Stardom Statement On Hana Kimura, Japan Proposes Revised Cyberbullying Laws

Stardom has issued further statement on the recent passing of 22-year-old Hana Kimura.

“We would like to take this opportunity to apologize for your concern and sorrow due to the sudden passing of Stardom’s Hana Kimura on May 23.

According to the police report, there is no case of foul play.

Regarding more details on the cause of death, we will refrain from publishing anything according to the wishes of the bereaving family. We do not plan to announce the details here in any press conferences or news releases. We kindly ask for your continued support.

In addition, please refrain from trying to interview the family and athletes belonging to Stardom in consideration of the current situation.

Moreover, please refrain from visiting the bereaving family, athlete’s homes, offices, the dojo, etc.

Regarding the funeral of Hana Kimura, we will not be announcing the date and time nor the place according to the wishes of the bereaving family. We would appreciate the consideration of the media and fans.

The bereaving family expresses their deep gratitude to the fans who supported Hana Kimura, and although the date and time of the event is currently undecided due to the Coronavirus situation, a memorial service for Hana Kimura will be held.

We are taking everything into consideration, and deciding on plans for videos and photos that can be shared with her fans.

Details will be announced as soon as they are decided.

We are very sorrowful on Hana’s passing, and only wish for her to rest in eternal peace.

Thank you.”

Japan To Strengthen CyberBullying Laws

Japan’s Communications Minister Sanae Takaichi said earlier today that the country’s laws against cyber bullying will be “revised to annul the right to privacy for deemed perpetrators of online slander and harassment.”

The proposed revisions will make it easier for victims of online abuse to find out who is behind their harassment. Current laws allow them to do so only after a long and expensive legal process.

“Online slander only serves to induce even more similar messages, and this is a serious violation of human rights,” Justice Minister Masako Mori said.

More information about the proposed changes to Japan’s cyberbullying laws can be found here.