Taichi Kokubun, a former member of the popular Japanese group TOKIO, recently apologized directly to Hiroyuki Fukuda, the president of Nippon Television (NTV), following his resignation from the variety show 'The! Tetsuwan! DASH!!' due to multiple compliance violations. This meeting, reported by Kokubun's representative, did not clarify which specific actions were deemed violations by NTV but marked a significant step in repairing relationships after the fallout. Kokubun indicated during the meeting that he would not pursue any further human rights relief claims, demonstrating his desire to move forward constructively.

In Kokubun's statement, he expressed a commitment to facing himself honestly and acknowledged the valuable support of those around him, including his former bandmates, as well as his fans. He conveyed deep regret for the concerns and troubles he caused everyone involved, emphasizing his dedication to making amends and avoiding future mistakes. His commitment to personal growth and accountability suggests a willingness to rebuild his public image and career while taking responsibility for past actions.

NTV's response, which was released following the meeting, acknowledged receipt of a previously written apology from Kokubun that reflected his deep remorse over his compliance issues. The station emphasized that while Kokubun's actions were unacceptable, they appreciated his sincere attitude during the apology, which they viewed as a step towards reconciliation. This incident has broader implications, highlighting the stringent standards within the entertainment industry regarding compliance and the importance of accountability for public figures in Japan.