Japanese actor Kentaro Sakaguchi, often called “the Seo Kang Joon of Japan” for his popularity in Korea, has become embroiled in a love triangle scandal that has shocked fans in both Japan and abroad.
On September 9 (local time), Japanese weekly magazine Shūkan Bunshun reported that Sakaguchi had been in a four-year relationship, living together with his older girlfriend, a hair and makeup artist three years his senior. The report also revealed that the couple had traveled to Korea together while Sakaguchi was working on several projects there.
However, the publication alleged that Sakaguchi secretly began seeing top actress Mei Nagano three years ago despite his long-term relationship. The two first met in 2015 during the filming of the movie 'My Love Story!!' and later reunited in 'Masked Ward,' where their bond reportedly grew stronger.
The controversy deepened because Nagano already faced a tarnished reputation earlier this year when she was linked to married actor Kei Tanaka. That scandal damaged her public image, which had been built on her roles as a youthful and pure actress in productions such as the drama 'Half Blue' and the film 'Daytime Shooting Star.'
Reports further suggest that Nagano continued her relationship with Sakaguchi even while rumors of her affair with Tanaka circulated. According to insiders, Sakaguchi often described Nagano as a “younger sister” and frequently went out to eat with her. This reportedly caused discomfort for Tanaka at the time.
The revelations have left many fans disillusioned. Online communities have been filled with reactions ranging from disbelief to anger, with comments such as “This is more dramatic than any drama” and “Both of them had such clean images, this is shocking.”
Neither Sakaguchi’s nor Nagano’s management agencies have released an official statement. Japanese media predict that the scandal could significantly affect both actors’ careers.
Sakaguchi recently gained widespread recognition in Korea through his role alongside actress Lee Se Young in the cross-border drama 'What Comes After Love.' He was also scheduled to attend the 'Busan International Film Festival' later this year. Whether he will address or acknowledge the scandal remains uncertain.
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