Keita Kusama, a 29-year-old member of Japanese idol group Aぇ!, has been arrested and charged by Tokyo Metropolitan Police for public indecency. The incident occurred on the morning of October 4 in the bustling district of Shinjuku, where Kusama was found allegedly naked from the waist down near the entrance of a building.
According to Toonippo, the singer was believed to be under the influence of alcohol at the time. A witness in their 30s contacted authorities after observing Kusama’s inappropriate behavior around 5:30 a.m.
The arrest quickly made headlines, and Kusama was taken to Mita Police Station, later leaving in a silver vehicle with curtained rear seats on the morning of October 6. Police have not confirmed whether Kusama has admitted to the allegations.
In response to the scandal, Starto Entertainment, the management agency representing Kusama, issued a statement confirming that the artist would be suspending all activities indefinitely. The company has not announced any disciplinary measures beyond the hiatus.
The consequences of the arrest have been immediate and far-reaching. Five television programs featuring Keita Kusama on TVer have been pulled from broadcast, along with four other shows on Fuji TV. Among the cancellations is Aぇ!’s first national variety show, a milestone project for the group.
An anonymous source from the entertainment industry lamented the timing of the controversy:
“Aぇ! had just begun building national recognition through a major TV project. This scandal is a devastating blow—not only for Kusama but for the entire group’s image. Though it’s a personal issue, the damage extends to all members.”
Born in 1996, Keita Kusama gained popularity not only as a singer but also as a recurring figure on various Japanese entertainment programs. His group, Aぇ!, known for their mix of music and comedic charm, is one of the promising acts under Starto Entertainment.
Sources: Znews