Kanegon’s Financial Struggles and Japan's Minimum Wage Dilemma

Kanegon, a character from the "Ultra Q" television series that debuted in 1966, is depicted as a monster that survives by eating coins, specifically 10-yen and 100-yen pieces. His daily requirement for sustenance is set at 3,520 yen, which has significant implications for his existence—particularly given that this amount has drastically changed when adjusted for inflation, equating to around 15,000 yen today.

Currently, the Japanese government is making moves to increase the minimum wage by 50 yen nationwide, aiming to raise the national average to 1,054 yen per hour, which Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has labeled a "powerful raise." However, many citizens are grappling with rising prices, and a more substantial increase might be necessary to truly benefit the populace.

It is important to recognize, though, that a rapid hike in minimum wage could adversely affect small and medium-sized businesses, as they may struggle to cope with the cost increases. Despite this, it remains clear that Japan's minimum wage still falls short of international standards, and adjustments are essential.

either to embrace his kaiju nature and stop working altogether or to seek greener pastures abroad, where wages in other developed nations could provide him with nearly double what he makes in Japan. One can imagine Kanegon contemplating leaving, perhaps feeling a sense of sorrow as he departs from Narita Airport.

Vox Populi, Vox Dei serves as a thought-provoking daily column covering a variety of themes, shedding light on contemporary Japanese culture, arts, and social trends through the perspectives of experienced writers from Asahi Shimbun.