Group 1 - The article discusses the emergence of a unique industry in Japan known as "Rental Family," where individuals can hire actors to play the roles of family members for various occasions [1][2][5] - Companies like "Family Romance" and "Heart Project" provide customized services, allowing clients to rent temporary parents, siblings, or even spouses for events such as weddings or family gatherings [2][5] - The cost for hiring temporary parents for events ranges from 30,000 to 50,000 yen (approximately 1,500 to 2,500 RMB), depending on the complexity of the role and duration of the performance [2] Group 2 - The "Rental Family" service is utilized not only for joyous occasions but also for handling awkward situations, such as apologizing to a partner's family after an affair [3][4] - The industry caters to emotional needs, with clients seeking companionship to alleviate loneliness, especially among the elderly and those without family [4][6] - The largest company in this sector, Family Romance, has over 1,200 employees and handles more than 200 requests monthly, indicating a growing market demand [5][6] Group 3 - The rise of the "Rental Family" industry is attributed to Japan's aging population, with 29% of the population aged 65 and older, and projections indicating that nearly 40% will live alone by 2040 [6][10] - Social trends such as delayed marriage and low birth rates contribute to the increasing demand for these services, as traditional family structures become less common [7][9] - The industry reflects a societal need for familial connections, even if they are artificially created, as individuals seek to maintain appearances in social situations [7][12] Group 4 - The article raises questions about the long-term implications of relying on rented family members, as some clients may develop emotional dependencies on these actors [8][12] - Despite the potential for emotional fulfillment, the article suggests that these services may not address the root causes of loneliness and family disconnection in society [12][13] - The future of the "Rental Family" industry appears promising as long as societal loneliness persists, indicating a sustained market for these services [13][14]