SKE48 Celebrates 17th Anniversary, Management will Continue to Maintain the Team System

Overseasidol.com — On October 5, SKE48, Nagoya’s largest idol group, celebrated its 17th theater debut anniversary.

To mark the occasion, SKE48’s general manager Tetsuya Saito shared his thoughts in a special interview, highlighting the group’s foundation, its strengths, and its future direction toward the 20th anniversary in 2028.

Saito, who has decades of experience in the Japanese music industry with companies like Sony, Virgin Japan, Toshiba EMI, and Avex, has been closely involved with SKE48 since the group moved to Avex in 2011.

In 2022, after retiring from Avex, he was officially appointed as the head of SKE48’s management department under Zest, the group’s agency.

He emphasized that although today’s idol culture is dominated by SNS-driven groups such as Tokisen (Cho Tokimeki♡Sendenbu), Fruits Zipper, Candy Tune, and =LOVE, SKE48 should not be discouraged.

Instead, the group should rely on its strong history, numerous hit songs, and its deep relationship with Nagoya’s local media and businesses.

According to Saito, these factors remain the foundation of SKE48’s identity.

Saito explained three key points for SKE48’s future. First, the group currently has 54 members, the largest among the 48 groups.

Each member must sharpen their individuality and unique strengths to attract fans.

By using social media, members can showcase their talents, create opportunities, and build personal connections with audiences.

Second, he highlighted the importance of cherishing core fans while also reaching out to new ones. SKE48 has always been supported by passionate fans who sustain their sales and popularity.

At the same time, the group must continue to expand its fanbase, using SNS strategies to connect with potential audiences who may not yet know their music.

The third point is to treasure SKE48’s long history. By sharing their 17-year journey, both members and fans can reflect on growth and achievements.

Saito encouraged each member to consciously shape their own story while striving toward personal and group goals.

Unlike AKB48, which suspended its team system in 2023, and NMB48, which will abolish it in October, SKE48 intends to preserve its team system (Team S, Team KII, and Team E).

Saito stressed that team theater performances not only improve performance skills and MC ability but also strengthen the group’s unity.

“The team system is the very foundation of SKE48’s charm, and we will never abandon it,” he said.