In a shocking revelation, NHK News 7 reporter Emi Kakeyama has been implicated in an alleged affair with a married man, raising eyebrows and concerns about professionalism within the public broadcaster. The scandal has stirred significant public interest, especially given that the man's wife is currently pregnant.
Kakeyama, who joined NHK in April 2015 after graduating from Tsuda Juku University's Faculty of Liberal Arts, initially worked in sales before transitioning to an announcer role. According to NHK insiders, she began her career in Niigata and later moved to the Kumamoto Broadcasting Station in July 2018, where she reported on local news and events. Her career took another turn in April 2023 when she was appointed as a field reporter for the news program "News Watch 9" in Tokyo, quickly gaining recognition as a promising talent within the organization.
However, the recent allegations have overshadowed her accomplishments. Reports indicate that Kakeyama has been involved in a romantic relationship with a man identified only as T since late 2024. What complicates the situation further is the fact that T's wife is pregnant, and sources claim that he has moved in with Kakeyama, leaving his wife at home during this critical time.
An NHK source revealed, "Kakeyama has been in an affair with a married man since around the end of last year. Currently, she is single, but T has a wife who is expecting a child. While his wife is still in her early stages of pregnancy, T has started living with Kakeyama." This revelation raises ethical questions about the impact of personal relationships on professional responsibilities, particularly in a respected institution like NHK.
On April 11, 2025, as Kakeyama left her apartment for work, she was confronted by a reporter from "Shukan Bunshun." When approached, she appeared startled and tried to evade the questions, stating, "I'm sorry, I have to catch a bus..." before hastily departing. Despite the direct inquiries about her relationship with T, she maintained silence, leaving many to speculate about the truth behind the allegations.
NHK has opted not to comment on the matter, with a spokesperson stating, "We do not respond to questions regarding employees' personal lives." This stance has only fueled public curiosity and discussion regarding the implications of such personal matters on the integrity of the news organization.
In the upcoming April 24, 2025 issue of "Shukan Bunshun," the details surrounding Kakeyama's alleged affair are expected to be explored further. The publication plans to report on the nature of the relationship, the couple's outings—including a trip to Disneyland and a three-night, four-day getaway to Hokkaido—and the circumstances surrounding T's wife's pregnancy.
As the story unfolds, it raises critical questions about the responsibilities of public figures, particularly those in the media, and their personal choices. Kakeyama, who was once viewed as a rising star within NHK, now faces scrutiny that could potentially alter her career trajectory.
Despite the controversy, Kakeyama's journey from a sales position to an esteemed news reporter showcases her ambition and dedication. Her initial motivation to become an announcer stemmed from witnessing the aftermath of the 2016 Kumamoto earthquake, which inspired her to report on critical issues and connect with her community. This background adds depth to her character but does not excuse the ethical concerns raised by her current situation.
As discussions about the affair continue, many are left wondering how this will affect Kakeyama's career and NHK's reputation. The public's interest in the unfolding drama underscores the complexities of personal and professional lives intersecting in the public eye.
In a world where media scrutiny is relentless, the implications of personal choices can resonate far beyond individual lives, affecting public trust in journalism and media organizations. As the April 24 issue of "Shukan Bunshun" approaches, all eyes will be on Kakeyama and the unfolding details of this scandal.
With the spotlight now firmly on her, Kakeyama's response and NHK's handling of the situation will be crucial in determining the future of both her career and the broadcaster's integrity. The outcome of this scandal could serve as a pivotal moment in the ongoing conversation about ethics in journalism and the personal lives of those who report the news.
