On Monday, November 17, 2025, Keiji Takamine, the Japanese actor famed for his role as Seiji Hokuto in the classic tokusatsu series Ultraman Ace, took to social media platform X to address Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi directly. In a candid post, he asked: "What benefits could Japan possibly gain from starting a conflict with China? Only by upholding the principles of friendship can we maintain peace!"
The message struck a chord across the region, quickly sparking widespread discussions and praise among netizens on the Chinese mainland and in Japan. Many users lauded Takamine’s call for dialogue, seeing it as a timely reminder of the power of cultural icons to influence public discourse on international relations.
For young global citizens and digital audiences, the exchange underscores how entertainment figures can shape conversations around diplomacy and peace. As viewers tuned in to a hero known for battling monsters, they were reminded that real-world conflicts demand a different kind of courage: the willingness to foster understanding across borders.
Takamine’s intervention also highlights a broader trend of artists and entertainers stepping into policy debates. By leveraging their platforms, these voices can break through the noise of traditional political channels, especially among younger, digitally connected audiences. In an age where a single post can reach millions in minutes, calls for peaceful coexistence gain new momentum.
Whether this moment will translate into concrete policy shifts remains to be seen, but it has already sparked a vibrant dialogue on the role of friendship and cultural exchange in maintaining regional stability. For many on both sides of the water, Takamine’s words served as a rallying cry: peace is not won through conflict, but through ongoing respect and cooperation.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
