In a significant move, NHK's chairman, Nobuo Inaba, has revealed that the network will resume featuring talents from the recently established STARTO ENTERTAINMENT. This announcement, made during a regular press conference on October 16, marks a notable shift after a year-long hiatus in new hires due to serious allegations against the late founder, Johnny Kitagawa.

The decision to reintroduce these artists comes on the heels of crucial developments surrounding victim compensation and measures to prevent future incidents. Inaba emphasized the progress made in addressing victim support, stating, "As of today, we are allowing contract renewals based on production team discretion." NHK began extending invitations for new programming to STARTO on the same day.

Since suspending new contracts in September 2022, NHK has been closely monitoring the situation. The compensation organization, SMILE-UP, has reported that approximately 96% of the 530 individuals seeking compensation have reached agreements, providing further confidence in the management changes that have taken place. SMILE-UP’s representative, Julie Fujishima, has also stepped down from her roles in four associated companies, facilitating a clearer separation from the previous management structure.

This reopening of opportunities allows artists under STARTO ENTERTAINMENT to return to major NHK events, including the prestigious Kohaku Uta Gassen (Red and White Song Battle) on New Year’s Eve. Early discussions have indicated that two groups have already been approached for participation, with the possibility of adding a third as negotiations continue.