I've experienced it a few times here in Australia, and I've spoken to a couple here who have also experienced it. I don't think it's localised to just USDM cars.

As for the suggestions its the fast key entry - impossible. You can't get past the ignition lock until your key is registered. Try it by standing outside your car and turning the ignition... You can't activate the starter motor until the fast key is closer.

Each time it happened to me, when the engine finally fired up, it sputtered a bit and really struggled before settling down to idle speed.