In 2023, Japan announced the nominees for its top "buzzwords" to show the year's trending topics. From a total of 30 nominations, some words reflected the public's interest in various events and issues. Two buzzwords highlighted a scandal involving the late music mogul, Johnny Kitagawa. The World Baseball Classic also made the list, with a memorable phrase from player Shohei Ohtani.

Tourism was a key theme, with "overtourism" spotlighting the surge in visitors to Japan. Another significant term, the "2024 problem," indicated an upcoming shortage of truck drivers. The list also touched on technology, including "ChatGPT," a chat tool, and "generative AI," a type of artificial intelligence.

On a lighter note, one of the buzzwords, "I'm wearing pants!" came from comedian Tonikaku Akarui Yasumura, adding a touch of humor to the nominations. These buzzwords, sourced from events, media, and public discourse, provide insight into Japan's 2023 landscape. The winning word from these nominees will be decided and announced later in the year.