'Work, work, work...': Japan PM's pledge becomes catchphrase of 2025
02 Dec 2025

Japan's new Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has been awarded the catchphrase of the year for her promise to "work, work, work, work and work" for her country.

The phrase was selected from over two dozen candidates and is particularly ironic in a nation known for its grueling work culture.

Takaichi had made this vow just before assuming office in October.

Takaichi's remarks on work-life balance spark criticism
Controversial statement

Takaichi's comments drew criticism as she urged her fellow Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) MPs to follow her example.

"I will have everyone work like a horse," she said, adding that she would forgo work-life balance herself.

These remarks were criticized by lawyers representing victims of karoshi, or death from overwork, who found them unhelpful.

Takaichi clarifies intentions behind her remarks
Clarification issued

After accepting the award, Takaichi clarified her intentions behind the controversial remarks.

She said she never intended to promote overworking or long hours as a virtue. Instead, she wanted to convey her determination to be an effective leader.

The organizers of the award also noted that other phrases on their shortlist reflected Japan's zeitgeist in 2025, such as "First female prime minister" and references to economic issues like "Trump's tariffs."

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Speech highlight

Takaichi is the fourth politician to receive this award, following Yukio Hatoyama in 2009.

The award is given by a committee that selects from a shortlist of phrases reflecting contemporary Japanese society.

Recently, Takaichi made headlines for her speech at the FII Priority Asia 2025 conference in Saudi Arabia.

She quoted a famous line from the Attack on Titan anime saying, "Just shut your mouths. And invest everything in me!!"