Families affected by the Japanese abduction crisis landed in Washington on Tuesday to push for urgent American support. Takuya Yokota, now 56, led the group in hopes of strengthening political momentum. His sister, Megumi Yokota, vanished in 1977 at age 13 after badminton practice. North Korean agents kidnapped her in Niigata, starting one of Japan’s most painful mysteries. Her story still symbolizes the broader Japanese abduction crisis.
Koichiro Iizuka also joined the mission, representing his missing mother, Yaeko Taguchi. North Korean agents abducted her in 1978 when she was 22. Before flying out of Haneda Airport, Yokota shared his growing concerns. He warned that diplomatic shifts could soon favor North Korea. Therefore, he insisted that the Japanese abduction crisis receive priority during future U.S.-North Korea discussions.
Both men expressed deep concern about recent praise for Kim Jong Un by former President Donald Trump. Yokota warned that such admiration could sideline human rights issues. Iizuka said he would ask U.S. officials to raise the crisis during any renewed talks with Pyongyang. With North Korea still lacking formal ties with both Japan and the U.S., dialogue remains difficult. However, the families believe action cannot wait.
The delegation carried powerful mementos to emphasize the emotional toll of the abductions. They brought a letter from Trump addressed to Akihiro Arimoto, father of abductee Keiko Arimoto. Akihiro passed away in February at the age of 96, still waiting for answers. The group also displayed a cherished photo of Keiko. They hoped to remind leaders that the Japanese abduction crisis affects real people with fading time.
Since 2002, Japan has recovered only five abductees, while 12 others remain officially recognized as kidnapped. Many activists argue the real number is much higher. The group visiting Washington now urges the U.S. to take a stronger stance. They believe only international unity can solve the Japanese abduction crisis. Every year lost risks another parent never seeing their child again.
