Overseasidol.com — Japanese idol group STU48 successfully held its 9th anniversary concert titled “STU48 9th Anniversary Concert THE STU SHOW～Sailing～” on May 30, 2026, at Kanadevia Hall in Tokyo.
The celebration became even more exciting when the group surprised fans by announcing the release of their 14th single, scheduled for September 16, 2026.
Alongside the release announcement, STU48 also revealed the latest senbatsu lineup.
The biggest highlight was the appointment of Kokoa Kai as the group’s center for the first time.
Kokoa Kai recently returned to STU48 activities after completing a two-year overseas promotion period with KLP48.
She officially resumed activities with the group during their Hiroshima concert in April, and her promotion to center immediately drew strong attention from fans.
During a press interview after the concert, Kokoa reflected on her long journey since joining STU48 at the age of 13.
She admitted that there was a time when she was not selected for senbatsu or even coupling songs during the group’s early singles.
Becoming center now represents a major milestone in her idol career.
Kokoa shared that she hopes to express herself freely and confidently while showcasing her bright personality as the new face of the group.
She also expressed interest in performing an upbeat and cheerful title track for the upcoming single.
Fans believe the inclusion of younger members will bring fresh energy to the group’s future activities.
The line up senbatsu members are Arai Ria, Okada Azumi, Okamura Rio, Osaki Serika, Kai Cocoa, Kurushima Yuka, Takao Sayaka, Nakamura Mai, Hamada Hibiki, Harada Sayaka, Hyodo Aoi, Fukuda Akari, Morisue Himena, and Yoshida Sara.
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