World-renowned Japanese musician and composer Ryuichi Sakamoto says he has throat cancer and has canceled his scheduled shows and activities.

The Oscar-winning composer and anti-nuclear activist said Thursday that he was diagnosed with oropharyngeal cancer at the end of June.

"After much thought and consideration, I have decided to take time off of work in order to concentrate on treating it," the 62-year-old said in a statement. "I promise to return after a full recovery."

According to his management agency Avex Music Creative Inc., Mr. Sakamoto will step down as one of the directors of the Sapporo International Art Festival 2014, scheduled to start next week. He will also cancel live shows including a performance at Park Hyatt Tokyo on July 30.

Avex Music Creative said there is no time frame set for Mr. Sakamoto's return, and that the artist will "dedicate all his time to treatment." The agency declined to offer details on the current stage of Mr. Sakamoto's cancer.