Two K-pop groups were highlighted in the results.
“NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen”, also known as “NHK Red And White Song Battle”, is a renowned annual television event in Japan in which famous artists, divided into two teams, compete in performances. In recent years, the show’s inclusion of K-pop artists reflects the genre’s growing popularity in Japan.
In 2023, major K-pop groups such as SEVENTEEN, Stray Kids, NewJeans and LE SSERAFIM took to the stage. Additionally, groups such as TWICE’s MiSaMo and NiziU, composed of Japanese members but managed by K-pop agencies, were also present.
The poll was based on 2023 artists, and two K-pop groups finished in the top five of their respective teams.
NiziU, having appeared on the show four times, placed 4th on the red team. One viewer remarked: “They are no longer trendy. I lost interest in them a long time ago.” Another voter saw them as a Korean group and felt that they should not be part of this big Japanese event.
The Stray Kids also placed 4th, but on the white team. Unlike NiziU’s multiple appearances, Stray Kids only made their debut on the show last year. Some viewer comments included: “I don’t know them at all and have never listened to their songs. Why am I on the show?” AND “The show has historical significance in Japan. It should only include Japanese artists.”
It will be interesting to see which K-pop groups, if any, will be invited to participate in the 75th edition of the show this year.
Source: Camino
