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Protests Erupt Over Takaichi's Controversial 'Work' Remarks

12/12/2025

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Summary

Story summary

On Dec 11, 2025, families of karoshi victims protested the selection of Sanae Takaichi as Japan's prime minister-designate.
Her remark, "I will work, work, work, work and work," became a 2025 buzzword and drew criticism from labor unions and bereaved families.
Noriko Nakahara, co-head of a karoshi victims' group, said the comments insult those lost to overwork.
Takaichi later clarified she did not intend to promote overwork or long hours.

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Story summary

On Dec 11, 2025, families of karoshi victims protested the selection of Sanae Takaichi as Japan's prime minister-designate.
Her remark, "I will work, work, work, work and work," became a 2025 buzzword and drew criticism from labor unions and bereaved families.
Noriko Nakahara, co-head of a karoshi victims' group, said the comments insult those lost to overwork.
Takaichi later clarified she did not intend to promote overwork or long hours.