"Yi Sun-sin Is Not Allowed, but Toyotomi Hideyoshi Is?" KSOC Lodges Formal Protests with OCA and Japan

[Financial News]  An anachronistic farce unfolded at a festival of peace and harmony in Asia, with the "main culprit behind Japan's invasions of Korea" making an appearance.
In response to Japan's deeply misguided historical perception, which crossed far beyond the line, the Korean Sport & Olympic Committee (KSOC) lodged a formal protest with the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) and the organizing committee.
On the 17th, the KSOC announced that it had sent letters of protest, under the name of Chairman Ryu Seung-min, to the OCA and the Japanese organizing committee over the appearance of Toyotomi Hideyoshi at the welcome event for athletes at the 2026 Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games Village. The letters called for an immediate expression of regret and measures to prevent a recurrence.
The controversial scene took place on the 15th at Kinjo Pier in Nagoya, Japan. A group of warriors dressed as Oda Nobunaga, Toyotomi Hideyoshi, and Tokugawa Ieyasu—the so-called "Three Heroes of Nagoya"—took the stage during a pre-ceremony performance marking the docking of the large cruise ship Costa Serena, which will serve as the athletes' village for these Games.
Although Japan uses these figures as tourism and cultural content, critics condemned the decision to feature Toyotomi Hideyoshi—a war criminal who invaded Joseon and shattered peace in East Asia—at an event welcoming athletes from Asian countries. They said the move demonstrated a failure to show the basic consideration and common sense expected of a host country.
Neither the OCA nor the organizing committee has yet issued an official response to the KSOC's letter of protest. However, in response to questions from Korean media the previous day, the organizing committee claimed, "There was no intent to support any particular historical figure or convey a message," explaining that the performance was intended to introduce the host region's culture. It also acknowledged that the event could cause controversy, adding, "We will take care to ensure that all future programs are appropriate for an international sporting event."
Despite the absurd controversy, South Korean athletes remain unfazed. Lee Sang-hyun, head of South Korea's delegation, entered Nagoya through Chubu Centrair International Airport with the main delegation that day. He said, "Japanese local culture is important, too, but it is true that we are disappointed by the lack of consideration for our delegation. Rather than letting that affect us, our job is to focus on our competitions and show what we can do," making clear that the team would calmly prepare for the competition.
[email protected] Jeon Sang-il Reporter