Yōko Abe

Yōko Abe (安倍 洋子, Abe Yōko; née Kishi, 岸) was born on June 11, 1928, and died on February 4, 2024. She was a Japanese calligrapher and a member of the prominent Japanese political family known as the Satō–Kishi–Abe family.

Yōko Abe was the eldest daughter of Nobusuke Kishi, who served as Prime Minister of Japan. She was married to Shintaro Abe, who also served as Minister of Foreign Affairs. Their children include Shinzo Abe, who served as Prime Minister of Japan, and Nobuo Kishi. She was regarded as a leading figure within her family and had a notable influence in political and social circles.

She was recognized for her calligraphy work and was often referred to as the "Godmother" of the Kishi-Abe family, a designation highlighting her prominence within the family and their political legacy. Additionally, she was known as the "Godmother of the World of Politics" due to her influence and the large number of followers among politicians, particularly those associated with the Seiwa Seisaku Kenkyūkai, a political group.

Yōko Abe authored a work titled 『わたしの安倍晋太郎：岸信介の娘として』 ("My Shin'ichirō Abe: As the Daughter of Nobusuke Kishi") published in 1992 by Nesco.

In terms of honors, she was awarded the Order of Saints Maurice and Lazarus.

Yōko Abe passed away at the age of 95.