Surge in Nepalese students in Japan tests multiculturalism

TOKYO -- The number of Nepalese students in Japan has grown rapidly to over 45,000 this year, overtaking the Vietnamese and making them second only to the Chinese. A growing number of graduates are meanwhile choosing to stay in the country to seek employment, filling shortages in sectors such as nursing and hospitality.

Singapore and South Korea also face challenges with aging populations and labor shortages, which has increased competition for skilled foreign workers. But despite Japan's sluggish economy, its political parties are hesitant to openly discuss openness to foreign workers. Some observers argue that Japan's need to attract foreigners necessitates the development of a more inclusive, multicultural society.