Soka Gakkai

Soka Gakkai is mentioned in two contexts that connect it to the narrative’s scrutiny of the Goto-gumi: an alleged motive for violence against filmmaker Juzo Itami and a publisher’s fear that a powerful client relationship could be put at risk. The account does not specify the nature of Soka Gakkai’s relationship with the Goto-gumi or describe the organization taking action in either episode.

The Itami Allegation

A source tells the narrator that Itami had been planning another film about the Goto-gumi and its relationship with Soka Gakkai, and that Goto was unhappy about the project. The source then alleges that five of Goto’s associates seized Itami and forced him to jump from a rooftop at gunpoint, making his death appear to be suicide. This is presented as an allegation within the account, not as an independently demonstrated finding about Soka Gakkai or its conduct.

A Publisher’s Commercial Exposure

Later, as the narrator tries to place an article about Goto, a senior publishing-house editor explains why the company will not publish it. The house does printing for Soka Gakkai, and the editor fears Goto would pressure the organization to withdraw its contracts if the story appeared. That anticipated loss, alongside the prospect of legal costs and retaliation, contributes to the publisher’s refusal. The episode shows Soka Gakkai’s place in the publisher’s commercial landscape, but does not establish that the organization knew of the proposed article or was asked to intervene.