I originally told myself I wouldn’t get involved, but I also don’t want this to become a precedent for foreign kigs visiting Japan, so I’d like to share a few thoughts.
Japan is generally a conservative society, with established social norms and expectations regarding public behavior. Actions that fall outside those norms are often viewed as discourteous or disrespectful.
As many people already know, public kig activities in Japan are generally restricted unless permission has been obtained or there are specific circumstances that allow it.
Seeing someone from our community openly disregard those rules is disappointing. First, it shows a lack of respect for local customs and the people around us—not just fellow kigs, but the general public as well. Second, it risks creating a negative impression of foreign kigs who visit Japan and do their best to follow local expectations. Third, it may further reinforce negative perceptions of the hobby at a time when kigurumi already faces restrictions at some major cosplay events.
Everyone is free to form their own opinion on the matter. However, when we visit another country, I believe it is our responsibility to respect its rules, customs, and social norms, whether we personally agree with them or not.