Daily brief
The man who assassinated former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe in 2022 has been sentenced to life in prison. The court found him guilty of shooting Abe with a homemade firearm during a campaign event. The sentencing concludes the high-profile trial that began after the killing shocked the nation.
Osaka Governor Hirofumi Yoshima said a referendum on the 'Osaka Metropolis Plan' would be held by next spring if he is re-elected in a snap election.
Japan's lower house of parliament is set to be dissolved on Friday, paving the way for a snap election.
South Korean Defense Minister Ahn is scheduled to visit Japan next week for talks with his Japanese counterpart.
Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party is facing internal criticism after fielding 37 candidates linked to a slush fund scandal.