The Ukrainian-born Miss Japan, Karolina Shiino, relinquished her title two weeks after winning, amidst allegations of an affair with a married man.
In an Instagram statement, she apologized, severed ties with her talent agency, and expressed regret for causing trouble.
Critics had questioned her victory due to her European heritage, sparking a debate on Japanese beauty ideals and cultural identity.
Despite being a naturalized citizen, Shiino, fluent in Japanese, faced scrutiny, emphasizing the need for a broader definition of Japanese identity in the era of diversity.
