#Japan #mental health #Shinjuku #Fukushima #LIVE #Live!

Online Symposium: Discussing 'Live, Live, Live!'

On March 12, 2026, from 11:45 AM to 12:30 PM, a significant online discussion will take place regarding the film 'Live, Live, Live!' hosted by the Pal System Federation, based in Shinjuku, Tokyo. As the 15th anniversary of the Great East Japan Earthquake approaches, this event aims to foster dialogue about the current conditions in the disaster-hit areas while addressing the support needed through shared perspectives from the film's cast.

About the Film

Directed by Yoshima Shimada, 'Live, Live, Live!' captures the harrowing reality of the Fukushima Prefecture affected by the Great East Japan Earthquake and the subsequent nuclear disaster. The film delves into the lives of individuals and healthcare professionals who faced overwhelming despair and loss yet continue to strive for life. Following its release in 2024, the film has been screened at various locations, highlighting the psychological challenges, including late-onset PTSD, affecting many survivors while documenting the subtle changes occurring in their lives.

The film's setting includes the Mental Health Clinic headed by Ryoji Arizuka, president of the 'Disaster Stress Research Association', an organization recognized for its support for victims of the Fukushima nuclear accident, which Pal System has been promoting since 2011.

Symposium Speakers

Participating in the symposium will be Ikuma Yoekura, the director of the 'Somatic Widespread Mental Health Care Center Nagomi', and Norihide Shoji, a resident of Minamisoma City largely affected by the nuclear disaster. These two individuals, who also appear in the film, will share their insights and reveal the present realities of Fukushima.

How to Participate

Those interested in joining the discussion can register to receive access to the pre-screening of the film via a streaming service. Whether you attend the symposium or not, you can view the film free of charge until the day of the event through computers or smartphones. During the symposium, attendees will exchange insights and reflections on the film, emphasizing the ongoing support needed for disaster recovery efforts.

Event Details

• - Date: March 12, 2026, 11:45 AM - 12:30 PM
• - Format: Online (via Zoom, limited archive streaming will be available)
• - Target Audience: Pal System users, Pal System group staff, employees of subsidiaries and associated companies
• - Speakers: Ikuma Yoekura (Mental Health Care Center Nagomi director), Norihide Shoji (Minamisoma resident)

Please register here by the deadline of March 12, 2026. If you wish to access the archived viewing, make sure to register as well.

Film Viewing Period: February 27, 2026 - March 12, 2026

Pal System continues to leverage the power of cooperation among its members to support disaster victims in large-scale emergencies, maintaining a commitment to foster resilience and care within these communities.