations, Mike Walz, strongly condemned Iran.

00:07:30 話者 13

The regime is solely, solely responsible for the economic misery of the Iranian people and the repression of their freedom.

00:07:43 話者 1

Wall said although Iran says it's ready for dialogue, its actions say otherwise.

He reiterated that all options remain on the table when it comes to a US response.

During the meeting, Britain, France, Denmark and others also criticised Iran.

Iran's deputy permanent representative hit back at the US.

00:08:05 話者 15

It is shameful that the United States regime transferred this esteemed body to a scene for theater and show for baseless accusation and statement.

00:08:22 話者 1

He denied allegations that the Iranian government had killed peaceful protesters.

Darzi claimed that terrorist cells and violent separatist groups funded and armed by a few foreign entities, including the Israeli regime, were responsible.

He said those groups deliberately targeted civilians and law enforcement officers in an attempt to ignite civil war and create conditions for foreign intervention.

MYANMAR ELECTION
BOYCOTT OR PARTICIPATE? PRO-DEMOCRACY LEADER'S DILEMMA

Myanmar's general election is more than halfway through. The military government is holding it in three phases, with the final results expected later this month.

It comes amid a civil war. The military seized power in a coup five years ago.

Pro-democracy and other forces have fought back.

The military claims it aims to transition to civilian rule.

But most pro-democracy parties have been shut out of the process, and many opposition figures in exile are urging citizens to boycott what they call a sham election.

Still, a prominent pro-democracy leader, once seen as a possible successor to Aung San Suu Kyi, has decided to run as a candidate.

NHK World's Kitai Genki went to Myanmar to understand why.

00:09:42 話者 6

We did not choose this because it was our favourite option.

We chose it because we had no other choice.

00:09:51 話者 5

Kokoji leads the People's Party. He says that despite the conditions, participation is the only practical way to keep his party's presence in the political sphere alive.

00:10:06 話者 6

Even before the election, we did not expect it to be 100% fair. Because security threats are very high right now, we cannot expect it to be like a normal election.

00:10:26 話者 5

Kokoji rose to prominence during the 1988 pro-democracy uprising. As one of the student leaders, he helped spearhead nationwide protests that challenged military rule.

His efforts landed him in prison several times, nearly 20 years in total, earning him a reputation as an unbreakable activist.

And for nearly 30 years, he worked alongside Aung San Suu Kyi and campaigned across the country.

He is now 64 years old. He says that after decades in the pro-democracy struggle, he has come to see that fighting the military with weapons leads nowhere.

00:11:11 話者 6

We have reached the 78th Independence Day.

This means Myanmar's armed revolution is also 78 years old.

In our view, the only lasting result is that the people continue to suffer.

That is why we are trying to strengthen the peace process and work toward a solution through political means once again.

00:11:35 話者 5

Meanwhile, pro-democracy forces led by Myanmar's shadow government, the National Unity Government, or NUG, have continued to call for resistance from abroad.

00:11:49 話者 15

Nothing will change, even after the election.

It will provide no real solution to Myanmar's problems.

The NUG is working to issue this appeal to the international community.

00:12:01 話者 5

But Kokoji says the group's influence has weakened since the coup, and promises went unfulfilled.

00:12:11 話者 6

As time passed, I could see that the people's hopes began to fade. People living inside the country are personally facing daily security threats and survival crises.

People living abroad only see the information available online, so there is a big difference.

00:12:34 話者 5

Kokoji emphasizes the importance of pressuring the military to change through political means.

00:12:46 話者 6

Our ultimate goal is 100% democracy. The main reason the military became involved in politics in the 1st place was the armed conflict that started after independence.

That is why we are primarily working to make political solutions strong again and to develop a culture of solving problems through political means.

ANALYSIS: MYANMAR FACES BLEAK PROSPECTS DESPITE VOTE

00:13:11 話者 1

Earlier, I spoke with Genki about the election. I began by asking him what people think about a pro-democracy leader taking part in a military-led election.

00:13:22 話者 5/Kitai Genki/NHK World

Based on my visit to Myanmar this month, his stance has not attracted a lot of support, at least not openly. In fact, I noticed an error of resignation among people.

Many just aren't paying much attention to him.

People have been under military repression for many years.

Then, just as a glimmer of hope for democratization appeared on the Aung San Suu Kyi administration, the coup happened.

While many really feel they cannot accept the military's overreach, they also have their doubts about the vote. Here's what they told me.

00:14:01 話者 6/interviewee 1

I have almost no hope things will improve.

00:14:05 話者 6/interviewee 2

We run a business, so there is pressure from the authorities.

In this case, we have no choice but to vote. 

Because of that pressure, we are forced to live in fear.

00:14:19 話者 1/interviewee 3

Things have been difficult during these five years.

The next five are only going to be even more painful.

I have to keep trying and working hard for the sake of my child.

00:14:29 話者 1

Now, that all sounds pretty bleak, but Kokoji seems committed to bringing change to the military through political means. How viable is that strategy?

00:14:37 話者 5

At this point, it appears it will be a difficult one to see through.

The Union Solidarity and Development Party is backed by the military.

The election authority says that the group has won more than 80 percent of the seats in both houses of parliament in the first phase.

The party is widely expected to secure an overall victory, so the military is likely to maintain its influence even after the election.

Kokoji says he hopes to reduce the military's power through constitutional amendments, but that would require a lot of time and effort.

00:15:15 話者 1

And how is Myanmar expected to look after the election?

00:15:20 話者 5

The turmoil has taken a heavy toll on people.

the worsening economy, soaring prices, and the exodus of young people abroad.

There are concerns that this negative spiral will only accelerate.

And it's worth pointing out that only a relatively small number of countries, including China and Russia, support this election.

Most others, including Western nations, as well as the UN, maintain that it lacks legitimacy. But criticism along from the international community, including Japan, will not lead to a democratic resolution.

A long-term strategy will likely be required to break the deadlock.

BUSINESS

00:16:15 話者 1

Now let's see what's happening in the world of business.

Here's Gene Otani from the BizDesk.

00:16:20 話者 7/Gene Otani

Kanako, thanks. In our top business story this hour, 

CEO TO RESIGN AMID STAFF MISCONDUCT AT JAPAN PRUDENTIAL LIFE

the CEO of Japan's Prudential Life Insurance will resign following revelations of employee misconduct. They include allegations of embezzlement of customer funds.

