Pokémon Event Canceled Amid China Backlash
Analysis based on 8 articles · First reported Jan 31, 2026 · Last updated Jan 31, 2026
The cancellation of The Pokémon Company's event and its apology due to Chinese backlash could negatively impact its brand image and sales in China, a significant market. This incident also highlights the broader geopolitical tensions between Japan and China, which can affect other Japanese companies operating in China.
The Pokémon Company canceled a planned card game event at Japan's Yasukuni Shrine following a strong backlash from China. The Yasukuni Shrine is controversial as it honors Japan's war dead, including convicted war criminals, which countries like China and the Koreas view as a lack of remorse for Japan's wartime aggression. Chinese state media, including People s Daily, condemned the event, leading to The Pokémon Company issuing an apology in both Japanese and Chinese, stating the event was mistakenly posted on its official website due to a lack of understanding. This incident occurred amidst escalating tensions between Japan and China, partly fueled by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's recent remarks suggesting Japan's potential involvement if China takes military action against Taiwan.
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