Miss Japan Resigns, Gives Up Title Over Affair with Married Man, Birthplace Backlash

Controversy surrounds the recent Miss Japan, Karoline Shiino, as she relinquishes her crown amidst a heated debate over her Ukrainian birthplace and reports of an affair with a married man. The public discourse on Japanese identity ignited when Shiino, born in Ukraine, claimed the title on January 22. However, a subsequent article exposing her relationship with a married man intensified the controversy, leading her to voluntarily surrender her newly-acquired title.

In a statement posted on her Instagram on Monday, Shiino revealed that she offered to renounce her crown and resign from her modeling agency, a proposition that was accepted. The Weekly Bunshun magazine had reported last week that she was involved with a married doctor, Takuma Maeda, also known as the “muscle doctor.” Initially confirming the relationship and pleading ignorance of his marital status, Shiino later admitted to knowing about his marriage, attributing her initial denial to shock and fear.

Expressing remorse for the turmoil caused and apologizing to the man’s partner, family, and supporters, Shiino acknowledged her missteps. The Miss Japan organization, accepting her resignation, expressed regret over the incident, assuming responsibility and apologizing to sponsors, judges, and others involved.

The scandal prompted renewed social media criticism of Shiino, highlighting gender disparities in Japan’s culture, where women face more public scrutiny in cases of extramarital affairs. Notably, the involved man, Takuma Maeda, apologized on Instagram, acknowledging his responsibility for the situation. The Miss Japan organizers affirmed that the 2024 winner slot would remain vacant, emphasizing the organization’s commitment to addressing the controversy. Last year, a similar incident involving a Japanese actress sparked a discussion on societal expectations for women.