COMMENTARY / Japan

Kishida faces leadership test over Johnny's sexual abuse scandal

U.N. group calls for transparent investigation into talent abuse allegations

Members of Johnny’s Sexual Assault Victims Association who allege they were abused by famed-talent agent Johnny Kitagawa speak to reporters in late July in Tokyo following a hearing by United Nations human rights experts. | Kyodo

By Masamitsu Takahashi
Jiji

Aug 23, 2023

Finding himself under international pressure, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida faces a test of his self-touted "ability to listen."

Members of a United Nations Human Rights Council working group investigating alleged sexual abuse by the late entertainment mogul Johnny Kitagawa urged the Japanese government on Aug. 4 to uncover the truth and provide relief to those who have mustered courage to recount their suffering as young boys in his care.

Will the prime minister act on the unusual request and come up with relief measures for sexual crime victims and preventive steps in line with the wishes of former artists of Kitagawa's powerful entertainment agency, Johnny & Associates?

Kishida faces leadership test over Johnny's sexual abuse scandal

U.N. group calls for transparent investigation into talent abuse allegations

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