Former Princess Mako of Japan Welcomes First Baby

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Mako Komuro, formerly Princess Mako of Japan, has given birth to her first child, palace officials confirmed on Friday. (Pexels photo)

Mako Komuro, formerly Princess Mako of Japan, has given birth to her first child, palace officials confirmed on Friday. While no details about the baby’s birth date or gender were shared, the Imperial Household Agency said both mother and child are healthy.

Though Mako is no longer a member of the royal family, the palace confirmed the news after media reports showed her and her husband, Kei Komuro, walking with a stroller in New York. The couple moved to the U.S. in 2021 after getting married, a decision that led Mako to give up her royal title as required by Japan’s laws.

Mako is the niece of Emperor Naruhito. Her marriage caused public debate in Japan, mainly due to a financial issue involving Kei’s mother. Due to the controversy, Mako also declined the traditional payment offered to women who left the royal family.

Japan’s royal family is now facing pressure over its future. The current law allows only men to become emperors. That leaves only two heirs—Crown Prince Akishino and his teenage son, Hisahito. A government panel is discussing changes, but conservatives reject the idea of female emperors. Some only support allowing married women like Mako to help with public duties, not succession.

Mako’s new life in New York shows how Japan’s traditions are being challenged by modern realities—and highlights the uncertain future of the world’s oldest monarchy.