Chinese media outlet Xin Huanghe reported on the 11th that Qingdao University denied information that its new school emblem had received criticism for resembling the Rising Sun Flag and had been removed. According to the article, a netizen recently posted a video on social media claiming, 'Qingdao University's new school emblem was pointed out as resembling the Rising Sun Flag, and the university hastily removed it,' sparking controversy. However, investigations by a platform verifying the authenticity of online information revealed that this information was not true. Regarding the commotion, Qingdao University explained, 'Since its founding in 1909, we have never used the school emblem appearing in the video circulating online. Furthermore, there has been no recent solicitation or announcement of new school emblem designs; it is a complete fabrication.' Qingdao University's current school emblem began use in May 2013, is primarily blue, and features the university's name in Chinese and English, as well as its founding year.

Qingdao University's school emblem
From Chinese netizens, comments such as 'Severe punishment for those who spread rumors!', 'Are there really people who spread such rumors (that are immediately proven false)? Anything goes, truly.', 'Will the university not sue?', 'Rumors don't disappear because the punishment for those who spread them is too light.', 'This must be the work of Japanese spies. Investigate thoroughly!', and 'People from Qingdao, Shanghai, and Dalian are relatively more 'pro-Japan' (flattering Japan) compared to other regions' were received. (Translated and edited by Kitada)

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