The company on Friday said more than 100 current and former employees were involved.

The unit of Prudential Financial in the US says some staff profited from selling non-company products, while others borrowed money from customers.

The total amounts are said to be more than 3.1 billion yen or $19 million and involve more than 500 customers.

The company said in a statement that president and CEO Mabarak Khan will step down in February. It also apologized for the wrongdoing and said it has consulted the police and started discussions on compensation.

US, TAIWAN AGREE ON CHIP-FOCUSED TRADE DEAL, LOWER TARIFFS

The United States says it has reached a trade deal with Taiwan.

The pact cuts tariffs on Taiwanese goods in exchange for massive investments on American soil. The main aim is to boost chip production.

The Commerce Department said on Thursday the US will lower the tariff rate for Taiwanese imports to no more than 15 percent.

Aircraft components, generic pharmaceuticals and some other items will face no levies.

Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick announced plans in an interview with CNBC-TV to build giant semiconductor industrial parks in America and bring semiconductors home.

He said the objective is to bring 40 percent of Taiwan's entire supply chain and production to the US.

Under the deal, Taiwanese chipmakers and other tech firms are to make new and direct investments totaling at least $250 billion in the US.

That's to expand production and innovation capacity of advanced chips, energy, and AI.

Taiwan's authorities will provide credit guarantees of at least $250 billion.

BIZ PICKS

Next, NHK World's John LaDue is here with BizPix.

00:18:38 話者 3/John LaDue

Let's take a look at some of the business and economic stories we'll track in the week ahead. On Monday, China releases GDP figures for the October to December quarter.

Beijing said its GDP growth target for all of 2025 at around 5%.

FOREIGN VISITORS TO JAPAN SURGE TO RECORD HIGH IN 2025

And on Wednesday, the Japan National Tourism Organization provides an estimate for the number of foreign visitors to Japan in 2025.

The figure from January to November last year already surpassed 39 million, beating the previous annual record set in 2024.

Ebisawa Toshinori at Japan Travel Bureau Foundation says visitor numbers for all of 2025 may reach 43 million.

00:19:29 話者 8/Ebisawa Toshinori/Japan Travel Bureau Foundation

Compared to other destinations, the weaker Japanese yen is clearly one draw for overseas visitors, as it reduces costs when traveling.

Promotions by the Japan Tourism Agency to highlight the country's attraction is also producing strong results.

Japan has a unique culture and cuisine that is now much better known around the world.

00:19:52 話者 3

Visitors from China typically made-up the largest number of arrivals. But since bilateral relations soured in November, China has discouraged its citizens from traveling to Japan.

Many group tours were canceled.

Ebisawa says this dented revenue at facilities and regions targeting Chinese.

But he adds there is less impact in regions that attracted a diversified group of overseas visitors and domestic tourists.

00:20:27 話者 8

Chinese visitors accounted for more than 30% of the arrivals in Japan in 2019.

That figure has fallen to about 23% in 2025. However, that is mostly because the number of visitors from other countries has increased.

Even for China, group tours have fallen recently, but the number of individual travelers has not decreased so much.

00:20:49 話者 3

Ebisawa estimates visitor numbers to Japan will top 45 million this year.

He says tourism is one of the country's few growth sectors and could become a core industry of the future.

00:21:06 話者 8

The tourism industry benefits a wide range of businesses, such as restaurants, hotels, and transport providers. These sectors, in turn, employ millions of workers.

Tourism is classed as an export industry that earns foreign currency.

Spending by foreign visitors topped 8.1 trillion yen, or about $51 billion in 2024, and may have hit 10 trillion yen in 2025.

Tourism could rank with the auto sector in the coming years as a leading export industry of Japan.

00:21:37 話者 3

As for the challenges, the tourism industry faces labor shortages over tourism and competition from foreign companies.

Ebisawa says digital transformation of the industry can help with these issues, along with appropriate regulations from the government.

I'm John Ladue, and that wraps it up for this week's Biz Picks.

00:21:59 話者 7

All right, John, thanks.

NARITA INTERNATIONAL TRAVELER NUMBERS NEAR PRE-COVID LEVELS

Another sign of surging tourism. More than 1,000,000 travelers use the international terminals at Narita Airport near Tokyo during the year and end New Year holidays.

That is almost back at level seen before the COVID-19 pandemic.

Preliminary figures from immigration officials show about 1,015,000 people used the airport in Chiba Prefecture for international trips between December 26 and January 4.

Roughly 530,000 people left Japan in the period, while about 490,000 arrived.

The figure rose 5% from a year earlier. The total was about 98.6% of the number of travelers seen in fiscal 2019 or before the pandemic.

Almost 350,000 were Japanese and slightly more than 665,000 were foreigners.

However, the number of people using flights to China fell about 20% from a year ago.

MARKETS

All right, let's have a look at the markets.

♪

And that's it for Business News.

HONG KONG FIRE
POLICE CONFIRM FINAL DEATH TOLL AT 168

00:23:39 話者 1/Kanako Sachno

Hong Kong police say the final death toll from the fire at a high-rise apartment complex in November stands at 168.

Police said on Thursday they had completed the identification and forensic examination of all remains recovered from the blaze in the northern district of Taipo.

They said the victims ranged in age from six months to 98 years old.

The fatalities include a firefighter and five construction workers, as well as 10 foreign domestic helpers, nine Indonesians and one Filipina.

Police said details of the victims will not be disclosed at this stage out of respect for the wishes of bereaved family members.

Investigators say protective nets that did not meet fire safety standards were being used during renovation work when the fire broke out.

Fire alarms at the site were also reportedly faulty.

Residents and members of the public are calling on authorities to take responsibility over safety management.

WEATHER

Now it's time for a check on the world weather. People in the Balkans are reeling from severe cold. Our meteorologist Yumi Hirano has the details.

00:24:48 話者 4

Cold air extends from Russia to the Balkans this week.

Temperatures in Budapest remained below, freezing even during the daytime.

The cold weather has turned Hungary's second biggest lake into a winter landscape.

The entire surface of the lake froze on Thursday, creating a breathtaking sight.

