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AKB48 candy ad criticized for encouraging homosexuality

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I personally don't mind this CM (I'm a girl), but saying that “The commercial may encourage homosexuality" is ridiculous.

17 ( +22 / -6 )

Ok, so usually I would be the one in a story about AKB48 defending them and their actions, but what can I say about this. DAMN!!!

It is interesting to see that the big complaint is that it "may promote homosexuality". Who cares, get over it.

Yes this is tasteless, but there is always room in the world for tasteless. I would love to see the response though from the those in charge about how this is just being sweet and playing.

Can't wait for the first AKB48 full length feature porn! Hahahahaha!

6 ( +9 / -4 )

So theres an outrage over this but not the content thats in all other media everyday? funny :)

3 ( +8 / -5 )

oral flora?? Quickly, call an emergency council meeting. This sounds absolutely outrageous.

5 ( +8 / -3 )

As if!! What a load of guff. Oral flora - is that the name of the candy? Broadcasting standards watchdog - there is one? Highly entertaining article all round.

-1 ( +2 / -3 )

I'm not an AKB fan, but this is ridiculous. If many girls start kissing for fun or more after they've seen this advert, what's wrong with that???

Our real face has come out. Oh yeah, we are a liberal society, oh yeah, it's all up to your rights. Then "give him a mask, and he'll tell you the truth!" (Oscar Wilde).

We're no better than those American hardcore Christians or Conservatives, as it's turned out - Homosexuality is wrong!!! Give over!!!

3 ( +5 / -2 )

Are you kidding me?? With all the gay and transgendered "talents" on TV, they are going criticize this??? As if someone is going to watch this ad and think "I think I will become a homosexual too"...Conservatives are so DUMB!!

13 ( +17 / -4 )

Afraid the population of Japan will decrease even more.

3 ( +8 / -5 )

Absolutely ridiculous. No one is encouraged toward homosexuality. Sexuality is innate, not brought about by candy commercials. Japan faces real problems, and girls kissing in a commercial isn't one of them.

13 ( +17 / -5 )

Please. This is not newsworthy. The Broadcasting Ethics and Program Improvement Organisation received 116 complaints in March about commercials concerning young people, the majority of which concerned this ad. So you have less than 116 complaints about this ad in a country of 127 million people. Just how many zeros do I have to include after the decimal point for that percentage?

Funny how the negative news makes the headlines.

3 ( +5 / -2 )

Oh dear, exactly the same fuss as when Tatu were kissing in school uniforms in the video for All the Things She Said nearly ten years ago (now I feel old!)

It rather betrays a fundamental misunderstanding of how sexuality works....

2 ( +4 / -2 )

"...said the spokesman, who declined to be named..." Hahahaha!!!

Let them kiss for dog's sake! These people calling in (not that many to be honest) are such geezers. But promote homosexuality, I say. Wouldn't hurt with a little more diversity.

1 ( +4 / -3 )

They showed this commercial twice in Canada and Homosexuality is rampant in the streets now. Absolutely everyone is homosex now. The population has become totally fabulous!

Beware! Heed the warning of the "experts."

Homosexuality is about love and respect. Akb48 is about tidilating old men.... It's very different.

5 ( +9 / -5 )

"[...] encourage homosexuality" ... Welcome in 1850, everyone.

8 ( +11 / -3 )

Just more publicity for the AKB and tissue makers jump in sales.

6 ( +7 / -1 )

This in despite of girl-on-girl being the hot form of homosexuality...

I wonder if the number of complaints would rise to 150 or more if boy band Arashi were in a similar commercial.

2 ( +3 / -1 )

I just watched the 2 ads and the making of from the web site http://www.akb48cho.jp/cm/index.html and from my point of view I did not see any "kissing" just moving the candy from one girl to another. May be it's just me, but here in the US I seen alot worst. Any way It seems the girls had a fun day filming the ad. It all comes down to what they think.

1 ( +2 / -1 )

Agree, this is not really newsworthy to begin with, but it certainly GRABS the reader's eye doesn't it?

“The commercial may encourage homosexuality,” one of the complaints said, adding “oral flora” was also a concern, according to the Broadcasting Ethics and Program Improvement Organisation.

OH MY GOD NO!!! Japan already has a declining birthrate, the last thing it needs is encouragement of homosexuality!!!

“I don’t want to see commercials like this,” said another correspondent, who also complained of a music video by the group “in which girls, including teens, hug each other in their underwear…. It is very distasteful.”

LOL obviously not a sensible human being. j/k

1 ( +4 / -3 )

I would like to accuse them for inspiring sexual assault.

Running the gamut from girl-next-door to sultry temptress, the band also has a substantial male following—many of whom are older

0 ( +3 / -3 )

SURPRISED!?!?!?!? Really? An all girl group. All girl parties in Japan. Nooooo, really? It's already alive and well here in Japan. Homosexuality is nothing to fear UNLESS you are the other gender that is losing your rights. As you slowly see you are being cut out of society.

Have no fear gentlemen. Life will go on. Except in the future, you'll be used as human donors and given a necktie as a souvenir so you can back to work while the girls kiss each other with sweets.

It's a new day and age in Japan and the lot of you haven't woken up to see that Japan is country for "Women" not men.

Funny all these guys that see AKB48 as their idols. What if you like them and they don't want you?

-6 ( +3 / -9 )

Despicable, if they want to engage in such behavior, they should come to MY house and do it!

18 ( +18 / -1 )

My kid picked up a national guy magazine in the conbini the other day that had a dozen teen girls licking various doorknobs in underwear so this is light. No doubt this crap is orchestrated by the guys who help pimp them out for a nation that eats it up. I dunno...perhaps ask the Emperor on the right what he thinks of this? It is clear this was done for specific reasons and marketing target. Sucking on candy in a lesbian image/act means the place has turned into a bunch of distasteful suckers.

1 ( +3 / -2 )

I see the point of their complaints...it made me want to become a lesbian.

7 ( +8 / -1 )

Have the broadcasting standards committee received any complaints about having that mincing squeaker Tanoshingo on TV all hours for the last six months? Or - what was his name? Ah yes, it was a kind of subtle reference to homosexuality, that's why it eluded me for a moment - the leather-fetish caricature HARD GAY?

It seems the idea of girls experimenting with their sexuality is taboo and a danger to society, but men being all over each other is cute and unthreatening. A bizarre distinction. I know which of the two I'd rather look at.

5 ( +10 / -5 )

With a total of around 90 all-female performers, ranging in age from early teens to mid-20s, their bubblegum pop and synchronized dancing has proved a huge hit with pre-pubescent girls.

They are also a huge hit with otaku/geeky guys. Who were no doubt wildly turned-on by this CM, and were not among the 116 folks who complained.

1 ( +3 / -2 )

Ivan - spot on. What is it about male homosexuality that is so prevalent in pop culture here? Men dressed as women on a nightly basis on TV, Tanoshingo everywhere, Hard GAY, boy-bands so over-the-top gay that u know they're made for gay men, not girls, etc. As a nation, Japanese men are very deep in the closet.

3 ( +8 / -5 )

If anything these conservatives should be held accountable for making an AKB48 news story worth reading! Man, if this gets them riled up, I can't wait til someone shows them that music video of theirs, where they're making out in bathtubs and having pillow fights! People get outraged at all the wrong things these days.

1 ( +2 / -1 )

“The commercial may encourage homosexuality,”

Homosexuality isn't a fashion/food trend that AKB48 can spread around, nor is it a life-style choice -- it's biological, idiots! And why am I not surprised it would take something like this for people who probably otherwise pleasure themselves to videos like Heavy Rotation to realize this band of little girls (some adults) is over-sexualized? I give total credit to the one respondent who says:

'“I don’t want to see commercials like this,” said another correspondent, who also complained of a music video by the group “in which girls, including teens, hug each other in their underwear…. It is very distasteful.”'

At least this person realizes it's a bigger problem than just a girl passing a candy to another girl mouth to mouth. I don't see how this is any more, or any less, offensive and/or distasteful than anything else these ladies are forced to do for middle-aged oyaji and others.

-1 ( +4 / -5 )

I'd MUCH rather see this than that super fat transvestite (transsexual?) guy that lurks on every variety show.

5 ( +7 / -2 )

forced to do

They can leave the money-making fame machine at anytime. Some of them may have been "forced," some of them may have been quite willing, you would have to ask each and every one of them at their next shake fans' hands bonanza. Even then the answer would differ, depending on whose eyes and ears were nearby and whether or not they included the intolerant and threatened.

1 ( +1 / -0 )

' By being so offended that it promotes "homosexuality" it is discouraging homosexuality, and if people truly feel they are gay, seeing it being accepted by the media may help them feel more confident rather than be harassed and later commit suicide. All people should feel comfortable with their sexuality. This should be a way of saying "its ok" than anything, Its a Japanese commercial, I am not surprised or shocked. Japan has had many suggestive advertizements over the years, so why is this so special? If this offends you, read the manga your daughter is reading, I am sure that has weirder stuff than homosexuality.

0 ( +0 / -0 )

It's got to be females that are complaining.

In all fairness the advertising company should now have the members of SMAP do the same type of commercial too!

-1 ( +1 / -2 )

On the JT homepage, note the image of the bears accompanying the headline "Rampaging bears kill 2 women workers at Akita bear park". They appear to be engaged in the same activity as the girls. Even their heads are at the same angles.

1 ( +3 / -2 )

If you make a deep search, you will discover that homosexuality was quite common in the samurai era, mainly man-on-man. And I read more than once that J-girls think gay men are attractive, while J-man think gay girls are sexy. I can't understand why so much fuss about this ad.

-1 ( +0 / -1 )

“I don’t want to see commercials like this,” said another correspondent, who also complained of a music video by the group “in which girls, including teens, hug each other in their underwear…. It is very distasteful.”

But hey! I bet they wouldn't complain if the girls in undies were hugging an icky old guy in his 60's!!!

Welcome to JAPAN! LOL

-1 ( +4 / -5 )

and if people truly feel they are gay, seeing it being accepted by the media may help them feel more confident rather than be harassed and later commit suicide

Sydney Miller - I doubt a lot of super-hot lesbian teenaged girls will find solace in this ad. It's kiddie-porn made by men for men.

3 ( +8 / -5 )

honestly what is "oral flora" is that a STD? did i miss out on something ??

-1 ( +0 / -1 )

Just watched the ad and thought it was a bit lame. It didn't make me want to buy the candy it was supposedly advertising, so I guess it was a failure as an ad.

-1 ( +4 / -5 )

Akb48 is about tidilating old men....

Right. It's girl-on-girl soft porn. That's all. Not all that different from highly sexualized advertising world-wide.

3 ( +3 / -0 )

Would be interesting to see the response if this was aired in another country. I'm under the impression homosexuality is heavily looked down upon in Japan? I doubt it would have such an impact?

0 ( +0 / -0 )

under fire in Japan for encouraging homosexuality.

So, by this statement, we are then to assume that homosexuality is something inherently wrong/vile/abnormal/etc?

or is it something only girls aren't "allowed" to encourage?

what about the insane amount of dudes that are clearly homosexual or at the very least "encouraging acting/dressing like women" that we see EVERYDAY on TV here in Japan? THAT is fine though???? I can't think of any of the names at the moment but that massive fat dood always in a sparkling evening gown, that smiley massage/este guy, c'mon help me out here I'm sure you guys can name a ton of these types we see on crap TV ALL THE TIME! To a lesser extent, anyone remember "Hard Gay"? I realize he wasn't gay but how come he got a pass????????????

the amount of intolerence here in Japan is intolerable.

