Japan’s new prime minister channels his inner Majin Buu from Dragon Ball in bold campaign cosplay

Although it is known that Shigeru Ishiba, Japan’s newest Prime Minister, once cosplayed as Dragon Ball pMajin Buu’s less reported is how Ishiba embraced his inner geek, turning the cosplay into more than just a symbolic gesture. Instead, it became a strong acknowledgment of Dragon Balls status as a cultural icon.

In April 2018, the Kurayoshi Figure Museum opened its doors for the first time, not only to celebrate the fantastic world of figurines, but also to showcase the repurposing of Japan’s oldest round school building, which was converted into the museum showroom and headquarters . This was a significant opportunity for local politicians, including Shigeru Ishiba, then a member of parliament, whose district includes Kurayoshi City, where the museum is located.

However, instead of just giving a speech to highlight the event, Ishiba – a prominent otaku with a passion for building military model kits and a notable friendship with Game Ghost in the Shell Director Mamoru Oshii, according to the author and Japanese pop culture expert Matt Old – Literally couldn’t resist the opportunity to wear a Majin Buu costume. BV is one of Dragon Ball’s Most iconic characters, so it makes sense. As the event was reported at the time by Tottori MagazineAlthough the cosplay was not originally his idea, he embraced it with a zeal that only a true otaku possesses.

Japan’s new Prime Minister pulls off the perfect cosplay

A politician dressing up as a manga character is certainly entertaining news that grabs headlines, But what is overlooked in this case is the impressive Dragon Ball Cosplay yourself. The costume cleverly accentuates Ishiba’s body to embody Majin Buu’s “Good Buu” form, effectively capturing the character’s distinctive puffy appearance from the manga and anime. The attention to detail is impressive, capturing every aspect of Good Boo’s appearance – from his yellow mittens to the purple cape, tied in a knot in the front. Good Majin Buu has a slightly frumpy look, and Ishiba pulls it off perfectly.

But great cosplay isn’t just about looking like the character; It’s also about bringing the character to life by acting like them too. Yeshiva is beautiful. Good Boo, as his name suggests, was all about kindness, with a playful, caring, and child-like demeanor. In the cosplay, Ishiba sheds the stiffness often associated with politicians, especially senior political leaders in Japan. Instead, he exudes a kind and lively aura, much like Majin Buu. Clearly in his element, Ishiba’s cosplay is a standout, capturing the essence of the beloved character.

Dragon Ball is more than just a manga and anime

From Japan to the world, Dragon Ball has become a cultural phenomenon

What really makes the event stand out, beyond the cosplay itself, is that Ishiba agreed to participate. While there are certainly American politicians who are comic book and cartoon fans, you might not see any of them donning a Green Goblin or Joker costume at a campaign event. The main difference is that The Japanese government, and its politicians, see manga and anime as a form of “soft power.” – A way to promote Japan and its culture to the world. And if the global explosion of anime is any indication, the policy is working.

But what is even more fascinating than politicians cosplaying is that they chose Dragon Ball Like their theme. With hundreds of iconic manga and anime options like Astro Boy, NarutoAnd One piece to showcase Japanese pop culture, Dragon Ball Stands out as a particularly great choice. As we saw with the passing of its creator Akira Toriyama earlier this year, his influence extends far beyond the anime community, inspiring countless fans worldwide. Indeed, Dragon BallIts global impact is truly unparalleled.

Sources: Matt Old, Tottori Magazine