The surface hasn't frozen solid for the past 10 years.

Local people had to break the ice around the boards left on the lake.

Authorities reported the ice was about 13 centimeters thick.

They said going onto the lake poses a safety risk.

Below average temperatures are expected to continue in Budapest with a high of 1.

The temperatures will be -9 in Moscow and -12 in Kyiv.

But warmer-than-usual conditions are likely in the west.

The highs will be 10 in London and 12 in Paris.

Now moving to Japan, a low pressure system is expected to shift toward the country over the weekend.

Snow is likely in northern Japan on Saturday, but dry conditions are expected to continue on the Pacific side, with a risk of wildfires.

Sunny skies are expected in Tokyo. The high will be 16, which is as warm as in March.

Finally, across the Philippines, the first tropical storm of the year formed on Thursday.

The storm is moving northward along the eastern Philippines, bringing downpours.

Up to 200 millimeters is possible in eastern Bisayas and Luzon by Saturday, with a risk of flash flooding.

That's it for now. Stay safe.

♫～　3-DAY FORECAST　～♫

00:27:41 話者 1

That wraps up this edition of NHK Newsline. I'm Kanako Sachno in Tokyo.

Thanks very much for joining us.

checked.

at 18:00 (JST), January 15

20260115180000_english_1.mp3

 00:00:10 話者 1

Here in Japan, it's a Thursday evening. I'm James Tengan in Tokyo.

Welcome to NHK Newsline.

BREAKING NEWS
CDP, KOMEITO TO FORM NEW PARTY FOR SNAP ELECTION

Opposition parties in Japan are gearing up for a possible snap election next month, and two of them have agreed to form a new party in the lower house.

The move comes after Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae conveyed her plans to dissolve the lower house.

during the upcoming diet session, which starts next week.

The Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan, or CDP, is the country's largest opposition group.

President Noda Yoshihiko met with Saito Tetsuo.

He's the chief representative of Komeito, which was, until last October, partnered with the Liberal Democratic Party in its ruling coalition.

The two leaders now say they're seeking to rally forces that support centrist policies.

This is a chance for centrist forces to become centered in politics.

We need to consolidate our power to put forward pragmatic policies that are grounded in people's daily lives and can raise them up, instead of a style of politics that is based on fiery rhetoric.

In the midst of division and conflict around the world, as well as the rise of the ultra-right and extreme left, it's important to unite those who stand in the middle.

In Japan, we're also seeing signs that politics is leaning to the right.

Their decision comes after Takaichi met with her party's secretary-general and the leader of junior coalition partner, the Japan Innovation Party, on Wednesday.

Takaichi told them she's seeking a public mandate for her new coalition.

The LDP parted ways with Komeito and formed a new partnership with the JIP last year.

Members of the ruling coalition are making preparations on the assumption that official campaigning will start on January 27. Voting will likely take place on February 8.

ONE KILLED IN TOKYO SLASHING INCIDENT, SUSPECT ARRESTED

One man is dead after a slashing incident near an apartment in a residential area on the western side of Tokyo.

Police arrested a man on suspicion of attempted murder after two men were slashed when they came to carry out an eviction.

The incident took place in the middle of the morning on Thursday in Tokyo's Siginami Ward.

The Tokyo Metropolitan Police said the victims, both in their 60s, are a court bailiff and the employee of a rent guarantee company.

Police said the rent company employee has died.

The room's occupant, a man believed to be in his 40s, was arrested near the apartment.

The police say he admits to the charge.

He had apparently accumulated unpaid rent.

The man is also believed to have started a fire during the eviction, but it was soon extinguished.

US-VENEZUELA
TRUMP AND RODRIGUEZ HAVE FIRST PHONE CONVERSATION

Turning now to Venezuela, US President Donald Trump says he's spoken by telephone with the interim president.

He described her as a terrific person.

Trump was referring to a conversation he had Wednesday with Delsey Rodriguez.

The United States captured President Nicolas Maduro in a military operation earlier this month.

This is the first time Trump has since revealed direct talks with interim President Rodriguez.

We discussed a lot of things, and I think we're getting along very well with Venezuela.

He wrote on social media that he and Rodriguez had discussed topics including oil, minerals, trade, and national security.

Rodriguez also posted on social media.

She mentioned a productive and courteous conversation.

She did not say whether she had asked the US to release President Maduro.

Meanwhile, the White House said Trump had brokered an energy deal with Venezuela.

The first sale of crude oil is valued at $500 million.

The White House says more sales are expected in the coming days and weeks.

The US earlier stated it would control the sale of Venezuelan-produced crude oil indefinitely.

FBI SEARCHES WASHINGTON POST REPORTER'S HOME IN LEAK PROBE

Federal investigators in the United States have raided the home of a Washington Post reporter as part of a probe into a government contractor accused of leaking classified information.

A press group says the move threatens journalistic freedom in the country.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation said it executed a search warrant at the reporter's home on Wednesday.

She allegedly obtained and reported classified sensitive military information from a Pentagon contractor who has been arrested.

US Attorney General Pam Bondi said in a social media post, The search was carried out at the request of the Defense Department.

She added, The Trump administration will not tolerate leaks of classified information that pose a risk to national security.

The Washington Post says federal agents seized a phone, two laptops, and a smartwatch belonging to the reporter.

It says she has not been accused of any wrongdoing.

The paper says the reporter covers the federal workforce and has been part of its most high-profile and sensitive coverage during the second Trump administration.

The National Press Club said searching a journalist's home is a significant escalation in investigative tactics and crosses a line.

It added it will continue to monitor this matter closely.

BUSINESS

Here with business and financial news is Gene Otani.

00:05:43 話者 2

James, thanks. In our top business story this hour, 

TOKYO'S NIKKEI 225 FALLS FROM ALL-TIME HIGH

Tokyo's Nikkei 225 stock index fell on Thursday.

The decline came after record highs two days in a row.

The benchmark edged 0.4% lower to end at 54,110.

Investors offloaded shares such as semiconductor-related companies.

The index gained back part of its early losses before the close.

The Nikkei 225 had added more than 3,200 points, or 6.3 percent, over the three trading days ending Wednesday.

That was on expectations for the stimulus policies of Japan's Takaichi administration.

The weaker yen was also a factor.