2 ( +2 / -0 )

Hmmm 116 complaints out of an audience of how many millions? I bet there are other ads and TV items that have received more complaints than this (like Laser Ramon - that was his name? Full bondage leather gear making sexually suggestive movements in front of children - THAT was distateful) but dont make the news because its not AKB48.

Personally I find the whole AKB48-Otaku-Fetish thing quite repulsive, and this advert is very obviously a clear attempt to stir up controversy and put them in the news - again - but as long as they dont bother me in everyday life, and the weirdos that adore them dont bother my daughter - let them get on with it. Personally I would be mortally embarrassed to be male and an AKB48 fan, but thats just me.

1 ( +5 / -4 )

"majority of the 116 complaints" If anything is distasteful to 59 people in a nation of 127,799,000, it must be banned. That's called democracy. Sorry girls, no more candy, ever!

1 ( +1 / -0 )

In Australia that commercial couldn't run, it would be considered child pornography given that some members are under 18.

5 ( +6 / -1 )

Under 18 wouldn't be too acceptable no doubt. Over 18 it is welcoming in this country to see some liberalism.

-1 ( +0 / -1 )

Lesbianism is taboo to the point of being disgusting in Japan. There are lots of cross dressing guys on TV (some of whom are well known to be gay) and indeed gay men on TV, and young girls read books about male homosexual love, sometimes -- before the west complained anyway --- containing entirely composed of explicit man on man sex (in the genre Yayoi). Male homosexuality, while currently repressed by the Japanese man in the street, has a long history of being almost refined, among priests and warriors. Lesbianism on the other hand it not portrayed on Japanese TV, there are no openly lesbian television personalities and it is rarely even expressed in Japanese pornography, since lesbianism requires that women have and express their desire. Female desire is, from the Japanese myth of the fall, entirely taboo, horrible and certainly not "the hot form of homosexuality." In this sense, the AKB48 commercial is radical, liberating, avant-garde and, to some, abhorrent.

7 ( +9 / -2 )

this could not encourage homosexuality... worse enough... hmm.. to see teenagers putting their hands... err... on....

-5 ( +0 / -5 )

This is one of the best commercials ever!

"I don't want to see commercials like this"

So don't watch it. Sheesh.

"It is very distasteful"

It is not.

0 ( +1 / -1 )

"In Australia that commercial couldn't run ( on TV )"

Thank goodness for the Internet!

0 ( +2 / -2 )

It is just candy. Sexuality is biological yes. It's expression can certainly be influenced by culture. This commercial is certainly quite innocent. I think all of us should treat each other with respect and purity.

One of my sons has a friend that seems to like to take things. He cannot help himself. We should all respect "who he is"? Yes and he should discipline himself not to take things that are not his.

0 ( +2 / -2 )

Folks I think oral flora refers to one bacterial friends who reside among our chompers, appears some are afraid of the transfer of these bacteria!

-1 ( +0 / -1 )

As for the ad............ its all been pretty much said, this is just part & parcel of japans pedo-pop industry.

1 ( +2 / -1 )

Excellent post timtak.

0 ( +1 / -1 )

That is a bit Hypocritical isnt it. Drag queens and Trans-sexual and more are all ok on tv but two girls passing candy with their mouths is too much. weird.

I dont like the comercial anyway. whatever. but i do think it is hypocritical.

2 ( +2 / -0 )

timtakAPR. 21, 2012 - 10:03AM JST

Lesbianism is taboo to the point of being disgusting in Japan. There are lots of cross dressing guys on TV (some of whom are well known to be gay) and indeed gay men on TV, and young girls read books about male homosexual love, sometimes -- before the west complained anyway --- containing entirely composed of explicit man on man sex (in the genre Yayoi). Male homosexuality, while currently repressed by the Japanese man in the street, has a long history of being almost refined, among priests and warriors. Lesbianism on the other hand it not portrayed on Japanese TV, there are no openly lesbian television personalities and it is rarely even expressed in Japanese pornography, since lesbianism requires that women have and express their desire. Female desire is, from the Japanese myth of the fall, entirely taboo, horrible and certainly not "the hot form of homosexuality." In this sense, the AKB48 commercial is radical, liberating, avant-garde and, to some, abhorrent.

Good Post, Timtak

We all know how Japan still living in the dark ages..LOL Being gay is fine (gay talento that is!) but being lesbian is...DAME! Talk about a country run by dry old dinosaurs. Japanese were very notorious to have sexual relationships with little boys through history. Do some deep research and read Japanese history books. Gay relationships were extremely common. Poor lesbians. I feel for them. Now we have these old geezers wanting to have their cake and eat it too. Talk about downright discrimination and ugly double standards. bleh!

0 ( +3 / -3 )

The image/concept is very provocative to say the least. It has the elements (young girls, school uniform, etc,) that are conducive to the type of molestations we've been reading a lot about lately.

2 ( +3 / -1 )

BEST. AD. EVER. Made me buy 'pucho' and the lemonade flavour is AWESOME!

I think I'm in love with Mariko...

-2 ( +2 / -4 )

moneyyen,

Thats exactly where your problem lies... This is NOT the United States, this is Japan. This is not a Christian nation and it will never be, hopefully. I'm surprised that these old conservative geezers were complaining when we know that Japan has always being a nation with very deep rotted gay roots dating hundreds of years ago. Having a relationship with the same gender isn't new in Japan at all. Do research. Now we are talking about "lesbianism" or what it it seemed to be in that CM. 116 measly people out of 127 million is nothing, they won't chance a thing. I have nothing against gays. (I find AKB annoying and distasteful though!) They are people too. Its their life and business.

0 ( +3 / -3 )

I have been saying for years, get rid of these new halves, transgenders and other gays on TV here. I don't want my kids watching it and who are the broadcasters to shove this down our throat. It is out of control in the states, don't let it happen here. I am a firm believer that if you don't like it, change the channel but there is way too much of it on TV these days.

If you don't like it, that's your problem. Nothing wrong with being gay, transgendered or 'new half' - don't try and turn Japan into the US.

What a surprise, looking at the comments. Lots of overt and veiled homophobia.

0 ( +3 / -3 )

Again, if you accept other ads/videos/music in which AKB48 appear there is NO reason why this should be offensive. Likewise if you find this offensive I see no reason why you shouldn't find their other 'work' offensive.

It appears a number of respondents, and people here in general 'accept' homosexuality so long as it is satirical in nature or is 'funny', like the idiot who tries to massage male guests (and nearly got punched out by a K-pop artist!), then rolls on his back, lifts his leg and points to his butt-hole, or like HG shaking his manhood in children's faces. Now THOSE are extremely offensive, but somehow the collective J-audience accepts it because it's 'funny' (and then when a foreign celebrity walks off the stage in disgust they wonder why).

As to the poster above who asked how it would be received in other nations; most AKB48 work never makes it outside Japan, or at least outside of Japan and Taiwan, because most other nations' peoples don't agree with little girls in lingerie swining their hips and hugging, etc.

-1 ( +2 / -3 )

Again, if you accept other ads/videos/music in which AKB48 appear there is NO reason why this should be offensive. Likewise if you find this offensive I see no reason why you shouldn't find their other 'work' offensive.

It appears a number of respondents, and people here in general 'accept' homosexuality so long as it is satirical in nature or is 'funny', like the idiot who tries to massage male guests (and nearly got punched out by a K-pop artist!), then rolls on his back, lifts his leg and points to his butt-hole, or like HG shaking his manhood in children's faces. Now THOSE are extremely offensive, but somehow the collective J-audience accepts it because it's 'funny' (and then when a foreign celebrity walks off the stage in disgust they wonder why).

As to the poster above who asked how it would be received in other nations; most AKB48 work never makes it outside Japan, or at least outside of Japan and Taiwan, because most other nations' peoples don't agree with little girls in lingerie swining their hips and hugging, etc.

-1 ( +1 / -2 )

I will add that my comment at 8.24 am was directed at the western boys' club, which I hereby vow to smash.

0 ( +0 / -0 )

On the man/man vs girl/girl section: I remember when I was in Nagoya there was a morning TV drama some 15 years ago, which main plot was a in his 40es shacho married to a beautiful wife and some kids who fell in love with his younger 30-something male secretary - in open TV! So I really can't understand this bias towards this ad. It may tasteless, but I can't see why criticizing an ad while they had a 3-months drama based on a man/man passion.

0 ( +0 / -0 )

I think sexuality is not the issue here. Being a warm-blooded male I'm quite happy to see this ad! But, I don't agree with "sexual activity" like this being shown in the afternoons on TV in front of your children. Whether its boy-girl boy-boy or girl-girl makes no difference.

"The commercial may encourage homosexuality,” one of the complaints said" It's homosexuality, not heroin!

As for certain individuals asking to remove all the "new halves, transgenders and other gays" there are many people that say the same for foreigners here. Would you like them to ride on separate buses too so you dont have to have them "rammed down your throat" then? Its not like they're having sex in the middle of the quiz show.

1 ( +2 / -1 )

116 complaints out of MILLIONS, come on, seems like someone was digging for news on a non-issue.

2 ( +2 / -0 )

like the idiot who tries to massage male guests (and nearly got punched out by a K-pop artist!)

smithinjapan - Id love to see that. Do u have a link?

0 ( +2 / -2 )

Girls with another girl is considered "girlish", something for a young girl to outgrow.

-5 ( +0 / -5 )

This commercial is almost as good as the one with the Kara girls shaking pieces of Kara candy around on their gold hotpants.

2 ( +2 / -0 )

yokattaApr. 21, 2012 - 10:01AM JST Under 18 wouldn't be too acceptable no doubt. Over 18 it is welcoming in this country to see some liberalism.

This isn't so different from all those kids games where kids pass stuff from chin to chin, it's just a slightly more adult version.

In the U.K. it's becoming increasingly acceptable for straight friends to kiss each other in greeting (like they've been doing in France for centuries).

Kissing isn't necessarily sexual, it's a display of affection, and I'm appalled that no-one here has so far realised this.

... now if you'll excuse me, typing this post with one hand is rather tiring.

1 ( +2 / -1 )

I don't care what they do. However I am wondering if they like/wanted to do so. It seems more to be a marketing trick asked by ludicrous impresario to create the buzz .... and a lot of $$$$ with immature teens.

0 ( +0 / -0 )

Everything I've seen Tanoshingo in, he's minced about, done his little dance, then lay on his back with his legs up and pointed directly at his anus. The viewing public seem to find that acceptable, repulsive as it is. He's done it on shows aimed at kids, and when he crops up on TV in my house the machine goes off. I'm not having that in my house.

Yet when good- looking young girls make the switch from dancing suggestively to acting suggestively with each other, it's suddenly a threat to young morality? Perhaps that's it...AKB are very attractive to a lot of (often unhealthy) people. Tanoshingo couldn't look worse if he were badly burnt.

Perhaps it's the attractiveness that could bring this society to its knees? Because teenage girls experimenting is of course a much greater danger than earthquakes, radiation, political bungling and corruption, debt, population decline, stagnant economy, being outperformed by India and China...

I do wish people would direct their anger at what needs changing. I wish teenage girls kissing were all I had to worry about.

3 ( +6 / -3 )

I've always been wary of the "outraged" moralists, since my dad's best friend, a respected principal who was a bit on the evangelical side (and a principal), got thrown in the slammer for a history of child molestation. Although to me, the under-18 thing is a bit sketchy because like others have mentioned, there is a huge following of male otaku,

Just thinking about this...If AKB48 turns them all the otaku gay then who knows- maybe their unhealthy obsession with young girls will fade and Akihabara will get a makeover and won't be as dreary place to visit- a win-win situation!

