How a 19th-century newspaper survived imperial censorship and ownership shifts

Entertainment · Published 3 October 2026 · Updated 25 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: Launched in 1897 to help Japan join the international community, The Japan Times has navigated a century of transformation. From serving as a mouthpiece for imperial propaganda during World War II to facing modern controversies over editorial language, the paper's history reveals the complex tension between journalism and state influence.

Founded on 22 March 1897 by Motosada Zumoto, The Japan Times began with the mission of providing English-language news to facilitate Japan's participation in global affairs. However, its early years were deeply intertwined with Japan's colonial ambitions. In 1906, under the direction of Itō Hirobumi, the Resident-General of Korea, Zumoto expanded his reach by linking The Japan Times with The Seoul Press. Together, these publications advocated for Japanese colonial control over the Korean peninsula, framing the occupation as a necessary civilizing mission.

The twentieth century brought significant editorial volatility. While initially independent, the paper faced mounting government pressure starting in 1931. By 1933, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs appointed former official Hitoshi Ashida as chief editor. During World War II, the publication functioned as an outlet for Imperial Japanese government opinion. The paper underwent several identity shifts, including a period as the Nippon Times between 1943 and 1956, a name change necessitated by the wartime ban on English-language sentiment in Japan.

Modern ownership has also sparked intense debate. Following its acquisition by News2u Holdings, Inc., the paper faced backlash in 2018 after updating its editorial terminology regarding sensitive historical topics, such as 'wartime laborers' and 'comfort women.' Critics argued these changes aligned the paper with the political stance of Prime Minister Shinzō Abe. The newspaper eventually issued a formal apology in December 2018, admitting that the editorial shift had undermined the trust of its readers and staff.

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