Japan’s imperial family recently made their debut on Instagram in an effort to connect with younger generations and shake off their reclusive image. The Imperial Household Agency, responsible for the family’s affairs, began posting photos and videos showcasing Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako’s public engagements over the past three months. Instagram was chosen due to its popularity among young people, with their account quickly amassing over 270,000 followers by Monday evening.
The agency aimed to give the public a better understanding of the family’s official duties through their Instagram posts, which include images of the imperial couple participating in various events and meetings with foreign dignitaries. While the account currently focuses on official engagements, there are plans to potentially include activities of other royal family members in the future. The decision to join Instagram comes after the agency conducted studies on the potential impact of using social media to generate interest in the imperial family and their activities.
The launch of the royal family’s Instagram account also follows a period of sensitivity around social media use after the Emperor’s niece, Mako Komuro, faced backlash online regarding her marriage to a commoner. Mako’s marriage was delayed due to concerns over her mother-in-law’s financial situation, with the media coverage causing her psychological trauma. Despite these concerns, experts suggest that social media could help the royal family engage with the public, control their narrative, and respond to disinformation effectively. However, there are ongoing concerns about maintaining the royal family’s nobility while being friendly and approachable online.
The Japanese royal family’s venture into social media comes 15 years after Britain’s royal family joined various platforms. Emperor Emeritus Akihito and his wife were popular figures during their reign, but the current royal family’s fan base largely consists of older generations. The Instagram account does not allow for public interaction, as users are unable to comment on posts and can only like them. Those wishing to send messages to the imperial family must use the official website, further illustrating the agency’s cautious approach to social media engagement.
Overall, the introduction of the imperial family to Instagram signals a shift towards modernization and a desire to connect with younger audiences. By showcasing their official duties and public engagements on social media, the royal family hopes to bridge the gap between generations and increase interest in their activities. While concerns about maintaining the family’s dignity online persist, experts believe that social media can be a valuable tool in engaging with the public and controlling the narrative surrounding the royal family. As the account continues to grow in followers and content, it will be interesting to see how the royal family navigates the complexities of social media while upholding their centuries-old traditions and values.
