Kozue Akimoto

Kozue Akimoto is a Japanese fashion model, influencer, and media personality who gained international acclaim for her distinct aesthetic, featuring jet-black hair, straight blunt bangs, and signature red lipstick. Represented by LesPros Entertainment, she has established herself as a prominent figure across luxury fashion runways, high-profile editorial campaigns, and global street style coverage.

Early Life and Background

Akimoto was born on July 27, 1987, in Tokyo, Japan. She grew up with a deep passion for fashion, frequently exploring Harajuku’s trendsetting shopping districts during her youth. Akimoto is the daughter of the late Chiyonofuji Mitsugu, the legendary 58th Yokozuna (grand champion) of professional sumo wrestling. While attending college, she took on salon modeling opportunities, which launched her interest in pursuing a professional modeling career in Tokyo.

Modeling and Media Career

Akimoto made her formal entertainment industry debut in 2009. She initially gained widespread television visibility as one of the primary cast members on MTV Asia's reality television show Shibuhara Girls, which documented young aspiring talent navigating the fashion and pop culture hubs of Tokyo. Her editorial career expanded rapidly following appearances in major publications such as Numero TOKYO, Vogue Japan, and Harper's Bazaar. Akimoto went on to represent top international luxury labels, featuring in advertising campaigns for Hermès and walking in fashion shows for brands like Alyx. She became a recurring front-row guest and street-style icon at Paris Fashion Week and Tokyo Fashion Week, frequently photographed showcasing designs by Comme des Garçons, Sacai, Undercover, Rick Owens, and Givenchy.

Personal Life and Projects

In April 2018, Akimoto married Japanese actor Shota Matsuda in a traditional ceremony after dating for several years. Beyond traditional runway work, she has released exclusive photo books documenting her personal style and published creative works. She has also collaborated with prominent fashion and accessories brands, including designing capsule jewelry collections. Today, Akimoto maintains a strong global social media following, regularly sharing her editorial shoots, international travel, and luxury fashion collaborations.