On July 6, 2026, South Korean media outlet Herald Business reported that 'It was analyzed that in Japanese society, changes are observed where everything, such as the physique of Japanese people, human relationships, consumption styles, and living spaces, is generally 'becoming smaller'.' The article quoted a Japanese media report stating that 'Japanese society is becoming narrower/smaller.' It states that this is not a temporary phenomenon but a result of the complex interplay of a long-term economic stagnation known as the 'lost 30 years' that has continued since the collapse of the bubble economy in the early 1990s, population decline, and changes in values. According to data from the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, the average height of men in their 20s and 30s has been stagnant in the early 170 centimeters, and the average height of 18-year-old men has long since been surpassed by South Korea (175 centimeters). The height of Japanese people had increased since the Meiji era, backed by improved nutrition and economic growth, but has slowed down for those born in the 1970s and 80s onwards. While Japanese people are generally slender globally, their average daily calorie intake is also continuously decreasing. Experts point out the possibility that genetic factors and changes in dietary habits are influencing this in a complex way. Human relationships are also said to be narrowing. According to one survey, the percentage of people who answered 'the more friends, the better' decreased from 31.9% in 1994 to 10.3% last year. The percentage of those who answered 'comfortable human relationships are with the same sex rather than the opposite sex' has more than doubled, and it is explained that this means 'a growing tendency to prioritize relationships with same-sex friends over romantic relationships.' Furthermore, it is said that an increasing number of young people name their mothers, rather than their bosses or seniors at work, as someone they consult for their troubles. The article analyzes that 'there is a growing tendency towards stability, with people focusing their interest on human relationships closer to their daily lives rather than on politics or social issues.' Consumption and housing are also becoming more simplified. When shopping, people rely on artificial intelligence (AI) recommendations rather than choosing for themselves, not expanding their options. In urban areas, ultra-compact condominiums and narrow houses are increasing due to rising land prices, and in the restaurant industry, there is an increase in establishments that efficiently utilize limited space. The article reports that 'the 'downsizing' of Japanese society is not merely a change in lifestyle, but is becoming a new standard in Japanese society during an era of low growth.' In response to this article, comments from South Korean internet users include: 'Japanese people eat small portions, right? The dishes served at restaurants are tiny.' 'If you live in a narrow and small house from childhood, you probably wouldn't want to grow tall.' 'Japanese women prefer slim and skinny men. So, perhaps they started eating less and stopped growing taller?' 'Korea is similar.' 'I think Korean society is also changing in the same way. It's about oneself more than others. Having many friends means nothing. Ultimately, only family can be trusted.' 'Still, Japan is more developed than Korea.' (Translation/Editing by Mae)