According to industry sources, local authorities in Shanghai have asked several amateur underground idol groups in China not to sing songs in Japanese, against the backdrop of tension between the two Asian neighbors sparked by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's comments on Taiwan.
The move comes as Sino-Japanese relations have grown complicated since Takaichi, who took office last year, made controversial statements regarding Taiwan. The Shanghai government is believed to want to avoid activities that could cause misunderstandings or escalate tensions.
Underground idol groups in Shanghai typically perform in small, non-mainstream venues and are heavily influenced by Japanese pop culture. However, according to sources, singing Japanese-language songs in the current sensitive climate is considered inappropriate.
Previously, Chinese authorities have repeatedly warned about the spread of foreign cultural elements that could affect young people, but this is one of the rare instances of specific reports about direct reminders to underground music groups in a major city.
There has been no official comment from the Shanghai government on the matter. The idol groups are said to be complying with the request, adjusting their song lists for upcoming performances.
