Katana-wielding pacifism? New Japanese Self-Defense Force badge linked with WW2 atrocities

‘A new Japanese emblem has come under fire, with critics saying that an unsheathed katana sword brings up bitter memories of World War II, while the army argues it is a symbol of “proactive pacifism” that refers to similar traditions of other militaries.
The emblem, which was introduced by the Japanese Ground Self-Defense Force (GSDF) earlier this year, features a red rising sun with a golden cherry blossom underneath.
However, it is the unsheathed Japanese katana sword – a curved, single-edged blade with a circular or squared guard and a long-grip – with its crossing scabbard that has drawn so much criticism.’
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