Kumamoto earthquake relief draws backlash over Korean water aid and Chinese-made air conditioners

A magnitude 7.1 earthquake struck Kumamoto Prefecture in late July, killing 38 people and prompting extensive disaster‑relief efforts. South Korean entities responded: Korean Air delivered 1,000 boxes (12,000 bottles) of 1.5‑litre bottled water via a cargo flight from Incheon to Kitakyushu, and fashion platform Musinsa sent towels, arm‑sleeves and postcards to victims.

Some Japanese netizens posted derogatory comments, writing that Korean water was only suitable for flushing toilets – a remark that was widely shared and condemned, sparking an online controversy over anti‑Korean sentiment.

At the same time, Japan’s Self‑Defense Forces publicised the delivery of portable air‑conditioners to shelters. The units, sold under the Bic IDEA brand, were identified as manufactured in China. Right‑wing commentators criticised the use of Chinese‑made equipment, while others argued that rescue priorities should outweigh such disputes. The air‑conditioners could not be operated due to power‑supply issues and were repurposed as tables.