A male singer’s extramarital affair has been exposed just months after he announced his marriage.
On January 16, 40-year-old Nakamaru Yuichi–a singer-songwriter, actor, TV personality, and member of the Japanese boy group KAT-TUN–announced his marriage to Rina Sasazaki, a former NTV announcer eight years his junior.
On August 7, Japanese news outlet Shūkan Bunshun reported that Nakamaru secretly met with a female university student at an APA Hotel in Tokyo.
Nakamaru’s agency, Starto Entertainment, has stated that Nakamaru is “taking the situation seriously and deeply reflecting on it.” He will also be taking a leave of absence from KAT-TUN.
We consider Nakamaru’s actions as lacking the self-awareness and responsibility expected of someone in a socially influential position. We are very regretful and cannot overlook it.
— Starto Entertainment
Nakamaru has since released his own statement, which included an apology to his wife.
To everyone, I am deeply sorry for the significant trouble my careless actions have caused. Most of all, I regret the sadness I’ve caused my wife. She has encouraged me to confront my actions honestly. I believe that the appropriate response is to take responsibility and accept all criticism. I will be taking a leave of absence to address these matters. I am truly sorry for all the inconvenience caused.
Yuichi Nakamaru
— Nakamaru Yuichi
Source: Shūkan Bunshun and Tokyo Hive