The statement "work, work, work and work" by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, the first woman to hold this position in Japan, won the "Word of the Year 2025" award. It was chosen from a shortlist of 10 influential Japanese words and phrases in the 2025 Japan Contemporary Society Yearbook Awards.

"As the person responsible for managing the entire nation, I have an ardent desire to work, work, work, and work to contribute to the country and its people," Takaichi stated at the award ceremony in Tokyo on 1/12. She referenced workers who tirelessly ensure the livelihoods of their employees and families.

"I want to emphasize that I do not intend to encourage overwork, nor do I imply that working long, continuous hours is good," she added.

The Japanese prime minister speaks at the "word of the year 2025" award ceremony in Tokyo on 1/12. *Photo: JIJI*

Takaichi's statement, made in October when she assumed the presidency of Japan's Liberal Democratic Party, ignited a lively debate. This occurred as Japan is implementing workplace culture reforms to achieve a better work-life balance.

Advocates for reform criticized Takaichi's remark, arguing that she dismissed the need for work-life balance. Conversely, many from older generations expressed sympathy and support, stating they also worked tirelessly in their youth.

The issue of "karoshi" (death from overwork) has long been a serious concern in Japan, with the Japanese government actively working to address it over the past decade.

The organizers noted that the 2025 keywords reflected significant political changes. Takaichi's inauguration was a major news event for Japan in 2025, leading to the phrase "female prime minister" also being selected as a popular word of the year.

Another term on the list was "Trump's tariffs," referring to the policy Japan confronted after US President Donald Trump took office. Japan's Minister for Economic Revitalization, Ryosei Akazawa, accepted this award alongside Takaichi.

Additional words included "old rice," referring to rice reserves from harvests three to five years prior that the government sold due to market shortages and rising rice prices. "Emergency shooting" and "bear attack" were also recognized, linked to the increasing number of bear attacks on people in Japan.

Hong Hanh (According to Japan Times, Mainichi)