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The reality TV star and businesswoman said on
Monday she would rename her Kimono shapewear line after people
in Japan said her use of the term was disrespectful.
Trade Minister Hiroshige Seko said he was aware of Kardashian's
decision but still wanted there to be "a careful examination" of
the matter.
"This has become a big deal on social media," Seko said during a
regular press conference in Tokyo, adding that trademark issues
fell under his jurisdiction.
"The kimono is regarded around the world as a distinct part of
our culture," he said. "Even in America, kimono is well known to
be Japanese."
Kardashian said that she had announced the Kimono products in
June "with the best intentions in mind" and that she appreciated
the feedback she had received.
"My brands and products are built with inclusivity and diversity
at their core and after careful thought and consideration, I
will be launching my Solutionwear brand under a new name," she
wrote on Twitter.
In Japanese, kimono means "thing that's worn" and refers to
full-length robes with sashes donned for formal occasions such
as weddings and funerals. Kardashian's use of the word on
undergarments and filing for a trademark annoyed many people.
"Kimono is not underwear! Stop trademark registration! Don't
make the word kimono yours!" Twitter user Ruu wrote shortly
after the launch announcement, echoing a common theme.
Others said using the word was "a theft of traditional culture"
and begged Kardashian to change the name, saying the underwear
would sell just as well if it was called something else.
Seko said that he was sending Japanese patent executives to the
U.S. Patent and Trademark Office on July 9 to "properly exchange
views on the matter", adding that he would be following the
situation closely.
(Reporting by Makiko Yamazaki, Malcolm Foster and Lisa Richwine;
Editing by Cynthia Osterman and Nick Macfie)
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