Fukushima Pref. to Continue Using Tokio in PR

May 7, 2018

Fukushima- The Fukushima prefectural government will continue using Japanese all-male pop group Tokio, excluding a scandal-tainted member, as part of public relations efforts for local agriculture crops, Governor Masao Uchibori said Monday.

Police have sent papers on Tatsuya Yamaguchi to public prosecutors over charges of indecent assault against a high school girl. Last week, prosecutors decided not to indict him after he reached a settlement with the girl's side, but Japanese talent agency Johnny & Associates said Sunday it has accepted a resignation offer from Yamaguchi.

After Fukushima's decision, the remaining four members of Tokio will continue in the PR role, including appearing in posters, for the northeastern Japan prefecture.

The prefectural government made the decision in view of Tokio's continued support for Fukushima after the March 2011 earthquake and tsunami, which mainly rocked the Tohoku northeastern region, and the subsequent nuclear disaster at Tokyo Electric Power Company Holdings Inc. 's <9501> Fukushima No. 1 plant.

It also considered a press conference on Wednesday held by the four members apologizing for the scandal involving Yamaguchi.

"I'd like the four members to lend support to us in our efforts to dispel reputation damage" for Fukushima-harvested crops, Uchibori told a press conference.

Tokio has served in PR efforts for the agriculture crops of Fukushima Prefecture since fiscal 2012.

The Fukushima government informed Johnny & Associates on Thursday of its plans to continue using Tokio.

The agency said it will accept the offer in principle, Uchibori said. Jiji Press