Senior executives face detention request; 泓德能源 says operations and finances are normal and it will cooperate with investigation
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
泓德能源 Chairman Hsieh Yuan-i, General Manager Chou Shih-chang and Chief Financial Officer Liao Yen-kai face a request for detention from the Hualien District Court. The company said its operations and finances are normal and that it will cooperate with the judicial investigation.
South Korea: No signs North Korea has deployed new weapons along the border
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
In response to North Korea's claim that it would put new “countermeasures” on alert, South Korea's military said it had found no signs of new weapons deployments along the border. It added that North Korea's series of statements showed South Korea's mine-clearing operation in the Demilitarized Zone had been effective.
Facts
Injuring 3 South Korean soldiers
1 explosion occurred in September
On the 19th, it also described the border situation as “grave”
North Korea will put the loudspeakers used for propaganda broadcasts toward South Korea on standby “within a few days”
The Oct. 22, 2026 ASEAN briefing covers economic and financial developments across the region: Vietnam and Denmark upgraded ties to a comprehensive strategic partnership; data on foreign residents and overseas populations in Laos point to labor outflows; Singapore's manufacturing index expanded for 6 consecutive quarters; inflation rose in the Philippines, prompting a former central bank deputy governor to call for a rate hike; Myanmar coffee businesses are seeking access to the Chinese market and investment in processing; Malaysia approved exports of unprocessed rare earths for the first time to attract investment; Thailand urged citizens to postpone travel to some European countries; Cambodian air passenger numbers fell while cargo volumes grew; and Indonesia's central bank held its benchmark rate and raised its deposit rate to stabilize the exchange rate.
Facts
313,766 Laotian citizens live overseas
Overseas workers remitted about $500.7 million in the first 7 months of this year
Will raise the minimum wage to 4.1 million kip per month
Manufacturing continued to grow in the 3rd quarter, with the index reaching 52.4
Philippines' inflation rate rose to 7.2% in September
Raise rates by 2 notches (50 basis points)
Coffee exports to neighboring markets total about 3,000 to 4,000 metric tons a year
Cambodian air passenger numbers fell 11% year over year
特斯拉-SpaceX merger faces U.S. and Chinese regulatory scrutiny, with China business a key factor
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
If Musk pursues a merger between 特斯拉 and SpaceX, it could face restrictions from U.S. and Chinese regulators over national security concerns and reliance on China business. Analysts have proposed options such as setting up a firewall, divesting assets or maintaining the status quo, but these face conflicts between technology sharing and U.S. national security restrictions.
Tainan police bust drug trafficking ring, arrest 8 and seize large quantities of drugs
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Tainan police busted a drug trafficking ring and arrested 8 people, including the suspected ringleader, surnamed Kuo. They seized drugs and raw materials worth more than NT$5 million.
Asian Para Games table tennis mixed doubles: Lin Tzu-yu and Su Chin-hsien overcome Hong Kong pair to win Taiwan delegation's 3rd gold
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
In the gold-medal match in mixed doubles XD20 table tennis at the Nagoya Asian Para Games, Taiwan’s Lin Tzu-yu and Su Chin-hsien defeated Hong Kong’s Wong Hon-lam and Lam Yan-yu, winning Taiwan’s 3rd gold medal of the Games.
Facts
The team’s 3rd gold medal
Won 11-9, 8-11, 11-5 and 11-8
Won the match 3-1
Won 2 gold medals and 1 silver at the last Hangzhou Asian Para Games
Typhoon Champi approaches; 機捷 activates typhoon preparations and will adjust train intervals based on wind speeds
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
桃園大眾捷運公司 has activated typhoon preparations and inspected flood-control equipment as Typhoon Champi approaches. Trains are operating normally for now. The company will adjust its operating mode and train intervals or reduce service as needed based on wind speeds and the typhoon’s movements, while also taking into account work and school closure announcements and airport flight status.
Facts
Typhoon preparations were launched as early as the 19th in accordance with standard operating procedures
Customers can call the service hotline from 6 a.m. to 12 midnight
Huang Chih-fang calls for completing the sovereign wealth fund puzzle to help Taiwan gain a leading role in the AI industry
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwan External Trade Development Council Chairman Huang Chih-fang called on Taiwan to complete the sovereign wealth fund puzzle, combining industrial strength with national capital to move beyond contract manufacturing and become a participant in shaping the global industrial order and gain a leading role in the AI industry.
Facts
Semiconductors, AI and energy are the 3 most important strategic industries globally
A remarkable performance, with economic growth rarely reaching double digits
A new episode of The Apothecary Diaries, with 57 million copies sold worldwide across the series, is coming to novels, manga and film! Natsu Hyuuga's all-new novel, The Apothecary Diaries: The Fallen Consort's Secret Treasure, is set for release on December 9!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社イマジカインフォス announced that a new episode of The Apothecary Diaries, which has sold 57 million copies to date, will be released simultaneously as a novel, manga and film. The all-new novel by Natsu Hyuuga, The Apothecary Diaries: The Fallen Consort's Secret Treasure, goes on sale December 9, 2026, and the theatrical film is scheduled to open December 11 that year.
