After This Reality TV Star Who Was Cyberbullied Killed Herself, Japan Will Start Punishing “Online Insults”
Japan has approved a new cyberbullying law that will make “online insults” punishable by up to a year in prison on Monday June 15.
Japan has approved a new cyberbullying law that will make “online insults” punishable by up to a year in prison on Monday June 15.
The bill was set into motion after public outcry over the death of 22-year old “Terrace House” TV star and professional wrestler, Hanna Kimura.
Kimura killed herself after receiving a wave of online harassment.
A Japanese man was fined only 9,000 yen in March 2021 over online abuse directed by Kimura, which included messages like “you have such an awful personality. Is your life worth living?” and “When will you die?”.
Previously, an online insult or a false accusation could lead to 30 days in prison or a fine of 10,000 yen (about US$80).
The new law will raise punishments up to one year or will fine individuals up to 300,000 yen (about US$2,200).
Under the law, insults “are defined as publicly demeaning someone’s social standing without referring to specific facts about them or a specific action,” according to CNN.
The law has received some criticism, with opponents arguing it will affect freedom of speech and protect people in power.
“For example, at the moment, even if someone calls the leader of Japan an idiot, then maybe under the revised law that could be classed as an insult,” a Japanese lawye told CNN.
However, supporters of the law say it is necessary to stop the rise of cyberbullying in Japan.
The legislation was only passed after a requirement was added, which mandates lawmakers re-visit it every three years to make necessary amendments if freedom of speech has been affected.
International suicide helplines can be found at befrienders.org.
