Kim Kardashian has launched a new underwear range, after a year of ‘research and development’. The new range aims to offer ‘underwear solutions for women’. But there’s only one problem: the name.
Kardashian revealed her new line of underwear would be called ‘Kimono’, the same name for Japan’s deeply-traditional outfit. The naming convention immediately drew fire from Japanese people worldwide, who accused Kardashian as being tone deaf and of cultural appropriation.
Many took to Twitter using the hashtag #KimOhNo to complain.
“She’s been to Japan many times. I’m shocked. She has no respect,” tweeted one user in Japanese.
“I like Kim Kardashian, but please pick a name other than kimono if it’s underwear,” wrote another.
“The Japanese government should file a protest against Kardashian,” wrote a third.
In Japanese, Kimono literally means “something to wear”. But over the years it has become widely regarded as Japan’s national dress. Today, the kimono is reserved for special occasions, such as wedding and coming-of-age ceremonies, and is mostly worn by women.
The new line’s website offers no explanation as to why it’s called Kimono, and Kim Kardashian has yet to respond to detractors.