-1 ( +0 / -1 )

Everything I've seen Tanoshingo in, he's minced about, done his little dance, then lay on his back with his legs up and pointed directly at his anus. The viewing public seem to find that acceptable, repulsive as it is. He's done it on shows aimed at kids, and when he crops up on TV in my house the machine goes off. I'm not having that in my house.

Ok, while pointing at the anus is distasteful, what's so 'repulsive' about mincing and dancing, considering it's what AKB48 and countless other idols are always doing on the tube. But yet you'll only turn off the tv in Tanoshingo's case?

-4 ( +1 / -5 )

After being a student and teacher in Japanese schools, the stuff you see on tv is a mere shadow of kids' antics in real life...

0 ( +1 / -1 )

May I offer a twist? "Poutso" in Greek is the vulgar word for penis.

Remember the old commercial "Bob Shap (or whatever his name was) doesn't have a "poutso"? Who commented here that he likes lemon flavored "poutso"? And AKB passing a "poutso" to each other....if that commercial was aired in Greece it would make history.

0 ( +1 / -1 )

akb48 is a creation of the advertising industry, and they are geared toward making docile consumers out of you.

sex is a big part of their strategy, and this is aimed at making young girls think that using their sex appeal to manipulate people is acceptable.

and that might confusion young impressionable girls to deviate from a normal course, given socio-economic pressures and the popularity and success of these young and basically manufactured entertainers.

it definitely has the potential to be a corrupting influence, considering the celebrity of these pseudo role models.

-1 ( +2 / -3 )

Mmm. Well, I'm not homosexual, but I'm guessing that in all but the majority of cases your sexual preferences are long determined before you see things like this. It may entice some people to experiment, but at the end of the day you are what you are and AKB48 passing lollies to each other with their mouths won't change that. The other point is, in this day and age, why can't homosexuality be subtly promoted anyway? As others have pointed out, this is a much more 'tasteful' approach than what that monstrosity Tenoshingo gets away with under the guise of comedy.

-2 ( +0 / -2 )

This ad is pretty distasteful and exploitative... but "encourages homosexuality"... yeah.

-1 ( +3 / -4 )

Someone with a SPINE should march up to the BPO headquarters and tell those "tele-fascists" to go jump in the lake!

0 ( +2 / -2 )

wow! so hot wish i was there too ^o^ love u akb48!

-2 ( +0 / -2 )

Lesbianism is taboo to the point of being disgusting in Japan. There are lots of cross dressing guys on TV (some of whom are well known to be gay) and indeed gay men on TV, and young girls read books about male homosexual love, sometimes -- before the west complained anyway --- containing entirely composed of explicit man on man sex (in the genre Yayoi). Male homosexuality, while currently repressed by the Japanese man in the street, has a long history of being almost refined, among priests and warriors. Lesbianism on the other hand it not portrayed on Japanese TV, there are no openly lesbian television personalities and it is rarely even expressed in Japanese pornography, since lesbianism requires that women have and express their desire. Female desire is, from the Japanese myth of the fall, entirely taboo, horrible and certainly not "the hot form of homosexuality." In this sense, the AKB48 commercial is radical, liberating, avant-garde and, to some, abhorrent.

The two characters in Sailor Moon are lesbians.

1 ( +2 / -1 )

I don't see how this is any worse than all the transexuals you see on Japanese TV these days. So hot girls passing sweets seductively is not okay, but a wild pack of flaming homosexual flamingos on practically every Japanese TV show is?? Not cool Japan. Not cool.

0 ( +2 / -2 )

And let's be real here. The main target of this ad campaign is clearly not geared towards females, or even luke-warm closet gays. It's very much aimed towards AKB48s huge otaku following and any red-blooded heterosexual male.

3 ( +4 / -1 )

Am I the only person who thinks this is not right not because this is promoting AKB or homosexuality or what not...but purely because its tasteless to see a bunch of people snowballing on tv.

0 ( +3 / -2 )

Whats wrong with this advert? Some very cute young girls being rather 'friendly' with one another is nothing wrong!

2 ( +3 / -1 )

Doesn't matter WHAT they did, someone is always gonna complain. AKB is, after all, visual porn for old-farts, and some don't like it.

I don't much care* if they have a CM where they are OPENLY lez... it's 100% better than listening to most of these "talento".

And by "I don't much care", I actually mean PREFER.

3 ( +2 / -0 )

@ Ted Barrero,

I don't see how this is any worse than all the transexuals you see on Japanese TV these days. So hot girls passing sweets seductively is not okay, but a wild pack of flaming homosexual flamingos on practically every Japanese TV show is?? Not cool Japan. Not cool.

'Wild pack of flaming homosexual flamingos'? Not cool Ted. Not cool.

1 ( +2 / -2 )

I can understand the complaint that oversexed ads like this are inappropriate for daytime TV, but "encourage homosexuality"?? The complainer who made that argument did not engage his/her brain.

If homosexuality was something you could educate people into/out of, it would not exist. Clearly, people are borne with whatever sexual orientation they have.

2 ( +2 / -0 )

Al Stewart......

That is a bit Hypocritical isnt it. Drag queens and Trans-sexual and more are all ok on tv but two girls passing candy with their mouths is too much.

Well said Al. Couldnt agree more.

0 ( +2 / -3 )

The critics are not against homosexuality; they are against displaying homosexuality to impressionable minds. AKB48 are idols and young girls see them as role models. They may start copying them, just because they saw it on TV, done by someone they adore. That`s why... In the US if Justin Bieber or some other young singer made out with another man in a TV commercial, they would complain too!

0 ( +1 / -1 )

A: "This commercial encourages homosexuality" B: "So, you feel some attraction now toward the same sex after watching it?" A: "Of course, not. I'm straight and nothing can change that!" B: "So, what's all that hoopla about?

-2 ( +1 / -3 )

It's just a commercial, no need to complain and freak about it. Sheeesh!

-2 ( +0 / -2 )

What I've never understood is why so many other male heteros are so fascinated with lesbian porn: as if they're ever going to get into that action!

Personally, I don't have much patience for porn: I'd rather DO than just WATCH!!!

But that's just me...

-2 ( +0 / -2 )

Soooooo , Hard Gay (Japanese comedian for years ago) yes.AKB48 passing candy mouth to mouth and lesbians ,no?

0 ( +2 / -2 )

Millions of people watched this commercial and ONE person misguidedly complained it might encourage homosexuality. Talk about a misleading headline. Looks like more than a few took the bait though.

0 ( +1 / -1 )

The critics are not against homosexuality; they are against displaying homosexuality to impressionable minds. AKB48 are idols and young girls see them as role models. They may start copying them, just because they saw it on TV, done by someone they adore. That`s why... In the US if Justin Bieber or some other young singer made out with another man in a TV commercial, they would complain too!

Being 'against displaying homosexuality' is the same as being against homosexuality. Going by what you're saying , then we should stop displaying heterosexuality for the same reason. You're implying that homosexuality is something that needs to be shielded from the young in case they become 'corrupted'. That isn't how it works, sorry. What about young children of gay couples? Should their parents hide who they are because of their children's 'impressionable minds'? Not seeing how your logic works, unfortunately.

-5 ( +0 / -5 )

That is a bit Hypocritical isnt it. Drag queens and Trans-sexual and more are all ok on tv but two girls passing candy with their mouths is too much.

The difference is: those "Drag queens and Trans-sexuals" are participating in a talk/variety show...they're just talking... They're not making out with each other in a commercial. It's a matter of decorum...

Besides, the AKB48 ad is in bad taste, just as Alaksandus stated:

this is not right not because this is promoting AKB or homosexuality or what not...but purely because its tasteless to see a bunch of people snowballing on tv...

-1 ( +1 / -2 )

The mega rich and genius market men behind AKB48 have done it again. Everyone is talking about their crap talentless loli band. They will make more Yen and will smile.

0 ( +2 / -2 )

Perhaps it's time for JT users to flood the broadcasting standards watchdog with more than 114 messages of strong support?Perhaps it's time for JT users to flood the broadcasting standards watchdog with more than 114 messages of strong support?

-5 ( +0 / -5 )

I would never have believed, until this very day, that Japan had TV Broadcasting standards.

A homosexual man can point at his anus for his television career, but girls have to be careful about the way they eat sweets.

-2 ( +2 / -4 )

I like it! This demotivator is just what I think: http://demochi.net/demochi.aspx?id=583

I don't like AKB personally, but this kiss reminds me of Tatu girls.

-1 ( +0 / -1 )

AKB48 are idols and young girls see them as role models. They may start copying them

Yep that is feasible and exciting. I hope I can see that in the street, izakaya etc etc.

Looks like a few people might have some apologising to do to AKB48. God bless you, young queens of Japan.

-2 ( +0 / -2 )

oral flora, refers to bacteria infection from mouth to mouth kissing. Not only that, there are other terms like skin flora or vaginal flora etc. Anyway, I like the in-fighting with this commercial and it shows that most mothers are extremely worried about their daughters because of the copy-cat attitude. We should always blame commercialization. Is it difficult to raise up a girl from an international marriage here in Japan? Go figure!!!

-2 ( +0 / -2 )

Haha, they're not allowed BFs - let them practice!

2 ( +2 / -0 )

It is sexy

1 ( +2 / -1 )

Absolutely bloomin' marvellous. BEST. AD. EVER vote x2 :))

0 ( +1 / -1 )

oginome:

" Being 'against displaying homosexuality' is the same as being against homosexuality "

Really?? How did you come with that? There are plenty of things that do every day that are perfectly fine in privacy, but surely nobody wants you to display in publc. Sheesh.

1 ( +2 / -1 )

Japanese Writers, Directors and Producers who produces commercials are most unprofessional people. Most of there CM is not to the point. An average 2 to 5 CM out of the whole year is best, the rest is horrible. People who work in the media world be professional, act like professional. Cause young people will get influenced by these visual messages. This is the worst Commercial I ever seen on media. Who ever wrote the CM needs to check his/her head.

-1 ( +0 / -1 )

Really?? How did you come with that? There are plenty of things that do every day that are perfectly fine in privacy, but surely nobody wants you to display in publc. Sheesh.

Ramzel was specifically talking about homosexual displays. He didn't say anything about being against heterosexual displays. His sentence would read oddly if you were to subsitute the words with each other.

'The critics are not against heterosexuality; they are against displaying heterosexuality to impressionable minds.'

Impressionable young minds being corrupted by displays of heterosexuality? How bizarre. We all know what Ramzel was talking about.

If you're against public displays of affection, that's fine (I'm certainly not touchy feely in public), but make sure you apply it across the board.

-5 ( +0 / -5 )

Not in the least homophobic? What if it DID encourage homosexuality? So what?

In this spick and span society we live in here in Japan, I'm surprised no one has considered the prospect of catching germs from the "used" candy!!! Ewww!

As some have suggested, it is just another (successful) attempt to get AKB48 (should it be AKB90+ now?) in the news and to get more people suckered into buying more franchised goods. Yuk!

-2 ( +0 / -2 )

hoserfella: "smithinjapan - Id love to see that. Do u have a link?"

Sadly, no. I think it was the boy band Big Bang. You know how they always have the variety shows and make sure the Japanese flavor of the month tarento interact with the special guests. I can't remember the name of the tarento I'm thinking of, but if I said it most people would know -- he's the VERY effeminate, openly gay guy who does what I mentioned before.

I also remember an incident where HG came on stage and started thrusting his pelvis in the face of a young American actress, to which Japanese variety show guests and the audience were laughing, but the actress looked visibly distressed and upset, and left soon thereafter. It was soon after that HG fell out of popularity. Not sure if they are related, but I remember some talk about people suddenly saying, "Wow... you mean HG's NOT funny?" The worst part about HG was that he wasn't actually gay it all -- it was just 'funny' to act like a homosexual and an idiot.

