A controversial mural in Los Angeles’ Koreatown which reminded the community of Imperial Japan will be painted over, according to KTLA.
The image which shows actress Ava Gardner in the foreground also shows large sun rays which are associated with the Japanese imperial battle flag, a symbol that represents a time when Koreans were oppressed under Japanese ruling.
The mural can be seen at the Robert F. Kennedy Community School. Artist Beau Stanton has agreed to paint over the mural after Los Angeles Unified School District officials gave in to the demands.
According to the Los Angeles Times, Korean groups are not against the actress in the mural, but say that the rays are too reminiscent of the flag. Many Koreans remain sensitive to the past atrocities during Japanese colonization in Korea.
Stanton claims his work has nothing to do with the controversy. Some are even coming to his defense and arguing that the school district should have opposed censorship.
“Who is to say that the new mural they put up is not going to offend someone else?” said Janette Tovar, a retired administrator who is working part-time coaching teachers on the school campus.
AsAmNews has Asian America in its heart. We’re an all-volunteer effort of dedicated staff and interns. Check out our Twitter feed and Facebook page for more content. Please consider interning, joining our staff or submitting a story.
