Japan’s ex-princess Mako, husband now in New York

2 mins read

Following her exit from the royal family, Japan’s former princess Mako and her “commoner” husband Kei Komuro arrived in the United States.

The two started as college sweethearts and finally tied the night last month. There was not much spectacle when they left Tokyo airport on Sunday morning, BBC reported.

The newly-wed will stay in New York, in a rented space, as the husband will work at a law firm.

The Japanese law dictates that a female imperial family member gives up his royal status when she marries a “commoner”.

Police and airport security alike secured the couple’s safety as they prepared for departure.

The former princess and her husband were seen upon their New York arrival through footage broadcast in Japan. Heavily-guarded, they passed through the airport and got into a vehicle waiting for them.

The news on their New York plans has long been heard. Mako, who is now carrying her husband’s name, is also said to find a job in New York.

But their plans were delayed due to Mako’s husband’s failure on the New York state bar exam, as reported by media outlets in Japan. Passing the said exam is a requirement for lawyers to practice the profession in the state.

At present, Mr. Komuro works as a legal clerk.

The story of the two is comparable to what British royals Meghan Markle and Prince Harry have. This earned them the label “Japan’s Harry and Meghan.”

Four years ago, former princess Mako and Mr. Komuro went through disapproval when they revealed their engagement. Rumors emerged that the mother of Mr. Komuro had a loan from a former fiancé and it was left unpaid.

The Imperial Household said the controversy led Mako to develop post-traumatic stress disorder.  

The two tied the knot last month but did not hold royal wedding rites. They also refused to accept a payment given to royal women leaving the royal family.

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