Japanese Comedians Could Be Prosecuted for Betting on Offshore Sites
Six comedians from the Yoshimoto Kogyo agency in Japan are under investigation over allegations of illegal betting on online casinos. This case has caught the public’s attention and put the reputation of these well-known entertainers at risk.
Suspects in Illegal Betting
The Tokyo police forwarded the case materials of the six male comedians to the prosecutor’s office on April 3, 2025. They are all suspected of participating in bets on offshore gambling sites like Sportsbet.io.
According to the investigation, the bets were made between January 2023 and December 2024 using smartphones and computers.
List of the Accused:
- Dai Yoshimoto (40 years old) — Daitaku duo
- Shun Nakamura (31 years old) — Kyubangai Retoro duo
- Yuichi Ohara (35 years old) — Dambiramuucho duo
- Ryudai (31 years old) and Saikyo no Shoda (35 years old) — Purizun Kuizu Channeru duo
- Hayate Sasamoto (33 years old) — Neichaa Baagaa duo
What Triggered the Investigation?
The investigation began after a third party reported suspicious activities of the comedians. It was revealed that one of the comedians lost about $350,000 through betting, while others claimed they were unaware of the illegality of their actions, having been influenced by gambling content on social media.
Many of the accused state that they started playing for fun, not realizing the consequences. However, the legal aspect of the case is quite serious, as gambling on online casinos, even on sites located abroad, is illegal in Japan.
Gambling Addiction Issues
One of the suspects, according to sources, suffers from a gambling addiction. He lost over $350,000, which may indicate serious personal and financial problems related to gambling. Meanwhile, other participants, according to the police, were drawn into the bets due to their interest in gambling content, but were unaware that they were breaking the law.
Possible Consequences
Under Japanese law, the maximum penalty for illegal betting is a fine of up to $3,300 or imprisonment for up to 3 years. This case will continue to draw attention both in Japan and abroad, especially considering the popularity of the comedians and their influence on society.
Japan’s Gambling Legislation
Gambling on online casinos registered overseas is prohibited in Japan. Although these sites operate outside the country, using them from Japan violates local laws. This is particularly important for comedians, as their actions influence public opinion, and such incidents could damage their careers.
What Do the Comedians Say?
Many comedians claim that they became involved in gambling in recent years and placed bets in their free time. Specifically, one of the accused said he started gambling in 2022 and made daily bets during his free time, even while commuting to work.
Conclusion
This case highlights the importance of following the law and the responsibility that famous personalities have, as their actions can influence their fans’ behavior. Regardless of whether these entertainers are addicted to gambling or simply made a mistake, the consequences could be severe for their careers and reputations.