Rina Gonoi: Three Japanese ex-soldiers found guilty of sexual assault

Three former soldiers in Japan have been convicted by a court for sexually assaulting a female colleague, marking a significant legal development. The case gained widespread attention in 2022 when Rina Gonoi, 24, shared her ordeal on YouTube. Initially, Fukushima prosecutors had dismissed charges against the three men, but public outcry prompted a reversal.

In Japan, discussing sexual violence is uncommon and remains a sensitive topic. Gonoi expressed her hope that the verdict would encourage other victims to come forward. This landmark ruling follows Japan’s overhaul of sex crime laws in June, reflecting a broader societal shift.

Please note that this article contains graphic descriptions of sexual assault. If you have been affected by any of the issues raised, you can visit BBC Action Line for support.