K-Pop Takes Center Stage: ILLIT, aespa, &TEAM Lead Diverse Lineup for 76th NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen

The 76th NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen, Japan's highly anticipated year-end musical spectacular, has officially revealed its complete roster of performers. Scheduled for broadcast on December 31st at 7:20 PM local time, the announcement, delivered on November 14, 2025, confirms a dynamic mix of established J-pop icons, emerging domestic talent, and a significant presence of international K-pop artists, highlighting the festival's expanding global reach.

K-Pop Dominance and Milestone Achievements

The 2025 lineup strongly emphasizes the continued success of K-pop in the Japanese market. Powerhouse groups ILLIT, aespa, and &TEAM are confirmed participants.

ILLIT secures a notable return for their second consecutive year, achieving the distinction of being the first 5th generation K-pop group to accomplish this feat. Their sustained success in Japan is evident, marked by a Gold certification from the Recording Industry Association of Japan for Almond Chocolate and dual chart supremacy on Oricon and Billboard Japan with their official Japanese debut single, Toki Yo Tomare, released in September.

Joining them is aespa, making their highly anticipated Kōhaku debut. This appearance reinforces their status as significant cultural representatives, following their milestone achievement as the first overseas female group to headline Tokyo Dome for two straight years. Recognized for their artistic excellence, aespa recently claimed the Best Song Asia award at the Music Awards Japan. Furthermore, the rising K-pop sensation &TEAM will also take the prestigious stage for the first time. The group boasts impressive commercial metrics, having topped the Oricon Daily Album Ranking with their debut Korean mini album, Back to Life, and maintaining their status as million-sellers for the second consecutive year.

Domestic Diversity and Returning Titans

The domestic roster introduces refreshing diversity with several highly-anticipated debut artists. These include the formidable Chanmina, HANA, the infectious idol group FRUITS ZIPPER, M!LK, and the minimalist duo Humbert Humbert. The inclusion of Humbert Humbert is specifically noted for introducing a broader genre balance to the competition.

These fresh faces will compete alongside returning titans, forming the traditional Red and White teams. Notable returning acts include King & Prince, ORANGE RANGE, Sakanaction, Number_i, Be:FIRST, and the legendary Fukuyama Masaharu, among many others.

However, the announcement was also marked by several high-profile absences, including past regulars such as TWICE, Fujii Kaze, Hoshino Gen, Shiina Ringo, Superfly, and LE SSERAFIM. Despite these shifts, the Kōhaku Uta Gassen, a decades-old tradition, continues to adapt its curation based on the musical achievements of the preceding year.

ILLIT shared their profound excitement, expressing they are truly delighted and honored to participate once more, vowing to deliver an unforgettable performance that will resonate deeply with viewers. The 76th edition promises an evening that celebrates the richness of Japan's music scene while powerfully showcasing the undeniable global impact of Korean pop culture.