Who Is Asuka Kirara? The Former AV Star at the Center of Ju Haknyeon’s Scandal and the Truth Behind the Allegations

Who Is Asuka Kirara? A Star Beyond AV

Did you know Asuka Kirara is one of Japan’s most recognizable former adult video (AV) actresses? Debuting in 2007, she starred in over 400 AV films, quickly earning a reputation for her charisma and versatility. By 2009, she had already won major awards like the Sky PerfecTV! Adult Broadcasting Actress and HD Awards. After her AV retirement in 2020, Kirara reinvented herself as a fashion model, influencer, and CEO, amassing a massive following across Asia. Her appearances at fan meetings in Korea and her 2023 Korea Arts and Culture Award for Overseas Model highlight her unique cross-cultural appeal. International fans often see her as a symbol of reinvention and self-branding in Japanese pop culture.

The Ju Haknyeon Scandal: How Did It Start?

In late May 2025, news broke that Ju Haknyeon, then a member of THE BOYZ, was spotted with Asuka Kirara at a private bar in Tokyo. The two were seen drinking and displaying physical intimacy, with photos quickly spreading across social media and tabloids. Soon after, rumors escalated into allegations that Ju had paid Kirara for sexual services, a claim that shocked both K-pop and J-pop fandoms. The controversy was fueled by reports from Korean and Japanese media, with some insiders alleging the involvement of brokers and even hinting at a broader celebrity prostitution ring. This explosive mix of rumor and speculation pushed the story to the top of trending topics in both countries.

Denials, Apologies, and the Media Firestorm

Both Asuka Kirara and Ju Haknyeon responded swiftly to the allegations. Kirara took to social media, firmly denying she had ever engaged in prostitution, stating she has never accepted money for sex in her life. She claimed the controversial photos were taken by a woman present at the gathering, who then sold them to a tabloid. Ju Haknyeon also posted a handwritten apology, admitting he was at the bar but denying any illegal acts or prostitution. Despite these denials, his agency, One Hundred Label, terminated his contract, citing serious misconduct and loss of trust. The agency’s statement and Ju’s own rebuttal about being forced out of the group only deepened the public’s confusion and debate.

Korean and Japanese Media: Contradictory Narratives

The scandal highlights the stark differences in how Korean and Japanese media approach celebrity controversies. In Korea, the story was framed as a violation of moral and legal codes, especially since prostitution is illegal for Korean nationals even abroad. Japanese coverage, meanwhile, focused more on Kirara’s celebrity status and her ongoing relationship with a younger YouTuber, Hirok. The media frenzy led to intense online discussions, with some outlets suggesting the incident was part of a larger, systemic issue involving entertainment industry brokers. The lack of concrete evidence and the absence of an official report from Japan’s Shūkan Bunshun magazine left fans and the public in a state of uncertainty.

Cultural Insights: Why This Scandal Matters

For international fans, it’s crucial to understand the cultural and legal context behind the uproar. In South Korea, idols are held to strict standards, and even unproven rumors can end careers. The concept of ‘clean idols’ is deeply rooted in K-pop culture, making any association with adult entertainment or scandal highly controversial. In contrast, Japan’s entertainment industry is more tolerant of past AV careers, and Kirara’s successful transition to mainstream media is seen as a story of personal reinvention. The scandal also exposes the power of online communities and the role of media in shaping public opinion, often blurring the lines between fact and rumor.

Fan Reactions and Community Debate

The scandal has divided fans. Some support Ju Haknyeon, believing he is a victim of media sensationalism and agency politics. Others feel betrayed by his actions, regardless of the truth behind the allegations. Kirara’s fans, especially in Japan, largely defend her, viewing the incident as another example of the stigma former AV actresses face in the public eye. Korean netizens have called for clearer evidence and legal action, while international fans are left questioning the fairness of idol management and the influence of tabloid culture. The incident has sparked broader discussions on privacy, consent, and the expectations placed on celebrities in both countries.

What’s Next for Asuka Kirara and Ju Haknyeon?

As of June 2025, both Asuka Kirara and Ju Haknyeon maintain their innocence regarding the prostitution allegations. Kirara continues her work as an influencer and businesswoman, while Ju has filed lawsuits against media outlets and insists he was unfairly ousted from THE BOYZ. The case remains unresolved, with ongoing legal and public battles. For fans and observers, the story is a reminder of the volatile intersection of celebrity, media, and cultural values in East Asia. Whether the truth will ever be fully revealed is uncertain, but the impact on both stars’ careers and the wider entertainment industry is undeniable.