Japan recorded a surge in child suicides in 2024, with 527 school-aged children taking their own lives—the highest number ever documented, according to preliminary data released by the Ministry of Health, Labor, and Welfare on Wednesday.
The figure marks an increase of 14 cases from 2023, surpassing the previous record of 514 suicides in 2022.
High school students accounted for the majority of cases (349 deaths), followed by 163 junior high and 15 elementary school students.
Gender statistics reveal a notable rise in female suicides, with 288 cases—an increase of 34—while male suicides decreased by 20, totaling 239 cases.
A government official described the crisis as “deeply alarming”, emphasizing the urgent need for a comprehensive investigation into underlying causes to strengthen mental health support for young people.
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