Meanwhile, the broader topics rose nearly 0.7 percent, with auto and financial shares leading the way.

It has set a record high for the third straight day.

TRUMP ORDERS TRADE TALKS ON CRITICAL MINERAL IMPORTS

US President Donald Trump told trade officials to address concerns about the country's reliance on imports of processed minerals linked to national security.

The White House said Wednesday that Trump ordered US Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick and US Trade Representative Jameson Greer to negotiate to possibly include price floors on imports of processed critical minerals and their derivatives

These include rare earths.

The step aims to diversify and stabilize supply chains of the minerals.

The White House said the minerals are indispensable to almost every industry, including national defense programs and infrastructure.

Chinese processors and miners have dominant market shares in some critical minerals.

The US administration is aiming to counter that.

US APPROVES ADVANCED NVIDIA AI CHIP SALES TO CHINA

The US has approved exports to China of certain advanced AI chips made by Nvidia and others.

Such semiconductors will first be imported to the US and subject to tariffs.

The Commerce Department on Tuesday unveiled the new rules for Nvidia's H200 AI processor and a similar chip from AMD called the MI325X.

It says export applications to China will need to meet security requirements.

President Donald Trump on Wednesday signed an order to impose a 25% import tariff on the chips, but it excludes those to be used in the US

00:08:14 話者 1

China wants them, but other people want them, and we're going to be making 25% on the sale of those chips, basically.

So we're allowing them to do it, but the United States is getting 25% of the chips.

in terms of the dollar value and I think it's a very good deal.

00:08:31 話者 2

Most advanced AI ships imported to the US come from Taiwan.

RETHINKING TRADITION AT JAPANESE HOT SPRINGS

Hot spring towns across Japan are rethinking a long-standing practice.

For decades, the operators of traditional inns, known as ryokan, have provided Japanese cuisine for dinner and breakfast, along with overnight stays.

Now, amid growing labor shortages and changing tourist expectations, some establishments are dropping meals from their offerings.

00:09:04 話者 3

Kinosaki Onsen is a historic hot spring resort in Hyogo Prefecture along the Sea of Japan coast.

In a town famous for its ryokan, a new type of establishment opened in 2024.

The main focus is accommodation without meals.

The target market is overseas tourists and business travelers who are happy to eat elsewhere.

I can just go out and have meals outside.

There's a lot of food here, a lot of really good food that I like.

By having guests dine at local restaurants, there is no burden on inns to prepare or serve meals.

Around 10 establishments in the area now specialize in room-only stays.

The owner says the approach brings big cost benefits.

00:09:59 話者 1

Our work is mostly cleaning and front desk duties, so we can keep labor costs very low.

00:10:05 話者 3

I think this model carries less business risk and makes it easier for us to continue.

The new business model is also affecting communities around traditional hot springs.

Kinogawa Onsen in Tochigi Prefecture is one such town.

This hotel converted some of its rooms to Western-style last November.

meals are now optional, and visitors can book a room-only stay.

We're seeing more guests from Europe and North America choosing to stay without meals, so we're adjusting our services to meet those preferences.

But local eateries are feeling the challenge of catering to visitors who prefer to dine out.

While the streets around Kinugawa Onsen Station are lively during the day,

They quieten down in the evening.

Only a few restaurants serve dinner.

That's because, until now, guests have been accustomed to eating at their inns.

We get a steady crowd at lunch, but at night we're empty about three days a week.

But as the business environment changes, hotel and restaurant operators have held discussions on ways to adapt.

We should push a separation of meals from lodgings.

This could increase occupancy and help us cope with staff shortages.

The separation won't work unless there are dining options in the evenings.

Last September, organizers held a night market to bring more people into the streets.

More than 20 hotels and dining businesses served food and drink, attracting both tourists and locals.

It's important for visitors to enjoy the area while giving local restaurants a chance to thrive.

That helps energize the entire community.

Changing hospitality model that's been in place for decades is no easy task.

But by working together, businesses and communities can achieve a shared vision that will be key to tourism in the future.

MARKETS

00:12:34 話者 2

All right, let's have a look at the markets.

That's it for business news.

♪

00:13:08 話者 1

And that was Gene Otani from our BizDesk.

NO SIGN OF THAW IN JAPAN-CHINA RELATIONS

Tensions between Japan and China have continued into the new year.

They began last November after Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi Sanai spoke in the Diet.

She said a possible Taiwan emergency involving the use of force could be considered a situation threatening Japan's survival.

Beijing pushed back hard and relations quickly worsened.

Earlier, I spoke with NHK World's Yoshida Mayu, who's in Beijing, to explore where things go from here.

00:13:41 話者 4

So right now, observers think the situation will likely stay the same.

It has been months, and the Chinese government and media are still criticizing Japan over what Takaichi said.

One of Beijing's biggest moves came just last week.

The Ministry of Commerce announced tighter

export controls on items to Japan that can be used for what it calls both military and civilian purposes.

The list includes rare earths, but China hasn't said how these rules will actually be enforced.

The Japanese Chamber of Commerce and Industry in China has responded.

It's calling on Beijing to reaffirm that the restrictions will not affect exports of civilian-used items.

If rare-earth exports from China slow down, it could hit a wide range of industries in Japan.

Companies are growing increasingly concerned.

Kanasugi Kenji is Japan's ambassador to China.

He gave NHK his take on where things stand between the countries.

From the Japanese side, there certainly are issues and concerns.

and our basic thinking is that it would be.

00:14:58 話者 1

In the interest of both sides to continue dialogue and put Japan-China relations on as stable a footing as possible.

Unfortunately, at this point, China shows no sign that it's interested in that, so I think it may take quite some time.

Well, Mayu, even if communications between the two appear strained, China has still been sending messages of its own.

Tell us about that.

00:15:28 話者 4

Recently, the rhetoric has become pretty extreme.

We have been hearing claims like Japan is pursuing a new militarism or even aiming to become a nuclear power.

Ambassador Konosugi says if Beijing presents false claims, Japan should continue to respond firmly and rebut them while also conveying a key message.

00:15:52 話者 1

We need to keep asserting on various occasions that Japan is open to dialogue.

And when opportunities for communication arise, Japan should make its positions clear and look for openings that could lead to stable Japan-China relations.

