Yoshiki and Pokémon Donate to Kumamoto Earthquake Relief Efforts
The leader of Japan's legendary rock band X Japan, Yoshiki, and the world-famous Pokémon brand have donated to relief efforts for the Kumamoto earthquake-affected area. According to Anime News Network's August 7, 2026 report, Yoshiki also provided support for forest fire victims in France and Spain. Neither party has yet officially announced the donation amounts.
The Kumamoto region had entered a long recovery process after the devastating earthquakes in April 2016. The Pokémon Company has been one of the leading names in disaster relief in the past; it donated 50 million yen during the 2016 Kumamoto earthquakes and had donation boxes in Pokémon Center stores. This new donation once again shows Pokémon's connection with disaster-stricken areas.
Yoshiki, on the other hand, is known not only as the founder of X Japan but also for his philanthropic identity. The artist, who supports disasters in Japan, global health crises, and various humanitarian aid projects through the Yoshiki Foundation America, has now taken action for both Kumamoto and the fire-affected regions in Europe. The musician, seen as one of Japan's international cultural ambassadors, stands out for his charity as much as his music.
Such support stands out as an example of solidarity from the anime and gaming world in the face of disasters. Fans can closely follow the relief efforts through announcements made on Pokémon's and Yoshiki's official social media accounts; they can also donate via Pokémon Center stores and the Yoshiki Foundation America.
