This is very surprising to hear. Are you talking about a few specific Japanese news outlets or commentators in particular? From the few news reports I see every year, the people seem positive towards Mao. In fact, they seem positive towards every skater (but then again, I can't actually understand what they're saying).
Every one of them concentrated explain on Kim Yu Na's success and Mao's failure.The leader is Japan Skate Federation where Amano Shin is one of key persons. Aoshima is known by hate comments on Mao. It was said a bit weired. Japan and Korea are different country, but comments and pics on Kim Yu Na inserted in every sports news. Although journalism in Japan changed a bit from this season. Some started to value Mao's efforts.