Hello Kitty maker cuts ties with Japanese spy drama after China backlash
Sanrio has apologised after its merchandise line with Japanese TV series Vivant drew criticism.
Sanrio, the creator of Hello Kitty, has severed ties with a Japanese spy drama after facing criticism in China. The controversial show, Vivant, has been harshly condemned in Chinese media for portraying Chinese agents using brutal torture methods on a Japanese operative. Hello Kitty and her friends, such as My Melody and Cinnamoroll, were also featured in merchandise depicting Vivant characters, leading to the toy-making company's decision to end its partnership with Vivant.
Sanrio emphasized that its decision was made after realizing that the show's content contradicted its core values of care and connection, and its commitment to fostering harmony among people. China and Japan's diplomatic relations have hit a low point since Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi suggested in November that Japan might activate its self-defense forces against Taiwan if attacked by China.
In response, Beijing has imposed restrictions on rare earth exports, tourism, and even reclaimed pandas from Japan. Takaichi had watched episodes of Vivant before the show's second season, which featured Chinese agents torturing a Japanese spy. The Chinese foreign ministry stated that the incident should serve as a warning to Japan, and the Chinese government urged discerning individuals to reconsider their support for anti-China content.
Written by urgent.news from BBC World's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
