Former Princess Who Left the Royal Family Welcomes First Child

According to the Japan Times, few details about the baby were given at a press conference this week (which was already on the royal schedule and unrelated to Princess Mako’s newborn baby) other than revealing that the Crown Prince and Crown Princess are “delighted about the birth and are wishing for the happiness of the Komuro family.” (The arrival of Princess Mako’s baby is the first grandchild for the Crown Prince and Princess, who share two other children.)

During the press conference, Naomasa Yoshida, grand master of the Crown Prince’s Household, did nod to Princess Mako’s exit at the same time that they spread the official word about her birth, per the Japan Times: “This is a matter for a person who has left the Imperial Family and we had hoped that she would spend her time in a quiet environment. We decided to make the announcement, however, in light of some media reports [about the birth].”

For reference, Princess Mako left the Imperial Family—relinquishing her royal title in the process—after marrying Kei Komuro, a former classmate, but also a commoner. The pair moved to New York City to start a new life together in 2021, with Komuro turning down a $1.3 million royal payout she was entitled to after losing her status due to her marriage. (Komuro works in the city as a lawyer while Princess Mako recently secured a job at the Metropolitan Museum of Art.)

At the time of her marriage, Princess Mako gave a statement about her choice with her new husband, Komuro, explaining their decision: “I love Mako. We only get one life, and I want us to spend it with the one we love.” Four years later—and with their family expanding, plus baby—their love story continues.