Former Princess Marries Kei Komuro Ending Controversy

Mako Komuro: Japanese Princess Gives Up Royal Status to Marry Commoner

Former Princess Marries Kei Komuro, Ending Controversy

Mako Komuro, the first child of Prince Akishino and the former Princess Kiko, has married her college sweetheart Kei Komuro, ending years of controversy.

The marriage took place in a quiet ceremony at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building on October 26, 2021. Mako, who is now known as Mako Komuro, wore a pale blue dress and her hair in a traditional bun, while Kei wore a dark suit.

The couple met while attending International Christian University in Tokyo in 2012. Their relationship quickly became the subject of public scrutiny, as it was seen as a departure from tradition for a member of the imperial family to marry a commoner.

The controversy surrounding the marriage reached its peak in 2018, when Kei's mother was accused of financial misconduct. The allegations led to a postponement of the wedding and a period of intense media attention.

Despite the controversy, Mako and Kei remained committed to their relationship. The couple released a statement in November 2020, reaffirming their intention to marry. The statement was met with mixed reactions, but it ultimately paved the way for the couple to finally tie the knot.

Mako's marriage to Kei Komuro marks a significant departure from tradition for the Japanese imperial family. It is the first time that a female member of the family has married a commoner since 1960. The marriage is also seen as a sign of the changing times in Japan, where traditional values are increasingly being challenged.