Shaven-headed star of J-pop sensation AKB48 makes tearful admission on YouTube . The video shows the young singer in tears as she admits to having an affair with a married man. Producer Yasushi Akimoto denies accusations he is sexualizing young girls . Bands have been a goldmine , grossing 16.28 billion yen ( $ 212 million ) in 2011 .
Shaven-headed star of J-pop sensation AKB48 makes tearful admission on YouTube . Apology does not prevent her demotion within the ranks of wildly popular Japanese girl bands . Producer Yasushi Akimoto denies accusations he is sexualizing young girls . Bands have been a goldmine , grossing 16.28 billion yen ( $ 212 million ) in 2011 .