Princess Mako and her former university classmate, Kei Komuro, are officially engaged and plan to marry next year. This was announced at a news conference by the Imperial Household Agency on Sunday, Sept 3. Both at 25, Kei and the Princess prove that fairy tales come true, however, reality still bites. Under Japanese law, any female royal who chooses to get married to a commoner will lose their title.
Princess Mako is the oldest daughter of Fumihito, Prince Akishino and Kiko, Princess Akishino. She is also the eldest grandchild of Emperor Akichito and Empress Michiko. Upon marriage, the princess will surrender her royal status. The male-only succession law has caused the Japanese Imperial Family to significantly shrink over decades, to think that this is the world’s oldest hereditary monarchy.
Princess Mako says Kei Komuro has a ‘smile like the sun’
The chrysanthemum throne of Japan is definitely the talk of the town not just because of Princess Mako’s royal status, but because of how romantic her relationship is with Kei. The two met while they were studying at the International Christian University of Tokyo in 2012. That time, Kei starred as “Prince of the Sea” in a beach tourism campaign. Things simply kicked off from there.
According to The Telegraph, the first thing Princess Mako was attracted to is Kei’s bright smile. She further says, “It would be nice to have a warm and comfortable household with Mr. Komuro so that we can make a family full of smiles.” Komuro, on the other hand, describes Princess Mako to TIME as someone who “has been quietly watching over me like the moon” and honestly says that he wanted to “build a relaxed and peaceful household.” Princess Mako and Kei Komuro are both delighted that the Emperor gave them permission to make the news of their engagement official.