They’re turning to street prostitution to pay for everything.
Koreaboo
1 hour ago
According to recent Japanese media reports, middle school and high school girls are increasingly turning to street prostitution to fund their fangirl endeavors.
One of the underage fans interviewed by Fuji News Network | Fuji News Network
On May 27, Fuji News Network reported that underage girls in Tokyo have turned to selling their bodies in the city’s nightlife areas to fund costly fan services from underground male idols known as men-chika. These performers differ from mainstream J-Pop idols because they work independently of large talent agencies and hold concerts in modest venues. What sets them apart is the intense closeness they offer fans, which has pushed some young girls into extreme steps to generate the needed funds.
| Fuji News Network
A 15-year-old shared that she has spent roughly 3 million yen (about $18,689 USD) on various men-chika since her second year of junior high school. To support this habit, she started soliciting prostitution on the streets of the well-known Kabukicho district. “This cost 100,000 yen (about $622 USD),” she said, holding up a concert penlight. “I paid it because I really liked him. The appeal is how close you can get to them.”
| Fuji News Network
One other teenage girl, who was waiting for clients in Kabukichō, an entertainment district in Tokyo, told reporters that she became involved with the underground idol scene in 2025.
If I pay 3 million yen (about $18,689 USD), we can go to Universal Studios together.
— Kabukichō teen
Rather than condemning the prostitution, these male idols have reportedly expressed little concern about how their young supporters are paying for their services, with one stating, “It’s highly cost-effective. They are spending the money because they want to. It’s not like I’m asking them to do it.”
| Fuji News Network
Although lawmakers have recently tightened rules on exploitative billing and outstanding debts at host clubs, men-chika exist in a legal gray area that lacks comprehensive oversight to safeguard minors.
We are aware of cases where this is contributing to underage prostitution. The definition of an ‘idol’ is vague, making it difficult to draw a line between this and lawful business operations. We will continue to crack down on any actions that violate existing laws.
— The National Police Agency
Source: Tokyo Reporter and FNN