Princess Mako’s Love Life: The Loan‑Drama That Stopped the Fairytale Wedding
In January, Kei Komuro, the boyfriend of Japan’s Princess Mako, set the record straight—there’s no money‑monster looming over the royal couple.
Timeline of the Wedding Whodunit
- 2012 – Komuro’s mom and her then‑fiancé split. He promised the four‑million‑yen ($49,690) loan would be “free” once they were no longer together.
- 2013 – He reversed course, demanding the money back in a letter sent in August.
- 2017 – As the public heard about Komuro and Mako’s impending engagement, the same ex‑fiancé insists on repayment.
- 2018 – The royal wedding, slated for late that year, gets hit by a surprise financial twist.
- 2024 – Komuro confirms the debt is settled and there are no lingering claims.
Komuro’s Statement — “We’re All Good!”
“My mother and I both understand that the financial support from the ex‑fiancé of my mother has been settled,” the man said. He added that when the ex‑fiancé’s letter demanded payment, his mother explained her inability to pay, and the request was dropped.
“We were baffled in December 2017 when reports surfaced about the ex‑fiancé still wanting his cash back, just two months after the royal engagement was announced,” Komuro recounted. “We appreciate the support we received and will do everything to gain understanding from him.”
Final Word
So, beloved readers, the loan saga is officially closed. Royal wedding plans are safe from any extra financial drama. “Clear the problem,” Komuro says, giving us peace of mind and a good story to share over tea.
Princess Mako’s Wedding Woes
Picture‑Perfect Start
In a snap taken on January 2, 2018, Japan’s Princess Mako (R) stands shoulder‑to‑shoulder with her parents—Prince Akishino (L) and Princess Kiko (C)—as they wave from the Imperial Palace balcony, wishing the nation a happy New Year.
Hold the Phone, Brides!
Fast forward to February 2018, the anticipated nuptials get a room‑saver: the couple delays the ceremony until 2020, claiming they simply need “more time to prepare.”
But, as the whispers reach the gossip column, fans suspect there’s more going on than just a budget shortfall.
Princes and Princesses Express
- Princess Mako releases a statement through the imperial household agency: “We have realised we don’t have enough time to prepare for the ceremonies and our new life before the wedding planned in autumn.”
- She calls the engagement announcement “too hastily”–they’re a bit shell shocked by the leak.
- She promises a smoother, “better way” to handle a major life event—no more rash decisions.
- She apologizes to the royal wedding planners, dubbing the couple’s “immaturity.”
- Both the bride and groom are 27, a prime age for love, but maybe not for instant engagement.
Father’s Counsel
In November, Prince Akishino tells reporters: the pair must “take proper measures” if they still want to get married. “If they don’t clear the problem, we cannot hold the ritual for a formal engagement.”
Royal Rumble & Beyond
While Mako’s holiday selfie was all smiles, Japan’s royal schedule is getting hectic.
- April 30: Emperor Akihito abdicates—a first in over two centuries.
- May 1: His eldest son, Naruhito, ascends the Chrysanthemum Throne, making history.
- Princess Mako remains the eldest daughter of Crown Prince Naruhito’s brother, Prince Akishino.
So while the world watches Tokyo’s most shining splendor, the real drama unfolds behind palace doors—just a typical royal wedding story, with a little extra drama for good measure.
