Ukrainian-born model crowned Miss Japan, sparking debate about identity

A Ukrainian-born model has been crowned winner of the Miss Japan beauty pageant, sparking debate about what it means to be Japanese and how to define Japanese beauty. Karolina Shiino, 26, is not what many would expect of a conventional Miss Japan winner. She was born in Ukraine but has lived in Japan for more than 20 years and is a naturalized citizen. After accepting the crown, she told the crowd who had gathered to watch the pageant that she hoped people would see past her looks and that she considers herself “Japanese in spirit.” “I have to say there have been racial barriers, which has meant there were many instances where I wasn’t accepted,” she said. “I’m just filled with so much gratitude that I have been accepted as a Japanese person today.” Shiino is the 56th Miss Japan Grand Prix winner. The beauty pageant began in 1950. For more info, please go to https://globalnews.ca Subscribe to Global News Channel HERE: http://bit.ly/20fcXDc Like Global News on Facebook HERE: http://bit.ly/255GMJQ Follow Global News on Twitter HERE: http://bit.ly/1Toz8mt Follow Global News on Instagram HERE: https://bit.ly/2QZaZIB #GlobalNews #missjapan #japan