Japanese Netizens' Derogatory Remarks on Korean Water Donations Spark Outrage

Following a magnitude 7.1 earthquake that left many homeless in Kumamoto, Japan, donations of water and daily necessities from South Korean companies have drawn hateful remarks from some Japanese social media users. Comments such as "Korean water should only be used to flush toilets" have ignited public anger.

Korean Air sent 1,000 boxes, totaling 12,000 bottles, of water via cargo flight from Incheon to Kitakyushu, with the supplies being distributed to victims. A fashion platform also provided free essential items like gloves and towels to the Kyushu region, including postcards with messages of support.

However, some Japanese netizens responded cynally. One user shared a post about Korean Air's donation, stating, "I'm not a victim, but honestly, I don't want to drink Korean water. The only place I can think of using that water is the toilet." This comment prompted a strong reaction from a South Korean netizen, who retorted, "You're from a country where they barely rinse beer glasses with water after customers use them. How can you say that to a country that's helping you?"

Other Japanese users expressed shame and anger. One wrote, "If you don't want to receive help, just stay quiet. Are you saying that because your pride is hurt? Still stuck in imperial superiority, pathetic Japanese." Another added, "How can you respond to kindness like that?" and "Only for toilets? I'm furious."

The earthquake, which occurred on August 28, has claimed 38 lives, with seven employees losing their lives and five injured at a large shopping mall alone.