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Johnny's Agency Performers Undergo 'Compliance Training' After Recent Legal Incidents
posted on by Jennifer Sherman
Several sources revealed on Tuesday that the talent agency Johnny & Associates (also known as Johnny's) is requiring all its affiliated performers to participate in "compliance training." According to the sources, such training sessions were held at the agency's offices in the middle of May and June, and another session is planned for next month.
The sources said that at least 20 or 30 performers have participated in compliance training so far. Apparently, young members as well as veteran Tokio members have participated, causing some performers to make changes to their busy schedules. The agency is reportedly aiming for almost all members, including members of Arashi and V6, to participate.
The compliance training includes the basics of smartphone security, lessons on laws, and case studies on what kinds of situations may lead to violating laws. The aim of the training is to encourage performers' awareness as members of society and to prevent the recurrence of incidents similar to the recent controversy involving former TOKIO band member Tatsuya Yamaguchi. The talent agency terminated its contract with the bassist and singer in May after he was accused of indecent assault on a high school girl.
It appears that some members affiliated with the agency are undergoing more extensive training in addition to the compliance training for all members. Four-member NEWS idol group (seen above right) members Keiichiro Koyama and Shigeaki Kato are apparently attending special sessions with lawyers. The agency told Koyama to take a hiatus from all professional activities earlier this month, after the agency learned that he drank alcohol with an underage girl, and also "pressured others at the party to drink by cheering them on." The agency "sternly reprimanded" Kato, who was also at the party when Koyama was drinking with the girl.
Source: Nikkan Sports via Hachima Kikō
