Japanese pop star Kenshin Kamimura was found guilty of indecent assault by a Hong Kong court on Wednesday, following allegations that he inappropriately touched a female interpreter during a dinner in March.
Kamimura, previously a member of the J-pop boy band ONE N’ ONLY, was arrested in Hong Kong earlier this year. His agency ended his contract that same month, citing a serious violation of conduct. Though he pleaded not guilty in April, the court ruled against him after hearing testimony from the victim.
According to the interpreter’s account, given via live video, Kamimura repeatedly touched her thigh during a celebratory meal and invited her to a bathroom. She rejected his advances and told him she had a boyfriend, but said he continued the inappropriate contact.
Kamimura’s defense claimed the interpreter had exaggerated the situation and argued that the bathroom invitation could have been misunderstood.
Judge Peter Yu ultimately found Kamimura guilty, stating that his actions were “caressing in nature” and carried clear sexual implications, showing “indecent intent.”
“The defendant’s acts are obviously disrespectful toward women,” the judge said, adding that such behavior must be condemned.
While the charge could have carried a sentence of up to 10 years in prison, Kamimura was instead fined 15,000 Hong Kong dollars (approximately $1,900 USD). His defense team had requested leniency, pointing out that he had already suffered professional consequences and lost a promising career.
Following the verdict, a few fans inside the courtroom were visibly emotional, some shedding tears. Kamimura, on the other hand, appeared relieved and hugged his interpreter after the sentence was read.
Supporters, some from Japan and mainland China, arrived early to secure seats in the courtroom. Many waited outside afterward to catch a glimpse of Kamimura, who left quietly without speaking to the media.
Among those in attendance were observers who said they weren’t fans but wanted to better understand the case, particularly amid online backlash directed at the female interpreter.
One such attendee, university student Betty Zhong from Shenzhen, said she was surprised by the charges and attended to get a more complete picture of what had happened.
“News coverage isn’t always detailed,” she said. “Being here helped me understand both sides of the story.”
In addition to his music career, Kamimura is also known for acting roles in Japanese TV dramas, including the boys’ love series Our Youth and Ossan’s Love Returns.
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