The Japanese imperial family is poised to enter the realm of social media, following the footsteps of thousands worldwide.
Their new Instagram account, @kunaicho_jp, is currently active but set to private until its official launch on April 1st. Managed by the Imperial Household Agency, responsible for the royal family’s affairs, the account is expected to provide updates on members, particularly Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako, as they fulfill their royal obligations.
Princess Aiko, having reached adulthood, has been participating in royal duties alongside her parents. Upon her upcoming graduation and subsequent induction into the Japanese Red Cross Society, where she will continue her official duties alongside her studies in Japanese language and literature at Gakushuin University, she is likely to become a prominent figure on the new Instagram account.
In a manner reminiscent of the British royals, the Japanese family may adopt a similar social media strategy by aligning themselves with charities and platforms relevant to their causes. This move reflects a global trend among royals to engage with their audience and fans through social media platforms.
The popularity of the British royal family’s Instagram presence underscores this trend, with millions of followers engaging with updates on official duties and personal moments. Similarly, other royal figures, such as the Prince and Princess of Wales and Queen Consort Rania Al Abdullah of Jordan, have leveraged their social media platforms to promote causes and share glimpses of royal life.
Beyond Europe, royals like Prince Carl Philip and Princess Sofia of Sweden have embraced social media to showcase both their official engagements and personal moments. Meanwhile, younger members of royalty, like Princess Olympia of Greece, use their platforms to offer insights into the glamorous aspects of royal life.
With the launch of their Instagram account, the Japanese imperial family aims to provide a closer look at their daily lives and official duties, joining a growing number of royals who recognize the value of social media in connecting with the public.
