Japan World Cup Flag Controversy Resurfaces Amid Rising Sun Symbol Use
During the 2026 FIFA World Cup, held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, Japanese fans were photographed waving the rising sun flag (욱일기) during celebrations following Japan’s 2-2 draw against the Netherlands on June 15, 2026, according to reports from South Korean media. The incident has reignited debates over the historical symbolism of the flag, which was used by Japan during its imperialist expansion in the early 20th century.
Seo Kyung-deok, a professor of Japanese history at Sungkyunkwan University in South Korea, criticized the display, stating, “Using the rising sun flag as a World Cup cheering tool is a serious mistake.” According to Seo, FIFA’s 2022 ban on the flag within stadiums has led some fans to shift its use to public spaces, as seen in the recent incident. “The flag represents Japan’s militaristic past, and its presence at international events undermines efforts to promote peace and mutual respect,” he added.
Historical Context and International Reactions
The rising sun flag, officially known as the “hinomaru,” was the national flag of Imperial Japan and a symbol of its aggression during World War II. Its use in modern contexts often provokes strong reactions from neighboring countries, particularly South Korea and China, which suffered under Japanese colonial rule.
In 2022, during the Qatar World Cup, FIFA temporarily banned the flag after it appeared in fan zones, prompting security interventions. Seo highlighted that similar incidents have occurred in previous tournaments, including a 2022 incident where a Mexican YouTuber’s video featuring the flag sparked widespread criticism. “After public scrutiny, the video was edited to obscure the flag,” Seo noted, emphasizing the need for ongoing awareness.
FIFA’s Role and Ongoing Challenges
FIFA, the governing body of international football, has consistently prohibited the display of symbols associated with racism, discrimination, or militarism. A 2023 FIFA statement reiterated that “any flag or emblem that promotes hatred or historical revisionism is strictly forbidden.” However, enforcement remains challenging, as fans often find ways to circumvent restrictions.
Seo called for stricter international cooperation to address the issue. “The global community must continue to pressure nations to educate their citizens about the historical significance of such symbols,” he said. “Only through sustained dialogue can we prevent their misuse in sporting events.”
Implications for Future Events
The 2026 World Cup, the first to feature 48 teams, has been framed as a milestone for inclusivity. However, incidents like the rising sun flag controversy underscore the complexities of managing cultural sensitivities in global sports.
As the tournament progresses, organizers face the dual challenge of ensuring compliance with anti-discrimination policies while respecting national expressions. For now, the incident serves as a reminder of the enduring impact of historical symbols in contemporary discourse.