Vladimir Putin's 2019 calendar is outselling those of Japanese celebrities in Japan, according to the Loft chainstore, which holds exclusive sales rights. The calendars featuring the 66-year-old Russian president have topped sales at outlets across the country, beating out Japanese actor Kei Tanaka and Olympic figure skating champion Yuzuru Hanyu.
SoraNews24 reported that while some buyers purchase the calendar as a practical joke, others are genuinely interested in Putin's life and persona outside the Kremlin. The calendar includes images of Putin engaging in activities such as fishing and practicing judo, though notably omits the shirtless photos that have appeared in previous editions.
This is not the first time Putin's calendars have been popular in Japan. His 2017 calendar featured him playing in the snow with his dogs, including an Akita Inu puppy—a gift from the governor of Akita prefecture. In 2016, the first year the officially sanctioned calendars went on sale in Japan, Putin was shown fishing shirtless and practicing judo.
Media reports suggest many buyers, including a large number of women, are drawn to Putin's unconventional style and unashamed machismo. The popularity of the calendar comes despite ongoing territorial disputes between Japan and Russia over the Kuril Islands, known as the Northern Territories in Japan.
