The story focuses on a mother in Japan who continues to wait and hope for the return of her child, a middle school student ('Junior High 3', equivalent to 9th grade in the US), who disappeared three years ago. Despite extensive investigations and search efforts, the whereabouts of the child remain unknown. This case has gained significant attention within Japan due to its duration and the mother’s persistent hope.

In Japan, missing children cases are taken very seriously, with parents often attracting wide public sympathy. The community usually rallies together in search efforts and there is strong media coverage around anniversaries or breakthroughs in the case. Stories of parental love and determination, like in this case, carry emotional weight in a society that highly values familial ties.

In the US and EU, missing child cases are also given high importance, with various active organizations supporting families and search efforts. However, the media approach can differ - while Japanese media often offer extensive, subjective stories focusing on the emotional aspects, Western media might focus more on facts, developments, and potentially responsible parties.