Japan has formally demanded a correction to the “Equal Earth” map projection due to its representation of islands claimed by Japan as the “Northern Territories.” Tokyo objects to the map using the same color coding for these islands as it does for Russian territory, effectively implying a lack of a territorial dispute. The “Northern Territories” – encompassing the islands of Iturup, Kunashir, Shikotan, and the Habomai islets – have been a long-standing point of contention between Japan and Russia. Japan maintains these islands are illegally occupied by Russia following the end of World War II. The Japanese government views the map’s color scheme as inappropriate and inaccurate, potentially influencing international perception of the sovereignty issue. This protest highlights continued sensitivity surrounding the territorial dispute and Japan’s efforts to assert its claims on the international stage. A correction is sought to clearly differentiate the disputed islands' status.