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When the energy of rock meets the power of metal and the signature vibrancy of the idol scene, the result is AFTERS. In just a few years, the Japanese quintet has forged an identity that is as explosive as it is unifying, driven by performances where every song becomes a genuine exchange with the audience.
Formed in June 2023, AFTERS has since released a steady stream of music—most recently CHERRY XCX, unveiled in late June—and established a unique style that blends hard-hitting sounds, anthemic choruses, and an aesthetic that is both adorable and bold. This rapid evolution reflects the group’s ambition to constantly push the boundaries of its artistic identity, breaking free from the constraints of the idol world.
Invited to Japan Expo 2026 for their first major international appearance, AFTERS is marking a significant milestone in their journey. We met with Asuka, Uca, Ema, Hina, and Mint to discuss their concept, their passion for performing, and their first impressions of France.
Hello everyone, could each of you introduce yourselves individually and describe your group in one word?
Uca: I’m Uca, nice to meet you.
Asuka: My name is Asuka.
Mint: I’m Mint, nice to meet you!
Ema: My name is Ema.
Hina: I’m Hina.
Asuka: We are a five-member idol group, and we made our debut in 2023. We have now been active for four years. We mainly perform in Tokyo, so this is our very first time performing overseas. We hope this will be the beginning of a new international adventure!
Your group has gone through several changes over the past few years. In your opinion, what has remained unchanged about AFTERS’ spirit?
Uca: What has not changed is the love we have for our songs. The most important thing for us is making people happy through our music.
Speaking of your songs, which one would you choose to represent AFTERS?
Everyone: This is a difficult question. [Laughs]
Ema: I would choose SO BAD HOT, because the lyrics reflect Japanese culture. I think it’s a great song to introduce our culture at Japan Expo. Please give it a listen!
What was your first reaction when you found out you would be performing at Japan Expo?
Hina: Oh my God!
AFTERS: We were so happy! [Laughs]
Does this mean you’ll be expanding your activities internationally?
Asuka: That’s still a secret for now!
You all have very distinct personalities. What makes AFTERS unique when you perform together on stage?
Asuka: We all have completely different personalities. But when we come together, those differences are exactly what makes the group unique. That’s what makes AFTERS who we are!
You bring so much energy and humor to the stage. Are there any other messages you would like to share with your fans?
Asuka: The most important thing is to have fun and not let difficult things weigh you down. It is about living in the moment.
How do you prepare before going on stage?
Hina: We usually warm up our voices first. And when we’re about to perform on a big stage, we imagine how we are going to present ourselves to the audience.
Do you get the opportunity to contribute to the creation of your performances and concepts?
Asuka: We mainly make what is created for us our own, for example, choreos. For instance, when we learn a choreography, we “AFTERS-ify” it!
Your outfits are amazing! Do you take part in designing your costumes?
Hina: No, that’s mostly our stylist’s job!
It feels like you’re also trying to move beyond traditional “idol” conventions. Are you interested in exploring other artistic directions?
Asuka: It is not so much that we want to explore other genres, but rather that we want to showcase different sides of what being an idol can be.
What kind of memory do you hope fans will take away from your performance here?
Asuka: When our appearance here was announced, our fans sent us so many congratulatory messages. If there’s one thing we’d like during these four days, it’s to enjoy every moment together with our fans. We would also love to come back again in the future!
This interview is a collaboration with Nautiljon and K-Avenyou.
We would like to thank AFTER’s team and Japan Expo for this opportunity.