Facts
On Wednesday, December 9, 2026
It will open on Friday, December 11
List price: 946 yen (tax included)
A hugely popular novel, with 16 volumes currently on sale
Ticket information and perks announced for the 2nd anniversary orchestral concert for Girls' Frontline 2: Exilium!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Girls' Frontline 2: Exilium has announced ticket information and perks for its 2nd anniversary orchestral concert, "White Nocturne of the Dolls." The concert will be held on January 15, 2027, with prices and perks set for seats ranging from SS to A.
From Fukushima to the next generation in Hiroshima: a wish for peace and the spirit of "we help each other" — 402 illustrated books about the earthquake donated to Hiroshima municipal schools, libraries and community centers
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
As a way of returning the support it received after the Great East Japan Earthquake, NPO法人チームふくしま will donate 402 copies of the illustrated book about the disaster, Our Town of Mutual Support, Fukushima, to municipal schools, libraries and community centers in Hiroshima. The donation ceremony will be held at Hiroshima City Hall on November 9, 2026.
Facts
402 copies in total
Aiming to install them at 100 locations in Fukushima City
Published on May 12, 2026
Starting at 11:40 a.m. on Monday, November 9, 2026
Companies mentioned:株式会社HIKE、100studio、少年画報社、読売テレビ、日本テレビ、TVer、ytv MyDo!、ABEMA、ニコニコ生放送、ABEMAプレミアム、DMM TV、dアニメストア、dアニメストア for Prime Video、dアニメストア for LINEマンガ、dアニメストア ニコニコ支店、FOD、Hulu、J:COM STREAM、Lemino、milplus、Prime Video、TELASA、U-NEXT、アニメ放題、バンダイチャンネル、ふらっと動画、Google TV、HAPPY!動画、milplus、music.jp、カンテレドーガ、ニコニコチャンネル、ビデオマーケット、ビデックス、スタジオ・ルーファス、ハイパーボール、アニモキャラメル、editz、Hurray!
[Seeking participants] Workshop to address challenges in agricultural support services (held in Tokyo on November 17)
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
A workshop to address challenges in launching an agricultural support services business, hosted by 株式会社NTTデータ経営研究所, will be held in Tokyo on November 17, 2026. Registration is limited to 30 people, and participation is free.
Official website opens for FI SNS, a support service aiming to make waves on social media
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社ファーストイノベーション, an IT company based in Chuo Ward, Tokyo, has launched the official website for FI SNS, a service supporting greater brand awareness and consistent posting on social media. It offers support across 6 areas and is available from 50,000 yen per month.
"Traveling HR Library" comes to Sapporo on November 4! Addressing "loneliness in HR" together at the local level. Campus Add and 人事図書館 create a space for HR professionals to learn and connect across companies
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
人事図書館, an HR community run by 株式会社Trustyyle, and 株式会社エス・イー・ジャパン (Campus Add), which supports employment and recruitment in Hokkaido, will hold "Traveling HR Library in Sapporo" in Sapporo on November 4, 2026. Admission is free, with capacity limited to 25 people.
Try the REDEN hair-growth brand for free at the men-only sauna レンブラントキャビン&スパ新橋, October 24–November 6
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社美元 is partnering with the men-only sauna レンブラントキャビン&スパ新橋 in Shimbashi, Tokyo, to offer a campaign from October 24 to November 6, 2026, where visitors can try REDEN-brand shampoo and hair growth products for free.
[15 3D guest performers] Independent VTuber 小鳥遊こばと to hold another lavish "Birthday 3DLIVE" on Wednesday, November 4!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Independent VTuber 小鳥遊こばと announced that she will hold the online 3D live show "小鳥遊こばと生誕3DLIVE2026 ~COLORFUL TOY BOX~" on November 4, 2026. A total of 15 guest VTubers will appear with 3D models, bringing together singing, dancing and comedy.
Collaboration video "More Love with Samsung Galaxy" featuring Love Transit Season 3 cast enjoying a watch party released today
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
サムスン電子ジャパン株式会社 will collaborate with the reality dating show Love Transit 35+, streaming exclusively on Prime Video, to release "More Love with Samsung Galaxy," a watch-party video featuring 6 cast members, starting October 22. It will also offer a "Second Screen experience" on the Amazon shopping app, linked to watching the show.
[For game, anime and video creators] How can you make characters more appealing? Free event on 11/10 (Tue): “[Game meets #53] Director Naohiko Kyogoku shares the secrets of direction” to be held!! (Onarimon, Tokyo)
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
As the 53rd event in the creative collaboration community “Game meets,” organized by 株式会社クリーク・アンド・リバー社, a free in-person seminar featuring animation director Naohiko Kyogoku will be held in Onarimon, Tokyo, on November 10, 2026. He will discuss “Techniques for making characters more appealing.”
[November 2026] Spanish Wine & Spirits Tasting and Business Meeting (Tokyo) / 日西商業会議所
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
日西商業会議所 will hold a Spanish Wine & Spirits Tasting and Business Meeting in Tokyo on November 25, 2026. Following last year's positive response, the event will return this year, with producers from diverse regions, including Ribera del Duero, visiting Japan. A tasting seminar will also be held on the same day.
