A knife attack at a Japanese restaurant in Shanghai's Pudong New Area injured three people on May 19. A 59-year-old man wielding a fruit knife wounded two Japanese men and one Chinese woman, officials said [1, 2, 3]. The incident took place in the Shanghai World Financial Center, a building that houses many Japanese companies’ offices [1, 3].
Police apprehended the attacker at the scene. Authorities reported he has a history of mental illness [1, 2, 3]. The two Japanese victims were taken to a hospital and are receiving treatment. None of their injuries were life-threatening, according to sources [1, 2, 3].
The attack took place amid strained diplomatic ties between China and Japan, linked in part to Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s November comments about possible military intervention over Taiwan [1, 2]. Immediately after the incident, the Japanese government asked Beijing to clarify facts and to ensure the safety of Japanese nationals in China. A Japanese consulate spokesperson said, "The Government of Japan has requested the Chinese government to... clarify the facts and provide a clear explanation... (and) ensure the safety and security of Japanese nationals" [2].
The day following the attack, the Japanese Embassy in China issued advisories urging Japanese nationals to remain vigilant [2, 3]. Japanese government spokesperson Minoru Kihara stated, "The government will continue, while maintaining contact with the parties concerned, to provide all possible support from the standpoint of protecting Japanese nationals" [2].
One Japanese man working in the Shanghai World Financial Center said, "Five or six police officers were at the restaurant following the attack. I was surprised because I had frequented the eatery" [1].
Authorities continue their investigation into the incident while providing support to the victims and their families [2].
