South Korean girl group TWICE is set to take the stage alongside Japan’s top artists in the 75th Kōhaku Uta Gassen, Japan’s premier year-end music program. NHK announced the artist lineup on November 19 via social media, confirming that TWICE will appear as a full group, joining an elite lineup of performers who have been celebrated in Japan throughout the year.
The Kōhaku Uta Gassen, one of Japan's most iconic year-end television events, is renowned for showcasing the most popular and influential artists of the year. TWICE’s invitation to perform highlights their continued popularity and enduring influence in Japan. Since their Japanese debut in 2017, TWICE has been invited to Kōhaku Uta Gassen four times, having appeared as a group in 2017, 2018, 2019, and 2022. Last year, the unit group MISAMO, featuring members Mina, Sana, and Momo, represented TWICE at the event, adding a unique twist to their presence.
TWICE’s rise in Japan has been both swift and impressive. Their debut led to numerous awards, including the Japan Gold Disc Award and the Japan Record Award, solidifying their standing in the Japanese music industry. Their popularity has only grown, marked by exceptional sales and a strong presence across Japanese media and award shows. Earlier this year, in May, TWICE set a new milestone, reaching over 20 million combined album sales in Korea and Japan—a testament to their massive fanbase and consistent demand for their music.
The group’s concert appeal is equally powerful. TWICE became the first female foreign act to perform at Japan’s Nissan Stadium in Kanagawa, one of the largest venues in the country, selling out the arena to an enthusiastic crowd. Their ability to fill Japan’s massive stadiums underscores the strength of their “ticket power” and the dedication of their Japanese fanbase.
TWICE’s return to the Kōhaku Uta Gassen stage is expected to bring a new energy to their performance, with their signature upbeat discography promising a high-energy show. A representative from JYP Entertainment shared, “We’re looking forward to TWICE’s dynamic year-end stage, which will showcase a refreshing side of the group that perfectly captures their lively discography.”
In addition to their Kōhaku Uta Gassen appearance, TWICE will release their 14th mini-album, Strategy, on December 6 at 2 PM (midnight EST). The upcoming album is anticipated to showcase TWICE’s continued evolution as artists and their unique approach to blending genres. The new release adds another layer of excitement for fans and marks a strong conclusion to an eventful year.
TWICE’s journey in Japan reflects a unique achievement for a K-pop group in a competitive market. Their discography and visuals continue to resonate strongly with Japanese audiences, and their consistent presence at major Japanese events signifies their standing as a global pop phenomenon. TWICE’s appeal transcends borders, and their influence within Japan has not only redefined the presence of K-pop in the country but has also reinforced their status as ambassadors of Hallyu (the Korean wave).
As the year draws to a close, TWICE’s scheduled performances and new album release signal a continuation of their impactful career. Their appearance at Kōhaku Uta Gassen and the release of Strategy showcase a group that has grown both musically and culturally, consistently captivating audiences across Asia and beyond. With their upcoming activities, TWICE’s momentum remains as strong as ever, setting the stage for even greater achievements in the coming year.
Sayart / Sharon Jung, guhuijeong784@gmail.com
