YouTuber Apologizes for Misconduct in Japan

  Fidias Panayiotou (Video still)

In a controversial move, YouTuber Fidias Panayiotou may face legal scrutiny from Japanese authorities after indulging in begging and fare evasion in the country. The incident was captured in a video on his channel titled “I Travelled Across Japan For Free” which was published on 20 October.

The Controversial Video

In the video, Panayiotou, along with three other people, participated in a cross-country race for a prize of $10,000 (£8,216). He has a significant following, with 2.4 million people subscribed to his YouTube channel. He filmed himself using Japan’s public transportation system without paying for it. The video has since been removed from the platform.

Panayiotou admitted being detained at a police station after confessing to officers that he couldn’t afford his bus fare. He had received 600 yen (£3.30) from a stranger but still fell short of the full fare. In Japan, begging is considered a criminal offence.

Evasion and Apology

More controversy followed when Panayiotou was discovered travelling without a ticket by a train conductor. He pretended to be sick and managed to escape, hiding in a train bathroom to avoid staff.

The YouTuber also claimed to have had a free breakfast at a hotel where he wasn’t a guest, using a room number as a passcode for the breakfast. He shared that he left the hotel without encountering any issues.

YouTube and Kyushu Railway Company’s Response

YouTube removed the video, stating it violated the community guidelines. Meanwhile, a spokesperson from the regional train operator Kyushu Railway Company stated they would review the video before deciding whether to report the incident to the police.

Panayiotou has since issued an apology, expressing regret if his actions caused discomfort to the Japanese people, stating it was not his intention to do so.