Netflix’s upcoming romance series “Can This Love Be Translated?” has become embroiled in controversy ahead of its release, as past accusations of Japanese actor Fukushi Sota’s far-right leanings and alleged war glorification have resurfaced—sparking intense backlash and even boycott movements among Korean viewers.
The controversy centers on Fukushi’s appearance in a 2015 Fuji TV program commemorating the 70th anniversary of the end of World War II. During the broadcast, he read farewell letters written by kamikaze pilots and interviewed a surviving member, making remarks such as “I respect my grandfather” and “We exist today thanks to them.”
While some Japanese viewers interpreted the program as conveying the tragedy of war, the response in Korea was starkly different. Critics argued that the show framed war from the perspective of “youth sacrifice” and “family sorrow,” without acknowledging Japan’s responsibility as a wartime aggressor. Fukushi’s expression of “respect” toward kamikaze pilots was widely seen as reflective of insufficient historical awareness, with many accusing him of implicitly supporting narratives that sanitize Japan’s imperialist war crimes.
As the controversy resurfaced, Korean netizens labeled Fukushi Sota a right-wing–leaning actor, questioning the decision to cast him in a Korean-targeted global production. Commentators emphasized that given Korea’s painful history of Japanese colonialism and war-era atrocities, casting such a figure is far more sensitive than a typical overseas collaboration.
The backlash has now expanded to the producers and Netflix itself, with critics accusing the platform of disregarding the historical and cultural context of East Asia during the casting process. Some expressed frustration, saying, “Freedom of expression is one thing, but content for Korean audiences must show basic historical sensitivity.”
Fukushi previously stated that he was “happy to work with Korea,” but he has remained silent amid the renewed controversy—further escalating distrust among viewers.
Ultimately, the issue has sparked a broader debate:
In the era of global streaming, what historical awareness should producers uphold when selecting cast members, especially in culturally sensitive regions?
In an age where casting itself conveys meaning, the criticism surrounding Can This Love Be Translated? shows no signs of fading anytime soon.
Sources: sportsseoul