Back to AKB48 and this CM, I reiterate again my disgust that if there's a hint of homosexuality that is NOT homosexuality being ridiculed and made fun of.

-3 ( +1 / -4 )

HELLO.girl on girl ,sells to geeks.Nuff said

2 ( +2 / -0 )

Before visiting website:

"My body is ready".

After visiting website:

"THE THINGS I HAVE SEEN..."

-2 ( +0 / -2 )

I don't give a crap if it "promotes" homosexual behaviour. I hate this add because I think "Yep, more sexualization of airhead, no talent girls who need to dress up in short skirts and pretend to kiss to get the attention of pathetic males".

And yes, whoever mentioned Tanashingo or whatever the "guy's" name is. If I was a gay male, I would want to backhand him for buying into all the negative stereotypes of gay males - and being ugly as sin to boot!

0 ( +4 / -4 )

If you're against public displays of affection, that's fine (I'm certainly not touchy feely in public), but make sure you apply it across the board.

Agree, agree, agree.

Smith, I love it when foreign stars come and give the looks of shocks and disgust at the crap that goes on here. Madonna left me on the floor laughing when she told SMAP she probably eats more Japanese food than they do and she is well aware of what things are.

HG was NEVER funny. I find nothing amusing about making fun on any minority - more so when that is just simply not given any protection from discrimination. Faaaar too much of that type of crap on j TV and it really, really says a lot about society. I do love Ai Haruna because he (she?) doesn't buy into the crap - and is actually good at what he/she does.

0 ( +4 / -4 )

nice pic, now the AKB girls don't look so robotic.

0 ( +1 / -1 )

Millions of people watched this commercial and ONE person misguidedly complained it might encourage homosexuality. Talk about a misleading headline. Looks like more than a few took the bait though.

Yep well spotted. And there I was talking about as many as some number less than 116.

0 ( +1 / -1 )

There was a show about guessing with of the 10 gay guys are boyish/girlish, then between them are actually a couple kissing in front of camera, no one seems to be complaining about that

0 ( +1 / -1 )

It's just a KISS beteen two women how wonderful sharing a sweet that way very creative.

-1 ( +1 / -2 )

If I am not mistaken Megumi Ueno of the band Zwei was a lesbian? I can't be certain of this as I wasn't really a fan of theirs. They were quit popular though at the time. Just one of many taboo in Japan. Some of which I won't mention here which would shock some. Anyways I think people are overreacting as usual. Just like the 2NE1 Scream Video was accused of being Anti-Japanese. As a Japanese myself we overeat on every little thing here. Really pretty shameful as we have no problem doing it to others as long as it doesn't concern us.

0 ( +1 / -1 )

Those who are against homosexuality are labeled as either dinosor or old-minded in today's modern age. However, for those who believe human as a part of nature must look at the nature in which they will see that homosexuality is against the course of nature...if you like to, you can even pray and believe in cream cheese but please be noticed that homosexuality is a dead end. if you are not sure about what i am saying, look at the history!

-9 ( +0 / -10 )

AKB48 are just adding to the demise of Japan........

3 ( +4 / -1 )

OMG! I just remembered that sometimes we share the matcha bowl between us including the Sensei to have a taste of the real Japanese green tea tradition. I guess I got to tell my classmates and Sensei that we should use our own cup next time, you know, in case we catch "Oral Flora" ;-) LOL

0 ( +2 / -1 )

Harmless .... or let it be in the eyes of the beholder. Any homophobic would cringe .... anyway, this is nothing compared to all the antics that Japanese TV shows do to make their show funny. And since I am an old-timer here, I can only remember the hilarious late night show called 11 P.M. I was truly sad to see that show go off the air. Trouble is I usually sleep before that time now! GRRR ....

1 ( +2 / -1 )

There are men who outright make out to get cheap laughs on those stupid prime time variety shows. I don't see how this is more "offensive".

1 ( +2 / -1 )

Fine, just ban all kisses in movies too. I don't see why 2 women can't kiss, there is nothing wrong with that.

1 ( +2 / -1 )

The commercial and a “making of” video, can be seen on the UHA Mikakuto’s website.

The "A" relay is so much hotter....!

Talk about kissing oneself in the mouth for self-destruction..!

-1 ( +0 / -1 )

This commercial is so sweet!

-1 ( +0 / -1 )

Needs a bit more tongue

1 ( +3 / -2 )

homosexuality is against nature. promoting it in society is not possitive.

-10 ( +2 / -12 )

almost - Har!

-3 ( +0 / -3 )

Haters are gonna hate. I laugh at the people that say the CMs promotes homosexuality as if becoming gay was really a conscious decision in someones life.

0 ( +2 / -2 )

"With a total of around 90 all-female performers"

Shows how out of touch I am - I thought there were 48 of them. I really need to keep up with things.

0 ( +1 / -1 )

This is just eye candy selling candy. Nothing to do with homosexuality.

0 ( +1 / -1 )

So this is the important news? I love how tripe like this gets so much attention when I see other worthy info only has 4 comments! It just shows where most peoples minds and priorities lye... Everything you see or read causes someone somewhere to form an opinion. It serves to shape us in ways we usually don't recognize or want to believe. What will be, will be. Like it or not...

0 ( +1 / -1 )

homosexuality is against nature.

Well, not really.

Homosexual behavior is well documented for more than 500 species.

Giraffes, for example, are well known for their remarkably high frequency of homosexual interactions. Lions, elephants, bulls, bottlenose dolphins, bonobos (apes), mallards, penguins, dragonflies are just a small part of a long list.

0 ( +3 / -3 )

@junaid83

Actually, homophobia is against nature - so thise opposed to nature could be in trouble come judegment day. Watch out for large claps of thunder, etc!

-1 ( +2 / -3 )

As to the poster above who asked how it would be received in other nations; most AKB48 work never makes it outside Japan, or at least outside of Japan and Taiwan, because most other nations' peoples don't agree with little girls in lingerie swining their hips and hugging, etc.

Just a random side track, as a matter of fact, AKB48 has a significant presence in other asian countries as well (one of the franchise's more recent expansions include, of all places, Singapore.) and while I am not an American, my impression is that AKB48 are today what Morning Musume was to jpop watchers a decade ago.

It's probably only a matter of time before their popularity starts to dwindle and the jpop industry churns out another group to take on the face they show to the rest of the world, but at the moment, AKB48 is probably the most famous aspect of Japanese pop culture to the casual foreigner.

-1 ( +0 / -1 )

I think sexuality is not the issue here. Being a warm-blooded male I'm quite happy to see this ad! But, I don't agree with "sexual activity" like this being shown in the afternoons on TV in front of your children. Whether its boy-girl boy-boy or girl-girl makes no difference.

I agree with you Dale! Ive got absolutely no problem with people if they are homosexual, its 2012 not the Dark Ages. It just disgusts me when I see young girls overly sexualised like this. The focus is not the product, but the girls getting close to each other in a sexual way (contrary to belief in some groups ... no, we don`t usually pass food or gum from person to person with our mouths).

As the old saying goes, "Sex sells" and that is what this product is all about, but this takes it to a level that clearly crosses a line.

0 ( +1 / -1 )

Please check your western homophobia at the door. Look Japan has different values and girls with girls is considered a stage in their development. They outgrow it in time and are not branded lesbian. Japan is the land of the male and female impersonator. People in the west spend too much time thinking about the sex lives of others. Let it go, what have they done to you?

-6 ( +3 / -9 )

LeHommeQuiment:

" 'homosexuality is against nature.' --Well, not really. "

Well, yes really, in the sense that it certainly does not allow procreation. A species which is homosexual by default would die out in one generation, period.

-6 ( +1 / -7 )

"People in the west spend too much time thinking about the sex lives of others."

BS, and you know it. This is the usual line, though, when Japanese are criticized. It's always, "What do you think?" and if the thoughts are not good they are told it is a domestic thing and none of their business. Yuri, you contradict yourself in so many ways on so many issues it's hard to understand how you are so for the people of the Ryukyus and against the rest of Japan then side with it on everything else under the rising sun. Other nations also have different 'values' when it comes to statutory rape or sex with minors, or just glorifying and over-sexualizing the bodies of people barely pubescent; in no way does it mean that the criticism of such nations or people is not valid. It's interesting you condemn 'western thinking' on this issue but at the same time ask that it be let go because it's different than said thinking. Again, paradox at its worst.

Furthermore, it's the JAPANESE respondents that are being talked about as saying the commercial is 'homophobic' and might 'promote homosexuality', whereas a bunch of foreigners on here are saying how ridiculous that is, so you are again simply dragging in your own baggage and completely missing the points (not to mention getting it totally wrong).

'“The commercial may encourage homosexuality,” one of the complaints said, adding “oral flora” was also a concern, according to the Broadcasting Ethics and Program Improvement Organisation.'

and

"A commercial showing members of wildly popular all-girl band AKB48 passing bite-sized candies seductively from mouth-to-mouth is under fire in Japan for encouraging homosexuality."

So what was that again, Yuri, about Western homophobia? Seems you need to look more inward, my friend, and do a little less misdirecting. Oops! How's that crow, Yuri?

0 ( +3 / -3 )

WilliB: "Well, yes really, in the sense that it certainly does not allow procreation. A species which is homosexual by default would die out in one generation, period."

Sorry, bro, but the argument doesn't fit. Homosexuality has been around as long as humanity has, far longer than you or I have been here, but I daresay we are part of nature. It has, as such, survived a lot longer than the 'one generation' crap a lot of people spout, because, while it is biological and perfectly natural, it is not total nor by any means some sort of extinction event that might spread by little girls kissing in one commercial and pimping greasy convenience store chicken in another. You see, while we are technically animals we have a brain that distinguishes us from others and allows us to survive despite those that cannot procreate, although with all the morons who say it's "not natural" you'd think the brains don't work well.

2 ( +7 / -5 )

ho gives a toss, it is a red herring. The management wanted this to happen so they make wads of lovely Yen.

The girsl get flat rate salary whatever and have to abide by rules in how to live their lives. Modern day slavery i say. How can an employer say no boyfriends , no talking to mnedia without permission etc... They have taken away their humanity and so many say " they make people happy, don't be haters, nyuk nyuk nyuk", Utter shite!

0 ( +1 / -1 )

So what you get from stuffing your face with candies, that's called homosexuality now ? No longer obesity ?

-2 ( +0 / -2 )

It is trendy and "edgy" in modern times to push the envelope of what is socially acceptable. In Japan, this commercial and some of the music and video's that AKB48 puts out does just that with with respect to subject of lesbians. Others have made the point that homosexuality has been, for whatever reason, more acceptable in Japanese culture than lesbianism.

As disgusting as some people may find it, homosexuality will continue to be pushed by modern culture. Ironically, even those that are okay with homosexuality but are themselves straight, are repulsed by the thought of engaging in a same sex relationship themselves. You don't have to accept it but it is the goal of those who supply modern media to normalize it.

Homosexuality has been around as long as humanity has, far longer than you or I have been here, but I daresay we are part of nature. It has, as such, survived a lot longer than the 'one generation' crap a lot of people spout,

It is true that homosexuality has been around for presumably all of human history. However, that in itself does not make homosexuality what nature intended. If you believe in Darwin and natural selection then you can see this as plainly true. Darwin viewed evolution as necessary for the preservation of the life of each species - which is the foremost goal. Homosexuality among animals with no more than the core brain functions (ie. reptilian brain) can only be seen as detrimental for their survival. That doesn't mean it cannot be found in nature as things often occur in nature that are not necessarily beneficial - such as a snake being born with two heads or a calf with five legs. Things don't always go as intended in nature but in a minority of cases.

