Three years after the scandal that banished him from the Chinese entertainment industry, Zhang Zhehan has finally spoken out about the controversy surrounding the Yasukuni Shrine. The actor, who gained international fame for his role as Zhou Zishu in the drama Word of Honor (2021), saw his career crumble overnight after photos of him at the site were released.
The Yasukuni Shrine, associated with Japan’s militaristic past, is a source of deep resentment in China. Accused of a lack of patriotism, Zhang Zhehan was banned overnight for having taken, according to him, a casual photo in front of the shrine.
“I love my ancestral country”
Despite being banned in China, Zhang Zhehan has found some success abroad. During a recent concert in Seoul, he addressed the controversy that ruined his career. “It’s been three years since I’ve had the chance to explain the truth about that year, but now I want to tell everyone,” the actor said.
Zhang Zhehan stated that the photo was taken in 2018 while walking along a cherry blossom path in a park, without realizing what was in the background. “Three years later, when I saw the news, I wanted to explain myself, but I had lost all platforms to clarify. I am a Chinese citizen, born and raised. I have never and will never visit or pay my respects at the Yasukuni Shrine. I love my ancestral country very much,” he declared.
Even though he is blocked in China, Zhang Zhehan says he is grateful and promises to continue working for the fans who still support him. “It is your trust and support that has brought me here today. Thank you,” he concluded.
