[2026] 5 Popular Korean Idol Groups with Japanese Members

Many Korean idol groups have Japanese members and enjoy immense popularity in both Japan and Korea. Their singing and dancing abilities are undeniable, and their seamless transitions between Japanese and Korean are a major draw. This article introduces five popular Korean idol groups with Japanese members, clearly outlining their member lineups and unique characteristics.

[2026] 5 Popular Korean Idol Groups with Japanese Members

table of contents

1. What are some Korean idol groups that have Japanese members?
2. TWICE
3. LE SSERAFIM
4. IVE
5. ILLIT
6. BABYMONSTER
7. Quick reference chart for group 5
8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

 

What are some Korean idol groups that have Japanese members?

Q. Which popular Korean idol group has Japanese members?

A. The five most representative groups are TWICE, LE SSERAFIM, IVE, ILLIT, and BABYMONSTER. All of them debuted from Korean agencies, and Japanese members play a central role in vocals and dance. They are also very active in activities that span both Japan and Korea, such as appearing on Japanese music programs and performing in dome stadiums.

Korean idol groups are often composed of members from multiple nationalities, and among them, Japanese members play a crucial role in boosting their popularity in Japan. From here, we will take a look at five groups individually.

1. TWICE

 

item	Content
office	JYP Entertainment
debut	2015
Japanese members	Momo, Sana, Mina

This nine-member group from JYP Entertainment includes three Japanese members: Momo, Sana, and Mina. The three also perform as the unit "MISAMO," and have a prominent presence in the Japanese market, including holding dome tours in Japan. With catchy songs and bright performances, they have been a beloved group at the forefront of the music scene since their debut.

2. LE SSERAFIM

 

item	Content
office	SOURCE MUSIC (a subsidiary of HYBE)
debut	2022
Japanese members	Sakura, Kazuha

This five-member group debuted under HYBE's subsidiary SOURCE MUSIC, with two Japanese members: Sakura and Kazuha. Sakura was formerly a member of a Japanese idol group and already had a high level of recognition. Kazuha, who has ballet experience, is attracting attention with her refined dance moves. Their strengths lie in their powerful and stylish concept and highly polished stage performances.

3. IVE

 

 

item	Content
office	Starship Entertainment
debut	2021
Japanese members	Ray

 

 

Lay is the only Japanese member of this six-member group under Starship Entertainment. He passed an audition held in Tokyo, Japan, and became a trainee, also handling the rap parts. With hit songs like "ELEVEN" and "LOVE DIVE," they quickly rose to become a top group, gaining support from a wide range of audiences with their sophisticated worldview and addictive music.

4. ILLIT

item	Content
office	BELIFT LAB (a subsidiary of HYBE)
debut	2024
Japanese members	Mocha, Iroha

This five-member group was formed through HYBE's survival program, consisting of three Koreans and two Japanese members (Moka and Iroha). They are characterized by their soft, memorable sound and down-to-earth, approachable atmosphere. Their debut song garnered attention, and they are attracting attention as a promising group among the new generation.

5. BABYMONSTER

 

item	Content
office	YG Entertainment
debut	2024 (Official Debut)
Japanese members	Luca, Asa

 

This seven-member group debuted approximately seven years after YG Entertainment, the company behind BLACKPINK and others. The group consists of members from South Korea, Thailand, and Japan. The two Japanese members are Luca and Asa. Known for their overwhelming vocal and dance skills, the group is expected to lead the next generation, as evidenced by the massive number of views their debut song "SHEESH" garnered in a short period of time.

6. Quick Reference Chart for Group 5

 

group	office	debut	Japanese members
TWICE	JYP	2015	Momo, Sana, Mina
LE SSERAFIM	SOURCE MUSIC	2022	Sakura, Kazuha
IVE	Starship	2021	Ray
ILLIT	BELIFT LAB	2024	Mocha, Iroha
BABYMONSTER	YG	2024	Luca, Asa

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1. Which K-pop group has the most Japanese members?

A. Of the five groups introduced this time, TWICE has the most members, with Momo, Sana, and Mina, at three.

Q2. Do these groups also perform in Japan?

A. Yes. Many groups release CDs in Japan, appear on music programs, and hold concerts, and the presence of Japanese members helps boost their activities in Japan.

Q3. Are the Japanese members from Japanese auditions?

A. It varies depending on the group. Some members debuted after auditions held in Japan, while others were selected through survival programs in Korea.

 

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