00:16:14 話者 4

It's worth mentioning that Chinese airlines have reportedly been canceled more flights to and from Japan.

That's affecting people-to-people exchanges.

Also across China, Japanese movie releases have been postponed.

Concerts by Japanese artists are being canceled, too.

00:16:34 話者 1

Delving back to Beijing's side, what's next on its diplomatic agenda?

00:16:41 話者 4

A big item on the list is set for April, a visit from US President Donald Trump.

Relations with Washington are Beijing's top priority right now.

China wants to stabilize ties with its biggest rival and reinforce its image as one of the two global superpowers.

To do that, it might offer deals that appeal to Trump ahead of the US midterm elections this fall, things like cutting the trade deficit or cooperating on drug control.

Then in November, China is set to host the APEC summit in Shenzhen.

Beijing is expected to use the event to showcase its status as a major power.

IN FOCUS

00:17:29 話者 1

Next, let's go to my colleague Shibuya Aki with Newsline In Focus.

She's spotlighting how the Southern Hemisphere views Japan-China relations.

AUSTRALIAN EXPERT ON JAPAN-CHINA SPAT

00:17:39 話者 5

On the second day of our two-part series on the ongoing Japan-China spat, an expert gives us Australia's perspective.

But first, let's take a brief look at the current state of Japan-Australia security cooperation.

00:17:55 話者 1

Australia and Japan have two things in common.

Both are long-standing treaty allies of the United States, and each views China as a growing security challenge.

For these reasons, Canberra and Tokyo have been strengthening their security cooperation in recent years.

Last August, Australia selected Japan's Mogami-class frigates to replace its aging naval fleet.

In early December, a Chinese fighter jet locked its radar onto Japanese Air Self-Defense Force aircraft over international waters southeast of Okinawa.

On the same day, Australian Defense Minister Richard Morales was in Tokyo meeting his Japanese counterpart.

He had this to say,

We are deeply concerned by the actions of China in the last 24 hours.

Australia and Japan work together to uphold a free and open Indo-Pacific.

00:19:02 話者 5

To find out more about how Canberra views the growing tensions between Tokyo and Beijing, we interviewed Dr.

Bryce Wakefield, Chief Executive Officer of the Australian Institute of International Affairs.

So Dr.

Wakefield, can you tell us more about the recent security cooperation between Australia and Japan, especially in dealing with the challenges posed by China's growing influence in the Indo-Pacific?

00:19:31 話者 6

I see it as a development that has been increasingly visible for the last five years or so.

And I think the relationship between Japan and Australia is only going to become closer and closer.

It's a relationship that has been nurtured to some extent behind the scenes before that.

But increasingly, Australians are becoming used to the idea that Japan is Australia's most important security partner in Asia.

00:20:05 話者 5

Obviously, Japan and Australia are both close allies to the US

Do you see this relationship changing or shifting in any way in light of what's been happening around the world?

00:20:16 話者 6

Well, obviously, Japan and Australia are right to be alarmed.

I think America's actions have more implications for the Western Hemisphere and Europe than they might have in East Asia.

The reason I say that is because the Trump administration has outlined in its national security strategy some very clear and towards those parts of the world, very antagonistic positions.

Whereas while the approach towards East Asia and the Pacific is not quite business as usual, it has made some reassuring statements, for example, about the strategic centrality and importance of Taiwan.

So if we look at the developments in Venezuela as a

an affirmation that the Trump administration is going to take its national security strategy seriously, we might view its actions in East Asia in that light.

00:21:18 話者 5

And now that you sort of brought up Taiwan, I'd like to talk about Japan's Prime Minister Takaichi's comments about Taiwan.

What did you think of her comments, and what is your reaction to how China has been taking that comment?

00:21:35 話者 6

Look, my personal reaction is that I think that China is overreacting.

I think it's doing it purposefully.

I think it is attempting to create a narrative, particularly with follow-up comments, for example, by the Chinese ambassador to Australia, that talk about this in light of Japan's wartime past.

I think what they're trying to do is delegitimize Japan as a regional security actor.

They're trying to kind of create the notion of an uncomplicated continuum between Japan's actions in World War II and Japan's actions today, which of course is nonsense.

So

The comments were an overreaction.

That's my take on it.

In terms of how you'll see Australia react to it.

00:22:31 話者 5

So now, do you have any advice for Japan on how the country might go about calming the recent flare-up between Beijing and Tokyo?

00:22:40 話者 6

I think in terms of how it acts in the region, it does need to engage in quiet diplomacy with its partners like Australia to make sure that Australia, Australians and others.

understand what the actual issues are and what Takaichi was referring to in the Diet when she talked about an existence-threatening situation, that that wasn't just something she plucked out of thin air but exists already as standing Japanese policy.

I think also, though, that

Japan, when it's talking about the issue of Taiwan in general, needs to approach it from a principles-based standpoint, that it discusses its relations with China from the basis of the agreements that Japan signed with China in the 1970s, which said it acknowledges that China has this claim on Taiwan, but doesn't necessarily agree with it.

00:23:48 話者 5

According to Dr. Wakefield, China's response to Takaichi's comments was an overreaction.

Even so, it seems certain that as the situation in the Indo-Pacific continues to pose challenges for countries in the region, the Japan-Australia relationship will surely strengthen and grow.

And that's all for me.

WEATHER

00:24:34 話者 1

Now for world weather, people in parts of Europe are reeling from severe cold.

Our meteorologist Yumi Hirano has the details.

00:24:43 話者 7

A cold wave is sweeping across Eastern Europe into Russia this week.

Kyiv experienced a daytime high of -9.8 degrees, which is about 10 degrees lower than usual.

A massive cold air mass is bringing bitterly cold weather to Ukraine.

Temperatures are expected to dip to around minus 12 degrees, while Belarus will hover at about minus 13 degrees by the week's end.

People could be seen walking children on slats on icy roads, while some children got ready for school.

Weather officials say snow depth reached 40 centimeters in some mountains, increasing the risk of avalanches.

The freezing temperatures in Kyiv are expected to continue on Thursday.

The high will be only minus 12.

But Palis is likely to see 12, which is average of March.

Now moving to Japan.

Low pressure and frontal systems are sweeping across the country.

Thunder showers, gusty winds and even tornadoes are possible on the Sea of Japan side.

