Japanese comedian Daisuke Daigo has publicly labeled popular actress Haruka Ayase as "pure." This remark, made recently in a talk-show interview, has sparked discussions among fans and observers about the public image of celebrities in Japan. Neither Ayase nor her representatives have commented on Daigo's depiction of her.

In Japan, the public image and persona of a celebrity play a crucial role in their career prospects and popularity. The term "purity," when used to describe a celebrity like Haruka Ayase, does not solely refer to her personal character, but also implies her wholesome image that remains untainted by scandal. It reflects the societal value placed on maintaining a positive and scandal-free public reputation.

In contrast, celebrities in the US or EU have a broader range of accepted public images. While a scandal-free reputation is certainly beneficial, celebrities with controversial public personas can still maintain successful careers, indicating a perhaps more understanding or forgiving perception of public figures and their actions.