Former XG Producer Released on Bail as Fans Remain Furious Over Ongoing Controversy

There is absolutely no fault on the part of the members of XG

In the cold rain, the man who emerged from the Wangan Police Station wearing a black suit and brown hair was SIMON—real name Junho Sakai (39), the former producer of the popular artist group XG.

Sakai was arrested in late February for allegedly using cocaine at a hotel in Nagoya, Aichi Prefecture. During police questioning, he admitted to the charges, stating that he had started using cocaine about a year and a half ago. On March 24, he was indicted by the Tokyo District Public Prosecutors Office for violating the Narcotics Control Act (use), and on March 25, he posted bail of 2 million yen. He was released the same day.

At around 7:30 p.m., accompanied by associates, Sakai paused just before exiting the building and took a deep breath upon seeing the large number of reporters waiting outside. Perhaps due to nervousness, he licked his lips. He then walked straight toward the press, softly saying, “I’m sorry,” and bowed deeply, holding the position for about 13 seconds. When reporters called out, “Do you have a message for your fans?” he did not respond and instead got into a waiting car.

“Sakai had gained global recognition as SIMON, the executive producer of the seven-member Japanese girl group XG, and was known in the music industry as a charismatic figure. However, following his arrest, his agency, Avex, terminated his contract. Two company employees arrested on the same charges have also already been dismissed,” said a music magazine reporter.

On the day of his release, Sakai updated his social media:

“This matter is entirely my personal responsibility, and the members of XG bear absolutely no fault. They have always approached their music activities with sincerity and continue striving every day to deliver wonderful music to people around the world. I humbly ask for your continued support for the members of XG.”

〈The timing doesn’t sit right〉

He made reference to XG. The group successfully completed their Kobe performances on March 25 and 26, and they have shows scheduled in Fukuoka and Tokyo in April, followed by a world tour.

On social media, many fans posted comments. While some praised Sakai’s past contributions to the music industry, a significant number expressed ongoing anger over his release during XG’s world tour, posting remarks such as 〈The timing doesn’t sit right〉 and 〈Won’t he just do it again while on bail?〉.

How will Sakai’s trial proceed? Crime journalist Taihei Ogawa commented:

“Recently, cases of celebrities being arrested for marijuana possession have increased, but cocaine use charges are less common. This may be because the route through which he obtained the drug happened to be cocaine, so the police likely conducted very thorough questioning about how he acquired it. However, because the bail posted was 2 million yen under standard procedures, it indicates that he has shown genuine remorse and is not considered a flight risk. Considering it is a first offense and that he has already faced social consequences, it is likely he will receive a suspended sentence. A verdict is expected no later than May.”

We will be watching how this case develops.