Former classmates of a Japanese abductee to North Korea, Yokota Megumi, have encouraged her mother, Sakie.
Megumi was abducted by North Korean agents when she was a first-year junior high school student in Niigata City, on the Sea of Japan coast.
Megumi's former classmates have been gathering to comfort Sakie twice a year since 2023. On Saturday, eight of them took part in a gathering in Kawasaki City, near Tokyo.
Sakie said the situation has remained unchanged, despite the passage of many years. She added that she believes Megumi is in good shape and is persevering.
Each of the classmates spoke of their memories of Megumi. Yamada Kunie said she remembers herself and Megumi going down stairs with their arms linked while humming a tune. Maruyama Yoshiaki said he is willing to do whatever he can do to get Megumi returned home. He added that he hopes the day will come when they will be able to see a genuine smile on Sakie's face. Shinbo Emiko said she just wants to see Megumi as soon as possible. She said she has high expectations, as the administration of Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae is seemingly trying to do something a little different.
Violinist Yoshida Naoya, one of Megumi's former classmates, played the violin. Sakie listened to the performance intently with her eyes closed.
After the gathering, Sakie said she feels grateful, as she has been protected by these people throughout the years. She added that many of Megumi's classmates are cheerful people, which helps her a lot.

Quiz 1:
Who was abducted by North Korean agents?
A. Sakie
B. Yokota Megumi
C. Takaichi Sanae
D. Shinbo Emiko

Answers:
Quiz 1: B

Quiz 2:
What is the name of the city where Megumi was abducted?
A. Niigata City
B. Tokyo
C. Sea of Japan coast
D. Kawasaki City

Answers:
Quiz 2: A

Quiz 3:
What is the name of one of Megumi's former classmates who plays the violin?
A. Yamada Kunie
B. Maruyama Yoshiaki
C. Shinbo Emiko
D. Yoshida Naoya

Answers:
Quiz 3: D