Why everyone in Japan is talking about this dad - BBC News

Japan's environment minister Shinjiro Koizumi is raising eyebrows by taking time off to take care of his newborn son.

It's not only because he is the first minister and MP to do so, but also because very few dads in Japan actually take paternity leave. The BBC's Mariko Oi explains why.

Produced by Tessa Wong.

[rufioh]

A dad taking time off to raise kids, and be present for their kid's most formative years? That's really good

[sahibnijjar]

"He's too inexperienced... He's too arrogant."
Nah he's just a man of sheer will and commitment

[hollymartin]

The fact that a dad is looking after his own son is making international news is horrifying

[Jobe-]

It’s awful that we live in a world where it’s expected that dads aren’t involved in their children’s’ lives.

[Casablumpkin]

“Because Japan has such capable women, I left it to my wife”

Big brain dodge right there.

[echelonk]

Forget dads, all of Japan should be asking for more time off.

[hridyaanngeorge]

Isn't this the same guy who said fighting climate change should be sexy and cool i stan

[ace-vblw]

So you telling me he’s a sweetheart, relatable, responsible, kind father and he’s handsome??? yes.

[itzkirml]

Ain't this the man who said that environmental sustainability should be sexy and fun? Icon.

[patrockbulk]

There's nothing wrong with this. Even if you don't agree with him, he has the right to do what he wants.

[obituaryollie]

Plotwist: He didn't want to lose against his son in the final arc.

[mariunfabregas]

Japanese dad: **does basic dad stuff**

Everyone: talented, brilliant, incredible, amazing, show-stopping, spectacular, never the same, totally unique, completely not ever been done before-

[samusa]

"Because Japan has such capable women, I left it to my wife" that's a nice way of putting it.

[tetrulz]

seriously that just kinda made him like 59% sexier.

[blackie]

"A man that doesn't spend time with his family is not a real man" - Vito Corleone from The Godfather

[irawilliams]

Seriously, what is wrong with taking a paternity leave? End the stereotypes in Japanese society. It's not an emasculating thing.

[ricezzz]

People in the comments are basically:
30% japanese people saying he ain't shit
30% foreigners saying he should be applauded for taking the paternity leave
40% people saying he is hot and environmental science is sexy

[RayMak]

Japan is a country famous for Karoshi. Work to death. So this is a really really good message for everyone.

[BoxerShark]

Father wants to care for and spend time with his newborn son and it’s on the news. Says a lot about our society today. 😏

[muma]

Everyone in Japan is more talking about his dad than this dad.