Before the opening ceremony of the 33rd Paris Olympics, Professor Seo Kyung Deok of Sungshin Women’s University in South Korea disclosed that he had sent a protest email to the International Olympic Committee (IOC), urging a ban on Japan’s Rising Sun Flag.
During the Tokyo Olympics, the presence of the Rising Sun Flag at the men’s road cycling event ignited substantial controversy.
Seo stated, “Japanese people have utilized the Rising Sun Flag to signify cultural traditions, childbirth, and more. However, historically, it symbolizes militarism and imperialism during Japan’s aggressive invasions of Asian countries.”
“The reuse of the Rising Sun Flag denies Japan’s history of invasion wars and serves as a reminder of the horrors of war for Asians,” he added.
He continued that if the Rising Sun Flag appears again at the Paris Olympics, given its association with war crimes, the IOC must intervene and uphold the Olympic spirit.
Seo also stressed that FIFA promptly intervened during the recent Qatar World Cup when Japan’s cheering squad displayed the Rising Sun Flag, acknowledging its historical significance.
Seo expressed concern, stating that the Rising Sun Flag continues to be openly displayed in international sporting events, including the prestigious Tour de France, currently underway across France.