After the systems pass, yellow sand is expected to flow from the continent into western and eastern Japan on Friday.

If the sand is absorbed in January, it would be the first time since 1999 in Osaka and the first time ever in Tokyo.

Finally, across the Philippines, you can see a circulating system on the satellite.

It's expected to intensify into the first tropical storm of the year in the western Pacific.

The storm is likely to approach the eastern Philippines, bringing downpours.

Up to 200 millimeters could hit the eastern Desayas by Saturday, leading to possible flash flooding.

That's all for now. Stay safe.

♫～　3-DAY FORECAST　～♫

00:27:35 話者 1

And with that, we conclude this edition of NHK Newsline.

For all of us here on the program, I'm James Tengan in Tokyo.

Thanks for watching.

at 18:00 (JST), January 14

20260114180000_english_1.mp3

 00:00:10 話者 1/Hames Tengan

It's 6 p.m. and on Wednesday here in Japan. I'm James Tangan in Tokyo.

This is NHK Newsline.

CRANE HITS TRAIN IN THAILAND, KILLING AT LEAST 22

A construction crane has fallen onto a passenger train in Thailand.

Authorities say at least 22 people are dead, with more than 60 others injured.

The accident occurred on Wednesday in the northeastern province of Nakhon Rachasima.

The train was traveling from Bangkok with about 200 people on board.

Authorities say none of those killed or injured are foreign nationals.

Firefighters were seen tackling a blaze where the train derailed.

The crane was working on an elevated high-speed railway line.

Authorities have launched a probe into why it collapsed.

ISRAEL-HAMAS CONFLICT
UNICEF: OVER 100 CHILDREN KILLED SINCE OCT. CEASEFIRE BEGAN

The United Nations agency UNICEF says more than 100 children have been killed in Gaza since the ceasefire began in the territory last October.

UNICEF announced the death toll on Tuesday as it renewed calls for the truce to be upheld.

Israeli forces continue their attacks in Gaza even after the ceasefire took hold, claiming violations by Hamas. A winter storm is adding to people's misery in the enclave.

An NHK crew on Tuesday found multiple tents destroyed by strong winds in northern Gaza City. A woman and children huddled in what little shelter they could find.

00:01:42 話者 2

Children are shivering in this freezing weather.

We have no blankets, no mattresses, no tents to protect us from the harsh winter.

We need some shelter to survive and blankets and winter clothes to keep out the cold.

00:02:00 話者 1

Local health authorities say three people were killed when wind toppled a building that was damaged by a military strike. 

They also say a one-year-old child died from extreme cold.

IRANIAN PROTESTS
REPORTS: DEATH TOLL RISES TO ABOUT 3,000

The death toll is still rising in Iran as protests continue to rock the country.

According to the New York Times, a senior Iranian official says, about 3,000 people have been killed.

That figure has been echoed by a US-based human rights group.

It reports over 2,500 deaths.

An Iranian government official told local media that more than two-thirds of the victims were martyrs. But the government hasn't released the exact number of casualties.

It has also restricted internet access in the country.

An Iranian government spokesperson says it restricted the internet due to security concerns, and she indicated this will stay in place until the situation stabilizes.

She also blames the US and Israel for inciting the violence in the country.

US President Donald Trump is continuing to keep up pressure on Iran.

He's encouraging Iranians to keep protesting, and he warns that those who have killed protesters will pay a very big price.

He also says he's canceled all meetings with Iranian officials.

TRUMP CALLS IRAN PROTEST KILLING 'SIGNIFICANT'

Trump appears to be mulling his next move. He's previously suggested he could take military action in response to Iran's deadly crackdown on the protests.

The US president told reporters on Tuesday that Iran is on his mind.

00:03:38 話者 10

We'll get some accurate numbers as to what's happening with regard to the killing.

The killing looks like it's significant, but we don't know yet for certain.

I'll know within 20 minutes. And we'll act accordingly.

00:03:52 話者 1

News website Axios reported on remarks made by Secretary of State Marco Rubio during a closed-door meeting.

According to sources, Rubio said, the US is looking at what he called non-kinetic responses to help the protesters.

WAR IN UKRAINE
UN WATCHDOG SAYS CIVILIAN CASUALTIES INCREASE

A UN human rights watchdog says 2025 was the deadliest year for civilians in Ukraine, with more than 2,500 people killed amid Russia's invasion.

The UN Human Rights Monitoring Mission in Ukraine said on Monday that conflict-related violence killed 2,514 civilians and injured over 12,000 in 2025.

It said the total number of killed and injured last year was 31 percent higher than in 2024, and 70 percent higher than in 2023.

The head of the mission said the rise was driven not only by intensified hostilities on the front lines, but also by the expanded use of longer-range weapons, which exposed civilians across the country to heightened risk.

The Ukrainian Air Force reported Russian attacks in several locations in Ukraine during nighttime through early Tuesday.

It said 18 ballistic missiles and more than 290 drones were used.

The Russian Defense Ministry said its forces delivered a massive strike against energy infrastructure facilities used by Ukrainian forces and their defense industry.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that four people had been killed by a Russian missile attack on the postal terminal in the eastern region of Kharkiv.

He condemned the attack, saying it had no military purpose whatsoever.

THE CHANGING FACE OF JAPAN'S COMING OF AGE

Change has come to Japan's coming-of-age day.

Ceremonies to celebrate people entering adulthood are seeing more and more new faces.

We'll delve further into that in just a moment. First, the latest celebrations.

00:06:00 話者 2

Over the weekend, municipalities across the country put on events for people who turned or will turn 20 this fiscal year. The legal age was lowered to 18 a few years ago.

But seijin-no-hi, as it's known in Japanese, is generally considered a milestone for 20-year-olds becoming self-reliant members of society.

In Kyoto, maiko, who themselves have come of age, performed for their fellow new grown-ups.

And in Ishikawa Prefecture's noto, An extra layer of reflection for those who lived through the devastating New Year's Day earthquake in the region two years ago.

00:06:46 話者 11

Our society has suffered major disasters, including earthquakes and heavy rains, as well as the effects of the pandemic.

It has had to undergo major changes, and we have dealt with fears and concerns.

We pray for NOTO's recovery, and we'll think about what we can do to help.

