Key Facts
• May 13, 2025: Governor Motohiko Saito attended Korea National Day at Osaka-Kansai Expo.
• Saito, 47, interacted with attendees, taking photos and shaking hands for 10 minutes.
• No criticism was heard during the event; only supportive comments like “Good luck.”
• Saito, a University of Tokyo graduate, became Hyogo Governor in 2021 after working at the Ministry of Internal Affairs.
• September 2024: Saito faced allegations of power harassment and lost a no-confidence vote.
• November 2024: Re-elected as governor after resigning due to the no-confidence vote.
• May 2025: A third-party committee found 10 cases of power harassment and whistleblower law violations, which Saito denies.
• Saito’s aide stated public interactions are common and not staged, as entry required tickets.
• The event highlighted Saito’s continued support despite controversies.
• The article reflects on public scrutiny of scandals involving politicians and celebrities.
Summary
Governor Motohiko Saito of Hyogo Prefecture gained attention at the Osaka-Kansai Expo on May 13, 2025, during Korea National Day. Despite past controversies, including allegations of power harassment and whistleblower law violations, Saito received only supportive comments from attendees. His approachable demeanor, including taking photos and shaking hands, resembled that of a celebrity. Saito’s aide confirmed such interactions are common and not staged. The event underscores his enduring support among constituents, as he was re-elected in 2024 despite facing a no-confidence vote. The article also reflects on the intense public scrutiny faced by politicians and celebrities in modern times.
