What Happened in Imari City: The Case Involving a Vietnamese Technical Intern
On July 26, 2025, a tragic incident happened in Imari City, Saga Prefecture, Japan. A 24-year-old Vietnamese man, who was working in Japan as a technical intern, entered someone’s house and attacked a 40-year-old woman and her mother in their 70s. He used a knife to steal money, and sadly, the younger woman died. The man was arrested for robbery and murder. This event shocked the local community. The mayor also asked people not to let this incident lead to discrimination or unfair opinions about foreigners.
What Is the Technical Intern Training Program?
The Technical Intern Training Program is a system where young people from other countries come to Japan to learn skills and techniques. For example, they might work in farms or factories to gain job experience and knowledge to take back to their home country. This system is supposed to be helpful for both Japan and the interns’ home countries.
What Are the Problems with This System?
Unfortunately, there are many problems with the technical intern system:
- Low Wages and Unpaid Overtime
Even though technical interns should be treated fairly, they sometimes receive much lower pay than Japanese workers and do not get paid for extra hours. - Long Working Hours and Dangerous Jobs
Some interns have to work over 12 hours a day, sometimes in unsafe working conditions with poor safety equipment. - Language and Culture Barriers
Many interns have trouble speaking Japanese or understanding the culture, so it can be hard for them to ask for help or express their problems. - Difficult to Change Jobs
If an intern doesn’t like their workplace, it’s often hard for them to change jobs freely. Many have no choice but to stay, even if the job is very tough. - Heavy Debts to Come to Japan
Some interns borrow a lot of money to come to Japan, so they feel pressured to work very hard just to pay back their debts.
Summary
The incident in Imari City is very sad, but it’s important not to blame all foreigners or all technical interns because of one person’s actions. There are many problems with the intern system that need to be fixed. We should all help build a society where everyone is treated fairly and differences are respected, no matter where someone is from.
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