Japan Cancels Netflix Show Deal Amid Crime Glorification Fears

Japan's justice ministry announced Friday the cancellation of its collaboration with the Netflix dating show "Badly in Love." This decision follows significant public criticism and backlash that suggested the program glorified past criminal behavior.

The "Badly in Love" series spotlights Japan's "yankii" (delinquent) subculture, bringing together young men and women with histories of delinquency, including former yakuza members and motorcycle gang participants. Despite its controversial premise, the show has achieved global popularity, with its second season currently ranking as the top program in Japan.

The ministry's rehabilitation bureau had initially defended the partnership, believing the show's themes of atonement and personal growth aligned with the idea that "a person can change." However, mounting concerns, particularly after an episode where a cast member confessed to a violent past act, prompted the ministry to reconsider.

In a statement, the ministry clarified that the collaboration was not intended to endorse or trivialize criminal acts. Nevertheless, they acknowledged the valid concerns raised by victims of crime, which ultimately led to the termination. The ministry emphasized that this cancellation does not diminish efforts to support the rehabilitation of individuals with past offenses.