So Kuramoto, legendary Japanese screenwriter, dies at 91

Renowned Japanese screenwriter So Kuramoto has passed away at the age of 91 due to multiple organ failure. His death was announced by the Kuramoto Foundation on September 28, following his passing on September 18 at his home in Furano, Hokkaido.

Kuramoto was a monumental figure in Japanese television, best known for the iconic series ‘Kita no Kuni Kara’ (From the North Country), which followed a family living in the natural landscapes of Hokkaido. His works, including ‘Zenryaku Ofukuro-sama’ and ‘Yasuragi no Sato’, were celebrated for their deep exploration of human relationships, family dynamics, and the complexities of aging and society.

Throughout his career, Kuramoto was dedicated to nurturing talent through the ‘Furano Juku’ training school and the ‘Furano Group’. He was also an advocate for environmental conservation, leading projects to restore natural forests in Furano.

Following his death, numerous actors and musicians, including Hideyoshi Yoshioka and Masashi Sada, have expressed their grief and gratitude. A memorial service, ‘Owakare no Kai’, is scheduled to be held on November 3 at the Furano Theater Factory.