Japanese families of those abducted by North Korean agents during the late 1970s and 1980s are understandably experiencing a new wave of optimism. This is largely from a recent change in leadership this past June and, as many observers have noted, the return of former U.S. President Donald Trump to the political spotlight. In March, Shigeru Ishiba, a highly influential Japanese politician known as Japan’s “Mr.,” raised visibility and awareness across the globe for what these families were having to endure.
Japan has long maintained that North Korean spies kidnapped at least 17 of its citizens during this turbulent period. Yet, the country has not been shy in repeating this unfounded assertion. The best-known of those is Megumi Yokota’s case. She was just 13 years old when she was kidnapped in 1977 on route home from school in Niigata. This heartbreaking incident represents a much bigger problem. For decades, families have waited for the closure and answers they deserve.
Now, Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi—a close ally of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe—has taken up the mantle. She is willing to come to the table with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un to discuss the abduction issue. Takaichi’s commitment to addressing this longstanding concern resonates deeply with family members, who have endured years of uncertainty and sorrow.
Historical Context of the Abductions
All the abductions were likely carried out under the aegis of North Korea’s infamous terrorism/espionage program. In a 2014 United Nations Commission of Inquiry report, investigators verified that hundreds of thousands of Japanese citizens were abducted. Japan re-admitted five such abductees in 2002. The families who are left behind continue to look for answers and still wish to see the return of the people they lost.
North Korea has denied Japan’s classification of the number of abductees. The regime has maintained that those who died were killed in accidents or committed suicide. They’re asserting that they’ve fixed it. This denial has understandably deepened the sense of frustration felt by the families, who are convinced their loved ones are still alive in much of North Korea.
Sakie Yokota, now 89 years old, is the last remaining parent of an abductee. Her earnest request went straight to Donald Trump at a meeting earlier this month.
“I am greatly counting on the Trump administration because of his strength,” – Sakie Yokota
Her testimony represents the generational burden that families have endured for 40 years waiting for answers and justice.
A Renewed Diplomatic Effort
Combined with Takaichi’s assertive approach and Trump’s past, unique outreach efforts to Japanese citizens, there is hope for a landmark diplomatic achievement. Trump having previously spoken to these families while serving in his first presidential term and making a promise to ensure the return of abducted children.
“You have a great Prime Minister. He loves this country. He loves you. And we will be working together to bring your relatives – your daughters, your sons, your mothers – home,” – Donald Trump
Hearing the supportive and encouraging words of the former president at their last three meetings have had a profound impact on families. They believe that with him at the helm, transformative change is possible.
In her latest remarks, Takaichi reiterated her resolve and commitment to tackle this paramount issue directly.
“I myself will exercise leadership in my own way and strive to break through no matter what,” – Sanae Takaichi
Her approach could herald a new and unique approach to diplomacy, especially considering that she is Japan’s first female prime minister.
Family Perspectives and Hopes for Change
Hope is all that families of these abductions have to hold on to. They think that Takaichi’s gender could help alter the climate of possible negotiations with North Korea. Hajime Matsumoto said he was hopeful about Takaichi’s leadership style. His sister Kyoko was abducted in 1977 on her way to a Sapporo knitting workshop.
“Until now, only men have become Prime Minister, and many of them say ‘I’ll do it, I’ll do it,’ but then don’t,” – Hajime Matsumoto
He thinks that Takaichi’s unique perspective as a mother could motivate her to approach the challenge in a more impactful way.
Sakie Yokota expressed parallel sentiments. She hopes Takaichi’s maternal instincts will provide a fresh approach to seek justice for abducted.
“She is the first female prime minister … I feel that her feelings as a mother may lead her to tackle this issue seriously from a different angle,” – Sakie Yokota
These families are seeking more than just recognition. They want to see real action taken toward allowing their loved ones to return home. At the end of this roundtable, Kenichi Ichikawa emphasized the need for direct and urgent action through engagement with Kim Jong Un.
“The only one who can return the victims, the family members, is Kim Jong Un,” – Kenichi Ichikawa
On a broader level, Takuya Yokota emphasized the importance of these visits foreshadowing rencontres a possiblee with Trump.
“If it is realized, it will be our first meeting with President Trump in six years,” – Takuya Yokota
Looking Ahead
As negotiations continue, the Japanese government is undeterred in its goal to tackle this touchy subject. The participation of world leaders such as the Trump’s only serves to complicate, deepen, and enrich the experience that these families are in search of receiving resolution.
