Overview

• Ukrainian-born Carolina Shiino, who has lived in Japan since she was 5 and is a naturalized citizen, was crowned Miss Japan, sparking a debate about what it means to be Japanese.
• Shiino's win has raised questions about beauty standards and cultural identity in Japan, a country known for its homogeneity and conformity.
• Some social media users argue that Shiino's Japanese citizenship makes her Japanese, while others believe that a Miss Japan should have Japanese ancestry.
• Shiino hopes her win will change minds about who can be considered Japanese and contribute to building a society that respects diversity.
• Japan is grappling with the need for more foreign residents and workers due to its rapidly aging population, despite its conservative views on immigration.