Couple's Retirement Dreams Crushed by Son's 6 Million Yen Debt Request

A couple in Japan, both 61 years old, had their carefully planned retirement dreams abruptly dismantled by a single message on LINE from their 25-year-old son. The couple, who had diligently saved approximately 4.3 million yen (about NT$1.17 million) for their future, intended to embark on a nationwide hot spring tour upon retiring at age 65.

However, their son, who works independently, sent a message revealing he had resigned from his job due to severe pressure from his supervisor, leading to mental health issues. He is currently relying on unemployment benefits and savings and has requested his parents to take over his student loan payments. The couple had previously taken out student loans for both their sons due to their own mortgage obligations, with each son borrowing 100,000 yen monthly for tuition and living expenses.

The parents had always believed that their sons, having chosen higher education, should be responsible for repaying their own loans after graduation. Considering their son's current psychological state, the couple ultimately agreed to temporarily cover his student loan debt. Mr. Fujiwara (a pseudonym) admitted that if their son cannot return to the workforce soon, they might have to shoulder nearly 6 million yen, including interest, for his loans. The prospect of him returning home to live with them would also increase household expenses.

Consequently, their long-anticipated retirement travel plans and the goal of fully retiring at 65 must be postponed indefinitely. Experts advise that student loans can impact the entire family, not just the student. A lack of consensus on repayment responsibilities can jeopardize parents' retirement plans and financial security when children face unemployment or health problems. Families are encouraged to discuss repayment obligations early and utilize available options like deferred payments or reduced payments to ease the burden.