Facts
Established in 1954
Wednesday, Nov. 25, 2026
12:00~16:30
Wednesday, November 18
Capacity: 15 people
Companies mentioned:日西商業会議所、Cámara de Comercio Hispano Japonesa、アカデミー・デュ・ヴァン、BODEGA CARRASCAS、BODEGA SANTA CATARINA、BODEGAS EMILIO MORO、BODEGAS ENTREMONTES、BODEGAS SAN VALERO S.COOP、BODEGAS VEGA NORTE、IMPERIAL ORIGINS EXPORT、RICO NUEVO VITICULTORES、TRIANA EXPORT
Kotaro Tsunekawa's 『幽民奇聞』 wins the 17th Yamada Fūtarō Award!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Kotaro Tsunekawa's 『幽民奇聞』 has been selected as the winner of the 17th Yamada Fūtarō Award, sponsored by 株式会社KADOKAWA. The winner will receive 1 million yen as a supplementary prize.
A legendary internal program taken by tens of thousands of Google employees is now a book! The common trait of people who turn goals into reality is “audacity”!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社飛鳥新社 released Jenny Wood's book 『Google伝説の「目標達成講座」創設者が教える 図々しさの教科書』 on October 22. Based on an internal program taken by nearly 60,000 people at Google, the book explains how to use “audacity” as a strength.
グローブ・トロッター x David Shrigley's new collaborative luggage, “LUGGAGE WITH WINGS”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
グローブ・トロッター has unveiled “LUGGAGE WITH WINGS,” a limited-edition 4-wheel carry-on case limited to 50 units, as its second collaboration with British artist David Shrigley. Orders open on October 22, 2026.
あしかがフラワーパーク is holding a Dragon Quest merchandise sales event featuring the “Slime Multi-Pot”!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
A Dragon Quest merchandise sales event is being held at あしかがフラワーパーク, operated by 株式会社足利フラワーリゾート, from October 17, 2026, to February 14, 2027. Items on sale include the Slime Multi-Pot and original cacti.
[Popular voice actor Sho Kano × AOKI DENIM] Collaboration launches! Limited preorders begin for 2 styles of flared pants made with denim from Okayama!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
青木被服株式会社's factory brand “AOKI DENIM” has teamed up with voice actor Sho Kano for the first time and begun taking limited preorders for 2 styles of flared pants and a shoulder bag made with denim from Okayama.
株式会社灯白社 released the streaming-intervention, investigative-mystery psychological horror adventure 『つみみじかん 狂オシイホド愛シテル』 for Steam on October 22, 2026. To celebrate the release, it is available for 1,584 yen (tax included), 20% off its regular price of 1,980 yen (tax included). The game has surpassed 200,000 Steam wishlists, while the cumulative views of music videos related to its theme song have topped 3 million.
[For graduates of 2028] Learn about sales careers in the creative industry! C&R社 to hold “Industry and Career Research Seminar -BASE-” online
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社クリーク・アンド・リバー社 (C&R社) will hold the online seminar “Industry and Career Research Seminar -BASE-” in November 2026 for students graduating in 2028, covering sales roles in the creative industry.
Facts
Scheduled to graduate from or complete a university, graduate school or college of technology by the end of March 2028
A professional agency founded in 1990
C&R社 currently has 450 video professionals working on a variety of programs
[For HR and training professionals] October 30 event. Transform communication and relationships within your organization! TAC, a school for professional qualifications, to hold a “Team-Building Experience Using LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® in Osaka”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
TAC株式会社 will hold a team-building experience using LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® in Osaka on October 30, 2026.
センタラグランドホテル大阪 will serve its limited-time “Winter & Christmas Afternoon Tea” at the rooftop lounge “Smoke & Spin” on the top floor from November 13 to December 25, 2026.
A luminous prologue heralding the start of Christmas Advent / LANDIC presents NAKASU HIKARI NO ADVENT: Illuminations to brighten Nakasu’s winter, opening Nov. 2!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
“LANDIC presents NAKASU HIKARI NO ADVENT,” planned and operated by 株式会社Mr.Weihnachtsmann, opens in the Nakasu district of Fukuoka on Nov. 2, 2026, with the illuminations lit through Jan. 12.
“The 2 a.m. Switchboard” now available on the App Store and Google Play
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社Tokyo hammock and ポッピンゲームズジャパン株式会社 began distributing the horror mystery game “The 2 a.m. Switchboard” on the App Store and Google Play for 600 yen on Oct. 22, 2026.
Tokyo Well-Being Conference 2026, “The Quality of Work Starts Within,” to be held Nov. 25 (Wed.)
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
ROCKLIT合同会社 will hold the “Tokyo Well-Being Conference 2026” at SHIBAURA HOUSE in Tokyo on Nov. 25, 2026. With the theme “The Quality of Work Starts Within,” leaders from Cloudflare Japan and 富士通株式会社, among others, will take the stage to discuss putting well-being into practice.
Bic Camera × CHANGE RAPTURES: Special collaboration stage confirmed again this year!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
PERF株式会社 will present a special collaboration stage at “TOSHIMA STREET FES 2026” on Nov. 1, 2026, in partnership with 株式会社ビックカメラ. 30 children from 9 elementary schools in Toshima Ward will participate and perform with CHANGE RAPTURES.
Immersive experience event “Department Store Infiltration,” where participants take on a spy mission disguised as art exhibition staff, to be held at 松屋浅草 from Oct. 29, 2026 (Thu.)
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社休日ハック will hold “Department Store Infiltration,” a new experience from the immersive experience label ヰ空間, at 松屋浅草 starting Oct. 29, 2026. サントリーホールディングス株式会社 is involved as a sponsor and co-planner, and participation costs 4,000 yen–4,500 yen.
