Emerging
Jun 18, 20261
59%
Professor Sparks Backlash in Japan Over World Cup Rising Sun Flag Criticism
A South Korean professor's criticism of Japanese fans using the Rising Sun flag during World Cup support events has triggered a sharp online backlash in Japan. Some users have called for protests against FIFA's restrictions, while the professor says the reaction reflects a lack of historical understanding.
Quick Facts
Who
So Kyung-dok
What
criticized Japanese supporters for using the Rising Sun flag during World Cup cheering
When
during the World Cup
Where
Japan
- criticized Japanese supporters for using the Rising Sun flag during World Cup cheering
- prompted online backlash and calls to protest FIFA
- received replies urging Japan to challenge the restriction
- responded that the backlash reflects poor historical understanding
- So Kyung-dok
A South Korean professor has drawn a strong online backlash in Japan after criticizing Japanese fans for displaying the Rising Sun flag during World Cup support activities. The professor, So Kyung-dok of Sungsin Women's University, said some supporters turned to street cheering after FIFA banned flag use inside stadiums, calling the practice inappropriate.
In response, some Japanese netizens argued that the flag should not be restricted and urged Japan's football authorities to protest FIFA. Comments circulating online also called for the issue to be taken to international legal forums, reflecting the scale of the reaction on Japanese social media.
So said the response showed that many Japanese internet users did not properly understand the historical background of the Rising Sun flag. He added that, even so, such criticism does not justify its use at World Cup-related events.
The dispute has generated thousands of comments and extensive engagement on Yahoo Japan and on the professor's own social media accounts, highlighting how the long-running symbolism debate continues to surface around international football tournaments.
Why This Matters
This dispute shows how historical symbols can quickly turn into international reputational issues during major sports events. For readers following sports, public diplomacy, or Japan-Korea relations, it signals continued sensitivity around flag use, fan behavior, and FIFA restrictions that can trigger organized online backlash and calls for formal complaints.
Timeline & Sources
Jun 16, 2026
WireSo Kyung-dok criticized Japanese supporters for using the Rising Sun flag in World Cup cheering, calling the behavior inappropriate.
Jun 17, 2026
WireSo Kyung-dok posted that the issue had become a major topic in Japan.
Jun 18, 2026
WireYahoo News reported the growing Japanese online backlash and calls to protest FIFA.