For humans, natural selection still applies but not to the same extent as for animals with lower brain functioning. I am not one that subscribes to the idea that homosexuality is inate. There is no scientific proof that it is. In fact, in one famous case when a scientist claimed to have found this proof and publicized his findings on a well known American news program he turned out to be gay activist whose conclusions were found to be false.

I do not think homosexuality is in any way a failure of nature but a learned behavior. Therefore, the more socially acceptable homosexuality is, the more there will be of it. That doesn't mean it didn't exist in the past when it wasn't as socially acceptable. Humans were still capable of choosing or more were more likely being influenced into homosexuality based on the male and female influences around them. The same is true of bisexuality and polygomous relationships. Humans have the ability of choice due to their advanced cognitive abilities relative to other animals. Whether or not homosexuality is to our benefit - from a Darwinian perspective - only time will tell for any culture that chooses to accept it. a

-6 ( +3 / -9 )

However, that in itself does not make homosexuality what nature intended.

And any individual who presumes or suggests that they are the ones who have the authority to declare what nature intends are far more evil in terms of a Judeo-Christian code than anyone committing a homosexual act. Because, in so doing, they are setting themselves up as God.

"Nature" intended or did not intend homosexuality any more or less than albinism, right-hand dominance, autism, or any number of other traits. Nature appears to like variation a great deal, however. Otherwise, identical snowflakes would be easy to find.

1 ( +2 / -1 )

By this logic I guess when we see a blond woman on TV it incourages men to like blond women. Who you are into is not something that can be sold, it is who you are.

0 ( +1 / -1 )

Wolfpack - Very well written. What comes after a...The traditional family values are alive in both the USA and Japan. Probably more so in Japan because of their sense of knowing family as utmost important with a distrust of fancy logic. And their inability to speak English will keep the Japanese from being influenced by the thrust of the Western media values. We, traditional families, "have been doing it this way for thousands of years and will continue to do so for another thousand years". We shall prevail and defend our offspring.

yabits and smithinjapan...do as you like (beware STDs) but it does take a female and a male to have offspring to go into the future. I happen to like my children and grandchildren and so on. I would like it to continue through the ages. Japanese are also very keen on this and many do cry at the lack of children in Japan. Such a beautiful people who carry forward a beautiful culture. Same for the traditional families everywhere.

-3 ( +1 / -4 )

@Yuri, " Let it go, what have they done to you? "

It's what they have not done to you that bothers most gaijins. I wouldn't mind AKB passing candies to me actually. I think they are quite talented without dropping the candies.

0 ( +1 / -1 )

I watched it... it was barely even seductive...

0 ( +1 / -1 )

As a man, I have to say I've got loads of DVDs with girls and women kissing, and it hasn't made me homosexual yet. Oops...

1 ( +2 / -1 )

These beasts really are dangerous...

0 ( +1 / -1 )

homosexuallity is against nature.

nature created human by one pair (male + female).

promoting homosexuality , is harmful for our society.

will any wife like to have husband who is homesexual?? or any husband will like to have homesexual wife?? its simply distruction for normal family system.

-4 ( +2 / -6 )

So let me get this straight, they are complaining an akb48 is encouraging homosexuality, yet they don't complain about homosexual pornography spreading homosexuality? More specifically lesbian porn.

-3 ( +0 / -3 )

will any wife like to have husband who is homesexual??

Hopefully not, as that would suggest an extra-marital affair. Or is that more acceptable than homosexuality to you? Interesting!

-2 ( +0 / -2 )

Back on topic please.

0 ( +0 / -0 )

@ Wolfpack:

As disgusting as some people may find it, homosexuality will continue to be pushed by modern culture. Ironically, even those that are okay with homosexuality but are themselves straight, are repulsed by the thought of engaging in a same sex relationship themselves. You don't have to accept it but it is the goal of those who supply modern media to normalize it.

You are aware to agree that by saying "those" you mean your personal opinion? For you may know some who think exactly as you wrote, but there are straight people who do feel aroused by same sex relationships.

It is true that homosexuality has been around for presumably all of human history. However, that in itself does not make homosexuality what nature intended. If you believe in Darwin and natural selection then you can see this as plainly true. Darwin viewed evolution as necessary for the preservation of the life of each species - which is the foremost goal. Homosexuality among animals with no more than the core brain functions (ie. reptilian brain) can only be seen as detrimental for their survival. That doesn't mean it cannot be found in nature as things often occur in nature that are not necessarily beneficial - such as a snake being born with two heads or a calf with five legs. Things don't always go as intended in nature but in a minority of cases.

Darwin, at the time of his reserach in Galapagos was not aware of homosexuality in the wild nature. And if his evolution theory was based almost exclusively on observations on animals, he certainly would have changed his theory a little bit taking animal homosexuality into account. And you make a big mistake by comparing homosexuality to physical deficiences (two-head snakes, five-legs calf), for these abnormalities are observed in laboratories, not in the wild, or in envirnments changed by the hand of man (as in Chernobyl, where animals with some sort of disability were born, result of the accident). In nature, a two head snake has little chance of survival, while a "gay" snake survives OK. So, your comparison is flawed.

I do not think homosexuality is in any way a failure of nature but a learned behavior. Therefore, the more socially acceptable homosexuality is, the more there will be of it. That doesn't mean it didn't exist in the past when it wasn't as socially acceptable. Humans were still capable of choosing or more were more likely being influenced into homosexuality based on the male and female influences around them. The same is true of bisexuality and polygomous relationships. Humans have the ability of choice due to their advanced cognitive abilities relative to other animals. Whether or not homosexuality is to our benefit - from a Darwinian perspective - only time will tell for any culture that chooses to accept it.

Homosexuality is not a learned behavior, or an option. This was discussed and decided in the Justice system more than once. Again the same question arises: how can you explain, say, 6 years-old boys with tendency to homosexuality? Their brains are still learning how to add two-plus-two and already they have a trend in behavior that will last their whole life, who taught them how to be gay? Last year in US alone there were more then one case of infantiles taken to the Justice system regarding behavior not matching their gender.

Stop judging homosexuality from your rigid heterosexual point of view. It is full of flaws. As it would be, if a homexual would judge heterosexuality from a rigid "gay point-of-view". Both are wrong. Man is a creature that keeps learning through life, one who does not flex his opinion is fated to fail.

-2 ( +0 / -2 )

It doesn't promote homosexuality at all... and there could be a chance that people complaining are grabbing at straws in order to complain in the first place. We all know that complaints about over sexualising young girls would go through one ear and out the other. This was clearly made with the intension of stimulating ossan ( some who end up assaulting young girls) It's not going to make anyone turn lesbian. What I want to know is why there were no complaints for that commercial where akb girls pretended to be preggers and breast feeding and asking to make a baby with them... on some paid service on their website!? The cm even showed old men uploading their photos to make virtual babies with young girls.That is worthy of complaint...not this promoting homosexuality shite.

0 ( +1 / -1 )

the more I see of this Tanoshingo mess, the more I realize he probably sets the gay cause in Japan back 20 years. He parades his gayness in a way to be scorned, laughed at, and more to the point, as something disgusting (which he most certainly is) With filth like him prancing about on TV every week, its no wonder the Japanese are uncomfortable with it in society.

1 ( +4 / -3 )

And any individual who presumes or suggests that they are the ones who have the authority to declare what nature intends are far more evil in terms of a Judeo-Christian code than anyone committing a homosexual act. Because, in so doing, they are setting themselves up as God.

Well since I am not a religious person I do not seek the authority of God to declare anything. I'm just going by what science there is on the subject.

"Nature" intended or did not intend homosexuality any more or less than albinism, right-hand dominance, autism, or any number of other traits.

Good point but these traits are not detrimental to the survival of any species in any way.

-1 ( +1 / -2 )

Okay..

The commercial may encourage homosexuality

.... I have to ask, how the heck can you encourage homosexuality? That's suggesting it's something you choose. From what I can tell anybody that happens to be a homosexual is born that way. I've known people that are homosexuals and it's not like they woke up one day and said "Okay.. from now on I'm gay." I just find it funny how this is even a story at all?

-1 ( +0 / -1 )

What utter Nonsense!-Madonna & Brittany Spears shared a Really Hot,Sapphic Tounge-Kiss on T.V. eons ago! This is "OLD HAT",here,folks!

-1 ( +0 / -1 )

Please check your western homophobia at the door

Please check your eastern stereotypes at the door YuriOtani. Youre just as bad with that statement, on several different levels. I know plenty of Japanese who Ive had conversations with over the years. They have made it extremely clear that they want nothing to do with homosexuals and would move away from anyone they knew to be homosexual.

0 ( +1 / -1 )

So let me get this straight, they are complaining an akb48 is encouraging homosexuality, yet they don't complain about homosexual pornography spreading homosexuality? More specifically lesbian porn.

I suspect that if lesbian porn were being broadcast on regular television there would be a huge number of complaints from the Japanese public.

-2 ( +0 / -2 )

Please encourage the recall of this...or AKB48 might undergo a state-ordered dissolution by the ministry of justice

0 ( +0 / -0 )

Oh sure, I don't like guys anymore because of this CM.

0 ( +0 / -0 )

@LostInNagoya:

You are aware to agree that by saying "those" you mean your personal opinion? For you may know some who think exactly as you wrote, but there are straight people who do feel aroused by same sex relationships.

I don't think it a mere opinion to presume that if a person were to be "aroused" by a person of the same sex that they would likely be homosexual or at least bi-sexual. I would also presume that if it wasn't the AKB girls passing the candy between one another and say a bunch of boys instead, it would cause an even greater controversy.

Darwin, at the time of his reserach in Galapagos was not aware of homosexuality in the wild nature. And if his evolution theory was based almost exclusively on observations on animals, he certainly would have changed his theory a little bit taking animal homosexuality into account.

I don't know if Darwin observed any sort of homosexuality among animals or not but if he had, I believe he would say that the animals with that gene pool would be less likely to survive since they would not reproduce. Remember, natural selection is about survival of the fittest. That means passing on those gene's that are best able to ensure survival. That is why I believe homosexuality is more of a learned behavior than a natural one contained in some "gay gene".

And you make a big mistake by comparing homosexuality to physical deficiences ...

I didn't intend this as a direct comparison. If you read what I wrote in context, I am saying that it is not uncommon for nature to produce outcomes that are detrimental to the survival of an animal. You are wrong to suggest that physical deficiencies only occur due to man-made interventions such as the nuclear accident at Chernobyl or in laboratories. Animals produce variations spontaneously in nature - a mechanism that can often work in favor of a species.

Homosexuality is not a learned behavior, or an option. This was discussed and decided in the Justice system more than once. Again the same question arises: how can you explain, say, 6 years-old boys with tendency to homosexuality?

A court of law is not a setting for determining a matter of science. So far, science has not been able to provide a definitive answer as to whether or not it is nature or nurture. No "gay gene" has been found. A court can say whatever it wants to based on the biases of those individuals that make up the court. However, it is reasonable to deduce that if you believe in Darwin's theory of evolution, then it would be not in the interests of any species for a small yet significant portion of it's number to be disinclined to reproduce. Of course, people have a higher cognitive ability than every other species so it can survive regardless. However, in the end we are animals and as such are not totally outside of Darwin's reach.

Stop judging homosexuality from your rigid heterosexual point of view. It is full of flaws. As it would be, if a homexual would judge heterosexuality from a rigid "gay point-of-view". Both are wrong. Man is a creature that keeps learning through life, one who does not flex his opinion is fated to fail.

