Karolina Shiino was Miss Japan, but she resigned from the title shortly after winning.
Karolina Shiino: The First European-Descent Miss Japan
Karolina Shiino, a 26-year-old model born in Ukraine, made history in January 2024 by becoming the first woman of European descent to win the Miss Japan title. She moved to Japan at the age of five and was raised in Nagoya. Her win sparked considerable debate in Japan about national identity and what it means to be Japanese. BBC News reported on the social media discussions that ensued following her victory.
However, her reign as Miss Japan was short-lived. Less than two weeks after her win, Shiino resigned following revelations about a relationship with a married man. The Washington Post, The Guardian, The Japan Times, and CNN all reported on her resignation and the controversy surrounding it. This was the first time a Miss Japan winner relinquished her title.
This situation highlights the complexities surrounding beauty pageants and public image. It also underscores the ongoing conversation about identity and belonging in increasingly diverse societies.
