391 articles
A labor union in Hokkaido has taken in six Myanmar workers who allege they were abused and sexually harassed at a local farm. The union is providing temporary shelter and legal aid while authorities investigate. The case highlights ongoing concerns about foreign worker protections in Japan's agricultural sector.
The UK Met Office warns that this year's El Nino could be the strongest in over a century, with sea surface temperatures potentially rising by more than 3 degrees Celsius. This unprecedented event is expected to increase risks of drought, heavy rain, and extreme weather worldwide, with severe impacts in the tropics and northwestern Europe.
An express train operated by Tobu Railway struck and killed four workers clearing weeds on the tracks at 50 km/h on Thursday. The company is cooperating with police to determine why the train did not stop or slow down. Tobu has suspended similar track work pending a safety review.
Mental health professionals are increasingly using platforms like TikTok and Instagram to share knowledge, but experts warn that social media cannot replace professional treatment and carries commercialization risks.
Domestic cats can tell each other apart by sniffing urine, as each cat's urine has a unique chemical signature, according to a study published in a scientific journal. The research highlights how cats use scent to gather information about identity, sex, and physiological state.
The Beyblade spinning top toy craze is making a strong comeback in Hong Kong and Taiwan, driven by 'kidults' — adults who retain childhood hobbies — leading to a surge in toy sales. Retailers report severalfold increases in Beyblade product and accessory consumption, with limited editions frequently selling out.
New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani has filed a lawsuit to block a new law granting teacher aides a one-time $10,000 bonus, arguing it violates collective bargaining laws. The law, backed by the teachers' union, was passed by the City Council and became law without a mayoral veto.
South Korea's centenarian population has nearly tripled in a decade, reaching about 8,600 as of July, according to official data. Improved healthcare and living conditions are cited as key drivers, with women making up the vast majority. The trend highlights the country's rapid demographic aging amid persistently low birth rates.
Four workers died on Thursday after being hit by an express train at a station in Tochigi Prefecture, north of Tokyo. Police say the incident occurred around midday and may be linked to maintenance work. Railway services were disrupted for hours as authorities investigate.
China-based YangGuoFu Group issued a formal apology after one of its franchise restaurants in northeastern Japan displayed congratulatory wreaths bearing the names of celebrities without their consent during its opening. The group confirmed the unauthorized use, removed the wreaths, and pledged tighter oversight of franchise outlets.
