The series caused a diplomatic crisis. Hello Kitty apologized to China

Following the developments, Chinese state media The Global Times published an evaluation targeting the television series in question.

The news claimed that the production had a reputation for smearing China, and it was reported that the series caused great surprise and harsh reactions on social media.

The article also argued that the series reflects the anti-China narrative of the current conservative right-wing administration in Japan and serves far-right tendencies in Japanese society.

Although broadcaster TBS has not yet made a statement on the issue, it is known that the president of the channel previously stated in his statement to the Japanese media that the production is a completely fictional entertainment work.

The channel manager noted that TBS does not adopt any approach that incites conflict between countries or approves the use of force or violence.

Sanrio's step back showed once again the sensitivity that foreign brands and global figures face in the Chinese market.

A similar crisis recently occurred on the French football star Kylian Mbappe front.

When the famous football player playing for Real Madrid called the Chinese communist leader Mao Zedong a dictator, Chinese sponsors withdrew their agreements and the star player had to apologize after the reactions.