Prominent Japanese Influencer Reika Miyazaki Faces 2.5-Year Prison Demand in $1M Tax Evasion Trial

Prosecutors at the Tokyo District Court requested a prison sentence of two years and six months on the 14th for Reika Miyazaki (legal name: Reika Kuroki), a 38-year-old beauty influencer and entrepreneur charged with violating the Corporate Tax Act. The case, involving a massive tax evasion of approximately 157 million yen (approx. $1 million USD), has caused a significant stir on social media due to her status as a highly influential public figure.

"I didn't know the difference between tax saving and tax evasion" — Cold reactions to tearful explanation

According to the indictment, Miyazaki systematically evaded corporate taxes by recording fictitious expenses to secure company funds. During questioning on the 14th, she admitted to the charges and offered a tearful apology, stating, "I am deeply reflecting on my actions." However, she also claimed, "There were parts where I did not understand the difference between tax saving and tax evasion." This explanation met with harsh criticism online, with commenters calling her "irresponsible as a business owner" and noting that "a tax accountant would have clarified that immediately."

Growing public interest and calls for a prison sentence

Miyazaki is known for her glamorous background and private life; she is the daughter of former House of Councillors member Shinkun Haku and the wife of former EXILE member Keiji Kuroki. Consequently, public scrutiny regarding this large-scale tax evasion is intense. Many online voices are calling for a strict sentence, arguing that "given her influence, she should be punished severely" and "if a suspended sentence is given for such a large sum, it sends the message that tax evasion pays off." High-profile figures like entrepreneur Takafumi Horie have also commented on the case, highlighting the calculated nature of the crime, such as the alleged falsification of receipts.

Verdict scheduled for July 15

The prosecution argued that the crime was "planned and habitual, deserving of strong condemnation." The defense, meanwhile, has requested a suspended sentence, citing Miyazaki's remorse and the fact that she has already begun paying back the owed taxes. The judiciary's decision on how to handle an influencer with such social reach is highly anticipated. The verdict will be handed down at the Tokyo District Court on July 15.

The context

Reika Miyazaki is a prominent figure in Japan’s "beauty influencer" and entrepreneurship scene, often showcasing a lavish lifestyle to her hundreds of thousands of followers. In Japan, influencers often transition into business owners, selling cosmetics or lifestyle products. This case has touched a nerve because it involves both "celebrity" status and a perceived abuse of business systems. Her husband, Keiji Kuroki, was a member of the legendary J-pop group EXILE, one of Japan's most successful music acts, which further amplifies the media coverage. Tax evasion cases involving public figures in Japan are often seen as litmus tests for social fairness, especially when the defense involves claims of ignorance regarding complex tax laws.