Former Japan soccer star Keisuke Honda sparked global debate after questioning the Nanjing Massacre on social media. Over the weekend, he publicly apologized and pledged to set the record straight.
On Friday, Honda shared a video clip of right-wing politicians Shintaro Ishihara and Takashi Kawamura denying the 1937 massacre. He endorsed their claim with “I believe that too,” triggering an online backlash from historians, fans, and international observers. Critics urged him to review wartime records and primary sources.
Following the outcry, Honda dove into original documents: diaries and reports by Japanese soldiers, internal military archives from the National Institute for Defense Studies in Japan, and eyewitness accounts – including foreign journalists and diplomats who witnessed the events unfold. These materials confirmed that more than 300,000 civilians and unarmed soldiers lost their lives after Japanese troops seized Nanjing, the then-capital of the Republic of China, on December 13, 1937.
“These historical records were not invented after the war,” Honda wrote in his apology post. “Independent accounts from multiple countries corroborate the facts with high academic credibility.” He apologized for his “optimistic comments” and thanked his followers for pushing him to learn.
By retracting his earlier support and sharing his research, Honda joined a broader movement of public figures reconsidering simplified narratives. His willingness to admit mistakes underscores the power of open dialogue and evidence-based history in an age of misinformation.
For young global citizens, business leaders, and sports fans alike, Honda’s U-turn offers a valuable reminder: Question, research, and stay curious – because even our heroes can learn and grow.
Reference(s):
Former Japanese footballer apologizes for questioning Nanjing Massacre
cgtn.com
