Kimono and Japanese National Anthem on Liberation Day? ... KBS Finally Apologizes

KBS apologized after receiving criticism for broadcasting the opera "Madama Butterfly," which features the Japanese national anthem and traditional Japanese attire, on Liberation Day, August 15.

KBS issued a statement saying, "We apologize to viewers for causing concern and disappointment regarding the performance arts recorded broadcast program 'KBS Junggyeseok'."

The 'KBS Junggyeseok' aired on KBS 1TV at midnight featured a recorded performance of the opera "Madama Butterfly" held at the Seoul Arts Center on June 29.

Composed by Italian composer Giacomo Puccini, "Madama Butterfly" depicts the love story between an American officer and a Japanese woman. During the wedding scene of the two protagonists, the Japanese national anthem Kimigayo is played, and the female lead wears the traditional Japanese garment kimono.

The appearance of kimono and Kimigayo on public broadcasting on Liberation Day sparked criticism. One viewer posted a critical message on the KBS viewer petition board, which gained support from over 10,000 people by 1 p.m.

KBS explained, "The broadcast was originally scheduled for the end of July but was postponed to early morning on Liberation Day due to Olympic coverage. Considering the changed schedule, it was a fault of the production team for not reviewing whether the broadcast content was problematic or if the timing was appropriate."