“Girls und Panzer: More Love Love Sakusen desu!” LINE themes, volumes 1–4 now available
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社Creative Plus has begun releasing LINE themes for “Girls und Panzer: More Love Love Sakusen desu!” in volumes 1–4. Each volume is available for 150 LINE Coins or 370 yen.
[A new space to unwind] Voiceprint analysis × sauna × treatments: “Kocoo和,” a new kind of women-only beauty retreat, to open in Hiroo in winter 2026
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社ミツウロコEBM, a joint venture between 株式会社ミツウロコグループホールディングス and 株式会社イービーエム, plans to open “Kocoo和,” a women-only beauty retreat, in Hiroo, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo, in winter 2026. It will offer a well-being experience combining voiceprint analysis technology, sauna, and treatments.
株式会社ニューバランスジャパン will begin selling the Made in USA 990v7 on Nov. 6, 2026. Try-ons will be available at ニューバランス原宿 starting Oct. 23. The price is 49,500 yen (tax included).
Facts
Nov. 6, 2026
Oct. 23
49,500 yen
Dec. 7
14,000 employees
$9.2 billion
70% or more
Companies mentioned:株式会社ニューバランスジャパン、ニューバランス、ニューバランス原宿、仙台PARCO、柏髙島屋ステーションモール、Run Hub 代々木公園、ニュウマン高輪店、六本木 19:06、ニュウマン新宿店、ニュウマン横浜店、タカシマヤ ゲートタワーモール、堀江、京都髙島屋S.C.、ららぽーと福岡、T-HOUSE New Balance
“2434 HOODIE vol.1” merchandise from にじさんじ launches Oct. 23, 2026, at 19:00!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
“2434 HOODIE vol.1” merchandise from the VTuber group にじさんじ, operated by ANYCOLOR株式会社, goes on sale Oct. 23, 2026, at 19:00. The lineup features 4 types of products—hoodies, tote bags, socks, and acrylic charms—by 7 participating livers.
With Age Factory’s first solo concert at Nippon Budokan just around the corner, a special program delving into their journey and where they stand today will air on スペースシャワーTV at 11 p.m. on Oct. 28 (Wed.)!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
スペースシャワーTV, operated by 株式会社スペースシャワーネットワーク, will air “Age Factory — The Twilight Before Dawn,” a special program tracing the journey of Age Factory ahead of their first solo concert at Nippon Budokan, from 23:00 on Oct. 28.
[For HR and training professionals] Taking place Nov. 4. Transform communication and relationships within your organization! TAC, a professional training school, to hold “Team-Building Workshop Using LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® in Yaesu”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
TAC株式会社 will hold “Team-Building Workshop Using LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® in Yaesu” on Nov. 4, 2026.
グラフ will hold an immersive retrospective in Harajuku, Tokyo, in November 2026 to mark its 65th anniversary. The exhibition will showcase historic diamonds, including “The Graff Infinity,” as well as new high jewelry, highlighting the brand’s history and craftsmanship.
Takes 1st place in the business book rankings at 三省堂書店 Yurakucho Store! “Sugoi Saiyo,” the recruiting consultant’s first book, also ranks 1st at a brick-and-mortar bookstore
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
“Sugoi Saiyo,” written by Tamai Ikuru, representative of ロジHR株式会社, has taken 1st place in the business book rankings at 三省堂書店 Yurakucho Store. Against a backdrop of a declining population and a candidate-driven job market, it is attracting attention as a practical guide to designing recruitment through “structure.”
Facts
¥2,200 (tax included).
Insights from solving recruitment challenges at 500 companies
More than 20 years of experience in recruitment
Sales up 1.5 times and profits up 4.5 times in 3 years
Easy and hearty deliciousness! ‘Yuppi’s Hearty One-Plate Side Dishes and Fried Recipes That Won Over Her Husband, 11 Years Her Junior’ Now on Sale!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The first recipe book by Yuppi, who is active on the cooking media site Nadia, operated by Nadia株式会社, has been released by 宝島社: ‘Yuppi’s Hearty One-Plate Side Dishes and Fried Recipes That Won Over Her Husband, 11 Years Her Junior.’
【TAC Civil Service Exams】Start studying this fall! Introductory lecture (free trial class) to be held online on 10/28 (Wed.)
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
TAC株式会社 will hold a free online trial lecture for civil service exams on October 28, 2026, and distribute coupons waiving the ¥10,000 enrollment fee to participants.
‘Icarus Online’ launches its official global service today!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社G・O・P launched the official global service for the PC fantasy MMORPG ‘Icarus Online’ on October 22, 2026. To mark the achievement of 20,000 preregistrations, it will distribute rewards and hold various events.
【New Release】INNOCN launches 4 gaming monitor models in Japan|QD-OLED, Mini LED, and up to 320Hz
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
INNOCN will launch 4 gaming monitor models featuring QD-OLED and Mini LED technology (2780S, G27T2M, 27G2T, and 2551H) for the Japanese market through Amazon.co.jp.
Yokohama-style Iekei ramen shop ‘Konshinya’ and ‘Hokuriku Idol Club’ team up for a major collaboration! Official theme song ‘Rock you KON-SHIN-YA-!!’ available from October 20 (Tue.)
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The official theme song ‘Rock you KON-SHIN-YA-!!,’ a collaboration between the Yokohama-style Iekei ramen shop ‘Konshinya,’ operated by 株式会社トイダック, and the idol group ‘Hokuriku Idol Club,’ represented by アンサー株式会社, will be released on October 20, 2026.
