Satoru Iwata, president of the Nintendo, had a surgery last week, and is expected to return to its daily working schedule soon. In an open letter to Nintendo's shareholders, Iwata said that a tumor was found in his bile duct recently during his routine physical examinations. As removal at an early stage was the desirable medical option, Iwata had surgery last week, and came through it well.

Nintendo's boss has already resumed his business by email and by other means, but it is anticipated that a little more time would be needed for him to return to his regular work schedule.

As a result, Iwata will miss the company’s latest Annual General Meeting of Shareholders, to be held this month.

"As the president of the company, I regret that I cannot attend the meeting. However, I understand that I have to prioritize my medical treatment and to recover as soon as possible so that I will again be able to do my best to help the company to grow. I hope that you understand," he said.