Instead of Being the 'Perfect Son' for His Parents... Japanese Man Chooses a 'Woman's Life'

[The Financial News] A Japanese man in his twenties, who grew up under a controlling mother, has drawn attention for leaving home and choosing to live wearing women's clothing in order to stop playing the role of the 'perfect son.' He now supports himself through live streaming and says he is living as his true self.
The South China Morning Post (SCMP) reported on the 26th (local time) that Mizuki, a 26-year-old Japanese man, has been in the spotlight again as reports about 'extreme parenting' in the People's Republic of China (PRC) have increased. Mizuki grew up in a strict household where success was demanded. His father, a scholar, kept his distance, while his mother viewed his academic achievements as 'investment returns' and constantly pressured him.
Mizuki was raised in a demanding environment that prioritized success. His father, an academic, was emotionally distant, and his mother persistently pressured him, treating his academic performance as a return on her investment.
After his parents divorced, Mizuki lived with his mother, enduring frequent scolding and strict control. He maintained excellent grades throughout his school years with an obedient and achievement-oriented attitude, following the typical path toward a stable career by entering The University of Tokyo, one of Japan's most prestigious institutions.
Although Mizuki appeared to lead a successful life, he felt an emptiness inside. Struggling with his identity and discomfort with his appearance, he suddenly began wearing women's clothing.
Mizuki saw this behavior as a way to break free from his mother's control and stop being the 'perfect son.' After graduating from university, he worked as a sales associate at a women's clothing store, which brought him some joy, but he soon lost interest and resigned.
He then switched to the IT industry, but the office environment reminded him of his mother's control, intensifying his discomfort. Realizing that his life had always been shaped by others' expectations, he refused when his mother pressured him to take the civil service exam.
In response, his mother said, "Why should I keep supporting you?" and forced Mizuki out of the house. He eventually left home and cut off all contact with her.
Afterward, Mizuki rented a small apartment in Tokyo for about 30,000 yen (about 280,000 KRW) per month. He filled his home with discarded items such as delivery boxes, old clothes, and broken appliances, considering these objects his 'companions,' even though others might see them as trash.
Currently, Mizuki hosts live broadcasts dressed in women's clothing. He reportedly makes a living by interacting with fans who appreciate his gentle voice. Mizuki stated, "I am who I am, and I want to live with confidence."
Mizuki's story has sparked significant debate on social networking services (SNS) in the PRC. Netizens commented, "I respect that he chose his own path. His mother was indifferent to his feelings," and "Many children in the PRC come to mind. They grew up under pressure to become elites, feeling stressed and wanting to escape. Some graduates from prestigious universities even choose 'non-traditional jobs' such as security guards or street vendors."
On the other hand, some netizens argued, "Mizuki wasted his mother's support and education. He should start by cleaning up his messy home and getting his life back on track," and "He might consider becoming a teacher to help others who are struggling."
hsg@fnnews.com Han Seung-gon Reporter