While it’s well-known that Shigeru Ishiba, Japan’s newest Prime Minister, once cosplayed asDragon Ball Z’s Majin Buu, what’s less reported is how Ishiba embraced his inner geek, turning the cosplay into more than just a symbolic gesture. Instead, it became a powerful acknowledgment ofDragon Ball’s status as a cultural icon.
In April 2018, the Kurayoshi Figure Museum opened its doors for the first time, not only to celebrate the fantastic world of figurines but also to showcase the repurposing of Japan’s oldest circular school building, which had been converted into the museum’s showroom and headquarters. It was a significant occasion for local politicians, including Shigeru Ishiba, then a parliament member, whose district encompassed Kurayoshi City, where the museum is located.
However, instead of just delivering a speech to highlight the event, Ishiba - a well-known otaku with a passion for building military model kits and a notable friendship withGhost in the Shelldirector Mamoru Oshii, according to author and Japanese pop culture expertMatt Alt- literally couldn’t resist the opportunity to don a Majin Buu costume.Buu is one ofDragon Ball’smost iconic characters, so it makes sense. As the event was reported at the time byTottori Magazine, though the cosplay wasn’t originally his idea, he embraced it with a zeal that only a true otaku possesses.
Japan’s New Prime Ministers Pulls Off The Perfect Cosplay
A politician dressing up as a manga character is undoubtedly entertaining news that grabs headlines,but what’s being overlooked in this case is the impressiveDragon Ballcosplay itself. The costume cleverly accentuated Ishiba’s physique to embody Majin Buu’s “Good Buu” form, effectively capturing the character’s distinctive puffy appearance from the manga and anime. The attention to detail is impressive, capturing every aspect of Good Buu’s appearance — from his yellow mittens to the purple cape, tied in a knot at the front.Good Majin Buu has a somewhat frumpy look, and Ishiba pulls it off perfectly.
But great cosplay is not just about looking like the character; it’s also about bringing the character to life by acting like them too. Here, Ishiba shines. Good Buu, as his name suggests, was all about goodness, with a playful, caring, and child-like demeanor. In the cosplay, Ishiba sheds the stiffness commonly associated with politicians, especially elder political leaders in Japan. Instead, he exudes a kind and buoyant aura, much like Majin Buu. Clearly in his element, Ishiba’s cosplay is a standout, capturing the essence of the beloved character.
Dragon Ball Is More Than Just A Manga And Anime
From Japan To the World, Dragon Ball Has Become A Cultural Phenomenon
What really makes this event stand out, beyond the cosplay itself, is that Ishiba agreed to participate. While there are certainly American politicians who are comic book and cartoon fans, you’re unlikely to see any of them donning a Green Goblin or Joker costume at a campaign event. The key difference is thatthe Japanese government, and the politicians within it, view manga and anime as a form of “soft power”— a way to promote Japan and its culture to the world. And if the global explosion of anime is any indication, the policy is working.
But what’s even more fascinating than politicians cosplaying is that they choseDragon Ballas their theme. With hundreds of iconic manga and anime options likeAstro Boy,Naruto, andOne Pieceto showcase Japanese pop culture,Dragon Ballstands out as a particularly great choice. As we’ve seen with thepassing of its creator Akira Toriyama earlier this year,its influence extends far beyond the anime community, inspiring countless fans worldwide. Indeed,Dragon Ball’s global impact is truly unparalleled.
Sources:Matt Alt,Tottori Magazine
Dragon Ball Z
Dragon Ball Z follows Goku, who lives a peaceful life with his family until the arrival of Raditz, a mysterious warrior claiming to be Goku’s brother. This revelation unveils their true heritage as Saiyans, a formidable warrior race known for conquering planets.
