A well-known Japanese YouTuber, Kazuaki Sugita40, known online as “Rengoku Kuroaki“, was arrested this week for allegedly defame a woman by accusing her without evidence of being an illegal ticket reseller in an uncensored video she posted on the video-sharing site, police reported. Sugita has gained notoriety for his controversial videos in which he and others confront people in public places with accusations of inappropriate behavior, calling such actions “citizen arrests”. Police suspect that the Tokyo resident has been producing and posting these videos to increase views in order to generate advertising revenue.
The direct accusation in the arrest is based on Sugita’s posting of an uncensored video of an 18-year-old woman near the Imperial Theater in Tokyo around September 19, with text on screen labeling her as a “ticket reseller”. As he chased the woman, he accused her of dating older men for money and said: “Give me back 80,000 yen ($530)“, according to the police. No evidence has been found that she was involved in the illegal resale of tickets, police said, adding that they made the arrest after she requested their help.
Rengoku Kuroaki, known for dressing up as the brave Kyojuro Rengoku from “Kimetsu no Yaiba“, has attracted a wide audience due to its unique style and its connection to the popular anime and manga franchise. Kyojuro Rengoku is an iconic character from “Kimetsu no Yaiba,” recognized for his loyalty and bravery in fighting demons. The franchise itself has experienced phenomenal success, becoming a global phenomenon.
Professor Higuchi Yoshiakifrom the Department of Media Studies at Tokai University, notes that initially, videos showing YouTubers belittling people were considered simply annoying. However, he notes that those posting such videos began seeking more views by “campaigning for justice.” Their aggression increased by demanding “confessions” and attempting to carry out “citizen arrests.” Higuchi warns that although the subjects of the videos may have committed acts that could be considered criminal, the YouTubers may have crossed a line by undermining their human rights.
The professor credits video-sharing sites for allowing free expression and exerting social influence. However, he warns that YouTubers must question whether what they are doing is really accepted by public opinion. Freedom of expression must be balanced with responsibility, especially when it comes to unfounded accusations that can have serious consequences for the lives of those involved.
Fountain: NHK NEWS