I choose to "flex my opinion" not based on a "heterosexual" view. But from the view of what science can tell us about ourselves. I do think that homosexuality is pretty disgusting but that isn't my point. I was addressing the issue of nature and how some have used it to support homosexuality as being what nature intended. I think Darwin proves this idea to be false. Human beings are in some ways different from other species but we are still animals.

I do think that homosexuality isn't for me and use this test to determine if I am right or wrong. If someone were to ask me if I was willing to have an intimate relationship with a person of a different race and I said "no", then it would be appropriate to say that I am a racist. However, to apply this same test and ask if I were willing to have an intimate relationship with another man, then I would have to say "no". Saying no in the first instance is a character flaw. Saying no no in the second instance is not.

-4 ( +1 / -5 )

Would the money and brains behind the nubile nitwit 90-girl entourage have gone with this angle if they hadn't first seen it done by American and European "artists" ?

-2 ( +0 / -2 )

Some people are saying that homosexuality is 'against nature' as if nature has some big plan for the universe. Oops, perhaps they actually mean! There is no plan and anything that exists in nature is natural. Just because a certain trait makes a species less likely to survive, doesn't mean that it can't or doesn't exist. Homosexuality has been around, in many species, for as long as heterosexuality. And probably in a fairly consistent percentage of the population. Certainly, if it were 'against nature' , or against Darwin, homosexuals would have died out long ago.

0 ( +1 / -1 )

...mean God!

1 ( +1 / -0 )

Wolfpack - You use science as a mean to explain your strongest point of view - that homosexuality is somehow "taught", it's not. Even under close psychiatric inspection this sort of "teaching" has been proved to be a failure, with degrees reaching the realms of tragedy. I am talking about the experiment of Dr. John Money and the two wins in Canada, in the 1960s. I want to remind you that you and Dr. Money share the same point of view. One that led to the suicide of Bruce in his late thirties. Also, several mammals, insects, plants have been observed in same-sex acts, to no detriment to their species. Nowhere is written that same-sex acts have declined a single species number of individuals. Mankind have known homosexuality during its entire registered history, and you don't see the number of people decreasing, quite the contrary. Sorry to say that, but your opinion is close to what Nazis used to justify why they imprisoned and killed homosexuals.

2 ( +2 / -0 )

Correction: "the two twins in Canada"

0 ( +0 / -0 )

Wolfpack: "It is true that homosexuality has been around for presumably all of human history. However, that in itself does not make homosexuality what nature intended."

It's interesting, or perhaps less euphemistically stated just plain stupid, that someone will talk about how unnatural homosexuality is and then talk about nature as if it had a will of its own. Way to undermine your own comments as usual, Wolfpack. Even funnier, or rather stupider, is how you claim that science can't prove homosexuality is in the genes but then talk about nature as though it's some 'god'-like entity that chooses what it will.

Personally, I think that people who deny that homosexuality is natural are the unnatural ones. They are sick in the head -- they do everything they can to avoid the facts -- perhaps innate or at least programmed by groups like AKB48 so that they don't have to address reality and can instead just sigh in relief and avoid thinking for themselves.

0 ( +2 / -2 )

I do think that homosexuality isn't for me

wolfpack - this was a curious statement. I don't remember anyone pointedly asking if homosexuality "was for you". Why so defensive?

1 ( +3 / -2 )

it seems to me the people who vilify homosexuality as unnatural or suggest in a roundabout way, that its a learned behavior (and can therefore be "un-learned") are themselves troubled by their own sexuality.

2 ( +4 / -2 )

it seems to me the people who vilify homosexuality as unnatural or suggest in a roundabout way, that its a learned behavior (and can therefore be "un-learned") are themselves troubled by their own sexuality.

Great point and so true! If you are truly comfortable with who you are and your sexuality, you wouldn't be bothered by this commercial. Maybe the crusty old conservative women who are complaining about it are really turned on by it. II can almost hear them say, this is an outrage! we cannot have hot young women making out on tv, because it turns me on! -did I say that out loud? I am sure that the conservative men are definitely turned on by it, because they are mostly hypocrites.

0 ( +0 / -0 )

to highlight my theory about self-hating homosexuals and their belief that its a learned behavior, I suggest googling Michelle Bachmann's husband, Marcus. He runs a Christian "pray away the gay" camp and is quite frankly... well.....(just google him and you'll get the idea)

-1 ( +2 / -3 )

"it seems to me the people who vilify homosexuality as unnatural or suggest in a roundabout way, that its a learned behavior (and can therefore be "un-learned") are themselves troubled by their own sexuality."

Absolutely! But it's not limited to homosexuality, of course. Insecurity abounds everywhere, but especially in Japan. It's obvious in the answers to answers to the usual 'do you like us. Tell us what you like' type questions. The Madonna on SMAP SMAP reference is priceless.

As with Madonna, I too eat more Japanese food than many Japanese, but will you hear them admit that?

Back to homosexuality and the inability of many here to deal with it outside of porn, I'm 100% in agreement with what you say.

1 ( +3 / -2 )

'pray away the gay camp'? ahahah, surely you just sir?

0 ( +0 / -0 )

i was surprised of this ad ....it's absolutely disgusting. could you imagine young girls in school uniform passing from one another thru their mouth a candy ? where 's the hygiene that most of the japanese are so meticulous with ? is this a part fo japanese culture ? i doubt .

0 ( +1 / -1 )

Dear humans,

Nature or nurture? For sexuality, obviously, its both. Like it or not, what you and see and what you experience also affects your sexuality and sexual tastes and preferences, and that effect is stronger the younger you are. So yes, some of AKB48's prepubscent girl fans could well be steered toward lesbianism by this commercial, but probably only a little. More such stimuli could possibly aim them in that direction enough that they will begin down that path in earnest. Yes, it will take more than one commercial, but its a beginning some want to stop.

But what is being complained about? Is it homosexual identity on TV, or homosexual activity ? Well, since homosexual identity is pretty well tolerated in Japan, I should think the complaint is more about what they see as homosexual activity.

Not that I care or give the complainers any creedence. Two girls kissing is so very mild sexually that it does not register on my radar. Those for whom it does need to get a sex life.

-1 ( +1 / -2 )

AKB48 and homosexuality. Perfect recipe for attention. Worked on JT.

0 ( +0 / -0 )

If AKB48 were truly homosexual or bi, they might be half as good Bjork. Alas, its just an act!

0 ( +0 / -0 )

Wolfpack: "I suspect that if lesbian porn were being broadcast on regular television there would be a huge number of complaints from the Japanese public."

Absolutely tasteless, I know, but I might be willing to pay my NHK fee for that. :)

0 ( +1 / -1 )

smithjapan:

" Sorry, bro, but the argument doesn't fit. Homosexuality has been around as long as humanity has, far longer than you or I have been here, but I daresay we are part of nature. It has, as such, survived a lot longer than the 'one generation' crap a lot of people spout, because, while it is biological and perfectly natural, it is not total "

Please stop to think. If it were total, it would be the end of the species, period. Which is all I pointed out. Of course there are aberations, birth defects, and so on all the time; they are "natural" in the sense that they occur in nature, but they are not natural in the sense that they are part of the normal state of the species.

0 ( +1 / -1 )

Smith

Absolutely tasteless, I know, but I might be willing to pay my NHK fee for that. :)

I might even pay your NHK fee for you.

Start a petition. Lesbians on NHK!

0 ( +1 / -1 )

yasukuni

AKB48 and homosexuality. Perfect recipe for attention. Worked on JT.

absolutely. and to think it was in fact only one person who even mentioned homosexuality in the first place. one person in a nation of 120 million... Good copy editor JT!

0 ( +0 / -0 )

If it were total, it would be the end of the species, period.

Hardly. Many gay people want kids and know how to make babies. The population would surely decline, but the end? No.

they are not natural in the sense that they are part of the normal state of the species.

That is a highly subjective statement right there. I would bet a pretty penny that if you raised a group of boys or girls to be gay, including going so far as to create for them a community of only homosexual couples of their sex, 90 percent would show no interest in the opposite sex if they saw them for the first time at 18.

Nuture is about as significant as nature, maybe even more so in humans. But still, pushing the panic button over this commercial is over the top.

1 ( +1 / -0 )

SynchronicityII:

" That is a highly subjective statement right there. I would bet a pretty penny that if you raised a group of boys or girls to be gay, including going so far as to create for them a community of only homosexual couple "

Of course. Nurture has nothing to do with it, as I already pointed out in my first comment, It is a genetic aberration, like many others. If you want to argue that it is the natural state of the species, you might as well argue that birth defects are too. You are really getting into sophistry here.

By far most people would agree that the "natural state" of the species is a healthy speciman. Really now.

0 ( +0 / -0 )

I am not an OTAKU, but if a bunch of hot, young, yummy J girls started kissing like this in front of me!! HELL, I would want to join in!! Let me pass them some candies and hope my mustache does not tickle them too much! hahaha VIVA PANCHO VILLA!!

0 ( +1 / -1 )

They're not even snogging each other or engaging in any lesbian activity anyway. Complete over-reaction. Who hasn't ever played "pass the ice cube" at some drunken piss-up?

Going back 10 years maybe, there was an Ayumi Hamasaki record cover or poster with a picture of herself lying with herself in a semi-cuddly pose on a bed. I'd say that's more disturbing and unnatural than seeing two girls pass sweets to each other's mouths.

1 ( +1 / -0 )

if it were 'against nature' , or against Darwin, homosexuals would have died out long ago.

...mean God!

In a sense that is a correct statement. If homosexuality were a trait that could be found in a gene then it probably would have died out long ago. If you believe in science and in Darwin's natural selection then traits that hinder a species chances for survival would lose out in favor of those that foster survival. The point being that homosexuality is a choice or a matter of psychology rather than a matter of biology. No science has been able to determine that homosexuality is innate or is a part of human DNA. I don't see any sort of God as having anything to do with the science.

Since it is not a part of our biological makeup, those people that complain that videos like this one can promote homosexuality have a point. It is not unreasonable to assume that normalizing a behavior that was once considered not a part of the norm would result in more people experimenting with it.

0 ( +1 / -1 )

The point being that homosexuality is a choice or a matter of psychology rather than a matter of biology

Is there any science though that supports the idea that homosexuality is done by choice? Just because scientists haven't found proof that homosexuality is biological doesn't mean that it ISN'T biological or innate.

It is not unreasonable to assume that normalizing a behavior that was once considered not a part of the norm would result in more people experimenting with it

So by that reasoning, people who see this video are going to experiment with passing sweets to each other's mouths.

I'd better build a shelter in my back-garden to protect myself from the collapse of society that will inevitably result from that.

0 ( +0 / -0 )

LostInNagoya:

You use science as a mean to explain your strongest point of view - that homosexuality is somehow "taught", it's not.

There is no proof that homosexuality is innate or a part of human genetics - none. It is more likely that it is a learned or in some way a psychologically related behavior.

I am talking about the experiment of Dr. John Money and the two wins in Canada, in the 1960s. I want to remind you that you and Dr. Money share the same point of view. One that led to the suicide of Bruce in his late thirties.

Really? For me to simply state that I think that homosexuality is not genetic but psychological can not in no way associate me with whatever that guy did to some twins. That's a stretch and a cheap shot; you are unwilling to respond to the fact that no science has proven a genetic origin. You shouldn't try to shut people up by using a straw man like this Dr. Money fellow.

Mankind have known homosexuality during its entire registered history, and you don't see the number of people decreasing, quite the contrary. Sorry to say that, but your opinion is close to what Nazis used to justify why they imprisoned and killed homosexuals.

