Members of a bunch of males who say they had been sexually abused as boys by a Japanese leisure mogul are accusing the corporate behind the scandal, beforehand referred to as Johnny’s, of not being honest in coping with the victims.
Shimon Ishimaru, who represents the victims’ group, stated many haven’t but obtained compensation. The group has requested to satisfy with firm officers, however that has not occurred, he stated at a information convention with three different males who stated they had been victims.
Ishimaru is amongst a whole bunch of males who’ve come ahead since final 12 months, alleging they had been sexually abused as teenagers by boy band producer Johnny Kitagawa. Kitagawa, who died in 2019, was by no means charged and remained highly effective within the leisure business.
The corporate lastly acknowledged Kitagawa’s long-rumored abuse final 12 months. The corporate’s chief made a public apology in Might. The Japanese authorities has additionally pushed for compensation.
The corporate, which has modified its identify from Johnny & Associates to Smile-Up, stated Monday it has obtained requests for compensation from 939 folks. Of these, 125 have obtained compensation, it stated in an announcement. The corporate has arrange a panel of three former judges to look into the claims.
“We are proceeding with those with whom we have reached an agreement on payments,” it stated, whereas promising to proceed with its efforts.
It didn’t instantly reply to a request for touch upon Monday’s information convention.
The victims’ group stated it has been approached by dozens of people that had been advised by the corporate that there was not sufficient proof to honor their claims. Particulars weren’t disclosed.
The corporate’s manufacturing enterprise, recognized beforehand as Johnny’s, has continued below a distinct identify, Starto Leisure.
In response to a number of accounts, Kitagawa abused the boys in his Tokyo luxurious mansion, in addition to different locations, akin to his automotive and abroad resorts, whereas they had been performing as Johnny’s dancers and singers. The abuse continued for a number of many years.
The repercussions of the scandal have unfold. In standup comedy, a number of ladies have alleged sexual abuse by a well-known comedian. He has denied the allegations.
The U.N. Working Group on Enterprise and Human Rights, which is investigating the Johnny’s abuse circumstances, is to subject a report in June, together with suggestions for change.
The Related Press doesn’t often establish individuals who say they had been sexually assaulted, however Kitagawa’s current accusers have given their names. Critics say what occurred and the silence of Japan’s mainstream media are indicative of how the world’s third largest economic system lags in defending human rights.