Korea Football Association’s Lunar New Year Image Draws Comparisons to Japanese Flag
The Korea Football Association (KFA) faced criticism after posting a Lunar New Year greeting on social media featuring an image some viewers likened to the Japanese flag. The incident highlights the sensitivity surrounding historical and cultural symbols in Korea-Japan relations.
Lunar New Year Greeting and Public Reaction
On February 17, 2026, the KFA shared an image depicting a red sun rising over a mountain, accompanied by Lunar New Year greetings to soccer fans. The image quickly sparked debate online, with numerous users commenting that the design resembled the Japanese flag. Comments included observations that the circular sun bore a striking similarity to the hinomaru, Japan’s national flag .
Past Incidents and Cultural Sensitivity
This is not the first instance of a perceived slight involving Japanese symbols. In a separate incident in November 2025, a broadcaster during the Winter Olympics displayed a Japanese flag graphic for over ten seconds during a women’s curling match between Korea and Japan, leading to an apology . This previous event underscores the heightened sensitivity surrounding the Japanese flag in Korea.
KFA and National Team Focus
The KFA’s actions are particularly significant as the Korean national soccer team, led by coach Hong Myung-bo, prepares for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North and Central America (Canada, United States, Mexico). The team will compete in Group A against the winners of the European Playoff Pass D (Denmark, North Macedonia, Czech Republic, Ireland), Mexico, and South Africa, with all three games taking place in Mexico . The KFA relies heavily on public support and the success of the national team to maintain its influence.
Social Media Response
Social media platforms were flooded with reactions to the KFA’s image. Comments included: “It looks like the Japanese flag. Happy New Year though,” “Please change the tone of the photo of the sun,” and “Isn’t this the Japanese flag?” . Some users also offered counterarguments, suggesting the resemblance was unintentional.
Broader Context of Korea-Japan Relations
The incident occurs within the broader context of complex historical and cultural relations between Korea and Japan. Cultural sensitivity, particularly regarding symbols, is a deeply ingrained value in Japan, and missteps can quickly escalate into diplomatic or public relations issues .