Popular Japanese anime singer pulled off stage in Shanghai amid rising Tokyo–Beijing tensions

Japanese singer Maki Otsuki, known for performing theme songs for the popular anime One Piece, was abruptly removed from the stage during a concert in Shanghai on Friday. This comes amid the growing diplomatic tensions between Japan and China.

The performance was part of the Bandai Namco Festival 2025, a two-day event featuring multiple Japanese artists. Midway through Otsuki’s performance, the stage lights went out and the sound system was cut, forcing the singer to halt her show.

Her agency later confirmed the incident, describing it as an “unavoidable circumstance.” Organisers also announced the cancellation of the rest of the festival, affecting other planned performers, including the popular idol group Momoiro Clover Z.

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The diplomatic dispute intensified following comments by Japanese leader Sanae Takaichi regarding Japan’s potential involvement if China were to attack Taiwan. China responded by summoning Japan’s ambassador and issuing warnings, signalling a hardening stance on any perceived threats in the region.

Cultural exchanges have become an unexpected casualty of these tensions.

In recent days, several Japanese artists, including pop star Ayumi Hamasaki and jazz pianist Hiromi Uehara, have seen scheduled performances in China cancelled, reflecting the broader pattern of cautious engagement by Chinese authorities. Analysts suggest that these cancellations are intended to send a political signal, discouraging Japanese public figures from appearing amid sensitive geopolitical circumstances.

Fans at the festival expressed disappointment and frustration over the sudden stoppage. Social media reactions ranged from confusion to concern, with many urging organisers to clarify the reasons behind the removal of Otsuki mid-performance.

Observers warn that as diplomatic relations remain strained, Japanese performers may face further disruptions in China, affecting both fan engagement and cultural collaboration.