J-pop idol Kenshin Kamimura goes free despite being found guilty of indecent assault

Kenshin Kamimura, a former member of Japanese boy band ONE N' ONLY, was found guilty of indecent assault against a local translator at a recent celebratory dinner in Hong Kong. 

The 25-year-old defendant previously pleaded not guilty to the charges and following his guilty verdict at West Kowloon Magistrates' Court on Wednesday (Aug 13), he will be sentenced to a fine of HK$15,000 with no prison term.

The incident occurred on March 2, 2025, when Kamimura allegedly touched the female interpreter's thigh repeatedly and invited her to the restroom during a dinner at a Mong Kok restaurant.

During the trial last month, the interpreter testified that she dismissed his invitation and mentioned having a boyfriend, but Kamimura continued to touch her thigh.

The defense sought leniency, arguing that Kamimura had already been fired by his agency and was facing financial penalties of approximately HK$3 million.

During the ruling, Magistrate Peter Yu Chun-cheung noted that Kamimura's invitation and his caressing touch indicated an indecent intent.

Yu emphasized that the defendant was a key figure at the dinner, while the victim was merely a translator, making it understandable that she felt it was unsafe to leave her seat or make any large movements.

The high-profile case has drawn considerable attention in the city, with several fans reportedly bursting into tears upon hearing the verdict. 

Additionally, attendees from mainland China expressed that they were motivated to learn more about the case after seeing online criticism of the female interpreter.

The Japanese idol was known for his role in the popular Japanese drama series, including "Our Youth" and "Ossan's Love Returns."