"Just earlier this year, Japan appointed its first-ever "loneliness minister" who is responsible for addressing isolation concerns."
"According to some researchers, hikikomori account for 1.2 per cent of Japan's population. Anyone who stays home for over six months without participating in society - school/work is considered part of the hikikomori."
https://www.indiatimes.com/technology/news/japan-alter-ego-robots-556211.html
They are hoping nine inch tall robots that connect to devices will help.
"According to some researchers, hikikomori account for 1.2 per cent of Japan's population. Anyone who stays home for over six months without participating in society - school/work is considered part of the hikikomori."
https://www.indiatimes.com/technology/news/japan-alter-ego-robots-556211.html
They are hoping nine inch tall robots that connect to devices will help.