Whenever someone accuses someone else of being like the Nazi's then it obvious that they have a weak argument to make. Yes, homosexuality has likely been around for as long as human's have existed. There will always be homosexuals no matter what any progressive eugenics movement does in order to try and end it. There are of course other sexual behaviors that have also always existed such as bisexuality, pedophelia, polygamy, among others that can be imagined. Just because something has always existed doesn't make it "natural". All species run on a certain degree of instinct and so long as enough have the right instincts that ensure survival then the species will succeed. Humans, more so than any other species, has the most ability to choose even when it isn't in our best interests - from a Darwinian point of view.

In the future, please refrain from accusing me of promoting suicide or of being a Nazi. It will make your arguments seem more logical and based on reason - and not emotion.

-1 ( +1 / -2 )

@Lamarr:

Is there any science though that supports the idea that homosexuality is done by choice? Just because scientists haven't found proof that homosexuality is biological doesn't mean that it ISN'T biological or innate.

There is actually a large amount of research in the area of psychology that purports that it is at least in part psychological. Balanced that against no biological or genetic proof then one must lean towards the evidence until proven otherwise. I wouldn't use the word "choice" in all cases but for some people - perhaps mostly bisexuals - that is likely the case. Of course it is not politically correct but that doesn't make it false. There is a great deal garbage out there going back to the progressive eugenics era that is just plain ridiculous. However, there is reasoned research on the topic - if one is open minded to it and have not already made up their mind based on their political ideology.

So by that reasoning, people who see this video are going to experiment with passing sweets to each other's mouths.

There may be some girls or boys that do it. Media and popular culture have a huge impact on young people. I have heard of many cases where young people act out on something that they have seen in a movie or television program - sometimes with tragic results. I'm not saying that would be the end of the world for a bunch of girls to pass candy around from mouth to mouth. It's not. However, the media does have a large affect on cultural mores.

-2 ( +1 / -3 )

Who hasn't ever played "pass the ice cube" at some drunken piss-up?

I've never seen two guys do it - I try not to get that drunk.

0 ( +1 / -1 )

I have heard of many cases where young people act out on something that they have seen in a movie or television program - sometimes with tragic results

Maybe, but I think it's stretching things to purely blame the movie for it, and to then go censoring or banning things as a result. More likely that there's something else wrong with the person, or something from their environment having a bad effect on them, that makes them "act out" things.

Media reflects the culture as well as, if not more than, culture being influenced by media IMO. Better to change the culture than to go banning things from media. If it wasn't in the culture, it wouldn't get reflected in the media.

0 ( +0 / -0 )

hoserfella:

wolfpack - this was a curious statement. I don't remember anyone pointedly asking if homosexuality "was for you". Why so defensive?

I don't know, what do you think?

it seems to me the people who vilify homosexuality as unnatural or suggest in a roundabout way, that its a learned behavior (and can therefore be "un-learned") are themselves troubled by their own sexuality.

I am not vilifying homosexuals. I don't care who you or anyone chooses as a partner or what other people do behind closed doors. I am well aware that homosexuality is not going away and cannot be made to go away. I am just stating the obvious; any heterosexual person that is being honest - even those that or okay with it - would find it pretty disgusting to be involved in an intimate situation with another person of the same sex. You know that's true don't you? You should try this. Find a heterosexual friend of yours and ask them how comfortable he/she would be in various increasingly intimate situations with a person of the same sex. You might be shocked at how intolerant those people really are.

I have not once stated that I believe that homosexuality can be "unlearned". I have also tried to be careful and not state that it is "unnatural". My point about is that it doesn't fit with the science. Homosexuality goes against Darwin's ideas about how a species can survive. Therefore, I feel that it is more likely psychological in nature and in a minority of cases, a choice.

-4 ( +1 / -5 )

Maybe, but I think it's stretching things to purely blame the movie for it, and to then go censoring or banning things as a result. More likely that there's something else wrong with the person, or something from their environment having a bad effect on them, that makes them "act out" things.

Agreed, but for those few people the movie or commercial is the trigger. One example is the kids that saw wrestling on tv and decided to copy the moves that the "wrestlers" were doing leading to one of the kids death. I definitely would not be in favor of banning the AKB48 commercial.

-1 ( +2 / -3 )

I think we need more lesbotic ads - how about they pass the sweet using their arsecheeks?

1 ( +1 / -1 )

All publicity is good publicity?

And we all just helped them along a little bit?

1 ( +1 / -0 )

People need to get over women kissing each other and men. Worry about what goes on in your life and stay out of other people's business.

2 ( +2 / -0 )

In other news, the yuri crowd response was 100% in favour.

Staright or gay, people will do what they will. Just don't do it on the street, okay?

0 ( +0 / -0 )

Personally I'm not interested at all to read all these comments with each and everyone's personal views regarding homosexuality and their debate whether it's natural or not. There will always be gay rights supporters and shocked conservatives. No need to submit the rest of us to your endless debates. You are all more boring than the akb.

About the cm. As you all know Japanese are notorious in aping everything that's trendy. There is a reason they are called manenko. So I can easily imagine boys teasing and challenging girls in schools to do as the akb commercial and parents getting worried about "oral flora" and stuff. Perhaps they would prefer the "poutso" in the commercial to be wrapped in a condom or something to make it more hygienic. A Japanese compromising solution.

About the "homosexuality" bit. I find the "Soft Bank" series of commercials even more disgustingly suggestive. The father is a dog, so whom exactly does the mother have sex with? You get where I'm going. Japan is quickly turning into a Disneyland country where even the slightest hint of eroticism is a no-no. No wonder there is a growing number of Japanese couples not doing it.

0 ( +0 / -0 )

116 people doth protest too much.

0 ( +1 / -1 )

Most of you are missing the point. AKB48 is wildly popular - especially among young girls. Advertisers know that AKB48 have influence, and what they do -girls will copy, which is why they are used in advertising and campaigns. Lots of parents don't want their girls thinking it's normal, cute, acceptable or fun to do kiss other girls or pass candy.

Look, it was obvious that the the whole advertisement was made to titillate someone people, shock others, and get attention in general - because not many times on TV do you see women appear to be kissing each like that.

I don't think the ad is good, and I don't like lots of the overtly sexual stuff on TV when kids are watching. And for what it's worth I think purikua could tone it down too.

Not going to campaign against it, not sending any letters, emails, or phoning anyone, but you'd probably find that while only a few sent letters, most parents in Japan would rather they didn't have that CM if you asked them.

-1 ( +0 / -1 )

@yasukuni

you are right , the Horror!

0 ( +0 / -0 )

Wasn't going to react to this but here goes:

PidestroikaApr. 21, 2012 - 12:06PM JST May I offer a twist? "Poutso" in Greek is the vulgar word for penis. Remember the old commercial "Bob Shap (or whatever his name was) doesn't have a "poutso"? Who commented here that he likes lemon flavored "poutso"? And AKB passing a "poutso" to each other....if that commercial was aired in Greece it would make history.

Now the ad is repulsive.

0 ( +0 / -0 )

wolfpack - this was a curious statement. I don't remember anyone pointedly asking if homosexuality "was for you". Why so defensive?

I don't know, what do you think?

well, can't say for sure because I don't know u. Just curious how the gist of your posts revolve around the repulsion you say you feel for the physical act of sex between 2 men. I just think its weird as I never consider the act myself, as I'm only concerned with the physical act between a man (hopefully me) and a woman (hopefully a Tokyo hottie).

Just food for thought.

-2 ( +1 / -3 )

Homosexuality had to exist. Some people are genetically homosexuals. It’s a form of population control by nature (God is the creator of all things...nature). It’s part of nature's way of balancing out itself.

A lot of people are intrinsically homosexuals. Some try to suppress it, engage in hetero relationships as a denial strategy and end up moving from partner to partner, singing..I still haven’t found what I’m looking for.... If they became true to themselves they would stop roam. Some are able to suppress it to the point where it appears not to be there (until commercials like these stir up the loins). And some just ..got it bad...and have to let go and fully be this way.Imagine if everyone was hetero. What would be the present state of the world’s population now? More genocides, abortions infanticides, neonaticide ...all the 'cides' etc to keep the balance? IT's part of the PLAN.

I want to do a survey. I want to know what young Japanese girls....even the older ones..honestly thought after seeing the ad. Do they feel tempted to engage in same sex relationship because candy was passed from one girl's mouth to the other? They can anonymously write their answers and throw it in the bag over 'there'...here.

Can't leave without mentioning all those transvestites deep kissing and bursting open shirts showing hairy chests...playing with nipples..naked men parading...that are influencing boys to become homosexuals. Hmmm..come to think of it the boys seem to be a step ahead from what I observed.

Also women openly bathing men (only thing not shown was washing of the genitals) (still in shock) on public tv stations when children are up. Is it ok for children to watch be influenced and do?

0 ( +1 / -1 )

I'm quite sure that watching more men kiss is not going to encourage me to be more gay, and and also quite sure that kissing women in front of my gay friends is not going to turn them straight.

0 ( +0 / -0 )

Not going to campaign against it, not sending any letters, emails, or phoning anyone, but you'd probably find that while only a few sent letters, most parents in Japan would rather they didn't have that CM if you asked them.

Seriously, what harm is going to come from passing sweets to each other's mouths? Kids are hardly going to spend all day doing it. If you've ever tried it, it's quite difficult. More likely they'll have a bit of fun, drop the sweets and get bored with it. Something to do during lunchtime. If girls do get a "thrill" from touching each other's mouths, so what?? What's wrong with that?

Honestly, I think people get too worked up about these sorts of things. There are much more important and pressing problems in the world than "pass the sweets".

0 ( +0 / -0 )

Both sides of the nature vs. nurture argument have made good points. You know why? Because you are both right!

But just because for some gays, homosexuality was more learned does not make it a "choice". What your subconcious latches onto is not a choice. And while there may be predisposition to homosexuality in the genes, there is no "gay gene".

And I think some of you also fail to appreciation that each gay person is different from the next, even in the causes of their gayness, just like bis and straights are all different in their reasons for being so.

Its a very complex picture that so many of you seem to be trying way too hard to make simple.

This commercial could well influence some girls toward lesbianism. However, so could a million over things that have been doing that since pre-history. Big deal. Get over it I say. Life will go on.

0 ( +0 / -0 )

thx to this criticizing, i could see more yukirin n acchan face on many media.

0 ( +0 / -0 )

Soft sigh, to think so many of the posters have lived in Japan so long. Most Japaneses parents know what their sons and daughters are doing. Very often a Japanese girls first love is another girl. It is considered more "sweet". It is not a problem as the vast majority outgrow it. I do think the scene is suppose to stimulate men. Read somewhere men like this stuff. If it is a man and women the inside of the man is thinking "the man is already there". If it is 2 women they can inject themselves into the "fun". Do think most of the girls are 18 years old and none "preadolescence".

Why do some of the posters get so upset? The subject bores me to tears. smithinjapan, you come from Canada right? Your views would label you a "neocon". Think there are laws in Europe that prohibit that speech and writing. It is funny how so many of the anti homosexual people in the USA turn out to be homosexual. Lastly "he is without sin will cast the first stone".

-1 ( +2 / -3 )

This is more of a publicity stunt. AKB48 is attempting to bond with a younger fan base, and marketing strategy is they wants to establish relevancy by using the tools of youth. The key to longevity is adaptability, and they are both starting trends and staying just ahead of them to keep current. The strategy is likely to attract the younger generation's attention in their marketing campaign.

0 ( +0 / -0 )

Yuri, people probably aren't as upset as you imagine them to be. And most Japanese mothers think it's a stupid ad and prefer it they didn't show it, but aren't complaining about it. But that could be said about lots of things in Japan.

But these days people don't complain about much at all because if you do you get attacked for being a prude or old-fashioned , which is about the worst thing a person be accused of these days.

