May 27 (Nikkei) - Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party on Tuesday began discussions on new rules to stop online abuse after the death of Netflix star Hana Kimura, who had reportedly suffered from social media bullying.
In its first meeting, the LDP's online abuse task force discussed proposals for a law that would lay out a process for internet providers to disclose information that can identify users behind anonymous social media posts. The lawmakers noted that the current process lacks effectiveness.
"Humiliation suffered online leaves a permanent mark that weighs heavily on victims," said the LDP's Jun Mihara, an actor-turned-lawmaker who heads the task force. Mihara said she favors stronger penalties for online abuse.
The meeting comes after the 22-year-old Kimura, a female professional wrestler who starred on the popular Netflix reality show "Terrace House," was reported dead Saturday.
