Japan's limbless author divorces after infidelity scandal

Hirotada Ototake / Korea Times file

By Park Si-soo

Japanese best-seller author Hirotada Ototake -- who was born without arms and legs -- has spilt with his wife in the wake of an infidelity scandal.

The author of “No One’s Perfect” wrote on his website last Wednesday, “The legal process for divorce has completed. I’m sorry for causing a controversy and concern to people.” He expressed appreciation to his wife who “had supported me and other family members over the past 15 years.”

The infidelity scandal erupted in March when Ototake was alleged to have had affairs with five women since his marriage in 2001. He initially denied the allegation, but later admitted it. He said then his wife forgave him. But the final result shows the scandal punched huge holes in their relationship.

Ototake was born in 1976 without arms and legs, a genetic disorder called tertra-amelia syndrome.

He became famous for his 1998 memoir titled “No One’s Perfect,” in which he wrote about his strong passion for life despite serious physical disadvantage. The book was a sensation in Japan and was later translated into English.