In June of this year, Japanese idol group TOKIO member Taichi Kokubun, 51, was reportedly suspended indefinitely from all entertainment activities, leading to the group's official disbandment, due to severe violations of company regulations.
The reasons for his suspension were never disclosed, and Kokubun recently even filed a human rights relief application with the Japan Federation of Bar Associations. However, today (November 26), the media outlet Shukan Bunshun reported that Kokubun had sexually harassed two female staff members, allegedly taking them to hotel rooms, forcing kisses while drinking, and even sending explicit photos. This afternoon, accompanied by his lawyers, Kokubun held a press conference in Tokyo, apologizing to those involved and his fans.
After Nippon TV suspended Kokubun in June, the broadcaster remained silent about the specifics of his misconduct. Today's Shukan Bunshun report revealed that on June 18, the TV station invited Kokubun for a program planning discussion. Lawyers were present and began questioning him, asking: "Have you ever harassed any staff members?" Kokubun reportedly admitted to two past incidents. He confessed that he had invited "Staffer A, a familiar colleague," to his room for drinks during an overnight shoot out of town, subsequently hugging and kissing her.
He also admitted to sending explicit photos while intoxicated. Following further questioning by the lawyers, Kokubun confessed to another victim, "Staffer B, a program staff member," admitting to inappropriate physical contact and sending harassing messages to her.
Kokubun appeared at the press conference wearing glasses and a suit, looking visibly distraught. He bowed his head for nearly 7 seconds upon standing, beginning his apology by stating: "First and foremost, I deeply regret that my actions have caused harm to the individuals involved. I am truly sorry for the delay in addressing this matter publicly and for not being able to apologize directly, having to do so in this manner. I extend my sincerest apologies to them."
He then apologized to the collaborating TV stations and program production teams: "To Nippon TV, where I have worked for many years, and to everyone involved with 'The Tetsuwan DASH' program, I deeply apologize for causing such significant trouble and for my sudden departure from a program that has run for 30 years." He added: "To our sponsors, other TV stations, and all media professionals, I apologize for being unable to explain the details, forcing you to make judgments based on incomplete information, and for not being able to properly apologize until now. I am truly sorry."
Kokubun also apologized to his fans: "I am truly sorry for causing you all concern by delaying my personal explanation until now."
However, Kokubun had filed a human rights relief application in October, claiming that he was not given specific reasons for his "violation of regulations" and was only told "not to mention anything that might identify the individuals or details of the incident," which prevented him from speaking publicly.
Nippon TV countered, insisting that Kokubun's self-confessed actions constituted severe misconduct and reiterated that their handling of the situation had been reviewed by a governance assessment committee and was "appropriate."
In fact, former TOKIO member Tatsuya Yamaguchi announced his departure from the group in 2018 due to an indecent assault incident, also leaving Johnny & Associates. In 2020, lead vocalist Tomoya Nagase announced his retirement. This June, the group officially disbanded due to Kokubun's incident. Given that Kokubun initially tried to claim he had not violated regulations, the full exposure of the incident now makes it difficult to regain public support.
via： 週刊文春