Nagoya, Japan – Japan has clinched the World Cosplay Championship for the first time in 12 years, securing the Foreign Minister’s Prize at the 22nd World Cosplay Summit held in Nagoya from August 2nd to 4th.
A team of two cosplayers representing Japan, along with 36 other countries and regions, showcased their talents in costumes inspired by Japanese anime, manga, and video games. The Japanese team’s victory marked a significant achievement, as they last claimed the title in 2012.
Cosplay, a popular culture phenomenon originating in Japan, has gained global recognition and continues to captivate audiences worldwide. It serves as a powerful tool for fostering international exchange through Japanese anime, manga, and video games.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has consistently awarded the Foreign Minister’s Prize to the championship-winning team since 2009. The World Cosplay Summit itself was established in 2003 and aims to promote international exchange through Japanese youth culture. The event is organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Aichi Prefecture, Nagoya City, and other entities.
The World Cosplay Championship, which began in 2005, features teams representing Japan and various other countries and regions. This year’s event showcased the passion and creativity of cosplayers from around the world.