Japan's Governors Try Pregnancy Simulators

In 2016, three male governors in Japan wore 7.3-kilogram pregnancy simulation vests as part of the Kyushu-Yamaguchi Work-Life Balance Promotion Campaign. The initiative aimed to encourage men to better understand the physical challenges of pregnancy and take a more active role in household chores and childcare. While wearing the vests, the governors attempted everyday tasks like cooking, laundry, and shopping, struggling with movements such as bending, climbing stairs, and putting on socks. The campaign video went viral, sparking nationwide discussion about gender roles and work-life balance, as women in Japan were reported to carry a significantly heavier share of domestic responsibilities. Similar awareness efforts have continued in later years, including participation by government officials. 📽️Video by: Gabe Jung 🤳Click our linkinbio to sign up to our daily newsletter.⁠ ⁠⁠ 📰Follow us for the latest Asian News @NextShark⁠ ⁠ ⁠ #japan #genderequality #worklifebalance #parenting #pregnancy #socialawareness #government #leadership #familylife #household #childcare #equality #viralvideo #awareness #publicservice #kyushu #yamaguchi #asiannews #culturalchange #society #domesticlife #mensrole #women #dailystruggles #empathy #policy #initiative #news #reel