'Worst Uninvited Guest': Rising Sun Flag Appears, Japanese Fans Cross the Line... Why They Were Scolded Despite a 4-0 Victory: "They Have No Shame"

*This content was translated by AI.

In the historic 1,000th World Cup match, the Rising Sun flag, a symbol of Japanese imperialism and militarism, appeared once again, drawing frowns.

On the 21st (Korea time), Japan secured a decisive 4-0 victory over Tunisia in the Group F second match of the 2026 FIFA North American World Cup, held at Monterrey Stadium in Guadalupe, Mexico. In this 1,000th World Cup match, Japan won thanks to Aya Sato's brace and consecutive goals from Daichi Kamada and Junya Ito.

However, an unpleasant scene that tarnished the joy of the overwhelming victory was fully captured on the broadcast screen. A Japanese fan was shown holding the Rising Sun flag while cheering from the stands.

The appearance of the Rising Sun flag at international sporting events is not a new occurrence. It has caused controversy at major international tournaments including the World Cup, the Olympics, and the World Baseball Classic (WBC). Even ahead of this tournament, a popular football YouTube channel video introducing the 48th participating nations was criticized after multiple scenes of fans cheering with the Rising Sun flag were exposed. During the 2022 Qatar World Cup, FIFA itself stepped in to curb the use of the Rising Sun flag in support.

Seo Kyung-deok, who is leading a campaign to eliminate the Rising Sun flag, strongly criticized the incident. Professor Seo stated, "The Rising Sun flag was prominently displayed when Japan invaded Asian countries, including the war against the United States, and it symbolizes Japanese militarism and imperialism." He pointed out, "Using such a Rising Sun flag as a tool for World Cup support is truly a wrong act."

He further added, "We will work to eliminate the Rising Sun flag, which is being misused in various parts of the world including Japan, through sustained public discussion in the international community," and called for active interest and participation.

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*This content was translated by AI.