Overseasidol.com — Japanese idol powerhouse AKB48 officially introduced the five members of its 21st-generation trainees during the “Request Hour Setlist 2020” concert held on December 4 at Nippon Budokan, Tokyo.
The group’s newest additions made a strong first impression in front of enthusiastic fans filling the iconic venue.
The newly selected trainees—chosen from auditions that began in May—are Mao Takahashi (15), Sayuri Tanaka (16), Ema Makito (18), Yuu Morikawa (17), and Kiko Watanabe (18).
The five made their debut performance with the song “#Sukidanda” (lit. #ILoveYouSoMuch) showcasing fresh charm and youthful energy.
They later introduced themselves with individual catchphrases prepared for the event.
Prior to the concert, the new members took part in a press session where they shared their aspirations and motivations as part of AKB48.
When asked about their dream stage, four members, Takahashi, Makito, Morikawa, and Tanaka answered confidently, Tokyo Dome.
Makito said she hopes to stand on the Dome stage alongside AKB48’s seniors, while Tanaka stated that their performance at Budokan was made possible thanks to the legacy built by past members.
“Next time, we want to stand on the Tokyo Dome stage with our own strength,” she affirmed.
The debut of the 21st-generation trainees brings renewed energy and high expectations for the future of AKB48, marking the beginning of an exciting new chapter for the group.
