TAIPEI, TAIWAN - Japanese pop star Noriko Sakai, charged recently for illegal drug use, may seek to restart her career in Taiwan, according to Tokyo Sports Newspaper.

Due to Sakai's close friends' connection with Taiwan, it is quite possible that the once beloved J-pop star may consider moving her career to the island.

With Taiwan's more “gossip-tolerated” environment, TSN commented, it appears to be Sakai's best choice.

The drug scandal marred her “sweet” image and caused another media frenzy as Sakai pleaded guilty to drug use and was charged with 18 months jail-term by prosecutors of Tokyo's District Court on Monday. A ruling is expected on Nov. 9.