🎯 Last week on X, former football star Keisuke Honda found himself in hot water after sharing a video of Japan’s Shintaro Ishihara and Takashi Kawamura denying the Nanjing Massacre. Honda added "I believe that too," sparking a global backlash and calls to dive into history books.
🙏 On Saturday, Honda issued a public apology. He admitted he was wrong and shared the primary sources he studied: diaries and reports from Japanese soldiers, internal military docs from the Japan National Institute for Defense Studies, plus testimonies from foreigners who witnessed the events in Nanjing, then the capital of the Republic of China on the Chinese mainland.
📚 Honda explained, "These materials existed immediately after the incident, not crafted later. Independent records from multiple sides back each other up, giving them high academic credibility."
🔄 He then corrected his original post: "I thought I knew history but made optimistic comments. After researching primary sources, I see the Nanjing Massacre facts align with the historical consensus. I was wrong—thank you for letting me learn again!"
⚽️ For many fans, Honda’s U-turn is proof that even public figures can grow by owning mistakes. It also reminds our generation—always fact-check before you share 🔍. Our fast-scroll feeds may tempt us to hit retweet, but a quick history check can make all the difference!
🌏 Whether you’re scrolling through trending threads or catching up with friends over late-night noodles, this is a reminder: digital vibes and real history deserve equal respect. Stay curious, stay informed! 👍
Reference(s):
Former Japanese footballer apologizes for questioning Nanjing Massacre
cgtn.com