00:07:04 話者 2

Many participants often use the occasion to share their gratitude toward their families and their goals for the future.

00:07:14 話者 12

I want to boost my potential as a human being so I can play a greater role in society.

00:07:21 話者 2

These events have seen a change in demographics.

The number of Japanese nationals aged 20 stands at about 1,102,000.

a drop of more than 100,000 over the past decade.

But over that time, the number of foreign nationals of that age has more than doubled, to close to 100,000. In Tokyo's 23 wards, they make up one in every six people.

Shinjuku Ward has the highest proportion, at 49 percent.

The area has many Japanese-language schools and hosts a large number of foreign students attending colleges and universities.

(Japanese)

00:08:06 話者 1

There are several factors behind this trend. Earlier, I spoke with NHK World's Ohashi Kanako about what this change means for Japanese society as a whole.

Kanako, thanks for joining us. Tell us what you've found.

00:08:43 話者 4/Ohashi Kanako

Thanks, James. Well, you can probably guess one of the factors, the declining birth rate.

It's been low for years, and it fell to a record low in 2024.

The number of children a Japanese woman is expected to have during her lifetime is 1.15.

In Tokyo, the rate is 0.96. 

So then the number of people entering adulthood naturally sees a decline.

Meanwhile, the Japanese government and universities have been working to increase the number of foreign exchange students.

Those account for about 70 percent of foreign nationals aged 20 in Tokyo.

We are also seeing more foreign technical interns in the country to support the shrinking domestic workforce.

00:09:39 話者 1

As we mentioned earlier, coming-of-age ceremonies are a huge milestone here in Japan, and it's nice to see foreign nationals taking part in that cultural experience.

Kanoko, tell us what measures are being taken to make them feel welcome.

00:09:53 話者 4

Generally, these ceremonies are pretty welcoming.

They are open to 20-year-old residents, regardless of nationality.

But it's worth highlighting something being offered in Tokyo's Toshima world.

Take a look at these.

As you know, the kimono is a staple at Coming of Age Day events.

A non-profit organization there lends out kimono and other attire to foreign students.

The service is free of charge. It has been going on for six years.

But recently, Toshima has seen false information and criticism spreading online.

People are claiming that foreign nationals are getting special treatment.

Officials say they've received about 80 complaints from people who say there are also Japanese nationals who can't afford to dress up.

00:10:55 話者 4

It's important that people know the world actually offers similar services free of charge to anyone, regardless of nationality.

We spoke with a professor who researches multiculturalism.

He says Japan must have more discussions to find better ways for people to live together.

00:11:18 話者 3

Foreign nationals will grow into skilled people who can act as bridges between Japan and their home countries. And in the long run, everyone benefits.

It's vital to provide more opportunities for dialogue and exchange at the community level.

00:11:35 話者 4

We saw the ceremony in Shinjuku earlier. One young woman I spoke with there said she was happy to be part of an official event like that in this country.

I think that probably speaks to something many of us can relate to regardless of age or nationality, inclusivity.

And with our changing demographics, this topic will continue to be relevant for years to come.

BUSINESS

00:12:07 話者 1

Now for the latest on the business and financial fronts, here's Gene Otani.

00:12:12 話者 3/Gene Otani

James, thanks in our top business story this hour.

NIKKEI 225 SETS ALL-TIME CLOSING HIGH ABOVE 54,000

The benchmark index of the Tokyo Stock Exchange set another all-time high on Wednesday, closing above the 54,000 mark for the first time.

Many investors believe the stimulus policies of Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae will support the Japanese economy and boost investment in growth sectors.

The Nikkei 225 finished at 54,341, up nearly 1.5%.

It surged right after the opening and kept rising, but later trimmed some of the gains on profit-taking. The Nikkei index has set record highs two days in a row.

It added 3.1% on Tuesday to exceed 53,000 for the first time.

Meanwhile, the broader topics also closed at an all-time high of 3,644.

EVs ACCOUNT FOR 1.6% OF JAPAN'S CAR SALES IN 2025

Electric vehicles accounted for just a tiny fraction of the cars sold in Japan last year.

Industry data show only about 1.6% of sales were EVs.

Auto industry groups say a total of around 3.8 million passenger cars were sold.

Of these, a little over 60,000 were EVs, nearly the same as in the previous year.

The groups point out the number of models in the market is small and their prices are relatively high. They also say the charging infrastructure is still lacking.

Still, China's BYD and Japan's Suzuki motor are both planning to start selling their light EVs sometime this year or next.

But it remains unclear whether an attractive lineup of light models that are low in price and easy to maneuver on narrow streets will spur greater demand.

JAPAN BUSINESS HEAD REGRETS CHINA'S 'ECONOMIC COERCION'

The head of Japan's biggest business lobby has voiced strong regret over China's decision to step up controls on exports of goods to Japan for both military and civilian use.

Tsutsui Yoshinobu, Chair of the Japan Business Federation, or Keidan, spoke to reporters on Tuesday.

Tsutsui said China is only targeting Japan with the export restrictions on dual-use goods.

He called them an obvious act of economic coercion. Tsutsui said he's worried that wider export controls could have a big impact on a number of industries.

But he suggested there are many uncertainties that need clarifying through public-private cooperation.

00:14:41 話者 2

The relationship between Japan and China is one of our important bilateral ties.

I hope both governments will engage in dialogue toward mutual understanding.

00:14:54 話者 3

Tsutsui added that Keidanren intends to seek common ground through dialogue with China's political and business leaders in a bid to improve relations.

NUCLEAR PLANT SCREENING HALTED AFTER FALSE DATA ALLEGATIONS

Japan's nuclear regulator is halting its screening of a nuclear power plant for possible restart. This comes after allegations the plant's operator fabricated data on the risk from earthquakes.

Chubu Electric Power has been seeking permission to restart two reactors at its Hamaoka nuclear plant in central Japan.

The Nuclear Regulation Authority outlined on Wednesday how it will respond to the allegations. It said it will also suspend checks related to radioactive waste.

It added that the allegations had undermined the credibility of Chubu Electric's data.

The authority says it will order the company to report by the end of March exactly what happened and why.

It says it will carry out inspections at the firm's head office and other locations.

00:15:57 話者 13

I want to make completely sure that a detailed and thorough inspection is carried out into Chubu Electric Power in its entirety.

