Key Facts
• February 2008: Aegis ship “Atago” collided with fishing boat “Seitoku Maru,” killing two.
• August 12, 2025: PM Ishiba and wife Kaiko visited Katsuura for memorial services.
• Ishiba has visited annually for 17 years, except during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• This year, Ishiba arrived with four security vehicles due to his role as Prime Minister.
• Memorial activities included incense offering, a beach visit, and a sushi dinner with families.
• Ishiba praised his wife, calling her “a beautiful woman in her youth.”
• Local fisherman Yoshitaka Nakanotani expressed admiration for Ishiba’s sincerity and consistency.
• Ishiba’s visit avoided political discussions despite recent “Ishiba ousting” rumors.
• Ishiba’s summer break lasted three days, starting August 12, 2025.
Summary
Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, accompanied by his wife Kaiko, visited Katsuura on August 12, 2025, to honor the victims of the 2008 collision between the Aegis ship “Atago” and the fishing boat “Seitoku Maru.” The accident claimed the lives of two fishermen, and Ishiba, who was Defense Minister at the time, has since made annual visits to the victims’ families. This year marked a departure from tradition, as Ishiba arrived with a security detail and four vehicles due to his current role as Prime Minister. The visit included a memorial service, a beach visit, and a sushi dinner with the families. Ishiba expressed pride in his wife, reminiscing about her youth, and avoided political discussions despite recent rumors of internal party challenges. Local fisherman Yoshitaka Nakanotani praised Ishiba’s genuine and consistent efforts over the years. The visit highlighted Ishiba’s personal commitment and provided a brief respite during his three-day summer break.
