Japanese PM offers condolences for Shanxi mine disaster; Chinese netizens express thanks

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida extended her sympathies following a devastating gas explosion at the Liushényu coal mine in Shanxi province, China, which claimed the lives of 82 people. The incident, which occurred on the evening of May 22, 2026, initially reported 90 fatalities before the toll was revised.

Kishida's message of condolence, posted on X (formerly Twitter), was conveyed in Japanese, English, and simplified Chinese. She expressed deep sorrow over the significant disaster and offered profound condolences to the bereaved families and heartfelt sympathy to the affected people.

The gesture comes amidst a backdrop of political friction between Japan and China, particularly after Kishida's previous statements regarding "a Taiwan contingency" led to strong opposition from Beijing. However, her expression of sympathy for the mine disaster resonated with many Chinese netizens.

Numerous comments in simplified Chinese flooded Kishida's post, with users expressing gratitude for her concern. Some netizens directly contrasted her empathy with that of Chinese leadership, with one comment stating, "To be honest, you care more about Chinese people than Xi Jinping." The messages highlighted a sentiment of appreciation for her outreach, fostering a moment of goodwill despite ongoing political complexities.

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Deeply saddened to learn of the coal mine explosion in your country's Shanxi Province, which has caused a major disaster. I express my deepest condolences to the victims and my heartfelt sympathy to the bereaved families and the affected people.