Question from a Reader:
Why is it that personal conversations on LINE are made public without the consent of those involved? It’s truly unfortunate that private content, such as LINE messages from Meiji Nagano and Kei Tanaka, or even Mariko Shinoda’s infidelity messages and Ryoko Hirosue’s love letters, can leak out without their permission. If it were written on a public
social media platform where anyone could see it, that would be more understandable, but what about sharing conversations meant for only two people without consent? Doesn’t that infringe on privacy? If it’s permissible simply because they are celebrities, then would it also be acceptable for someone who finds a celebrity’s forgotten phone to look at or save its contents? Doesn’t the person who leaked that information become a criminal for snooping?
Reflecting on Privacy and Public Interest
Recently, there has been a rise in incidents where celebrities’ private LINE messages are leaked without permission. I believe it is truly sad that personal exchanges, including love letters from Meiji Nagano, Kei Tanaka, and even Ryoko Hirosue, are made public. When considering the invasion of privacy, I can’t help but feel a deep discomfort. As a university student who enjoys chatting with friends on LINE, the thought of my own messages being made public is chilling. Just the other day, I was in a group chat with friends discussing, “What should we do about the next exam?” and the idea of that conversation becoming public is absolutely unacceptable. Especially when jokingly saying, “Eating snacks during the exam is the most important thing!” would be too embarrassing.
The Gray Area Between Privacy and Public Interest
As the questioner pointed out, the unauthorized release of private conversations raises both legal and moral issues. Indeed, just because LINE is a free service doesn’t mean anything goes. We need to consider whether the public leaking of private conversations can ever be justified. On the other hand, from a public interest perspective, leaked information can sometimes help someone. For example, when evidence of infidelity or power harassment is disclosed, it can lead to the victim being saved. This makes it a complicated issue. Ultimately, both sides have valid points, and ongoing dialogue is essential.
Criminals and Morality
Whether the person who leaked the information becomes a criminal is a nuanced legal matter. If sued for invasion of privacy, the outcome will likely depend on the specifics of the case. However, from an emotional standpoint, I feel that violating someone else’s private life is inherently immoral. Reflecting on conversations with friends, I cherish the trust we share when they say, “Let’s keep this information private.” Actions that destroy such important bonds should not be allowed.
In Conclusion
The issue of privacy is complex and cannot be easily resolved. However, I believe it is crucial for each of us to respect others’ privacy and remember the importance of building trust. What do you think? If you have any experiences or opinions on privacy issues that are close to you, please share them in the comments. Whether it’s about snacks or funny stories with friends, I’m eager to hear from you!
