Japanese Festival Pursues Legal Action Following Alleged Sexual Assault on DJ Soda During Performance

Content Warning: This article includes accounts of sexual harassment that may be distressing for some readers. Resources for support are listed at the end of this article.

Organizers of a music festival in Osaka, Japan, are taking legal action after South Korean artist and model DJ Soda alleged that she was sexually assaulted during a performance.

DJ Soda took to social media last week (August 14) to report an incident that occurred during her performance at the Osaka Music Circus Festival. She expressed, “I was so shocked and scared that my hands are still shaking.”

She explained that, in an effort to connect more closely with her fans, she typically gets closer to them at the end of her gigs. However, during this particular moment, she alleged that not one but several individuals suddenly touched her chest, subjecting her to sexual harassment.

“I was so surprised and scared, but there were fans who liked me and also cried a lot, so I tried my best to finish it imperturbably. Now I’m back at the hotel; however, I’m still very scared, and I’ve never ever experienced anything like this in my 10 years as a DJ.”

DJ Soda also expressed feeling embarrassed and humiliated and shared screenshots of a video where fans can be seen touching her inappropriately.

Festival organizers, TryHard Japan, have taken action by filing a formal complaint with the police against three individuals who allegedly sexually assaulted DJ Soda during her performance.

TryHard Japan founder and CEO Rakuyo Otsuki commented, “I am very disappointed that such an incident happened on the 10th anniversary of us holding Music Circus. Our top priority in running the event is protecting the safety of both the artists and audience members. In this incident, a crime is a crime, and if we don’t take appropriate measures, similar things may keep happening at other events.”

The incident has also sparked a broader conversation about the prevalence of groping in the country, notably on Japan’s crowded rush-hour trains. In 2022, the National Police Agency (NPA) reported 2,233 cases of groping.

TryHard Japan has stated its commitment to taking legal action against anyone engaging in online slander against DJ Soda, if necessary. TryHard Japan COO Yoichi Hiraoka emphasized, “Slander against DJ Soda is unacceptable, and we will make it clear here that she shouldn’t be blamed for her nationality or the way she dresses.”

Resources for Support: If you or someone you know has experienced sexual harassment or assault and needs support, please consider reaching out to organizations such as RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network) or your local support services.