If a 17-year-old dates a 30-year-old in Japan and they abstain from sexual activity until the younger person turns 18, the situation becomes more about societal and ethical considerations than legal ones. Here's a breakdown:
Legal Perspective:
1. Dating Without Sexual Activity:
Dating itself (e.g., spending time together, going on dates) is not illegal under Japanese law, regardless of the age gap, as long as no sexual activity or exploitation occurs.
Prefectural laws aimed at protecting minors might still raise concerns about the nature of the relationship if there’s evidence of coercion, grooming, or exploitation.
2. After Turning 18:
Once the younger person turns 18, they are legally considered an adult in most contexts, and the relationship is unlikely to face legal scrutiny, provided it is consensual and free from exploitation.
Ethical and Social Perspective:
Power Dynamics: A significant age gap (17 vs. 30) can raise questions about the balance of power, maturity, and influence in the relationship.
Parental or Social Concerns: The relationship might face criticism from the minor's family, friends, or broader community due to the perceived imbalance or concerns for the minor's emotional well-being.
Summary:
If the couple avoids sexual activity and maintains a consensual, respectful relationship, they are unlikely to face legal consequences. However, societal judgment and scrutiny might still be significant factors until the younger person reaches adulthood.
If a 17-year-old dates a 30-year-old in Japan and they abstain from sexual activity until the younger person turns 18, the situation becomes more about societal and ethical considerations than legal ones. Here's a breakdown:
Legal Perspective:
1. Dating Without Sexual Activity:
Dating itself (e.g., spending time together, going on dates) is not illegal under Japanese law, regardless of the age gap, as long as no sexual activity or exploitation occurs.
Prefectural laws aimed at protecting minors might still raise concerns about the nature of the relationship if there’s evidence of coercion, grooming, or exploitation.
2. After Turning 18:
Once the younger person turns 18, they are legally considered an adult in most contexts, and the relationship is unlikely to face legal scrutiny, provided it is consensual and free from exploitation.
Ethical and Social Perspective:
Power Dynamics: A significant age gap (17 vs. 30) can raise questions about the balance of power, maturity, and influence in the relationship.
Parental or Social Concerns: The relationship might face criticism from the minor's family, friends, or broader community due to the perceived imbalance or concerns for the minor's emotional well-being.
Summary:
If the couple avoids sexual activity and maintains a consensual, respectful relationship, they are unlikely to face legal consequences. However, societal judgment and scrutiny might still be significant factors until the younger person reaches adulthood.