Miss Japan 2024 Resigns Amid Affair Scandal, Leaving Title Vacant

Karolina Shiino steps down after her affair with a married man comes to light, sparking debates on cultural identity and societal expectations in Japan.

Karolina Shiino, the Ukrainian-born winner of the Miss Japan 2024 title, has relinquished her crown after a magazine reported her affair with a married man.
Shiino's victory had already sparked debate over cultural and ethnic identity in Japan, as she was the first person of European descent to win the contest.
The Miss Japan Association announced that the title will remain vacant for the rest of the year, marking a rare occurrence in the pageant's history.
Shiino apologized for the affair and misleading the public, stating she was in a state of shock and fear over the report.
The scandal has reignited discussions on societal expectations for women in Japan, where public figures are held to high moral standards.