For the record, I'm a Lumix GF-1 owner. I have the 20mm pancake and the 14-140 HD lens (with OIS). I bought it in Japan, and that was when I learned the hideous truth about Panasonic discriminating against us English speakers here (which not all Japanese camera makers do), but thankfully I found a firmware hack on the internet that gave me English menus! The GF-1 is still a great camera, but it's low light capabilities are dated, especially when I try to shoot video of my kids at dimly lit on-stage events. Moreover, the GF-1 can only shoot 720p and has mono sound. I really don't need 4k (since I don't have a computer that can play it back smoothly), but the extra resolution of the GH4 would give me the ability to downsize to a magnificently noise-free 1080p! I also would like to have the ability to "zoom" in post, even with video taken on my 20mm prime. The speed of the autofocus (70ms) is incredible too. And the ability to add an external zoom mic would be great.
Lots to comment on.
1. I've tried the 4k video. My PC which is no powerhouse has no problem viewing or editing 4k. Actually, AVCHD requires more CPU usage than MP4 and MOV. I can also capture an 8mb still frame from 4k that make beautiful large prints. Too much media attention being given to the video aspect of GH4. For still photographers the GH4 is a visible step up, visually and performance wise.
2. My post, was intended to simply share some GH4 output. It seems to have evolved into a discussion on your perceived discrimination by Panasonic. We are all entitled to our opinions, but lets lighten it up, this is no fun.
3. You have several options:
You can buy an export version which I saw advertised at Yodabashi Camera.
You can order an English version from dealers like B&H
You may already know some Japanese. I met a few Americans who worked there. They spoke both Japanese and English, and they were able to read some Japanese.
You can buy one of the other brands who offer an English interface. No one is forcing you to buy Panasonic.
Have you ever been in Quebec Canada? All the traffic signs I saw were in French. What was the saying, "when in Rome do as the Romans do".