{
  "id": 6855214,
  "title": "Japan bag maker develops backpack that turns into life jacket",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/12/japan-bag-maker-develops-backpack-that-turns-into-life-jacket",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-09-12T04:00:10.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "The Mainichi",
    "slug": "the-mainichi",
    "url": "https://mainichi.jp/english/articles/20260909/p2a/00m/0bu/040000c"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Tamba, Hyogo - A Japanese bag manufacturer has created a unique product that functions as both a backpack and a life jacket during emergencies. The LIFEBOX backpack, developed by Maru Su Bags, was awarded the Tamba Innovation Award in fiscal 2025. The bag's design enables it to be converted into a life jacket within a minute by removing the side and bottom panels and turning the bag inside out. Made of polyester, the backpack contains buoyant material similar to swimming kickboards. Company president Susumu Hosokawa, 66, aims for people to use the backpack during their commutes while also being prepared for disasters. The idea for the floating bag originated from the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake, and full-scale development commenced after the 2024 Noto Peninsula earthquake. Hosokawa has been testing the product himself by wearing it in swimming pools. In June 2025, he demonstrated its emergency-use capabilities at an elementary school in a tsunami-risk area. Currently produced on a made-to-order basis, LIFEBOX comes in three sizes for children and adults, starting at 37,400 yen (~$240). Inquiries can be made to Maru Su Bags at 0795-86-8212.",
  "summary": "TAMBA, Hyogo -- A bag manufacturer here has developed and is selling a backpack that can be converted into a life jacket during emergencies. The produ",
  "key_points": [
    "Maru Su Bags develops LIFEBOX backpack as life jacket",
    "Converts into flotation device in 60 seconds",
    "Inspired by 2011 earthquake, tested in pools"
  ],
  "editors_take": "This innovative product development enables commuters to be better prepared for disasters while on the move, potentially increasing their chances of survival in emergency situations.",
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}