5th August 2010

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U.S. Military Publishes Manga in Japan

I just found out from the Wall Street Journal that the U.S. military is trying to educate Japanese kids about U.S.-Japan relations with a manga. Apparently, the manga (entitled “Our Alliance - A Lasting Partnership”) will focus on two kids, one American boy & one Japanese girl, trying to understand what the U.S. military is all about and how the U.S.-Japan alliance works. This was made to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the security alliance made between the two countries.

The military says that they decided to do manga because it’s popular with young adults. What an awesome way for Japanese youths to learn about the joys of being American. Remember when Japan decided to do their version of history and ignored the bad stuff they did to China & Korea? It could turn out the same way. Then again, there’s been trouble brewing at Okinawa concerning placement of U.S. troops. The manga might save the day!

Another thing is that the mangaka for this project is Yukio Hirai, who is known for a manga/CD (Mahō no Kaiheitai Pixel☆Maritan aka “Magical Marine Pixel*Maritan”) that teaches Japanese people how to talk like a U.S. Marine….with swearing. I wonder if the military was really ok with a person who thinks that American soldiers curse a lot. The joy of American stereotypes, eh? However, both countries don’t truly understand each other that well so you can call it even.

I also think they are seriously capitalizing on the popularity of Axis Powers Hetalia. Think about it. World War II turned into hot-guy, comedic satire. Why not go even further with more U.S.-Japan hijinx, but toned-down & kiddy-like? I seriously doubt the upper ranks know about Hetalia, but I’m sure the U.S. forces stationed in Japan did & possibly spread the word to high command.

What do you guys think? Will it do well? Is this more of U.S. propaganda being forced down other people’s throats?

Volume 1 of this manga is already out online on the U.S.-Japan Alliance’s official website. You can read it here.

Tagged: japanmangamilitaryunited statesyouthaxis powers hetalia