Chinese restaurant chain apologizes for using Japanese celebrities' names without consent
A YangGuoFu franchise in Sendai closed temporarily after displaying flower arrangements bearing Yuzuru Hanyu and Yukio Hatoyama's names without permission.
YangGuoFu, a Chinese operator of malatang fast-food outlets, apologized for a marketing mishap at its Sendai location, where flower stands featured the names of Olympic skater Yuzuru Hanyu and ex-Prime Minister Yukio Hatoyama without consent. The franchise confirmed that the bouquets were not provided by the celebrities and expressed regret for any damage to their reputations. As a result, the restaurant will stay closed until Friday while the company implements measures to avoid a repeat.
Malatang, known for its numbing Sichuan peppercorns and chili heat, has become increasingly popular across Japan, with diners selecting ingredients from a self-serve display. The incident underscores the sensitivities around using public figures' names in commercial promotions.
Why it matters
It shows how misuse of celebrity names can damage reputations and force businesses to halt operations.
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