STARDOM Issues Statement On Hana Kimura, Japanese Government Discussing Cyberbullying Legislation

STARDOM has posted a statement following the death of Hana Kimura.

The 22-year-old died last week and the company she wrestled for released a statement on social media, stating that there was no case of foul play, but will not release any further details on her death on the wishes of her family. In addition, there will be a memorial service, though details of that service are yet to be decided.

Below is the statement:

“In regards to the passing of Hana Kimura,

We would like to take this opportunity to apologize for your concern and sorrow due to the sudden passing of Stardom’s Hana Kimura on May 23.

According to the police report, there is no case of foul play.

Regarding more details on the cause of death, we will refrain from publishing anything, according to the wishes of the bereaving family. We do not plan to announce the details here in any press conference or news releases. We kindly ask for your continued support.

In addition, please refrain from to interview the family and athletes belonging to Stardom in consideration of the current situation.

Moreover, please refrain from visiting the bereaving family, athletes’ homes, offices, the dojo, etc.

Regarding the funeral of Hana Kimura, we will not be announcing the date and time nor the place according to the wishes of the bereaving family. We would appreciate the consideration of the media and fans.

The bereaving family expresses their deep gratitude to the fans who supported Hana Kimura, and although the date and time of the event is currently undecided due to the Coronavirus situation, a memorial service for Hana Kimura will be held.

We are taking everything into consideration, and deciding on plans for videos and photos that can be shared with her fans.

Details will be announced as soon as they are decided.

We are very sorrowful on Hana’s passing, and only wish for her to rest in eternal peace.

Thank you.”

In regards to the passing of Hana Kimura. pic.twitter.com/vXQ72wlB9H

— We Are Stardom (@we_are_stardom) May 26, 2020

CNN reports Japan’s Minister of Internal Affairs and Communication, Sanae Takaichi, made a pledge on Tuesday to speed up government discussions regarding cyberbullying legislation. The pledgue includes  leading a government panel to discuss whether internet users could be identified when their social media posts include “slander and defamation.”

Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga commented on Kimura’s passing this week as well, saying, “It is important to improve literacy on the internet so that users won’t use comments to hurt others with slander.” Former Prime Minister Yukio Hatoyama also called for punishment for the “cowardly” cyberbullies who targeted Hana Kimura.

The wrestling world reacted to the tragic news at this link.