Investigators reported that during Emperor Naruhito's new year address on 2/1/2026, a man in the front row began shouting, stripped off his clothes, and climbed over a fence. Imperial Palace guards and police quickly restrained the individual, wrapped him in a blanket, and escorted him from the premises.

The Imperial Household Agency stated that approximately 5,000 people were present at the palace to offer new year greetings to the emperor and imperial family at the time of the incident. They confirmed that the disturbance did not affect attendees.

Police and Japanese imperial guards escort the man who caused a disturbance at the Emperor's speech on 2/1. *Sankei*

Japanese media reported that the man, aged around 20, had posted on social media about his intention to strip at the ceremony. Police and imperial guards are investigating his motive.

During the ceremony on 2/1, Emperor Naruhito delivered a brief speech. He then joined other imperial family members, including Empress Masako and his younger brother, Crown Prince Akishino, in waving to the public from a balcony.

The Japanese Imperial Family is traditionally believed to be descended from the sun goddess Amaterasu. Under Japan's post-World War II constitution, the imperial family holds no political power but maintains a significant symbolic role.

Nguyen Tien (According to AFP, Sankei, TBS)