Facts
October 20, 2026 (Tuesday)
More than 60 locations nationwide
Companies mentioned:株式会社トイダック、アンサー株式会社、アンサー・エンタテインメント、Seattle Standard Cafe'
Otaritech introduced LAWO社’s broadcast control system ‘VSM’ as part of the renewal of ‘GMOサムライスタジオ 用賀,’ operated by GMOサムライコンテンツスタジオ. This unified control across a multi-vendor environment and dramatically reduced work time, from a maximum of 3 hours to about 30 minutes.
RIIZE’s WONBIN appears at an Off & Relax special event! Off & Relax brand ambassador press conference and premium signing event with 30 fans selected in the campaign
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社オー・アンド・アール held a press conference on October 21, 2026, featuring brand ambassador RIIZE WONBIN, followed by a signing event with 30 fans. A limited-time POP-UP STORE also opened at @cosme TOKYO that day, and WONBIN attended.
3D dress-up game ‘Shining Nikki’ to hold ‘The History of the Disappearance of Beauty’ event from 10/22! New outfits and a free SSR outfit debut, with a large advertisement at Ikebukuro Station
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Papergames(ニキ株式会社) will hold the ‘The History of the Disappearance of Beauty’ event in the 3D dress-up game ‘Shining Nikki’ from October 22, 2026, and display a large advertisement at Ikebukuro Station.
Canned food set made by Ehime Prefectural Uwajima Fisheries High School added to Uwajima City’s hometown tax donation gifts
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Uwajima City, Ehime Prefecture, will add a set of 7 canned fish products made by Ehime Prefectural Uwajima Fisheries High School to its hometown tax donation gifts from October 23, 2026, with 株式会社パンクチュアル acting as contractor. The donation amount is ¥11,000.
【From 10/23】Free online release begins for the seminar ‘Must-see! A roundup of regional subsidies you can apply for within fiscal 2026’【Subsidies Now】
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
‘Subsidies Now,’ operated by 株式会社ナビット, will begin streaming a free seminar on October 23 explaining 5 regional subsidy programs in Hokkaido, Tokyo, Osaka, and Kumamoto that can be pursued within fiscal 2026.
Facts
Up to ¥3 million for equipment purchases!
Up to ¥1.5 million for digital tool implementation!
From interview preparation to everyday conversation: enrollment opens for November and December cohorts of online private Japanese lessons!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社クリーク・アンド・リバー社 has opened enrollment for November–December 2026 cohorts of ‘Flexible Japanese Lessons,’ online private lessons for people whose native language is not Japanese.
Facts
November to December 2026
More than 500 people
420 hours
Companies mentioned:株式会社クリーク・アンド・リバー社、Creek & River, Co., Ltd.、東京外国語大学、慶應義塾大学、文化庁
SMBCグループ’s individual foreign currency deposit balance reaches a total of ¥3 trillion
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
SMBCグループ’s individual foreign currency deposit balance reached a total of ¥3 trillion as of the end of September 2026, with a domestic market share of over 35%. In particular, SMBC信託銀行 maintains its No. 1 position among Japanese banks, with a balance exceeding ¥1.6 trillion.
Facts
Total of ¥3 trillion (as of the end of September 2026)
Over 35% domestic market share
Balance exceeding ¥1.6 trillion
Foreign currency deposits of ¥7.7 trillion in personal financial assets
SMBCグループ balance of approximately ¥2.8 trillion
Cumulative overseas shopping payments via GLOBAL PASS total ¥100 billion
Notice of seminar on the fundamentals of calculating GHG emissions, co-hosted by 株式会社インボイス
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社肥後銀行 will hold an online seminar on the fundamentals of GHG emissions calculation and practical responses on November 11, 2026, co-hosted with its consolidated subsidiary 株式会社インボイス.
Serious PHP vulnerability that Prime Minister Takaichi called an ‘urgent’ matter: 日本男性看護師會 and 訪問看護支援協会 jointly release an emergency training video and establish an emergency response application desk for all medical institutions and home-visit nursing offices with websites
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
一般社団法人日本男性看護師會 and 訪問看護支援協会 have released an emergency training video and established an emergency response application desk to address a serious PHP vulnerability.
SamuraiAX offers a feature in its business AI agent OS, “Samurai App,” that lets each employee’s “proxy bot” draft answers to colleagues’ questions for the employee to review and send
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社Kiva has released a “proxy bot” feature in SamuraiAX’s business AI agent OS, “Samurai App.” The feature drafts answers to colleagues’ questions on behalf of employees, who can review and approve them before replying.
Facts
If no decision is made within 72 hours, it will expire
Work, gaming and rest in one chair. Boulies to announce business strategy marking its 1st anniversary in Japan and new product “Boulies Master Rex 2026” on Oct. 22
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社ブーリス has announced the new product “Boulies Master Rex 2026” to mark the 1st anniversary of British chair brand “Boulies” entering the Japanese market. The product will be sold in advance on Makuake, with an exhibit also planned at ヨドバシカメラ.
