Japan’s Princess Mako has surrendered her royal title following her marriage to her longtime “commoner” partner, Kei Komuro, whom she affectionately described as irreplaceable.
The couple expressed deep sadness over the scandal that overshadowed their engagement.
After enduring years of scrutiny over their relationship, which significantly impacted Mako’s mental well-being, the pair revealed at a press event in Tokyo on Tuesday that they had exchanged vows, opting not to engage with media inquiries.
Mako and Komuro, who initially planned to wed in November 2018 but delayed due to revelations concerning Komuro’s mother’s minor financial misconduct, met nearly ten years ago while attending university.
During the press conference, Komuro expressed remorse about his mother’s predicament diverting attention from the wedding arrangements.
He professed his love for Mako and his desire to spend a lifetime with her, pledging to do everything within his power to settle the monetary dispute involving his mother and her former fiancé.
The intense media scrutiny surrounding Komuro’s family and the couple’s relationship has taken a toll on Mako, who is Emperor Naruhito’s niece.
Recent disclosures by the imperial household agency indicated that she was grappling with complex post-traumatic stress disorder, prompting the couple to release written responses to questions rather than addressing them verbally.
Mako emphasized that marrying Komuro was a necessary decision despite facing opposition from some members of the public.
She shared their intention to cherish and safeguard their love throughout their lives, acknowledging the distress caused by unfounded rumors.
Regarding Mako’s well-being, Komuro lamented the circulation of misinformation leading to her physical and mental health challenges due to defamatory comments being treated as facts.
The couple opted out of the customary royal wedding festivities, including a formal ceremony and reception banquet, footing the bill for the press conference venue themselves amidst criticisms on social media about potential misuse of public funds.
Crown Prince Akishino, Mako’s father, reportedly objected to a traditional royal wedding, acknowledging public divisions regarding their union in light of reports about Komuro’s mother’s failure to repay a loan.
A Yomiuri survey revealed mixed sentiments among respondents, with over half expressing positivity towards the marriage.
While departing her family residence in Tokyo, Mako, who holds a master’s degree from Leicester University, declined a customary payment of around ¥140 million upon renouncing her royal status.
Her exit underscored the scarcity of potential heirs to the throne in light of Japan’s male-centric succession laws, with her younger brother, Prince Hisahito, next in line.
Despite public reservations stemming from Komuro’s past issues, experts noted the significance of Mako’s brother potentially ascending the throne, fueling objections to her marriage.
The couple’s relocation to New York drew parallels to Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s journey to the United States, with Komuro employed at a law firm in New York.
As they prepare for the move, Mako and Komuro will be separated temporarily, with Mako staying in Japan to organize the transition and apply for a passport.
Mako hinted at desiring a tranquil life in a new setting, leaving her future endeavors in the US uncertain.
Various agencies contributed to this report.
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