Sexual abuse allegations have once again rocked the J-pop industry as Noriyuki Higashiyama, the new boss of a disgraced J-pop agency, faces accusations of sexually assaulting young boys. This revelation comes in the wake of Johnny Kitagawa, the late founder of the agency, being exposed for extensive sexual abuse, which led to an independent inquiry revealing that hundreds of boys and young men had been victims over six decades.
The appointment of Higashiyama as the new boss of Johnny and Associates was supposed to symbolize a fresh start for the agency and its efforts to compensate the victims and seek amends. However, at a press conference announcing his appointment, Higashiyama was confronted with questions regarding his own reported abuse. Allegations published in a book claimed that he had massaged the crotches of boys, exposed his genitals, and made inappropriate remarks. In response, Higashiyama admitted that he couldn’t remember clearly and suggested that such actions might have occurred during his youth.
The impact of these allegations and Higashiyama’s response is likely to be significant. First and foremost, it raises concerns about the agency’s ability to regain the public’s trust. Higashiyama’s long history with the company and his close ties to its disgraced founder have led many to question the sincerity of the agency’s efforts to address the abuse. Critics argue that appointing someone with their own allegations only perpetuates a culture of abuse and victim-blaming.
Secondly, it highlights the pervasive nature of the abuse within the J-pop industry. Despite being regarded as a national figure and an influential force in Japan’s entertainment industry, Johnny Kitagawa’s sexual abuse remained an open secret for many years. The independent investigation and the subsequent resignation of the agency’s previous chief executive have shed light on the complicity and silence that allowed the abuse to continue unchecked. This has sparked a national discussion and encouraged more victims to come forward.
The revelation of Higashiyama’s alleged abuse serves as a stark reminder that addressing and eliminating the culture of abuse requires comprehensive and systemic change. It underscores the urgency for the J-pop industry to reexamine its practices, policies, and power dynamics. The focus should be on creating a safer environment for young talent and ensuring accountability for those in positions of authority.
Moving forward, it is imperative to carefully scrutinize the actions and decisions of the agency and its new boss. Transparency, accountability, and genuine efforts to support and compensate the victims are crucial. The agency must demonstrate its commitment to change by implementing robust child protection mechanisms, encouraging a culture of reporting and support, and working closely with independent organizations to establish best practices in preventing and addressing abuse.
The impact of these allegations extends beyond the J-pop industry. It serves as a wake-up call for society at large to address the prevalence of sexual abuse and the systemic factors that allow it to persist. It highlights the importance of believing and supporting survivors, breaking the silence surrounding abuse, and holding those responsible accountable.
As the J-pop industry grapples with the fallout from these allegations, it is essential for individuals and organizations within the industry and society as a whole to listen to the voices of the victims, prioritize their well-being, and actively work towards preventing future instances of abuse. Only through collective effort and systemic change can we hope to create a safer and more inclusive environment for all.
