Japan's Princess Mako met her future husband, Kei Komuro, met at a restaurant in Tokyo while they were students at the International Christian University (per People). They became engaged in 2013, but only announced their plans to marry in 2017. They eventually wed without the customary fanfare in October 2021 because, according to the Imperial Household Agency, "their marriage is not celebrated by many people" (via People).

Marrying Komuro, a commoner, meant that Princess Mako would forfeit her royal status. In addition to passing up a lavish wedding, she declined a $1.3 million payout that female members of the monarchy are eligible to receive upon leaving the royal family.

As a result of the negativity surrounding their relationship, Princess Mako was diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder, but Komuro has steadfastly stood by her. "I love Mako. You only live once, and I think that my wish is to live my life together with someone that I love. Until now, we have had happy times, and not so happy times, but we faced them together" (per Japan Forward).