Royal Favoritism Sparks Outrage: Japanese Princes’ ‘Sleeping Thesis’ Scandal Exposes University Entrance Controversy
Japanese Crown Prince’s Family Speaks Out Against Malicious Comments
Kiko, the wife of Emperor Naruhito’s younger brother, Crown Prince Fumihito, expressed her concerns about the impact of malicious posts on the internet on her family. In a written interview response to the Japanese Imperial Household Agency press corps, she shared her feelings about the difficulties her family faces due to online harassment.
At the center of the debate is Prince Hisahito, the only male descendant of the Japanese royal family. He recently attended the 27th International Entomological Conference in Kyoto, where he presented his research on the ecology of dragonflies in the royal palace. Prince Hisahito’s interest in entomology has been well-documented, and his participation in the conference was seen as a significant event.
Prince Hisahito’s research on dragonflies was published in the academic journal ‘National Science Museum Research Report’ last November. He was listed as the first author, along with two other co-authors. However, some have raised concerns that Prince Hisahito may have received special treatment due to his royal status, and that his research may have been conducted with the help of external guidance.
These concerns have sparked a debate about preferential treatment and the use of ‘sleeping theses’ to gain admission to university. Some have pointed out that Prince Hisahito’s research may have been conducted with the help of others, and that he may not have had to meet the same standards as other students.
However, there is no clear evidence to support these claims, and it is unclear whether Prince Hisahito will attend the University of Tokyo or another institution. The Japanese university admissions process will begin in earnest early next year, and it remains to be seen how Prince Hisahito’s application will be handled.
The controversy surrounding Prince Hisahito’s research and university admissions has sparked a wider debate about the role of the royal family in Japanese society. Some have pointed out that the royal family is not immune to criticism and that they should be held to the same standards as others.
Tokyo = Reporter Lee Sang-hoon sanghun@donga.com