Kadokawa under investigation in Japan for possible payment delays to freelancers

Kadokawa, one of the largest companies in Japan's publishing and media sector, confirmed that it is being investigated by the Japan Fair Trade Commission (JFTC) for alleged violations of the Act on Ensuring Proper Transactions Involving Specified Entrusted Business Operators, known as the Freelance Act.

According to reports from Japanese media cited by Automaton Media, since winter 2024 the company allegedly commissioned work for magazines verbally, without specifying payment deadlines or providing written terms. More than 100 freelancers—including writers, illustrators, and stylists—were reportedly affected by this system, which led to payment delays.

The Japanese law stipulates that when a contract with a freelancer does not set a payment date, payment must be made on the same day the work is delivered to the contracting company. The JFTC reportedly found that Kadokawa violated this provision by delaying payments.

Kadokawa acknowledged the investigation and stated that it is responding "with the utmost seriousness and cooperation." The company did not disclose details of the case, but indicated it would make a follow-up announcement if any matters requiring disclosure arose.

This is not the first time the JFTC has taken action against the publisher. In November 2024, Kadokawa and its subsidiary received a recommendation for violating the Subcontract Act by unfairly reducing the rates of writers and photographers.

Originally published on Anitsu by Sebastián Mamani. Text reviewed and fact-checked for DonOtaku on November 5, 2026; the original date is preserved.