Shukan Bunshun’s Response to Masahiro Nakai Scandal Sparks Debate

Quietly overwrote the mistake.

An article about former talent Masahiro Nakai (52) and his female troubles has sparked controversy after Shukan Bunshun’s editorial department issued a correction on January 28.

In the magazine’s December 26 issue last year, it was reported that the victim, referred to as “X,” was invited to the gathering where the trouble occurred by “Fuji senior executive A.” However, from the January 8 issue onward, this was changed to state that she was invited by Nakai.

According to the magazine’s statement:

“Regarding the dinner on the day of the incident, we initially reported that ‘X was invited by Fuji programming executive A.’ However, further investigation revealed that ‘X was invited by Nakai’ and that she recognized it as an extension of a gathering set up by A. Therefore, from the January 8 issue onward, we have reported the updated findings based on additional coverage.”

Furthermore, the magazine stated:

“As we previously reported, just before the incident, A took X to a barbecue at Nakai’s residence. X also told our magazine, ‘There is no doubt that the incident was an extension of a gathering set up by A.’ Based on this, we believe that A’s involvement in the trouble remains unchanged.”

Before this statement was released, former Osaka Governor and Mayor, lawyer Toru Hashimoto (55), had pointed out the manner in which the change was made.

“They quietly overwrote their mistake. This is dishonest to the readers,” 

He was criticized.

“If there is an error, it should be properly corrected.”

He further emphasized.

Following this criticism, Bunshun issued its statement.