Yen Rescue & Markets: The U.S. and Japan’s rare joint currency intervention helped lift the yen after it hit a 40-year low, but analysts warn the rebound may fade as Japan faces debt, low rates, and bond-market pressure. Defense Tensions: North Korea’s Kim Yo Jong escalated threats after Japan’s Tomahawk test, calling Japan a “war state” and warning of “additional military options.” China Friction: China complained to Japan over Japan’s new defense white paper, rejecting claims about Taiwan and accusing Tokyo of inflating threats. Policy Shock: Japan approved a two-year cut to the food consumption tax to 1%, with funding still under scrutiny. NHK Scandal: NHK said an employee was sexually assaulted by a cast member, with internal risk-management failures and delayed handling drawing criticism. Extreme Heat: A record heat wave is battering Japan and the Korean Peninsula, with heatstroke cases and animal deaths reported. Nuclear Industry: Mitsubishi Heavy won government backing for next-gen reactor tech, including advanced light water and SMR supply-chain work. Sports & Culture: Rangers signed Japanese winger Daisuke Yokota on a three-year deal; and Obon traditions highlight “veggie creatures” like cucumber horses and eggplant cows.