Who is Takahiro Karasawa?

Takahiro Karasawa is a Japanese lawyer whose name has been used to send hoax bomb threats across Asia for over a decade.

What is the impact of the Takahiro Karasawa bomb threats?

The bomb threats bearing Karasawa's name have caused widespread panic, evacuations, and drained law enforcement resources in multiple Asian countries. Experts warn these hoaxes cannot be dismissed as mere pranks, as they paralyze public institutions and facilities.

When will the Takahiro Karasawa bomb threat saga end?

Despite arrests and international investigations, the bomb threats bearing Karasawa's name have continued unabated for the past 13 years. As of November 2025, there is no end in sight to this ongoing crisis, and authorities remain baffled about the identity of the perpetrator.

Home / Crime and Justice / Phantom Menace: Decade-Long Hoax Bomb Threats Terrorize Asia

Phantom Menace: Decade-Long Hoax Bomb Threats Terrorize Asia

13 Nov

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Summary

Bomb threats bearing a Japanese lawyer's name have plagued Asia for 13 years
No bombs found, but threats cause panic, evacuations, and drain law enforcement resources
Perpetrator's identity remains unknown despite arrests and international investigations

Phantom Menace: Decade-Long Hoax Bomb Threats Terrorize Asia

In the past 13 years, a series of bomb threats bearing the name of Japanese lawyer Takahiro Karasawa have plagued multiple Asian countries, including Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Singapore. Despite the threats, no actual bombs have been found, and Mr. Karasawa has stated he has no involvement in these incidents.

Authorities have made several arrests in connection with the threats, but the messages have continued to pour in, causing widespread panic, evacuations, and investigations. As of November 2025, the perpetrator's identity remains unknown, and the threats show no signs of stopping.

Just last month, several schools and malls in Seoul, South Korea, were evacuated after receiving faxed threats. An email was also sent to Ajou University, claiming bombs had been planted across the campus. While no explosives were discovered, the threats have caused significant disruption and consumed law enforcement resources.