Facts
Worldwide cumulative sales of 8 billion yen
Sales in the Japanese market: 40 million yen
More than 200 comments and reviews from customers in Japan
Up to 49% off
3-year warranty in total
Manufacturer’s suggested retail price: 72,800 yen (tax included)
Private-room machine Pilates studio “TRUE FORM PILATES 西川口スタジオ” to hold its soft opening on Oct. 25, a 5-minute walk from Nishi-Kawaguchi Station in Kawaguchi City
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社T&C will hold the soft opening of “TRUE FORM PILATES 西川口スタジオ,” a private-room, one-on-one machine Pilates studio in Kawaguchi City, Saitama Prefecture, on Oct. 25, 2026.
Facts
Soft opening on Sunday, Oct. 25, 2026
This will be the 3rd TRUE FORM PILATES location
Regular price: ¥4,500
First trial lesson: regular price 4,500 yen → 0 yen
Membership fee: regular price 20,000 yen
2,000 yen off each month for the first 2 months
Originalアヴニール並木107号室
Companies mentioned:株式会社T&C、TRUE FORM PILATES 西川口スタジオ、TRUE FORM PILATES 戸田スタジオ、TRUE FORM PILATES 七里スタジオ、TRUE FORM PILATES STUDIO
Netflix series “Stranger Things” and 〈BEAMS HEART〉 to launch their first collaborative collection
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
〈BEAMS HEART〉, operated by 株式会社ビームス, and Netflix series “Stranger Things” are launching their first collaborative collection. To mark the 10th anniversary of the series’ release, it will be available at 10 stores nationwide and online from Oct. 23, 2026.
A game adaptation has been confirmed for the hit series “義妹生活,” which has sold more than 1.3 million copies in total! Steam store page for “義妹生活 Days with My Lo-Fi Sister” now open
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社テイルポット has developed the game adaptation “義妹生活 Days with My Lo-Fi Sister” based on the light novel “義妹生活” and opened its Steam store page. The game is scheduled for release this winter, and crowdfunding to fund additional DLC will also begin.
宇都宮市 will hold a 2-day co-creation event hosted by its sports open innovation platform “みやSOIP.” On DAY1, speakers from Fujitsu, ゼビオホールディングス, 株式会社R-body, 宇都宮ブレックス and others will appear at CIC東京, while DAY2 will feature a workshop at とちぎん・ブレックスアリーナ宇都宮.
Grand Effector: boost active safety (preventive safety) in your HiAce
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社プロト has announced compatibility for its “ディーキャトロ” Grand Effector for the HiAce (200 Series). The product is designed to improve active safety by smoothing turbulent airflow beneath the vehicle and generating downforce, reducing swaying and a floaty feeling while driving. The price is 20,900 yen, including tax.
Nanase Aikawa and WOLF HOWL HARMONY to perform on both days! Special stage to be held on Nov. 7 and 8 at Higashi Honganji
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
“Culture in Vibration: Higashi Honganji Grounds Special Stage” will be held on Nov. 7 and 8, 2026, at the grounds of Higashi Honganji in Kyoto, featuring Nanase Aikawa and WOLF HOWL HARMONY.
Facts
General area (standing room): 4,400 yen (tax included)
Priority area (limited to 150 tickets per day): 5,500 yen (tax included)
Limited to 150 tickets per day
Companies mentioned:真宗大谷派、イープラス、tabiwa by WESTER、西日本旅客鉄道株式会社
Photography allowed! “Illumination Welcome Dome,” a sparkling Christmas experience in the planetarium, opens Nov. 12
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The photo-friendly Christmas illumination program “Illumination Welcome Dome” will run at all 5 Konica Minolta Planetariums from Nov. 12 to Dec. 25, 2026.
Facts
All 5 venues
Thursday, Nov. 12, 2026
Fri., Dec. 25
Companies mentioned:コニカミノルタプラネタリウム株式会社、BUMP OF CHICKEN
Grafana Labs announces new features at ObservabilityCON 2026 to support autonomous system operations by AI agents
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
At ObservabilityCON 2026, Grafana Labs announced new features to support autonomous system operations by AI agents. Assistant Watchers and Agent Observability with OpenTelemetry support are now generally available, while Grafana Pages and Managed Sandboxes were previewed. Joint research with ETR and an IDC report also showed improvements in operational efficiency and reductions in MTTR through AI adoption.
Facts
300 IT and engineering leaders
68% are moving their use of AI in observability from evaluation to pilot and production stages
85% said they were comfortable entrusting AI with read-only investigations
The figure was just 52% for fully autonomous problem remediation
About 80% of respondents are building and operating features powered by LLMs
45% are combining open-source tools to achieve AI observability
Just 25% have adopted dedicated products
Used by more than 10,000 companies
Cutting MTTR (mean time to resolution) by 63%
Reducing by 46% the time spent gathering information to understand the situation while on call
Identifying a sudden surge in logs, which previously took 15–20 minutes,
can now be completed in about 5 minutes
76% of organizations use OpenTelemetry at some stage, whether for investigation, a proof of concept (PoC) or production use
With team members in more than 40 countries
Companies mentioned:Grafana Labs、グラファナラボ日本合同会社、ETR、Futurum社、Slack、IDC、SailPoint、Anthropic、Bloomberg、NVIDIA、Microsoft、Salesforce、Lightspeed Venture Partners、Sequoia Capital、GIC、Coatue、J.P. Morgan、CapitalG、Lead Edge Capital
Startup Class representative Kiyotaka Fujioka appeared on Shibuya Radio’s “Startups in Shibuya.” “The word ‘startup’ didn’t even exist 15 years ago”: discussing changes in startup recruitment.
