"Johnny's Sex Abuse Scandal: A Turning Point for Accountability and Fresh Talent in Japan"

Japanese talent agency Johnny & Associates, embroiled in a major sexual abuse scandal, has announced that it will change its name and split into two companies. The existing company will be renamed Smile-Up and will focus on compensating the victims of sexual abuse by the late founder Johnny Kitagawa. A new entity will be established to manage the agency's current roster of performers. The move comes after years of cover-ups and denials, with an external investigative committee receiving reports of abuse from 478 victims. However, some victims' advocacy groups have criticized the plans, calling for a complete discontinuation of Johnny's entertainment activities.