The University of Tokyo, Japan’s most prestigious institution, is facing scrutiny after an investigation revealed that the source code of some webpages on its official website contained the phrase “June 4th Anmen.” This phrase, a reference to the Tiananmen Square protests, was embedded in the code with the apparent intention of making those pages inaccessible to searches originating from China.
The revelation, reported by Japanese media outlets, has sparked concerns about potential attempts to limit the enrollment of Chinese international students. The embedded code was found on a webpage that provides data about entrance exams and other admissions-related details.
“The University of Tokyo expressed ‘regret’ over the incident and announced that it would launch an internal investigation to determine the source of the embedded text.
According to the Mainichi shimbun, the phrase “Tiananmen Square” was found in the source code of a webpage belonging to the University of Tokyo Research Institute’s “Department of Medical Information and Life Science, new Field Creation Science,” which was established in 2023. The specific location was within the source code of the English-language version of the webpage that publishes admission information. While no such text string was present last summer, it was discovered in November.
Experts in the IT industry explained that embedding Tiananmen incident-related keywords in a webpage’s source code could trigger China’s censorship system, effectively blocking access to the page from within China.
The University of Tokyo has sence modified its system to prevent the embedding of such keywords and is actively investigating the origin of the issue. In a statement, the university’s publicity department emphasized its commitment to diversity and inclusivity, stating, “The university adheres to the policy of accepting a diverse range of students and faculty from home and abroad, and hopes to become a ‘university that the whole world wants to come to.’ It is unacceptable to mix keywords intended to prevent people from specific countries from accessing the website.I deeply regret this behaviour.”
Data released by the University of Tokyo reveals a steady increase in the number of foreign students enrolled at the institution. As of May 2024, there were 5,104 overseas students, approximately 2.4 times the number from 20 years ago. Chinese international students constitute the largest group, representing 66.5% of the total foreign student population, with graduate students accounting for 69.4% of this group.
A poignant exhibition in Taiwan is commemorating the 35th anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall by drawing a stark contrast with the events of June 4th, 1989, in Tiananmen Square.
The container exhibition, titled “Issei Shimbun,” utilizes shipping containers to recreate scenes from both ancient events. Visitors are invited to step inside and experience the stark realities of both moments in history.
“The Berlin Wall symbolized division and oppression,” said one organizer. “But the events in Tiananmen Square represent a brutal suppression of peaceful protest and the yearning for freedom.”
The exhibition aims to spark dialog and reflection on the importance of human rights, democracy, and the ongoing struggle for freedom around the world.
“We hope this exhibition will serve as a reminder that the fight for freedom is never over,” said another organizer. “And that we must always stand up for what is right, even in the face of adversity.”
The “Issei Shimbun” exhibition is open to the public and is expected to draw large crowds.
## World-Today News Exclusive Interview: Tiananmen Code Sparks Controversy at University of Tokyo
**World-Today News:** The University of Tokyo, Japan’s most prestigious institution, is facing a firestorm of controversy after the discovery of code on its website containing the phrase “June 4th Anmen.” This phrase, a clear reference to the Tiananmen Square protests, appears to have been intentionally embedded to block access to those pages from Chinese search engines.
Joining us today to discuss this escalating situation is Professor Akiko Sato, a leading expert in cyber security and digital rights at Waseda University. Professor Sato, thank you for joining us.
**Professor Sato:** Thank you for having me.
**World-Today News:** Professor Sato, what are your initial thoughts on the University of Tokyo’s actions?
**Professor Sato:** This is a deeply concerning development. While the university claims regret and has pledged an internal inquiry, the very nature of this action raises serious questions.
Intentionally manipulating website code to block access based on origin is a form of censorship. It raises concerns about academic freedom, openness, and the university’s commitment to open access to information.
**World-today News:** The code was discovered on a webpage detailing admission information. does this suggest the university was attempting to limit the enrollment of Chinese students?
**Professor Sato:** It’s certainly a possibility.Whether this was an isolated incident or part of a broader strategy is something the investigation needs to uncover. Though, the timing and the specific location of the code raise red flags.
**World-Today News:** What are the potential ramifications of this incident for the university’s reputation, both domestically and internationally?
**Professor Sato:** This incident has already damaged the university’s image. It portrays a picture of an institution possibly willing to engage in discriminatory practices. This could deter international students, affect collaborations with foreign institutions, and tarnish the university’s standing within the global academic community.
**World-Today News:** What steps should the University of Tokyo take to address this crisis?
**Professor sato:** First and foremost, a thorough and obvious investigation is critical. The university must identify who is responsible for this code and their motivations. They must also publicly address the concerns about potential discrimination against Chinese students and reaffirm their commitment to academic freedom and open access.
**World-Today news:** Can we expect similar incidents to surface in other universities?
**Professor Sato:** This incident highlights a growing tension between freedom of expression and national security concerns. As governments worldwide become more assertive in controlling online information, we may see more attempts to censor or block access to sensitive content.
Universities need to navigate this complex landscape carefully, upholding academic principles while remaining aware of the political sensitivities.
**World-Today News:** Professor Sato,thank you for your insightful analysis. This is certainly a developing story, and we will continue to provide updates as they become available.
