The deep-rooted idol culture of Japan and its thriving J-pop industry have a long-standing history, even predating the global rise of K-pop. Iconic J-pop idol groups such as AKB48, HKT48, BABYMETAL, Morning Musume, and Nogizaka46 have achieved immense popularity, fostering loyal fan bases and consistent chart success in Japan. In recent years, several former J-pop girl group members have successfully crossed borders, joining the dynamic K-pop industry and blending their previous experiences with the polished, competitive world of Korean entertainment.

Let's dive into the inspiring stories of former members of Japanese girl groups who are now flourishing as K-pop idols:

1. Sooyoung

Before rising to fame as a beloved member of the legendary K-pop group Girls’ Generation, Sooyoung was part of the Japanese-South Korean idol group Route 0 under R&C Japan Ltd. from 2002 to 2003. Her experience in both J-pop and K-pop has made her one of the most versatile idols in the industry.

2. Sakura

Sakura, a key member of LE SSERAFIM, began her idol career in Japan as a member of the highly popular groups HKT48 and AKB48. She later became a part of the project group IZ*ONE, gaining significant recognition across Asia.

3. Ruka

Ruka, the talented rapper from BABYMONSTER (YG Entertainment’s rookie girl group), first debuted in 2017 as one of the founding members of the Japanese idol group Shibu3 Project. She left the group in 2018 and now shines in the K-pop scene.

4. Tsuki

Tsuki is a current member of the girl group Billlie under MYSTIC STORY, but before joining K-pop, she was a J-pop idol and a part of the Japanese girl group 7+ME LINK and its sub-unit MAGICOUR.

5. Hitomi

Honda Hitomi, a former member of IZ*ONE and the Japanese group AKB48, is now gearing up to debut as the leader of the upcoming K-pop girl group SAY MY NAME. Her leadership and charm continue to captivate fans.

6. Yuna

Yuna is a member of the K-pop girl group CSR, managed by A2Z Entertainment. Before her K-pop debut, she was part of the J-pop girl group Harajuku Dreammate, where she gained valuable experience in the industry.

7. Hikaru

Kep1er’s Hikaru, formerly known as Hikarun, was part of the J-pop duo +GANG under Avex Artist Academy from 2016 to 2018. She is also a pre-debut member of XG and continues to build her career as a talented K-pop artist.

8. Shana

Shana, the leader of the K-pop girl group LAPILLUS, was previously part of the J-pop group SO.ON Project, formed by the Osaka School of Music’s official idol club. Her leadership qualities have blossomed in the K-pop world.

9. Honey Popcorn

The girl group Honey Popcorn consists of four Japanese members, three of whom were part of popular J-pop groups. Moko was with Ebisu★Muscats and Bakusute Sotokanda Icchome, Yua with Sexy-J, and SKE48, and Sara with Idoling!!! and bitter chocolate.

10. Juri

Juri, who departed from Rocket Punch in May 2024 after terminating her contract with Woollim Entertainment, was a key member of AKB48 from 2011 to 2019 before transitioning to the K-pop scene.

While Japan’s J-pop industry remains highly influential, many idols are drawn to K-pop for its global reach and platform for stardom. These former Japanese girl group members are now thriving in the K-pop world, combining their experiences to achieve success across borders. Who among them is your favorite?