Japanese UK ambassador performs Welsh national anthem in Welsh, eliciting enthusiasm from attendees
Japanese Ambassador to the UK Performs Welsh National Anthem
In an unexpected and heartwarming moment, Hiroshi Suzuki, the Japanese ambassador to the UK, took to the stage on 9 January 2025 and sang the Welsh national anthem, 'Mae Hen Wlad Fy Nhadau', in its original language.
The event, which was covered by journalist Will Padfield, took place at an undisclosed location. The performance was well-received by the audience, who were undoubtedly touched by the ambassador's gesture.
Hiroshi Suzuki, a Japanese native, made the performance even more impressive. His mastery of the difficult Welsh language was a testament to his dedication and respect for Welsh culture.
During the performance, the ambassador was filmed holding both the Japanese and Welsh flags, as well as a small red toy dragon. The video of his performance was shared on social media, but the exact date of the sharing is not known.
Hiroshi Suzuki's posting as the UK ambassador came late last year, following previous postings as Japanese ambassador to India and Bhutan. His performance of the Welsh anthem marked a significant milestone in his diplomatic career.
The Welsh national anthem is a famous hymn in Wales, known for its patriotic and cultural importance. However, in Japanese culture, there are no direct references or notable cultural connections between the Welsh anthem and Japanese culture.
Japan's national anthem, "Kimigayo," expresses a wish for the peaceful continuation and prosperity of the emperor's reign and, by extension, the nation. It emphasizes themes of stability, longevity, and harmony where "everyone helps each other to build a happy world."
While Asian national anthems often reflect pride and cultural values, Japan's anthem is unique in age and poetic style. It is one of the oldest lyrics globally, and its brevity adds to its distinctiveness.
In conclusion, Hiroshi Suzuki's performance of the Welsh national anthem was a heartfelt gesture that brought together two distinct cultures. While there are no direct connections between the Welsh anthem and Japanese culture, the performance serves as a reminder of the shared values of peace, unity, and respect that bind nations together.
Celebrities and entertainment began to catch on to Hiroshi Suzuki's rendition of the Welsh national anthem on social media, expressing admiration for his showing of cultural respect and dedication. Subsequently, the exceptional performance by the Japanese ambassador sparked lively discussions about the shared values of peace, unity, and respect across various social media platforms, encouraging further exploration of international cultural ties.
