Japanese singer Kousuke Atari, 44, known for his role and songs in the Taiwanese film "Cape No. 7," is likely a familiar name to many. A self-taught performer of island folk songs (shima-uta), he previously won the New Artist Award at the Amami Folk Song Festival and the Grand Champion title from the Japan Folk Song Association's Amami Joint Convention.
Today (March 28), Japanese media reported that Atari was arrested on the spot by the Metropolitan Police Department on suspicion of non-consensual sexual intercourse (sexual assault) for allegedly committing an indecent act against a man in a public bathhouse in Tokyo. The incident has become a trending topic in Japan.
According to police, around 2 AM on March 28, Atari allegedly committed an indecent act against a man in his 20s who was sleeping on a chair inside a public bathhouse in Shinagawa Ward. After realizing what was happening, the victim subdued Atari on the spot, and bathhouse staff called the police.
Kousuke Atari's agency also released a statement, saying, "We must first express our sincere apologies to the victim." The agency added that they are currently unable to contact Atari himself and are working to confirm the facts of the situation, promising to make an announcement once confirmed, and requesting understanding from the public.
While he gained popularity in Taiwan through the film, his 2007 single "Hana" is considered his signature song in Japan and was also used in commercials. Many netizens' impressions of him remain tied to this song, and the sudden news of this incident after a long period out of the spotlight has left many shocked.
via： livedoor news