New Delhi, Oct. 29 -- Days after France and Real Madrid footballer Kylian Mbappe apologised for "mocking" former Chinese leader Mao Zedong, now Sanrio, the Japanese company behind the popular character Hello Kitty has issued an apology after facing criticism in China.

According to an AFP report, the apology from Sanrio came after its merchandise collaboration with a Japanese television drama that has faced criticism in China for allegedly portraying the country negatively. The company has also cancelled the tie-up and all related promotional activities following the backlash.

The controversy centres on Vivant, a Japanese spy drama whose second season features a storyline involving a Chinese-affiliated organisation accused of torturing a...