The cosmetics company Reju Cosmetics has issued a public apology and announced its closure following inappropriate social media posts about the performing group Number_i. The controversial remarks surfaced on January 1, 2024, after Number_i's performance at the New Year's Eve NHK Red and White Song Festival. The comments stirred considerable backlash, prompting the company to take immediate action.
CEO Atsuro Miyauchi released a statement on January 5, expressing regret for the unsavory comments made on the platform X (formerly Twitter). The post included derogatory language aimed at Number_i, and after it was met with significant public disapproval, Reju Cosmetics found themselves at the center of online outrage.
"We deeply apologize for the inappropriate posts made by our CEO on X. We recognize losing the trust of Number_i and TOBE, as well as the fans who viewed our comments," Miyauchi stated. The remarks not only offended the group but also its fanbase, leading to calls for accountability.
Following the backlash, Reju Cosmetics acknowledged their use of rash and unverified claims. "There are currently posts on social media with misleading information; we understand the uncomfortable feelings fans have experienced,” commented Hideaki Takizawa, member of the affiliated group TOBE, shedding light on the incident’s broader impact.
Eager to mitigate the damage and regain public trust, the company outlined their intention to cease all business operations and halt sales moving forward. "This inappropriate post inflicted significant discomfort on many people, and we understand now the weight of our actions," Miyauchi added, emphasizing the seriousness of the matter.
Reju Cosmetics' closure highlights the rapid consequences companies can face due to social media missteps. The incident serves as a cautionary tale about the responsible use of online platforms, particularly for brands interacting with fans and the public. The company's cessation of operations marks not just the end of its business, but also the loss of jobs and products for those involved.
The reactions from fans have been mixed, with many expressing sympathy for the employee’s loss of livelihoods, yet others advocating for accountability against the misuse of social media. This incident raises important questions about free speech and the responsibility companies hold for their public communications.
Miyauchi concluded his statement, stressing, "We will take this as a learning experience and be more considerate in our actions moving forward." The hope remains for the company to rise above the controversy—not as Reju Cosmetics, but as individuals embracing the lessons from the digital age's challenges.
The scandal surrounding Reju Cosmetics emphasizes the broader responsibility businesses carry when addressing their stakeholders. Moving forward, fans and the industry will be watching closely how social media policies evolve to prevent similar situations.