Vietnamese worker killed in Kumamoto earthquake

A Vietnamese worker has died and at least one other has been injured following a powerful earthquake in Kumamoto, Japan. The earthquake has claimed at least 30 lives in total. The victim, who arrived in Japan in January 2026 as a technical trainee, was at a factory when a crane collapsed during the seismic event, fatally striking the worker. Despite rapid response from police and rescue personnel, the immense weight of the crane prevented any possibility of survival. Seven other Vietnamese trainees working at the same factory were evacuated to safety. Upon learning of the incident, the labor management committee of the Vietnamese Embassy in Japan immediately contacted the police. Representing the Vietnamese Ministry of Home Affairs and the embassy, they extended deep condolences to the victim's family. The embassy is continuing to cooperate closely with local businesses, associations, and Japanese authorities to assist the family with funeral arrangements and other post-mortem matters. Separately, a Vietnamese woman, the wife of a Vietnamese worker residing in Uki City, Kumamoto Prefecture, was injured when a wall collapsed in her home due to the earthquake. She is currently receiving medical treatment in the hospital. Initial reports indicate her injuries are not life-threatening.