Hong Kong patriotic groups stage anti-Japan demonstrations on anniversary of Japan’s World War II surrender

Around 20 individuals gathered outside the Japanese consulate in Hong Kong on Saturday, marking the 81st anniversary of Japan's surrender in World War II with anti-Japan demonstrations. The protesters, many of whom were elderly, waved Chinese flags and voiced strong condemnation of Japan, calling it "shameless."

Participants displayed a prop doll of Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi adorned with a rising sun flag pattern, a symbol associated with Japanese military aggression. They also held a placard depicting a Japanese imperial army soldier and a banner reading "down with Japanese imperialists; oppose the resurgence of militarism." The group, identifying as "voluntary Hong Kong citizens," issued a statement in Chinese detailing historical atrocities committed by Japanese forces during the invasion of China, stating they "can't be forgiven."

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During the invasion of China, Japanese forces engaged in looting, murder, rape, and committed all manner of atrocities. It can’t be forgiven.

Another demonstration, organized by the "Caring and Protecting Hong Kong Association," also took place, with participants chanting slogans and marching to the consulate before posting a petition. These protests coincide with escalating tensions between China and Japan, notably triggered by Prime Minister Takaichi's November remarks suggesting a potential military response from Tokyo to a hypothetical Chinese attack on Taiwan.

Beijing considers Taiwan a part of China, a claim rejected by the island's government. Takaichi's comments have significantly strained Sino-Japanese relations, leading Beijing to advise its citizens against traveling to Japan and to impose stricter export controls on strategic goods.

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down with Japanese imperialists; oppose the resurgence of militarism.