J-Pop Shockwave: Ae! Group's Keita Richard Kusama Suspended After Public Indecency Arrest

October 5, 2025, marked a tumultuous day for the vibrant world of Japanese idol entertainment as Starto Entertainment announced the immediate suspension of Keita Richard Kusama, a prominent member of the popular group Ae! Group. This decisive action follows Kusama's arrest by the Tokyo Metropolitan Police on grave charges of public indecency. The 29-year-old idol is accused of exposing his lower body in broad daylight, specifically near a building entrance in Tokyo's bustling Shinjuku district, at approximately 5:40 a.m. on the day of his arrest. Police reports further indicate that Kusama was allegedly under the influence of alcohol during the incident, which was brought to authorities' attention by a vigilant bystander who witnessed the act.

Starto Entertainment, a leading agency overseeing a roster of former Johnny & Associates talents, responded with swift and decisive action. The company promptly placed Kusama on an indefinite hiatus and issued a formal public apology via its official website, acknowledging the seriousness of the allegations. As a direct consequence, Ae! Group, originally a dynamic five-member ensemble that burst onto the scene in 2024, will continue its scheduled activities as a quartet. Kusama has been unequivocally removed from all forthcoming promotional engagements and performance schedules for the foreseeable future, underscoring the agency's commitment to addressing the situation with gravity.

The Demands of Idol Stardom

The group, which rapidly ascended to fame with a string of chart-topping successes, including their debut single '《A》BEGINNING' and their first full-length album 'D.N.A', both of which clinched the No. 1 spot on Japan’s prestigious Oricon charts, now finds itself under intense public scrutiny. This high-profile controversy highlights the immense pressure and rigorous demands placed on idol groups to uphold an impeccable public image, especially within Japan's entertainment landscape, where celebrity conduct is held to exceptionally high standards.

Starto Entertainment has confirmed that all remaining members of Ae! Group were informed of Kusama's arrest, with both the agency and the group collectively treating the matter with utmost seriousness. The incident has ignited widespread media attention, sparking crucial discussions about mental health support and the overall welfare of young idols navigating the demanding and often unforgiving realm of J-pop. Fans of Ae! Group have voiced profound concern across social media platforms, with many advocating for enhanced support systems for performers grappling with the relentless glare of public and private scrutiny. The broader entertainment industry is now closely observing how Starto Entertainment and Ae! Group manage this crisis, recognizing that the outcome could significantly shape future management practices and crisis response protocols across the entire idol sector.