The Imperial Household Agency fired an employee, who supports the lifestyle and activities of the imperial family, for embezzling 3.6 million yen or approximately $24,900 in cash.

According to the agency, the chamberlain in their 20s stole money that was kept in an office during overnight shifts from November 2023 to March 2025.

The cash is used as living expenses for Emperor Naruhito, Empress Masako, and Princess Aiko.

The agency has pressed charges against the employee with the Imperial Guard Headquarters on the suspicion of theft.

The employee faced disciplinary dismissal on May 1.

Grand Steward of the agency Nishimura Yasuhiko said that the action by the agency employee was unacceptable and sincerely regrettable. 

Nishimura apologized to the emperor and the imperial family.