As Japan's hostage drama unfolded last week, TV networks altered their schedules and some pop singers changed the lyrics they sang live out of fear that inappropriate content might offend.
On the Internet, some people welcomed the displays of sensitivity, but plenty of others scoffed at the nation's tendency to self-censor, which at least one Twitter used called "creepy."
On Friday, three-piece pop band Ling tosite sigure changed the lyrics of "Who What Who What," a song they performed on TV Asahi's weekly Music Station show.
With your current subscription plan you can comment on stories. However, before writing your first comment, please create a display name in the Profile section of your subscriber account page.