00:16:09 話者 3

The operator said last week it may have intentionally selected data to underestimate the maximum jolt an earthquake could inflict on the reactors.

MARKETS

All right, let's have a look at the markets.

♪

That's it for business news.

WASEDA UNIV. CANCELS ENROLLMENTS OVER ENGLISH TEST CHEATING

00:16:54 話者 1

Japan's Waseda University has cancelled the enrollment of five graduate students.

It says they cheated on English proficiency tests.

The university also revoked the admission of three people who had passed the graduate school entrance exam but had not yet enrolled.

And an undergraduate who had failed the exam was indefinitely suspended.

Last year, the organizer of the Test of English for International Communication, or TOEIC, nullified the scores of 803 examinees.

They were involved in organized cheating by Chinese graduate students and others.

Waseda University says 52 of those invalidated scores belong to its entrance exams.

The school says it would impose strict penalties whenever misconduct comes to light.

Other Japanese universities have also canceled enrollment or admission offers for students who cheated on the test.

The test organizer plans to step up measures against cheating.

MINAMATA AND VIETNAM: SHARED SCARS OF CHEMICAL EXPOSURE

She was born in Japan, her life altered before birth by industrial pollution.

He was born in Vietnam, as the US was spraying toxic substances over his homeland.

Now, 38 years after their first meeting, Two people whose lives were forever changed by chemical exposure are reconnecting and sharing their stories.

00:18:21 話者 2

Sakamoto Shinobu is visiting Ho Chi Minh City for the first time in nearly four decades.

She's a certified patient of fetal Minamata disease, poisoned by mercury in factory wastewater before she was born.

On her first trip, Sakamoto met two 60-year-old boys, Viet and Duc, twins born conjoined at the lower body.

Doctors believed they were victims of chemical herbicides sprayed during the Vietnam War.

Meeting people who, like herself, had been harmed in the womb changed Sakamoto's life.

She began speaking publicly about the consequences of toxic exposure.

To understand the situation today, Sakamoto returned to the hospital where she first met the twins.

Thu Zhu Hospital is home to more than 30 people affected by toxic chemicals.

During the Vietnam War, the US military sprayed massive quantities of highly toxic herbicides, mostly Agent Orange, for nearly a decade.

???

Then came a reunion after 38 years. 

The twins were surgically separated at age seven. 19 years later, Viet died.

Even now, Duc says he feels his brother's presence within him and speaks publicly about their experience advocating for peace.

Sakamoto presented Duk with a photo book on Minamata disease and her message of encouragement.

00:20:48 話者 3

This meeting has helped me realize that there are people in Japan who went through the same thing we did, affected in the womb, just like us, toxic chemical victims.

Going forward, I want us to work together to warn the world about the dangers of chemical weapons.

00:21:20 話者 2

For Sakamoto, the visit reaffirmed her mission.

She hopes that one day she and Duk will speak together in public, conveying their shared message to the next generation.

♫～

WEATHER

00:22:34 話者 1

Okay, let's check on world weather with our meteorologist, Jonathan Oh.

So Jonathan, things are warming up slightly across parts of Asia, including Tokyo, but for how long?

00:22:43 話者 6

Hello, we've been talking about two very different conditions depending on where you are in East Asia.

Some places like northeastern Japan getting really hit a lot with snow and it's definitely feeling like winter.

But other areas, including Tokyo, feeling a little more like late winter, early spring because of how warm it gets during the afternoon under the sunshine.

And what we are are going to be expecting is a similar pattern to remain in place.

As high pressure is south of western Japan, that's going to help usher in some of the subtlety flow, not just for the Pacific side of the country, but also back toward north and South Korea and over into China as well.

So you'll be seeing temperatures that are slightly more elevated compared to Wednesday.

Thursday will be slightly warmer.

But I mentioned the snow along the sea of Japan's side of the country in the northeast.

And we'll see that pattern continuing as not only one, but two low pressure systems will be rolling on through.

So we'll be talking about some of that snowy weather as we go forward throughout the next day or so.

13 with partly cloudy skies in Tokyo coming up on Thursday.

So we're moving up to 8 with some rain after seeing temperatures that are close to freezing for daytime highs on Wednesday, 9 in Beijing.

Now down toward the south, I want to mention a bit of a tropical disturbance near the Philippines. So wet weather with a high of 20 as we go through Thursday.

Meanwhile, it's getting a lot colder along the eastern side of the United States and into Canada as well as a low pressure system.

Moving over the Great Lakes is going to be moving to the north and east and behind that, a northerly flow coming in.

So temperatures really dropping off and we're going to see the impact of that snow into the Great Lakes and the northeastern portions of the United States as we go from Wednesday into Thursday.

Toronto will see some snow. Chicago will see some snow. Winnipeg, you're topping off.

topping off at minus 12, and that frigid area will continue to move to the south and east as we go into Thursday.

Quick note on Europe. Central areas of the continent up to the north looking at precipitation with wet weather in place.

Snow into Stockholm with a high of 1 for Wednesday, but from Berlin into Paris, Madrid all looking at rain for the middle of the work week.

Hope you have a good day wherever you are.

♫～　3-DAY FORECAST　～♫

JAPANESE TRADITIONAL HOUSES LIT UP AT WORLD HERITAGE SITE

00:26:39 話者 1

One more item before we leave you.

Traditional thatched roof houses at a UNESCO World Heritage Site in central Japan are taking on a different look once night falls at an annual winter event.

This year's illumination started on Monday in Gifu Prefecture's Shirakawa Village, a popular tourist destination with rustic gassho-style houses.

108 spotlights were turned on at 5:30 p.m., giving visitors a view of the steep, snow-covered roofs and trees standing out against the dark.

00:27:13 話者 13

The view is very good, it is very entertaining, and it feels so magical here. It's so beautiful.

00:27:22 話者 14

The atmosphere is wonderful.

It's impressive to see how beautifully these old houses have been preserved.

00:27:28 話者 1

The event will be held three more times on Sundays through February 1.

Reservations are needed to prevent overcrowding, and drivers may face a challenge as the local tourist association says parking lots have been completely booked.

Nevertheless, a winter wonderland.

I'm James Teng on. Bye for now.

checked.