Japanese comedian Yamazaki Hiroshi, known for his comedic acts and shows, is currently facing criticism for his recent behavior during a visit to a Korean market. Hiroshi was featured on the TBS morning show ‘Love it’ on May 2nd, where he and other cast members visited a traditional Korean market to sample local delicacies.
During the segment, Hiroshi was seen eating contaminated food using a skewer that had already been used and had traces of saliva. The owner of the food stall visibly showed their disapproval with an ‘X’ gesture, and other cast members admonished Hiroshi for his unsanitary behavior. Despite this, Hiroshi continued to joke around and make light of the situation, rather than apologizing or acknowledging the severity of his actions.
The incident has since caused uproar in Japan, with local news outlets such as Joonang Sports reporting on the controversy. Many Japanese citizens have taken to social media to express their disapproval of Hiroshi’s actions, with comments such as “He has tarnished the reputation of Japanese people” and “Even high school students know better than to behave like this.”
This incident also sheds light on the recent trend in Japan of sharing videos and images of unsanitary behavior, often referred to as ‘mimpei acts’, on social media platforms. Examples of such behavior include spitting on sushi and placing it back on a conveyor belt, putting cigarette butts in ginger jars, and returning used chopsticks to communal holders in restaurants. This behavior has been condemned as a social issue in Japan, and some individuals have even faced legal repercussions for their actions.
The incident involving Hiroshi highlights the importance of practicing proper hygiene and respect when interacting with different cultures and their customs. As international travel and cultural exchange continue to increase, it is essential to maintain a sense of responsibility and awareness towards others’ cultures and customs.
