Japan's Ministry of Justice is initiating an investigation into structures with unspecified owners, sparking discussions about property regulations. The extent of these unclaimed buildings, their locations, and potential usage is currently unknown, which is the impetus for this investigation. The inquiry will look into the authenticity of these properties, aiming at identifying any possible underlying issues.

In Japan, the issue of unclaimed buildings is prevalent due to the aging population and urban flight. In many cases, properties are left unattended because inheritors refuse inheritance to avoid property taxes. It draws attention due to wasting valuable urban space and safety issues, and the public has a keen interest in the government's approach to address this problem, showcasing a blend of legal, social, and urban planning concerns.

Many Western countries like the US and EU countries have established processes for dealing with unclaimed properties as they often pose environmental, safety, and urban management challenges. For instance, in the US, unclaimed properties may fall under government possession if left unattended over time, getting repurposed for community development projects or sold in public auctions.