AKB48

Galapagos Rock: Why It’s So Hard for Foreign J-Pop Fans to Buy Concert Tickets in Japan

Some overseas fans of Japanese music say the hassle is proof that "Japan hates foreigners." The truth is more complicated.

Japanese Idol Fired After Alleged Boyfriend’s Picture Caught in Cup’s Reflection

The controversy renews the debate around the implied (and, sometimes, contractual) rule that idols don't deserve a personal life.

Okada Nana Leaves AKB48 Over “Nonexistent” Dating Ban Rule

AKB48 star Okada Nana has left the group over a relationship ban that the group's management swears up and down does not…

What Makes Japanese Idol Culture Unique?

How did Japan become the birthplace of manufactured girl groups? A look into the historic roots of Japanese idol culture and how…