Kadokawa Withdraws 'I May Be a Guild Receptionist' Light Novels Amid Controversy Over Illustrator Gaou's Alleged Sexual Acts with Minor
Stay informed with the latest updates on Gaou's controversial admission involving a minor. Get the full story and analysis here.
Controversy Surrounds Illustrator Gaou Amid Allegations of Sexual Acts with a Minor
Recent Developments
Kadokawa, a major publisher, issued a statement on Wednesday regarding serious allegations against illustrator Gaou. Reports surfaced that Gaou admitted during a livestream in Japan to engaging in sexual acts with a minor.
Company Response and Actions
Kadokawa confirmed with Gaou himself that the allegations are true. As a result, the company is taking immediate steps:
- Recall and halt sales of "I May Be a Guild Receptionist" light novel volumes 1-8, which Gaou illustrated.
- Suspend digital distribution of these volumes.
- Plan to re-release the series with a new illustrator in the future (no date set).
- Recall and halt the distribution of Gaou's 2021 illustration book, Selfie Girl Gaou Sakuhin-shū.
- Suspend digital versions of Kōzaburō Yamaguchi's Hallelujah Vamp light novels, for which Gaou provided illustrations.
Other publishers, including Dengeki Bunko and Overlap Bunko, have also announced they are removing Gaou as the illustrator for their respective series, such as "Welcome to the Outcast’s Restaurant!".
The Livestream Allegation
During a livestream on June 29, a person claiming to be Gaou admitted to having sexual relations with a girl who was 14 at the time. The girl, now 17, stated she met Gaou again earlier this year and they started dating before recently ending their relationship.
The livestream was edited to hide explicit content and her age, but the host, KoreKore, confirmed her age on social media.
The girl mentioned she plans to consult her parents before deciding whether to report the incident to authorities. Gaou apologized during the livestream, expressing that he believes he has no choice but to retire from his role as an illustrator.
Legal Context in Japan
It's important to note that Japan raised its legal age of consent from 13 to 16 in 2023. However, sexual acts with individuals under 18 can still be considered crimes, depending on circumstances.
Background and Public Response
Gaou, born in November 1985, is approximately 39 years old today. The allegations have led to widespread repercussions:
- Publisher statements: Dengeki Bunko and Overlap Bunko have announced they are removing Gaou from ongoing projects.
- Content removal: Gaou's name has been taken off websites and social media accounts related to his work.
- Industry impact: Several companies and creators are reevaluating their collaborations.
Yuki Sakuna, a VTuber artist who worked with Gaou, announced she will refrain from using his illustrations and is considering hiring a new artist.
Ongoing Developments
As of now, Gaou has not issued an official statement. The situation continues to develop, with many in the industry and fans awaiting further updates.
Sources: Kadokawa, Dengeki Bunko's Twitter, Otakomu
Disclaimer: Kadokawa World Entertainment (KWE), a subsidiary of Kadokawa Corporation, owns Anime News Network, LLC.