News

Japan Introduces Up To One-Year Jail Time For Cyberbullying

People found guilty of cyberbullying in Japan now face up to a year in prison under rules implemented Thursday, which were toughened up after the suicide of a reality star who had been trolled online.

Pink-haired professional wrestler Hana Kimura, a 22-year-old cast member of the hit Netflix series “Terrace House” died by suicide in 2020.

The revised legislation follows a passionate campaign by her mother, and now imposes fines of up to 300,000 yen ($2,200) or a year in prison — an increase from previous penalties of up to 10,000 yen in fines or 30 days of detention.

The beefed-up punishments are intended to make clear that cyberbullying is a criminal offense, said Justice Minister Yoshihisa Furukawa.

“It is our belief that it’s important for us to work to eradicate spiteful insults that can push people to their deaths at times,” he told a press conference on Tuesday.

Though the issue of cyberbullying had been raised in Japan before Kimura’s death, the wrestler’s suicide prompted domestic and international scrutiny and put pressure on lawmakers to take action.

But some free speech advocates and legal experts are opposed to the new rules and have warned the government to ensure the tougher law is not used to target free speech and political criticism.

Sources: AFP

Adib Mohd

Recent Posts

From Cookies to Classrooms: Starbucks Raises Over RM100K to Revive Centre for the Deaf

What if your sweet tooth could change lives? Since 2018, Starbucks Malaysia has raised over… Read More

2 days ago

Tous les Jours Expands in Malaysia with New Outlets at Sunway Pyramid and Sunway Velocity

Malaysian fans of delectable K-inspired baked goods will be delighted to hear that Tous Les… Read More

2 days ago

Stitch Lands in KL, Disney’s Blue Menace Takes Over Pavilion This School Holiday

Get ready for a school holiday filled with tropical vibes as Pavilion Kuala Lumpur transforms… Read More

2 days ago

Malaysia Gears Up for Southeast Asia’s First Smart City Expo, Here’s Why You Should Care

Kuala Lumpur just flipped the switch on something big. The 100-day countdown to Smart City… Read More

2 days ago

Ejen Ali: The Movie Review, A Next-Level Win for Malaysian Animation

Ejen Ali: The Movie 2 isn’t just a sequel, it’s a bold upgrade that proves… Read More

2 days ago

When Creativity Meets Comfort: LEGO® and IKEA Malaysia Reimagine Home Decor

When Creativity Meets Comfort: LEGO® and IKEA Malaysia Reimagine Home Decor With its latest collection… Read More

4 days ago

This website uses cookies.