OSAKA - While most groping incidents in Japan occur on crowded trains, recent reports indicate that live music venues are also becoming hotspots for these crimes.
Groping incidents are being reported at an increasing rate across Japan, with more than 2,200 cases investigated annually nationwide. In Osaka alone, around 240 cases are recorded each year.
In response, the Osaka Prefectural Police have introduced an app that allows victims to discreetly seek help, aiming to prevent cases from going unreported. Authorities stress that speaking up—even during a concert—can help stop further assaults.
When asked on the street, several people described their experiences and fears. One woman recalled feeling dazed and sickened after being groped on a train. Another expressed fear that it could happen to her, just as it had to classmates. According to survey data, 56% of women and 15% of men said they had experienced groping, with the majority of incidents taking place on trains.
A criminologist noted that packed train cars, combined with anonymity, create a high-risk environment where perpetrators believe they can get away with the crime or pass it off as accidental. The crowdedness during commuting hours only reinforces this belief.
However, groping incidents are no longer limited to trains. Reports are rising from live music venues as well. Attendees say that announcements before concerts addressing the issue have become more common, and bands themselves have begun issuing statements pledging action against any form of harassment.
"The excitement of the music makes it harder for victims to raise their voices," said one concertgoer. "Some people might manage to call for help, but others probably can’t."
On April 28th, a groping incident was reported during a performance at a live house in Umeda, Osaka. Another case occurred at a concert in Tokyo on the same day, highlighting that music venues—previously overlooked as danger zones—are now under scrutiny.
Some venues are stepping up their efforts. One Osaka live house that can hold up to 200 people recently installed two surveillance cameras, including one to cover a previously blind spot. Stickers alerting patrons to the presence of cameras have also been added, with operators saying they hope the visibility of surveillance will serve as a deterrent.
"In the past, we might have assumed that just saying cameras were there would be enough," said the venue’s operator. "But now we feel it’s important to actually capture evidence if something happens."
Staff emphasize that if a problem arises—even in the middle of a performance—victims should feel empowered to speak up.
"Please don’t hesitate to let our staff know if something happens," said one staff member. "No artist would object to stopping a show to deal with an incident like this. Everyone at the venue wants to ensure safety, so don’t hold back."
Despite growing awareness, a recent survey found that 40% of groping victims said they did nothing and simply endured it. Most did not seek help from those around them.
To address this, the Osaka Prefectural Police added a new feature to their app that allows users to discreetly activate an alert by tapping their screen. The app plays a voice message and displays a warning on the screen, serving as both a deterrent and a signal for help.
Authorities recognize that victims may feel ashamed or fear they are overreacting, but they encourage reporting, even after the fact, to prevent future crimes.
"Reporting these incidents may feel difficult, but we hope victims will take the courage to consult us," said a police official. "There are resources available, and we are ready to listen."
Source: Television OSAKA NEWS
