Comedian Kintaro sparked significant online controversy following his impersonation of the Prime Minister of Japan. The act, which was meant in jest, led to a heated debate on the limits of comedic portrayal of public figures. Critics accused Kintaro of disrespect while supporters defended the performance as a form of political satire. The comedian, despite the criticism, has not publicly apologized for the act.

In Japan, respecting authority figures, particularly the Prime Minister, is deeply ingrained in societal norms. The backlash Kintaro faced reflects these values and shows the high respect accorded to public figures. However, there is a growing demographic, particularly among younger generations, who support and understand the importance of satire, evidenced by the divided reactions.

In the US or EU, political satire, including impersonation of high-ranking officials, is quite common and largely accepted in the mainstream media. Though it can ignite controversy, the right to free speech often trumps any criticism. The controversy surrounding Kintaro highlights the cultural differences between Japan and the West concerning satire and respect for authority.