Japanese singer Ayumi Hamasaki’s Chinese and Japanese team spent 5 days completing the stage setup before their performance in Shanghai. However, the concert was abruptly canceled a day before it was set to take place allegedly due to “force majeure.” It is widely believed that this sudden cancellation may be related to the remarks made by Japanese Prime Minister Takamisa Sanae regarding “issues with Taiwan,” which supposedly angered the Chinese authorities.
Despite the cancellation, Ayumi Hamasaki decided not to leave and instead chose to take the stage in an empty venue, performing a solo concert as originally planned. She expressed her disappointment in a post on her Instagram story, mentioning how her team had worked tirelessly for 5 days to set up the stage in Shanghai, only to receive the last-minute cancellation request.
Hamasaki expressed her regret at not being able to apologize in person to the 14,000 fans who had gathered from China, Japan, and other countries and were eagerly waiting to see her perform. She went on to complete the entire performance in the deserted venue while recording the show for future release at a “suitable time” for fans who couldn’t attend.
Notably, Ayumi Hamasaki had made adjustments to her performance content the day before the cancellation to pay tribute to the victims of a tragic fire in Hong Kong. She removed fire effects, canceled her red outfits, and requested that the audience refrain from wearing red. Fans saw this gesture as a display of deep empathy, with many commenting on her professionalism and dedication.
On a related note, Japanese singer Maki Otsuki was performing in Shanghai on November 28 when her performance was abruptly cut off and she was forced off the stage. Taiwanese artist Yang Lie shook his head in response, commenting that such actions seem to be something only China (Chinese Communist Party) would do.
Japanese media personality Akio Yaita stated that the main intention behind China’s aggressive actions was to use artists and fans to pressure the Japanese government into retracting statements related to Taiwan made by Prime Minister Sanae.
According to a report by Taiwan’s “One Apple News Network,” the recent wave of boycotts against Japanese stars orchestrated by the Chinese Communist Party has resulted in significant losses for the Chinese organizers. Apart from refunding ticket sales, the organizers incurred expenses for venue rentals, artists’ travel and accommodation, equipment transport, administrative approvals, stage setups, security, and promotions. If these expenses are not offset by income, it would lead to significant financial losses.
The report further mentioned that typically, when Japanese artists perform in China, the organizers pay 30% of the agreed fee after confirming the artist’s willingness, another 40% when signing the contract, and the remaining before the artist departs for China. However, payment structures may vary slightly depending on different factors. With the sudden cancellation of Japanese artists’ performances, the Chinese organizers may face substantial financial repercussions.
Some online comments likened the actions of the Chinese Communist Party to those of an abusive spouse taking out frustrations on family members at home after facing challenges outside. They pointed out that such behavior would never earn global recognition for China.