Japan market trends show growth in short dramas and senior employment

CREAVE has released a trend report on the short drama market for the first half of 2026. The domestic Japanese market is valued at 153 billion yen, with the global market projected to reach 8.7 trillion yen by 2029. Research indicates high awareness of short dramas, with TikTok being the most common viewing platform. Notable developments include the expansion of IP into terrestrial television, such as the “Gokko Club” series on Fukushima Central TV, and international distribution efforts like “Hitorigoto Apron” expanding to South Korea.

Separately, a report by Human Resocia analyzing data from 2015 to 2025 highlights significant shifts in Japan's labor force. While the working-age population (15–64) decreased by 3.91 million people over the decade, the total number of employed persons rose by 4.52 million. This growth is driven largely by an increase in female workers and a 29.2% rise in employees aged 65 and older, who grew from 7.3 million to 9.43 million.