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Kiyotaka Fujioka, representative of 株式会社スタートアップクラス, appeared on Shibuya Radio’s “Startups in Shibuya,” broadcast on October 14, 2026, and discussed changes in startup recruitment over the 15 years since the company’s founding and the industry’s outlook.
Facts
Original2026年10月14日(水)18:30〜19:00放送
18:30〜19:00
15 years since its founding in 2011
An anecdote about connecting ランサーズ社 with its 3rd employee
170 companies—equivalent to 1 in 10 of the companies it has supported—have gone public to date
マルカイコーポレーション株式会社 begins domestic sales as the official Japanese importer of 2 brands: the pink liqueur “Tequila Rose” and the blue liqueur “Tarantula Azul”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
マルカイコーポレーション株式会社 will become the official Japanese importer of マコーミック社 liqueurs “Tequila Rose Strawberry Cream” and “Tarantula Azul,” and begin domestic sales in early November 2026.
Facts
Loved in more than 90 countries worldwide
Marking its 30th anniversary in 2026
Cumulative sales have reached approximately 10 million bottles
Get interviewers talking about their “war stories”—the contents of the “ultimate question to ask” video viewed 1.4 million times revealed. A job-hunting expert shares 5 tips for asking questions.
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
ビューイング株式会社 has published 5 tips for asking questions in interviews, based on a video about questions to ask that has received a combined total of more than 1.4 million views on TikTok and YouTube.
Facts
A video with a combined total of more than 1.4 million views on TikTok and YouTube
TikTok: 1.3 million views
YouTube: 115,000 views
Approximately 1.46 million views in total
8 videos about questions to ask
Provided career advice to a cumulative total of 4,000 job seekers
In winter, head to the coast in Kanagawa. A rewarding winter getaway to discover Yugawara’s sweets and Manazuru’s citrus
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社ブルー・スカイ・アソシエイツ is planning winter accommodation packages from winter 2026 through early spring 2027 at HOTEL SWAY yugawara in Yugawara, Kanagawa Prefecture, and HOTEL FARO manazuru in Manazuru. Yugawara will offer a sweets buffet and French dinner, while Manazuru will feature citrus-focused stays, including mandarin orange picking at 松本農園 and a daifuku-making experience.
Head to Boso in winter for an early taste of spring and seasonal winter experiences
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Three facilities in Chiba Prefecture operated by 株式会社ブルー・スカイ・アソシエイツ will offer accommodation packages from winter 2026 through spring 2027, featuring Boso’s natural scenery and seasonal delicacies.
Ryo Fukawa and Tsubaki Oniyakko get animated discussing the “employment ice age generation”! Event celebrates the release of essay collection “Middle-Aged Men, Shave Your Shins”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Entertainer Ryo Fukawa appeared alongside comedian Tsubaki Oniyakko at an event marking the release of his latest essay collection, “Middle-Aged Men, Shave Your Shins.” They shared stories about the employment ice age generation and entertained the audience.
Cloudflare surpasses 10 million developers using its platform
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Cloudflare announced that the number of developers using its platform has surpassed 10 million, up from 7.4 million. It provides a development environment leveraging Workers and its global network to handle increased traffic from AI agents.
Tickets sold out just 7 minutes after going on sale in Tokyo! “The Painting Exhibition After Closing,” a hit following the immersive “Paintings You Must Not Look At” exhibition, is coming to Sapporo!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
“The Painting Exhibition After Closing,” a special event connected to “Paintings You Must Not Look At,” which drew more than 50,000 visitors in Tokyo, Osaka and Nagoya, will open at Sapporo Factory in Sapporo on October 31. Visitors experience the paintings in darkness using only flashlights.
Facts
Sold out just 7 minutes after tickets went on sale
More than 50,000 visitors in Tokyo, Osaka and Nagoya
Date: Saturday, October 31, 2026
Time: 19:30–22:00
Friday ¥3,000 (tax included)
Saturday and Sunday ¥3,300 (tax included)
The “Paintings You Must Not Look At” exhibition drew 40,000 visitors
The series has drawn more than 50,000 visitors in total
Art goods maker 株式会社ケンエレファント plans to release “円谷プロ怪獣 キーチェーン大全 其ノ壱,” a collection of soft-vinyl mascot charms featuring kaiju from 円谷プロダクション productions, in March 2027. The collection will include 4 types, and preorders have begun.
“Sanrio Characters Good Children’s Soft-Vinyl Mascots” set for release in February 2027
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Art goods maker 株式会社ケンエレファント plans to release “Sanrio Characters Good Children’s Soft-Vinyl Mascots,” featuring Sanrio characters as hanging soft-vinyl charms, in February 2027, and has begun taking preorders.
“Adult Noncognitive Skills: Lessons on the ‘Invisible Strengths’ That Schools Don’t Teach” to be released on October 22, 2026
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社ワニブックス released “Adult Noncognitive Skills: Lessons on the ‘Invisible Strengths’ That Schools Don’t Teach,” written by 白石慶次 and 森本しんたろう, on October 22, 2026. The price is 1,980 yen (tax included).
