The Tokyo District Court ruled in favor of Nakamoto Koji's wife, who sued Shinchōsha for defamation over a series of articles published in Weekly Shinchō. These articles referred to her as a 'monster wife,' inferring that she had mistreated Nakamoto, a beloved member of the entertainment group 'The Drifters'. The court found that these descriptors not only disparaged her character but were also personal attacks that exceeded acceptable criticism or commentary, thus recognizing the claim of defamation.

In the judgment delivered by Judge Nakano Takuhiro, the court pinpointed the use of the term 'monster wife' as a blatant attack on Nakamoto's wife's character, not merely an opinion. This has broader implications for media ethics, emphasizing the need for responsible reporting and the consequences of derogatory labeling in journalism. The court’s decision also sets a precedent for how media outlets approach subjects of public interest, reminding them of the legal boundaries surrounding defamation.

Following the ruling, Shinchōsha expressed dissatisfaction and indicated plans to appeal the court's decision. This response underscores the ongoing tension between media freedom and accountability, as they navigate the challenges posed by public scrutiny and the potential repercussions of their narratives.