Imperial Succession Debate: Japan revised its Imperial Household Law to allow adoption of male heirs from former imperial branches, but women are still barred from becoming emperor—keeping Princess Aiko ineligible and reigniting gender-equality criticism. Flag Law Pushback: Japan enacted a new law punishing desecration of the national flag, with opponents warning it could chill protest and artistic expression. Corporate Governance Watch: The LDP flagged suspected collusion between activist investors and private equity in take-private deals, adding pressure to Japan’s M&A and governance rules. Digital Identity for Mobility: Japan and the EU reported a successful pilot showing My Number Card and EUDI wallet credentials can be issued, stored, presented, and verified across borders. Culture & Fashion Export: Lolita fashion from Japan is gaining momentum in China, turning a Harajuku subculture into a growing retail niche. Design Spotlight: Hakata Isoragi, a seafood donburi restaurant in a historic Hakata terminal, won an A’ Design Award for interior space and exhibition design. Tech + Lifestyle: Uber Eats and wagamama launched “Drift Deliveries,” swapping a moped for a Japanese street car stunt tied to Japanese food culture. Entertainment Roundup: Disney’s “Frozen” heads to Seoul with a K-pop-inflected approach, while Japan’s weekly game sales put “Rhythm Heaven Groove” at No. 1.