On May 2, TOKIO members Joshima Shigeru, Matsuoka Masahiro, Nagase Tomoya, and Kokubun Taichi held a press conference apologizing about the recent incident involving fellow member Yamaguchi Tatsuya. 

Leader Joshima Shigeru revealed that the five members met on April 30 and had a discussion. During the meeting, Yamaguchi got down on his hands and knees, and he submitted a letter of resignation. Joshima explained that he wasn't able to accept the letter, "Yamaguchi was so worn out, and there was a part of us that just couldn't say 'please resign' after being together for 23 years. We haven't decided what to do yet." Rather than dealing with Yamaguchi, the members felt it was more important to hold a press conference. "I think some people will say that we are too lenient, but we want to accept it together," he said.

During a press conference on April 26, Yamaguchi said, "It might be wishful thinking, but if there is a place for me, I hope to continue as TOKIO." Matsuoka touched on this saying, "I don't know where that spoiled thought came from... If the origin of his spoiled nature is us, I think we should get rid of that TOKIO as soon as possible." 

Nagase expressed, "My heart aches when I think that the victim had pure feelings. I pray from the bottom of my heart that no one will attack or point a finger at the victim." He explained the situation saying, "We intend to do our best with the work we are given while thinking about what we should do hereon." Finally, Kokubun stated, "In a normal situation, we should've accepted the resignation. However, we haven't had a chance to cool down yet. Even if we did accept the resignation, that does not mean that we are abandoning Yamaguchi."

When asked about TOKIO's future activities, Nagase responded, "Without his performance, we wouldn't have our music. Right now, we are in that situation, so the four of us will talk about what's to come." Kokubun said, "Since last year, we've been discussing our 25th debut anniversary [next year in 2019]. Right now, we are back to square one, and we have quit thinking about making music. We want to face whatever we can face." Joshima added, "We aren't in the situation to be talking about that." Matsuoka apologized to fans, "Our fans' voiced have reached us. That's why since last year, we have been thinking about what would make everyone happy for our 25th year. We are very sorry."

Source: natalie