Following allegations that an executive from the Japanese broadcaster Fuji TV was involved in 'sexual favors' related to famous celebrity Masahiro Nakai, local media including Kyodo News reported on the 21st that Japanese corporations are increasingly halting advertisements aired on Fuji TV.
According to reports, a minimum of 50 corporations, including Toyota Motor Corporation, Seven & I Holdings, and Kirin Holdings, are known to have suspended or are considering suspending advertisements on Fuji TV.
Kirin Holdings emphasized its corporate social responsibility, stating, "We will suspend advertising until necessary investigations are adequately conducted and appropriate responses are made."
As corporations halted advertisements, Fuji TV apologized the day before, saying it "has caused trouble for many advertisers and advertising agencies." Fuji TV recently reported annual sales of 238.2 billion yen (approximately 2.2 trillion won), with advertising revenue accounting for about 62%, or 147.3 billion yen (approximately 1.36 trillion won).
Asahi Shimbun reported that internal views at Fuji TV suggest that if the situation worsens, the broadcaster could be at a crossroads concerning its survival.
Earlier, the weekly magazine "Shukan Bunshun" quoted comments from Fuji TV announcers, alleging that an executive of the company was involved in sexual favors targeting Nakai. Nakai was the leader of the idol group "SMAP," which is also well-known in Korea, and has recently been active as a television program host.
On the 9th of this month, he stated through the official website of his personal office that "it is true that there were troubles," while denying some of the reported content.
As the controversy continues to spread, the Japanese government has indicated the necessity for an investigation. Minister of Internal Affairs and Communications Seiichiro Murakami requested at a press conference that Fuji TV conduct an investigation as soon as possible and respond appropriately based on the results. Additionally, other broadcasters have stated they will investigate whether any inappropriate hospitality similar to this allegation occurred.