In a shocking revelation that has sent ripples through the Japanese entertainment industry, 25-year-old actress Mei Nagano has been reported to be involved in an affair with 40-year-old married actor Kei Tanaka, while also allegedly dating Korean actor Kim Mu-joon. The scandal was first reported by the Japanese magazine Weekly Bunshun on April 22, 2025, and has since ignited discussions across social media platforms.
Mei Nagano, known for her wholesome image and breakout roles, was reportedly seen engaging in intimate activities with Tanaka, who has been married to actress SAKURA for 14 years and has two daughters. The two met while filming the movie The Family Chain in 2021, and their relationship reportedly turned romantic in September 2024. They were spotted on several occasions, including a disguised date at an amusement park during the Christmas season.
Tanaka, who gained fame from the hit series Old Fashioned Love, has a history of infidelity allegations. In the past, he was linked to actress Rio Uchida, further casting a shadow over his marital fidelity. The recent reports of his relationship with Nagano have raised eyebrows, especially considering his family situation.
The affair took a more scandalous turn when it was revealed that Nagano is also allegedly involved with Kim Mu-joon, a 26-year-old Korean actor with whom she stars in the drama News Caster. Reports indicate that Kim was seen spending the night at Nagano's home for two consecutive nights in mid-April 2025, leading to speculation about the nature of their relationship. Eyewitnesses noted that Kim stayed at Nagano’s place for eight hours during one visit, which has fueled further rumors of infidelity.
Adding to the intrigue, on April 18, 2025, Nagano and Tanaka were seen dining together and visiting a bar where they were caught on camera, raising questions about the status of their relationship. After spending the night at Nagano's home, Tanaka was confronted by reporters the next morning, where he denied any romantic involvement, claiming he had merely stayed over due to being intoxicated.
In response to the allegations, Nagano's management swiftly denied that she was having an affair with Tanaka, asserting that he is merely a senior colleague. However, they acknowledged that her actions may have led to misunderstandings and have since issued a warning to her to reflect on her behavior. "We sincerely apologize for any confusion caused to those involved, including our partners and fans who have supported us," the agency stated.
Kim Mu-joon’s agency also released a statement confirming his visit to Nagano's home but emphasized that her mother was present during his stay. They denied any romantic relationship, with Kim expressing respect for Nagano’s professionalism as an actress.
The scandal has quickly gained traction on social media, with Nagano's name trending on various platforms as fans and critics alike weigh in on the implications of her alleged actions. Many are concerned about how this might affect her burgeoning career, especially following her recent success in the live-action adaptation of Cells at Work!, which grossed an impressive 6.2 billion yen.
As the story continues to unfold, the public remains captivated by the drama, speculating about the potential fallout for all parties involved. The juxtaposition of Nagano's innocent public persona against the backdrop of scandal has left many questioning the realities of celebrity relationships and the pressures that come with fame.
In light of the controversy, the entertainment industry is bracing for potential repercussions. Nagano, who has built a reputation as a wholesome figure, now faces the challenge of navigating the fallout from these allegations. Fans are left wondering whether this scandal will derail her rising star or if she can emerge from it unscathed.
As for Tanaka, his long-standing marriage and the implications of his alleged infidelity could jeopardize his career and family life. The scrutiny he faces is likely to intensify as more details emerge.
With the situation still developing, many are left to ponder the complexities of relationships in the public eye and the personal consequences that can arise from such high-profile entanglements. The intersection of personal life and public persona continues to be a focal point of discussion as this story unfolds.
