Dec 16 (News On Japan) –
Nara Prefecture is below hearth for allocating 270 million yen ($1.75 million) in taxpayer cash to host a free Okay-Pop live performance at Nara Park subsequent October. The occasion, anticipated to draw 9,000 attendees, will characteristic South Korean artists, with their charges and journey bills lined by the Korean facet. However, Nara will shoulder the operational prices.
The plan has sparked criticism on-line, with many calling the expenditure a waste of public funds. Comments like “Outrageous misuse of taxpayer money” and calls for to prioritize conventional cultural occasions over international pop live shows have gained traction.
Local meeting member Ogita Yoshio questioned the transfer, stating, “Can this truly gain the approval of our residents? A one-day event like this feels transient, with no lasting impact for the community.”
Governor Makoto Yamashita defended the live performance, emphasizing its cultural worth. He argued that the occasion supplies Japanese youth with a uncommon probability to see their favourite artists reside, fostering goodwill and cultural change between Japan and South Korea.
Amid backlash, Yamashita apologized for a controversial phrasing in his earlier statements, clarifying that his intent was to spotlight affordability, not suggest monetary struggles amongst Japanese youth. Despite the correction, public opinion stays divided over the usage of prefectural funds.
Source: ANN