Uniqlo and Li-Ning Pull Pokémon Products After Backlash in China

Uniqlo and Li-Ning have removed Pokémon-branded products from their shelves in China following significant backlash over a planned Pokémon event at Yasukuni Shrine. This decision was confirmed by various media outlets, including the Global Times.

The removal of these products comes in response to public outrage concerning the Yasukuni Shrine, which is widely viewed in China as a representation of Japanese militarism and past aggressions. This reaction highlights the sensitivity surrounding cultural and historical issues in the region.

Reports indicate that Pokémon items are no longer available on Uniqlo's official app and are absent from its flagship stores on major e-commerce platforms like JD.com and Taobao. Furthermore, physical retail locations have also ceased selling these collaboration products.

Li-Ning's customer service confirmed on Tuesday that related products are no longer available for purchase online. However, no specific reasons for the withdrawal were disclosed. Staff members at some Li-Ning stores in Beijing corroborated that Pokémon merchandise has been taken off the shelves.

At Uniqlo's flagship store in Sanlitun, Beijing, a representative stated that all Pokémon products had been removed earlier in the week, though it remains unclear if they will be restocked. Similarly, a representative at the Shanghai flagship indicated the decision was executed nationwide.

The controversy ignited when The Pokémon Company posted on its website about an event scheduled for January 31 at Yasukuni Shrine. This announcement was met with immediate backlash, prompting the removal of the event page shortly thereafter.

As the Pokémon franchise celebrates its 30th anniversary this year, many brands have released collaborative products. However, the nature of this incident reflects a significant overstep regarding historical and political sensitivities, eliciting widespread protests from Chinese consumers.

In a bid to address the situation, The Pokémon Company issued a bilingual apology on its website, attributing the listing of Yasukuni Shrine to a mistake in their review process. They assured that corrective measures would be taken to prevent similar incidents in the future.

The complications surrounding Pokémon's relations with Yasukuni Shrine are not new. Past occurrences, including in-game ties to the shrine and visits by company employees in 2019, have previously provoked backlash without substantial acknowledgments from the company.

Many Chinese netizens expressed that these incidents showcase a lack of understanding regarding historical contexts and sensitivities, especially considering China's importance as a market for the franchise. One customer noted that the company needs to recognize and respect the historical realities to maintain its consumer base.

An opinion piece published by People's Daily emphasized that Pokémon, as a globally recognized entity, should adhere to appropriate values and demonstrate respect for the cultural sentiments of diverse populations. Moving forward, how the company addresses this incident could be pivotal for its reputation in the global market.