Accused of Drug Use with Foreign Man... National Actress Ryoko Yonekura Referred to Japanese Prosecution

Charges of Drug Possession and Use

Japanese top actress Ryoko Yonekura (51) has been referred to the prosecution on charges of drug possession and use.

Japanese actress Ryoko Yonekura. Ryoko Yonekura Instagram

According to Japanese media outlets such as FNN Prime Online on January 20, Ryoko Yonekura was recently referred to the prosecution on charges including violation of the Narcotics Control Act.

According to reports, the Narcotics Control Department of the Kanto-Shinetsu Regional Bureau of Health and Welfare received intelligence in June last year that Ryoko Yonekura had used drugs together with an acquaintance, an Argentine national, and subsequently launched an internal investigation. Later that summer, authorities conducted a search and seizure of the residences related to both individuals.

During the search, substances suspected to be drugs were confiscated, and subsequent analysis confirmed them to be illegal drugs.

The Argentine national in question has already left the country. The Narcotics Control Department reportedly continued its investigation, considering the possibility of joint possession and working to determine the owner of the drugs.

In December last year, Ryoko Yonekura stated on her agency’s website, "It is true that investigators entered my home, as reported in some media," adding, "I will continue to cooperate with the investigation, but I believe that my cooperation so far has helped clarify certain matters."

It has been reported that after receiving the case, the Tokyo District Public Prosecutors Office will review whether to pursue further action.

Born in 1975, Ryoko Yonekura is an actress known for playing professional female characters. She has especially risen to national stardom through her roles in dramas such as "Doctor-X," "Monster Parent," and "The Journalist."