Shinzo Abe Assassin Pleads Guilty in Landmark Court Hearing

Tetsuya Yamagami, the man accused of assassinating former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, has pleaded guilty. The admission came during the high-profile trial’s first hearing on October 28, 2025. The case has gripped Japan for over three years.

Yamagami was arrested immediately after the shooting in July 2022. The incident occurred in the western city of Nara during an election campaign speech.

Courtroom Admission and Legal Strategy Unveiled

Yamagami appeared calm in court. He wore a black sweatshirt and grey trousers. According to NHK, he directly told the court, “It is true that I did it.”

His legal team then requested a reduced punishment. They argued his homemade gun did not meet Japan’s legal definition of a handgun. This technical defense is a key part of his legal strategy.

The trial began on a significant day for Japanese politics. Incumbent Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi was hosting US President Donald Trump. Both were former allies of the slain leader.

Broader Political Impact and Religious Group Ties

The assassination revealed deep political connections to a religious group. Yamagami held a grudge against Abe for promoting the Unification Church. Reports state his mother donated roughly 100 million yen to the church.

This revelation damaged public trust in the ruling party. Over a hundred lawmakers from Abe’s Liberal Democratic Party were found to have ties to the group. The scandal significantly impacted the party’s public support.

The court has scheduled up to 17 more hearings this year. A final verdict is expected on January 21. The proceedings will continue to be closely watched.

The guilty plea brings a somber conclusion to a tragic chapter in Japan’s modern history. The Shinzo Abe assassin trial now moves to the sentencing phase, with a nation awaiting the court’s final decision.

Thought you’d like to know

Who is Tetsuya Yamagami?

Tetsuya Yamagami is the 45-year-old man accused of assassinating former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. He was arrested at the scene in Nara in July 2022.

What was the motive for the shooting?

Yamagami blamed Shinzo Abe for his ties to the Unification Church. He held a grudge after his mother made massive donations to the group, causing his family financial ruin.

What kind of weapon was used?

The assailant used a homemade gun. His defense lawyers argue this firearm does not fit the strict legal category of a handgun under Japanese law.

How did the assassination impact Japanese politics?

The killing led to revelations about extensive ties between lawmakers and the Unification Church. This caused a major scandal and eroded public support for the ruling party.

When is the verdict expected?

The court is expected to deliver its verdict on January 21, 2026. Numerous hearings are scheduled before the final ruling.