2 ( +2 / -0 )

I want to see NORTH KOREAN chicks try and top this! This is why Japan is such a great country and the DPRK needs to learn to relax and be more sexy and kawaii like Japan!

-1 ( +1 / -2 )

Herpes, anyone?

-1 ( +0 / -1 )

Nothing like a bit of healthy scandal.

Encouraging homosexuality huh? Geez, gimme a break. Can't wait to see Rick Santorum's remark on this. :)

-1 ( +0 / -1 )

What the people complaining are actually disgusted about is themselves - it's the same as with those US politicians who are anti-gay hardliners, and then get caught in airport bathrooms having sex with men.

2 ( +2 / -0 )

@hoserfella:

well, can't say for sure because I don't know u.

OK - so you just don't know. That makes sense. Besides, I am not a Republican senator from Utah or a Democrat representative from Massachusetts.

I just think its weird as I never consider the act myself, as I'm only concerned with the physical act between a man (hopefully me) and a woman (hopefully a Tokyo hottie).

Now if I were to read between the lines - as you seem very good at doing yourself - I would have to assume that you find homosexually so distasteful that you will not even contemplate it. So something that is natural is somehow not worth your time to contemplate. So in other words, you are a closet homophobe. Ah yes, that's got to be it.

It's really not much different from a white man saying he wouldn't consider being intimate with a black women because she is black. And don't even try to pull this "it's not the same thing". If as you seem to believe homosexuality, like race, is natural then what's your hangup? No wait, I see... you are playing reverse psychology right? And you criticize me huh? - you are a tricky one Mr. hoserfella. Ok - that's cool.

If two guys want to be intimate with one another - that's none of my business. But I must go back to my original point. To date, science does not support the idea that homosexuality is "natural". In fact, Darwin would necessarily point to a cause other than natural selection. Again, that doesn't mean that it would not occur, it just means that it isn't what Darwin would say a species would promote. The best that science can offer is that homosexuality is psychological in nature and/or a choice. There is no homosexual gene.

So to tie this back to this topic, this commercial does affect peoples attitudes towards homosexuality and since human beings have the ability to make choices, it does have a fairly 'small' affect on peoples willingness to consider it. For most young girls, it will not but for a small number it may affect their thinking on the matter.

-2 ( +2 / -4 )

Staright or gay, people will do what they will. Just don't do it on the street, okay?

^ This. You can be homosexual all you want, just leave everyone else out of it.

-1 ( +3 / -4 )

Clearly the best CM Japan has ever produced. Anything that promotes kissing, gay or straight, is a good thing.

1 ( +2 / -1 )

Wolfpack- if I listen to broadway show tunes for long enough, will I turn gay?

-2 ( +2 / -4 )

The ad is certainly encouraging something, ahem wink wink nudge nudge say no more.

0 ( +1 / -1 )

Anything that promotes kissing, gay or straight, is a good thing.

They are not kissing or promoting anything other than themselves, the candy, and questionable oral hygiene practices...

if I listen to broadway show tunes for long enough, will I turn gay?

Start with Cole Porter, Stephen Sondheim, and Marvin Hamlisch, and see how it goes...

0 ( +1 / -1 )

@oginome

I've never been one to care much about political correctness, as you obviously are. So for the sake of your sensitivities, let me restate my previous comment....

I don't see how this is any worse than all the transexuals you see on Japanese TV these days. So young heterosexual females performing seductive acts which may be perceived to be homosexual is not okay, but overtly flamboyant confirmed homosexual males on practically every Japanese TV show is?? Not cool Japan. Not cool.

-1 ( +0 / -1 )

"Herpes, anyone?"

Nah.

-1 ( +0 / -1 )

Horserfella - if you read a science book do you think you can learn reason and critical thinking?

0 ( +0 / -0 )

hoserfella:

if I listen to broadway show tunes for long enough, will I turn gay?

If that's what you choose to be.

0 ( +1 / -2 )

Stay on topic please.

0 ( +0 / -0 )

One the complaints in the article about the AKB commercial is that it "may encourage homosexuality". Of course, not everyone that watches the commercial will immediately ran around 'singing show tunes', but normalizing intimacy between people of the same sex has an affect on social mores. Since humans, unlike most animals in nature, have the higher cognitive ability that allows us to make choices rather than act primarily on instinct, the choice is there to act for those susceptible to the influence of popular media. Media and popular culture have a well established influence on behavior, especially younger people.

-1 ( +1 / -2 )

The picture reminds me of stomatitis rather than dainty bits of candy. I prefer the girl on the right (Kashiwagi?) not having her hair on the temple tucked up over the ear. It's perhaps Lolita oyaji's mauvais gout in ad industry that let two girls kiss in such a posture rather than any kind of girls love mauve relish. They better recast, say, Akimoto Sayaka instead of Acchan and let Sayaka embrace Yukirin from behind putting a candy into her mouth. It produces a better GL taste that will not inflame anybody though it may alienate many oyajis.

-2 ( +0 / -2 )

I agree with Wolfpack. While there is an instinct to have sex with any gender within the same species in nature, we as human beings (should) have the cognitive ability to distinguish the difference between female and male sex organs, and the purposes served in the cycle of life by said organs. Therefore, we as humans do what we do more by choice than instinct. A dog will attempt to copulate with any orifice because its instincts encourage procreation, as with any wild animal. Call me homophobic, I couldn't care less, but being homosexual is a choice. And while I accept that some people make that choice, I don't agree that their choice should be paraded around, much less celebrated. And though I don't mind this ad (I think it's actually quite clever. See how much attention it's getting?), I agree that to a very, very, very select few young and impressionable minds, it may have behavioural effects later on their choices later on in life, but hardly as much of an impact as the current lineup of homosexuals in popular Japanese media today would have.

-2 ( +0 / -2 )

A lot of fuss over nothing, IMHO. It's marketing, pure and simple.

If it generates so much publicity, maybe they should start a new group - how about Gay Kay Bee 48, anyone?

OK, enough of the oyaji gyagu, I'll go now...

1 ( +1 / -0 )

People get excited about this stuff but it's ok to read "Rape Man" manga in front of me on the train?? Or the real reasons there are women only train cars....and they are worried about a gay couple that happen to be popular in their scene??? Give me a break. As many before me in this thread said Japan has FAR more important issues to deal with...this is not an issue at all.

1 ( +1 / -0 )

People get excited about this stuff but it's ok to read "Rape Man" manga in front of me on the train??

When you think about it, there's loads of varying degrees of "dodgy" stuff like that in Japan:

Bedroom scenes in TV dramas broadcast during the daytime Photo cards of idols in bikinis, sold in children's toy shops Photobooks of underage girls in short skirts, on public display and sold in major bookstores such as Kinokuniya Depictions of child sex in manga

Two girls passing a sweet with their mouths is just titillation, like a lot of advertising. There've been plenty of adverts with famous stars in their birthday suits, with their naughty bits covered. Again, it's titillation, all designed to sell more product.

1 ( +1 / -0 )

When you think about it, there's loads of varying degrees of "dodgy" stuff like that in Japan:

What is dodgy and what is not is totally based on your cultural filter. There is no absolute right or wrong in this. There is no way this commercial would have been acceptable in America 40 years ago either. In fact, the number of complaints would have far exceeded those we have in Japan right now, and on much the same grounds too. Well, you just can't say anything against gays anymore. Its out of fashion, and that is really all it boils down to.

-1 ( +0 / -1 )

Well, you just can't say anything against gays anymore. Its out of fashion, and that is really all it boils down to.

Generally speaking, these days, saying stuff that might be considered even remotely anti-gay, or indeed, anti any "minority group", results in the perpetrator being proverbially hanged. You see this in particular when comments or epithets about race are mentioned.

This is maybe kind of what's happening with this commercial - a complete over-reaction to something not particularly harmful.

1 ( +1 / -0 )

In the end I'd rather see AKB48 kiss than Smap. Probably shouldn't give them ideas though.

1 ( +1 / -0 )

Completely OTT response to be honest. I've seen worse on kids TV in the 90s in the UK - Grange Hill, a school-based drama had an incident like this around the 5pm mark, and it was PRAISED (generally) for touching a taboo subject. There were complaints, yes, but they were small in number and from where one would expect them to come from: right wing conservative blue rinse brigade, etc

But to be totally honest the ad isn't intended to promote lesbianism, it's a way of selling sweets to a huge fan-base. It ticks 2 boxes: girl fans who find it cute, and the otaku who get turned on by

1 ( +1 / -0 )

Girls kissing each other on video, isn't that common in Japan?

If you really want to see complaints have guys passing candies to guys then complaints would hit 50K+ :p

Double standards abound.

1 ( +1 / -0 )

Many of you are "OTT" in talking about hypocrisy. There have been so many comments from people upset that people are complaining about this but not complaining about worse things on TV or rape manga etc.

But you'll find that the same people who don't like the ad, most likely don't like all the other stuff.

I think this ad is really bad or the end of the world. Just that I can understand parents not wanting it. There's a lot on TV I think shouldn't be on. If there were an article on JT about men reading rape manga on trains, or girlie magazines next to a woman etc, I'd be more against that.

Seems like you can't say anything is not good these days, without having people oppose you because there is worse to complain about. Strange.

1 ( +1 / -0 )

Yasukuni, I totally agree with you. there are much worse things to talk about him complain about. don't even get me started on passive child pornography that people pass off as modelling here in Japan. unfortunately, this isn't the topic of this article, so we can't complain about it here, but yes, there are definitely topics much worse and more sinister than two members of AKB48 kissing.

0 ( +0 / -0 )

and not him.

0 ( +0 / -0 )

As a gay women, I'm offended that they called a "homosexual display" offensive in the first place. I don't like AKB at all, and I'll bet anything they were told to do it for the erotic appeal for their otaku type fans. But there is nothing different from a man and a woman doing this.

-3 ( +0 / -3 )

I looked for the comments from the viewers about the AKB CM complaints in the BPO page and found this:

AKB48が口移しでキスをしてお菓子を食べる「ぷっちょ」のCM。こんな品位の欠けるCMはやめてほしい。食べ物を口移しでリレーすることは不衛生だし、気持ちが悪い。オタクだかファンだかを喜ばせるようなことがしたいのか不明だが、このグループはPVで10代の女の子を含む子が下着になって抱き合ったり、「私と赤ちゃん作らない?」というCMをしたり、非常に不快である。CMをいちいち情報番組で取り上げるので、見たくなくてもくだらない情報が入ってくる。

Here is the link: http://www.bpo.gr.jp/audience/opinion/2011/mt-preview-5793ecbde4fc19f0db82d980c576edb798d397f9.html

As far as I understood, these complains come from the regular people who watched the CM and not exactly from the Organization. And inside this tiny report, I couldn't find anything about "homosexuality", just about oral flora. Homosexuality is not mentioned. So, it would be nice from AFP or Japan Today clarify the source to that statement about homosexuality. I mean, is ridiculous condemn homosexuality in every way, but is even more ridiculous fabricate statements just because you want to turn on a flame war in the comments.

1 ( +1 / -0 )

In every society there will be people offended by an tv ad that would make a call to complain. Like hardcore Christians or Conservatives in the US. So what?

0 ( +1 / -1 )

There is too much complaining in this world. For example, here we are complaining about complainers, about AKB48, about Japan...

-2 ( +0 / -2 )

There is too much complaining in this world. For example, here we are complaining about complainers, about AKB48, about Japan...

you haven't been on here very much have you?

1 ( +1 / -0 )

I want to see NORTH KOREAN chicks try and top this! This is why Japan is such a great country and the DPRK needs to learn to relax and be more sexy and kawaii like Japan!

BRING IT ON!

0 ( +0 / -0 )

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