The use of the Rising Sun Flag by Japanese supporters at the 2026 International Federation of Association Football (FIFA) World Cup in North and Central America has sparked widespread criticism from major media outlets in the U.S. and Europe, bringing the issue into the international spotlight.
CNN notably highlighted that while FIFA strictly prohibits flags with political messages, discriminatory expressions, or military imagery, it has yet to take an official stance on the Rising Sun Flag.
Professor Seo Kyung-duk of Sungshin Women’s University stated on Monday that the global attention drawn to the history of the Rising Sun Flag through the 2026 FIFA World Cup is a significant milestone.
The flag was displayed by supporters in the streets during Japan’s first group stage match and unfurled inside the stadium during the second, drawing widespread condemnation both at home and abroad.
In response, Professor Seo sent two protest emails to FIFA regarding the Rising Sun Flag issue, but the organization has remained silent.
However, he noted that major international media outlets, including CNN, Germany’s DW, and the UK’s Sports Bible, have covered the story, helping to raise awareness about the controversial flag in Western countries.
The issue also received significant coverage on Yahoo Japan, where many Japanese netizens defended the use of the flag and flooded Professor Seo’s social media accounts with direct messages.
Professor Seo emphasized the need to eliminate the use of the Rising Sun Flag at global sporting events like the World Cup and Olympics through continued international dialogue and awareness.