Building AI customer service from the “inside” of e-commerce operations | 株式会社MUNICA, which provides LINE CRM for e-commerce businesses, joins the KURUKURU Group
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Original株式会社KURUKURUのグループに、EC事業者向けLINE CRMツール「MUNICA for LINE」を提供する株式会社MUNICAが2026年8月4日付で参画。両社はAI接客の内製化や業務効率化プロダクトの開発、およびその仕組みをEC事業者に提供していく。
CANAL 4℃ launches the “2026 HOLIDAY COLLECTION,” bringing warmth to life
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Jewelry brand “CANAL 4℃,” operated by 株式会社エフ・ディ・シィ・プロダクツ, began selling its winter-themed “2026 HOLIDAY COLLECTION” on October 23, 2026. The collection features 3 series expressing a hug, as well as a limited-quantity series.
バーバリー announces collaboration with British brand “スマイソン”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
バーバリー and British brand “スマイソン” have announced a collaboration featuring leather notebooks and a game collection. The products are scheduled to go on sale in October 2026.
Facts
スマイソン, founded on New Bond Street in London in 1887
For around 140 years, it has produced fine stationery and luxury leather goods
It is known for creating the world’s first portable diary in 1908
In the 1890s, it was commissioned to produce stationery for the residences owned by Queen Victoria
In the 1970s, it produced custom diaries and logbooks for the Transglobe Expedition, a global exploration project by Sir Ranulph Fiennes, Charles R. Burton and Oliver Shepard
The endpapers are inspired by バーバリー’s 2026 Winter runway collection
The collection will go on sale from October 2026 for the holiday season
Each item can be personalized with up to 3 initials stamped in gold
バーバリー is a global luxury brand founded in Britain by Thomas Burberry in 1856
【Shokz】Exhibiting at the “Yokohama Marathon Festa 2026”! Try and buy popular open-ear headphones.
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
フォーカルポイント株式会社, the authorized Shokz distributor in Japan, will exhibit at the “Yokohama Marathon Festa 2026,” held at Pacifico Yokohama on October 24 and 25, 2026, where visitors can try and buy the OpenRun Air 2 and OpenFit Air 2.
Facts
Saturday, Oct. 24, 2026
Sunday, October 25, 2026
Lightweight design at just 26.4 g
IP67 water resistance
Up to 10 hours of battery life
Lightweight design weighing just 7.2g per earbud
Up to 36 hours of playback
IP55 dustproof and water-resistant performance
Companies mentioned:フォーカルポイント株式会社、Shokz、Apple inc.
STPR’s first! Get the full scoop on Puffy & Sweety, a takeout sweets shop where you can enjoy “sweets of your own”! Bubble waffles and colorful drinks from 6 STPR Family groups arrive
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社STPR will open Puffy & Sweety, a takeout sweets shop, in Ikebukuro, Tokyo, on November 1, 2026, as the fifth installment of its joint project STPR PARADISE with 井上商事株式会社. The shop will sell menu items such as bubble waffles and colorful drinks, as well as limited-edition merchandise.
New merchandise featuring original illustrations by artist MOJITO from “ENNEAD” to debut at “AGF2026”! Advance sales confirmed at Chugai Mining booth [Y-23]!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
中外鉱業株式会社 will hold advance sales of new merchandise from the Korean BL comic “ENNEAD” at the Chugai Mining booth [Y-23] during the “Animate Girls Festival 2026,” taking place at Ikebukuro Sunshine City on November 7–8, 2026.
Facts
Saturday, November 7, 2026–Sunday, November 8
Original中外鉱業ブース[Y-23]
Original1会計3,000円(税込)
8 types in total
Price: 2,200 yen (tax included)
4 types in total
Original販売価格:1個 660円(税込)
1 SET [8 pieces] ¥5,280 (tax included)
Retail price: 1,760 yen (tax included)
Price: ¥2,750 (tax included)
Sale price: ¥1,980 (tax included)
Preorder period: October 22, 2026 (Thu.) 18:00–November 9 (Mon.) 23:59
Shipping: Scheduled to begin shipping sequentially from January 2027
A huge hit with Gen Z! Keyboard app “Simeji” launches collaboration campaign with the surreal open-world RPG “NTE: Neverness to Everness”!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Keyboard app “Simeji,” offered by バイドゥ株式会社, will run a collaboration campaign with the surreal open-world RPG “NTE: Neverness to Everness” starting October 22, 2026. The campaign features limited-edition Halloween-themed skins, badge giveaways and input effects.
Facts
Thursday, Oct. 22, 2026
Sunday, Nov. 22, 2026
3 types in total
5,000 shares in total
2 additional skins in total
For 180 days after acquisition
10 winners selected by lottery
6 keywords in total
Released on April 29, 2026
75 million downloads
As of December 2025
More than 200,000 emoticons
Companies mentioned:バイドゥ株式会社、Simeji、NTE: Neverness to Everness、Hotta Studio、Perfect World Games、PlayStation(R)5、iOS、Android、PC、X
【FリーグTV × ニコニコ生放送】 Free live stream of “Oita vs. Nagoya” on Sunday, October 25! 【メットライフ生命Fリーグ 2026-27 Division 1】
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Original一般社団法人日本フットサルトップリーグは、2026-27シーズンのパートナーである株式会社ドワンゴが運営する『ニコニコ生放送』にて、メットライフ生命Fリーグ2026-27 ディビジョン1の第16回「バサジィ大分 vs 名古屋オーシャンズ」を10月25日12:00から無料ライブ配信する。