
The world that teenagers are deeply immersed in (the swamp) is covered, and the true faces and philosophies of teenagers (those who are immersed) who strive to thoroughly master their 'likes' are approached in the E-Tele variety program 'Numani Hamatte Kiitemita' airing on December 13, featuring &TEAM's EJ, FUMA, YUMA, HARUA, and TAKI. This time, the program will focus on the 'global artist' swamp, which is rapidly increasing as a 'future dream' among teenagers. With the spread of the internet and social media, global music trends have become more accessible. More teenagers are aiming to become artists with the goal of 'performing on the world stage.' In particular, auditions incorporating the K-POP training system are globalized, and applications from Japanese teenagers are flooding in. Therefore, we interviewed those who aspire to be global artists and are working hard to acquire advanced skills in singing and dancing. First, we closely followed trainees who have gone to Korea at a young age, aiming to debut while belonging to entertainment agencies. We covered their daily training schedules and how they spend their days off, listening to their anxieties about living in a foreign country and their strong aspirations for their dreams. We also interviewed those participating in the trending global auditions. We approached their efforts to become global artists and heard the thoughts of their families supporting their dream realization. The most inspiring seniors for these aspiring artists are &TEAM, a nine-member global group that debuted in Korea this October. They were born from auditions and debuted in 2022. Composed of members from various backgrounds, they have just taken flight as global artists aiming for the world after three years. The program closely follows &TEAM's Korean debut, covering the behind-the-scenes of their various activities over two weeks. During a showcase event, they answered questions from reporters and media in Korean, showcasing their efforts not only in singing and dancing but also in language acquisition. They achieved the historic feat of being the first Japanese artists to earn millions in both Japan and Korea. Furthermore, they achieved a triple crown by ranking first in three Korean music programs, and their participation in the 76th NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen has been confirmed. The members of &TEAM will be invited to the studio to share advice and messages for their juniors aspiring to be global artists.
Fuji TV will broadcast the 2026 FNS Song Festival live over two Wednesdays in December. Thirty-six acts were announced, including Korean artists such as ILLIT, Stray Kids, BABYMONSTER, CORTIS, RIIZE, aespa, and NCT DREAM. ILLIT will appear for the third straight year, while BABYMONSTER and CORTIS will make their first appearances.
Max Mara will hold its brand exhibition THE MAX! at Ginza Sony Park from November 3 to 9, 2026, to celebrate its 75th anniversary. An opening reception was held on November 2 with many guests wearing the latest collection. The exhibition showcases the brand’s heritage, philosophy, and creativity through immersive displays, a museum shop, and workshops.
&TEAM has announced live viewing and global live viewing for the Ehime stop of its “2026-2027 &TEAM CONCERT TOUR 'Mark on You'” on Dec. 19. The tour spans 18 cities nationwide, and the title reflects the group’s wish to thank fans and leave a lasting mark with their performance. Attendees will receive an exclusive sticker sheet, and ticket sales begin Oct. 30 for fan club members.
The 2026 MAMA AWARDS will take place over two days in Osaka under the concept “A MUSIC INTERSTELLAR.” Organizers announced a 360-degree stage, the largest performer lineup in a single region, Park Bo-gum as host, chapter-based awards, and collaborations with artists, films, anime, and AI. They also outlined safety measures and a global fan festival.
Quick Japan Monologue #01, on sale November 18, 2026, features JO of &TEAM and RAN of MAZZEL on its SPECIAL EDITION cover. The 17-page feature, “Dancing Out Into the World,” explores their roles in Wandance, their bond on set, interviews with both, and comments from the director. The special edition is available for preorder at QJ Store and will also be sold at HMV & BOOKS.
MUSIC EXPO LIVE 2026 in Taipei brought together ATEEZ, NCT WISH, Sakurazaka46, and &TEAM for a special one-night show after the first day was canceled by a typhoon. Hosted by Sho Sakurai with guest Lin Chi-ling, the event drew over 10,000 fans and featured unique collaborations and performances.
You must be logged in in order to favorite.
Let's Add my favorite members and Cheering them!
