Hana Kimura death: Man charged and fined £59 over cyberbullying late Netflix star

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A man has been charged and fined the equivalent of £59 for cyberbullying the late Hana Kimura.

The pro-wrestler and star of Netflix’s docu-soap Terrace House died aged 22 in May last year.

Local media reported that Kimura’s death followed online bullying over her behaviour on the show, which was broadcast on the country’s Fuji Television as well as on Netflix. Kimura’s death prompted widespread anger at the cyberbullying epidemic. 

Yukio Hatoyama, Japan’s former prime minister, tweeted about Kimura’s death and said Japan should consider penalties for those who harass individuals online.

As reported by Metro.co.uk, a spokesman for Tokyo Prosecutors’ Office has now said they have made a “summary indictment against a man in his 20s” following Kimura’s death.

The man – who has not been named –  reportedly sent messages via social media to the star, including: “You have such an awful personality. Is your life worth living?” and “Hey, hey. When will you die?”.

He has been charged with making public insults. According to a local report, as per Metro, a Tokyo court issued an order to fine the man 9,000 yen (approximately £59).

A fan page for Kimura has responded to the news with disappointment, writing: “I wanna speak on the situation, but if I do.. I am 100% gonna get banned again.. I’m at this point of frustration where I don’t have the words to explain how angry I am. It makes me sick.. Hana, you deserved so much better, you should still be here. Love&miss you.”

In the days before her death, Kimura shared a number of concerning posts on Twitter that appeared to reference her struggle with the vicious cyberbullying that she faced.

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Kimura’s last post on Instagram was a picture of herself and a cat with the message: “I love you, have a long, happy life. I’m sorry.”

Terrace House followed six people who lived together in one house in Japan. It had acquired a huge following for its interactions between cast members and its lack of drama as compared to other reality TV shows.

If you are experiencing feelings of distress and isolation, or are struggling to cope, The Samaritans offers support; you can speak to someone for free over the phone, in confidence, on 116 123 (UK and ROI), email jo@samaritans.org, or visit the Samaritans website to find details of your nearest branch.