Amid anti-Korean fears,

Kōhaku, 'makeshift Japan' bans K-Pop, says Korea

At last it's been decided! NHK Kōhaku will have zero K-Pop!

NHK has gotten more strict on the appearance of Korean artists on its famous year-end show, "Kōhaku Uta Gassen," due to growing anti-Korean sentiment in the country, reported the Fuji evening newspaper.spreading the news that there is a high probability of K-Pop not being included on a show that is considered the height of Japanese tradition and authority in the entertainment world.Earlier in the month, NHK President Matsumoto said, "Lee Myung Bak demanding apologies from the His Majesty the Emperor, as well as the Takeshima problem has created concern over whether Korean artists will be invited to perform, due to growing animosity from viewers," at a press conference on September 6.The media pointed out that things like the Takeshima problem, Lee Myung Bak's demand for an apology from His Majesty the Emperor, etc.Source - SearchChina Translation -Last year, Korean artists Tohoshinki, KARA and Shojojidai made appearances, butScheduled to broadcast from 7:15pm until 11:45pm, the show will tie last year's, which featured a theme of revival after March 11 earthquake, as the longest in history. NHK's President Matsumoto said, "The Japanese Olympic team won a record 38 medals this year in London and gave Japan a great deal of strength. With our show, we'd like to send a message, through song, of stepping forward."One music insider said,Since the old days, the implicit rule that "Politics has no place is the entertainment industry" has been around, but that is no longer the case.Source - Nikkan Saizo Translation -