Japan also could not avoid the spotlight on the 'Rising Sun flag controversy'... "Korean media fiercely criticized"

*This content was translated by AI.

Japan also could not escape the spotlight. Korean media outlets were reported to have launched a barrage of fierce criticism regarding the 'Rising Sun flag controversy' that erupted during the Japan-Tunisia match.

On the 21st (Korean time), Japanese Football Channel reported, "Korean media outlets raised concerns after the broadcast captured a flag resembling a Rising Sun flag in the stands during the World Cup match."

The Japanese national team, led by head coach Hajime Moriyasu, secured a decisive 4-0 victory over Tunisia in the second group stage match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the North, Central America, and Caribbean region, held at Monterrey Stadium in Monterrey, Mexico. It was an overwhelming performance. Japan dominated in total shots with a 11-2 advantage and demonstrated clinical finishing by converting four of their five on-target shots into goals.

In this tournament, Japan was drawn into Group F alongside the Netherlands, Sweden, and Tunisia. Despite facing formidable opponents, Japan is aiming for first place in the group. Earlier, Japan drew 2-2 with the Netherlands in the first match. With this victory over Tunisia, Japan now holds a record of one win and one draw (four points), placing them second in Group F. The Netherlands, with the same number of points, currently leads the group due to a superior goal difference. Sweden sits in third place with one win and one loss (three points), while Tunisia, having lost both matches (zero points), has been eliminated from the group stage.

This match also drew significant attention as it marked the 1st,000th game in World Cup history. Japan's decisive victory made them the clear protagonists on the pitch.

However, apart from the match performance, there were scenes that caused furrowed brows. A flag resembling a Rising Sun flag was spotted in the stands. It was reported that some Japanese fans were seen holding the flag and cheering for the national team, captured on broadcast screens.

The Rising Sun flag is regarded as a symbol of Japan's past imperialism and militarism. In Korea and several other Asian countries, it is perceived as a symbol evoking memories of aggressive wars. Controversies have repeatedly arisen whenever the Rising Sun flag appeared during Japanese matches, not only at the World Cup but also in other international sporting events. During the previous 2022 Qatar World Cup, FIFA had previously intervened to stop Rising Sun flag cheering.

Japanese media also introduced the current controversy by citing Korean media reports. Football Channel reported that Korean media outlets explained that the Rising Sun flag symbolizes Japanese imperialism and militarism and is perceived as a symbol evoking memories of aggressive wars in Asian countries, including Korea.

The media also highlighted the fact that this match was the 1st,000th game in World Cup history, giving significant weight to the Korean side's criticism that it "tarnished a historic match."

It further added, "Korean media outlets are casting a strict gaze on the alleged misconduct that occurred in the stands, separate from the Japanese national team's victory over Tunisia."

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*This content was translated by AI.