This isn’t directly related to papa-katsu (compensated dating in Japan), but do you think Bunshun’s reporting on M.H. is accurate? Has anyone actually been used as an “entertainment companion”?

I think Bunshun is right, too. I’m the type who keeps things discreet and has occasional one-off arrangements over the long term, so I’m completely removed from the world of hostessing and entertainment-related arrangements. I don’t know the specifics at all, but from my experience, if the woman you’re seeing generally has a good impression of you, things don’t seem to turn into a problem that easily. That said, I think you need to build a solid relationship of trust before you get to that point—and that can take years. With a one-off arrangement or just two or three meetings, you’re still in the trial-and-error stage, so it’s basically like amateur-style adult entertainment. There’s no real trust involved, right?（笑）

I think one thing men have in common is that they prefer women who aren’t professionals. The difference is that he’s also looking for one-off or temporary relationships. That’s very different from me, since I’m looking to build a connection and relationship that can continue long-term. Also, if one-off meetings are acceptable, there’s less need to narrow things down based on compatibility, so naturally, you don’t need to be as discerning. That’s probably why he failed to gauge whether the women welcomed the relationship and failed to build friendly, trusting relationships with them. That’s unfortunate as well. And regardless of whether what was said was true or completely unfounded, there’s no doubt that he made the other person uncomfortable. I really wish he had simply apologized right away, saying, “Some parts may not be true, but I’m truly sorry for making you uncomfortable.” Whether it’s papa-katsu (compensated dating in Japan) or workplace harassment, what matters most is understanding how the other person feels. If you’re a papa (a male supporter) in papa-katsu—or a public figure—it’s even more important to be sensitive to women’s feelings.

I think Bunshun is right. Matsumoto Hitoshi probably did the same thing around 100 times. I’ve focused on finding women individually through Universe Club and building relationships lasting several years, so I haven’t done “hospitality.” I don’t care about things like slush funds. He wasn’t indicted, after all. For now, I think Japan is fine with a government led by the LDP and Ishin.

Whichever it is, it has absolutely nothing to do with our lives, so I don’t think it matters.