Story perspectives

Pokemon Company Apologizes for Controversial Event Cancellation

1/31/2026

Summary

Story summary

On January 30, 2026, The Pokemon Company apologized for canceling a card game event at the Yasukuni shrine in Tokyo.
The company faced backlash from China, leading to a clarification that the event was listed without proper confirmation.
The Yasukuni shrine is controversial, honoring Japanese leaders convicted as war criminals, and is viewed by China and South Korea as a symbol of Japan's militaristic past.
Chinese media criticized the event, asserting that Japanese companies should not profit from China while undermining its interests.

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Story summary

On January 30, 2026, The Pokemon Company apologized for canceling a card game event at the Yasukuni shrine in Tokyo.
The company faced backlash from China, leading to a clarification that the event was listed without proper confirmation.
The Yasukuni shrine is controversial, honoring Japanese leaders convicted as war criminals, and is viewed by China and South Korea as a symbol of Japan's militaristic past.
Chinese media criticized the event, asserting that Japanese companies should not profit from China while undermining its interests.