It has been 2 years since Japan’s former princess Mako married Kei Komuro and in the process gave up her Royal title. Former princess Mako who is now referred to as Mako Komuro had met her now husband during their time at International Christian University. Her bold yet selfless decision to choose simplicity and love over her status set an example for many all over the world and despite the protests she had to encounter at the time, many in the public did wish the best for Mako and her husband Kei.
Mako Komuro is the eldest daughter of Fumihito, Crown Prince Akishino and Kiko, Crown Princess of Japan. She supposedly met Kei Komuro in 2012 while both were in a “meeting for students planning to go abroad”. When their relationship became known to the public, both became subjected to intense scrutiny which impacted Mako Komuro’s mental health significantly. Added to this was the tabloids ripping apart the personal life of Kei Komuro, attempting to portray his family in a negative manner. It was the scrutiny that ultimately led to the postponing of their wedding which happened in October 2021 amid the COVID-19 pandemic. The couple did not opt for a formal Imperial Wedding and made the arrangements for the press conference venue on their own. Her family was in support of her throughout the wedding processes.
Princess Mako’s breaking of tradition resulted in her being a victim to attacks from tabloids and protests which goes on to prove how public scrutiny is a serious issue when gone overboard. In an attempt to justify one’s personal opinions, what people often forget is how Mako Komuro is also just a woman who is getting married to the man who loves her and their privacy must be respected. The former princess’s marriage from 2021 is perhaps something from which we can all learn.
