Music agency WACK, in collaboration with former CEO Junnosuke Watanabe, have announced auditions for a new idol group aiming to be “number one in the world”. Following the success of BiS and BiSH, Watanabe is stepping back into idol production with an eye on international growth.
Since stepping down as WACK’s CEO in July 2024, Watanabe has been pursuing postgraduate studies in London. Now, with WACK’s backing, he is launching a new idol project with ambitions that extend beyond Japan’s domestic market.
“Of course, our aim is not to be number one in Japan or to hold shows at the Budokan or the Tokyo Dome, but to be number one in the world.”
He acknowledges the scale of this goal but insists that success starts with belief. A key element of the group’s development will be English proficiency, with Watanabe emphasising the need to master the language to compete internationally.
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Auditions are open to individuals aged 12 to 25, regardless of nationality or experience. However, applicants must be willing to relocate to Tokyo by July 2025 and commit to an extensive training period that could last over a year. While skill level isn’t a barrier, Watanabe stresses that perseverance is non-negotiable.
“We don’t mind what your current ability is, but you’ve got to be able to perform at your best when you make your debut.”
Audition Details
Applications are now open, with two deadlines: April 30th and May 14th. Candidates must submit their name, age, height, weight, address, and emergency contact details, along with two recent photos, via email. Successful applicants will undergo a document screening process before moving on to interviews, either in person or remotely.
While WACK will provide full training, Watanabe made it clear that those lacking commitment will be cut. He described the project as a long-term effort built from the ground up, applying the same trial-and-error approach that defined BiS and BiSH.
A WACK New Future
Watanabe’s decision to launch this project follows major shifts within WACK, including his resignation and the disbandment of third-generation BiS. His departure signaled a transition for the agency, but his continued involvement suggests that WACK’s unconventional approach to idol production remains intact.
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Beyond the auditions, Watanabe recently launched DiG YOUR OWN IDOLS, an English-language news site covering Japan’s underground idol scene. While largely focused on WACK acts, the platform also reports on other groups and industry trends, featuring news, a live event calendar, and a fan bulletin board.
With an international focus, this new group represents Watanabe’s most ambitious project yet. Time will tell whether it will achieve the global recognition he envisions, but for now, the search for the next generation of WACK idols has begun.
For full details on the WACK auditions, check out Watanabe’s full English statement on DiG YOUR OWN IDOLS.
