China Bans ‘Detective Conan’ & ‘My Hero Academia’ Cosplay Amidst Rising Tensions

A growing diplomatic tension between China and Japan is impacting cultural exchange, with several Chinese comic conventions now prohibiting cosplay and the sale of merchandise related to popular Japanese anime series “Detective Conan” and “My Hero Academia.” The restrictions stem from recent controversies and reflect broader political sensitivities.

The Source of the Controversy

The issues began with “My Hero Academia,” which faced criticism in 2020 for depicting a villainous doctor named “Shiga Maruta.” This name sparked outrage due to its association with Unit 731, a notorious Japanese army unit during the Second World War that conducted horrific biological and chemical warfare experiments – referred to as “Maruta” – on prisoners. The subsequent announcement of a collaboration between “Detective Conan” and “My Hero Academia” further fueled the backlash from Chinese audiences.

Did You Know? The term “Maruta” translates to “log” and was the dehumanizing designation used by Unit 731 for its human experimentation subjects.

Comic Con Restrictions

Several comic conventions across China have responded by implementing bans. The organizers of the “iJoy Comic Con” in Beijing have completely prohibited cosplay, exhibits, and sales of goods related to both “Detective Conan” and “My Hero Academia.” Similar measures have been announced by the “SSCA Animation & Game Expo” in Shenyang, Liaoning Province, and the “ACC Animation Expo” in Xi’an, Shaanxi Province.

Organizers are urging attendees to respect history and national dignity. At the Xi’an event, restrictions extend to other anime deemed controversial, including “Kaichou wa Maid-sama!” due to concerns surrounding the author’s alleged support for Taiwanese independence.

Expert Insight: These restrictions demonstrate how quickly cultural products can become entangled in geopolitical tensions. The decisions by these conventions highlight a sensitivity to historical trauma and a desire to avoid actions that could be perceived as disrespectful or provocative.

Broader Political Context

These actions occur against a backdrop of strained relations between China and Japan. China maintains a travel advisory discouraging its citizens from visiting Japan, and official exchanges have been limited. The recent electoral success of Japan’s Liberal Democratic Party, and forecasts of a more assertive foreign policy, may further exacerbate these tensions. An event featuring the popular “Pokémon” franchise was also briefly removed from a Japanese website following criticism from Chinese internet users after an event was scheduled at the Yasukuni Shrine.

China’s People’s Liberation Army newspaper has stated that these recent incidents underscore the persistence of Japanese militarism within cultural and sporting spheres, and warned against complacency.

Frequently Asked Questions

What specifically triggered the bans at the comic conventions?

The bans were triggered by the controversy surrounding the name “Shiga Maruta” in “My Hero Academia” and its association with the atrocities committed by Unit 731 during World War II, as well as a collaboration between “Detective Conan” and “My Hero Academia.”

Which comic conventions have implemented restrictions?

The “iJoy Comic Con” in Beijing, the “SSCA Animation & Game Expo” in Shenyang, and the “ACC Animation Expo” in Xi’an have all implemented restrictions on “Detective Conan” and “My Hero Academia” related content.

Are these restrictions limited to these two anime series?

No, the restrictions at the Xi’an event extend to other anime considered controversial, including “Kaichou wa Maid-sama!” due to concerns about the author’s political views.

As China-Japan relations continue to evolve, it remains to be seen whether these restrictions will expand or if a path toward renewed cultural exchange can be forged.