Key Facts
• In 2016, a middle school girl in Kakogawa, Hyogo Prefecture, died by suicide.
• A third-party committee in 2017 confirmed bullying as the cause.
• The girl’s parents filed a lawsuit in 2020, seeking ¥77 million in damages.
• In June 2024, the court recommended a settlement, leading to ongoing discussions.
• On June 25, 2025, Kakogawa City admitted to improper actions by the school and board.
• The city apologized and agreed to pay ¥3 million as settlement money.
• The parents urged better awareness of children’s emotional struggles and family communication.
• Kakogawa’s mayor pledged to prevent future incidents citywide.
Summary
A settlement has been reached in a lawsuit filed by the parents of a middle school girl who died by suicide in Kakogawa, Hyogo Prefecture, in 2016 due to bullying. A third-party committee confirmed bullying as the cause in 2017. The parents sought ¥77 million in damages in 2020, and after a court-recommended settlement in 2024, discussions continued. On June 25, 2025, Kakogawa City admitted to improper actions by the school and education board, issued an apology, and agreed to pay ¥3 million in settlement money. The parents emphasized the importance of addressing children’s emotional struggles and improving communication with families. The mayor committed to citywide efforts to prevent similar incidents.
