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The article outlines a long-standing practice within Japan’s Liberal Democratic Party where prime ministers have presented gift vouchers to newly elected lawmakers since Abe’s resurgence in power in 2012. It details instances involving Shinzo Abe, Shigeru Ishiba, Fumio Kishida, and other party members, while noting the ongoing debate over whether the practice should be investigated further.

Rengo president Tomoko Yoshino urged the LDP to pass legislation allowing separate surnames for married couples during their annual convention, marking the first time in 20 years a Rengo leader was invited. This move highlights the LDP's attempt to gain support from labor unions while also potentially influencing the upcoming Upper House elections.

Nintendo has announced the release of the Switch 2, a hybrid console with improved features like a larger screen, increased storage, and faster microSD Express card compatibility. The Switch 2 will be available in two versions, a Japanese-language version for 49,980 yen and a multi-language version for global release for 69,980 yen, both launching on June 5.

The world's first hydrogen-cartridge powered vending machine, installed at the Osaka Kansai Expo, generates its own electricity through a chemical reaction between oxygen and hydrogen, resulting in zero carbon emissions and reduced energy consumption. This innovative technology offers a sustainable solution for beverage dispensing, potentially paving the way for wider adoption in the future.

At the Naruse Dam site in Akita Prefecture, AI-driven unmanned construction equipment has revolutionized traditional building methods by efficiently performing tasks typically requiring multiple shifts of human labor. Developed by Kajima Corp., the system employs advanced simulation software and precise task management to overcome labor shortages and boost productivity in dam construction.