Mako Komuro, formerly Princess Mako of Japan, who relinquished her royal status to marry a commoner, has reportedly given birth to her first child in New York. The news has been kept private, with no official confirmation issued by the Japanese Imperial Household.
Mako, the eldest daughter of Crown Princess Kiko and Crown Prince Fumihito, also known as Prince Akishino, left the royal family in 2021 upon marrying Kei Komuro, her college sweetheart. Since relocating to the United States, the couple has maintained a low public profile.
Prior to the birth, Mako was seen in New York displaying signs that sparked speculation about her pregnancy. Sightings of the couple with a baby pram further fueled rumors about the arrival of their child.
Should the birth be officially confirmed, the child will be the first great-grandchild of Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko.
Mako’s decision to marry outside the imperial family required her to renounce her royal title, in accordance with Japanese imperial law, which mandates that female royals forfeit their status upon marrying commoners. Unlike female royals, male members are exempt from this rule.
Notably, Mako declined the customary one-time financial allowance of approximately $1.3 million given to female royals who leave the family after marriage. The wedding itself was low-key, forgoing traditional royal ceremonies and receptions.
Since their marriage, Mako and Kei Komuro have settled in New York, where Kei practices law. The couple continues to live a private life away from public scrutiny.
