Crackdown on 'Men's Underground Idols' Raises Questions About Fans' Romantic Feelings

Jan 18, 2024 | News On Japan

TOKYO - The arrest of two managers of a men's underground idol agency brings to light the issue of "Oshikatsu" -- fans becoming devoted to their favorite idols.

"Men's underground" idols, or "men-chika," refer to male idols who are not affiliated with major entertainment agencies and earn income through small-scale live performances and other activities.

Fans end up spending money on "paid fan services" offered during these live shows.

For example, "Paying 1,000 yen allows you to take a two-shot photo with your favorite idol and talk for one minute." Additionally, depending on the amount paid, fans could receive "autographs on personal items," "letters from the idol," and even "dates."

The problem with such "oshi activities," including those of "men-chika," is that some girls engage in activities like "papakatsu" or compensated dating to earn money.

The Tokyo Metropolitan Police have created a poster to raise awareness about the issue. According to the poster, the trouble starts when fans, despite enjoying free "men-chika" live shows, pay for photo sessions. The kind words from their favorite idols make them want to take more photos or go on dates, but they don't have the money. This leads them to engage in "papakatsu," compensated dating, or even taking money from home to afford these "paid services."

The number of consultations about such issues was around 40 in 2022 but increased to 100 in 2023.

The content of these consultations includes:

- "My 18-year-old daughter is obsessed with 'men-chika' and stays out without permission."

- "My high school daughter is engaging in prostitution for 'men-chika.'"

What's the reality behind these cases?

In 2023, the Tokyo Metropolitan Police arrested 140 women for prostitution in Kabukicho, Tokyo, for soliciting clients on the streets. Out of these, over 70%, or 106 women, were in their 20s, and three were teenagers. Fifteen of them stated they were earning money for "men-chika" activities.

Is there no way to prevent this other than raising awareness?

Why is regulation difficult? Does the Entertainment Business Law apply? Is love a hurdle?

Although "men-chika" activities could potentially lead to crime, they are legal, so there is no direct law to apply.

According to a senior investigator at the Tokyo Metropolitan Police, host clubs entertain customers in their own premises, so if there's a problem, the Entertainment Business Law can be applied for "entertainment acts."

However, "men-chika" idols rent places like live houses for their activities, and fans are just supporting them, so it doesn't count as entertainment. Moreover, minors can freely enter these venues unless it's late at night.

A major "hurdle" is that the victims, the female fans, have romantic feelings for their favorite idols and dislike the idea of the police intervening with men they like. Thus, it is difficult to get cooperation from the victims.

When someone is deeply involved, they may become blind to their surroundings, which can be especially dangerous for minors. In such cases, it's important for parents to understand the situation. In fact, there have been cases where the victim was uncooperative, and the mother persuaded her, leading to an arrest.

Source: 日テレNEWS

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