AKB48

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…