U.N. group begins probe of alleged Japan talent agency sex abuse

Visit brings global scrutiny to accusations in entertainment industry

20230724 main Johnny Kitagawa

A TV screen in Tokyo broadcasts a report on the death of Johnny Kitagawa, founder of Japanese talent agency Johnny & Associates, on July 10, 2019. © Kyodo

ALICE FRENCH, Nikkei staff writer

TOKYO -- Experts from a United Nations working group arrived in Japan on Monday to begin their review of the country's business and human rights record, which will include an investigation into multiple accusations of child sexual abuse against the late Johnny Kitagawa, founder of Japan's biggest talent agency.

The Working Group on Business and Human Rights traveled to the country at the government's invitation, and their investigation brings international scrutiny to an issue of major domestic interest in Japan while highlighting questions of how Kitagawa managed to operate with impunity for decades.

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