Mie Fukuda

Saie Fukuda (Fukuda Mie, born February 14, 1912 – September 16, 2013) was the spouse of a Japanese politician and is known as the wife of a Prime Minister. She was from Hara City, Agatsuma District, Gunma Prefecture (now Higashitomi Town), and her grandfather was Zen-kyō Shin'ei, a former judge of the Grand Criminal Court. Her father was the judge Fumio Shin'ei.

Saie Fukuda married Takeo Fukuda, who was working at the Ministry of Finance, in 1933 (Showa 8). Details about how they met have not been publicly disclosed; however, one theory suggests that they met while Fukuda was a student at Tokyo Imperial University. After marriage, she took the surname Fukuda.

Her role as a wife was largely in support of her husband's political activities. Takeo Fukuda served as Prime Minister from December 24, 1976 (Showa 51), to December 7, 1978 (Showa 53), about two years. During this period, Saie Fukuda acted as First Lady and performed official duties.

Saie Fukuda passed away on September 16, 2013, at the age of 101. She is remembered for her long life. Additionally, her family lineage includes a history of political engagement; her grandson, Tatsuo Fukuda, is a member of the House of Representatives.

Although detailed public records of her life and activities are limited, as a member of a political family, she holds a certain place in Japan’s political history.