Based on the original live report written by Sabina. Written with the help of Orelf2’s essay about Ae! group’s history.
When you think of Ae! group, it’s impossible not to think about their strong individual characteristics and charm. They aren’t just talented performers—they’re a group of individuals who have captured the hearts of fans with their unique personalities, infectious smiles, and undeniable passion for their craft.
Seiya Suezawa, Yoshinori Masakado, Keita Richard Kusama, Ken Kojima, and Masaya Sano: each member brings something truly special, creating a perfect blend of energy, humor, and heart.
Whether it’s through their music, their hilarious variety moments, or their heartfelt interactions with fans, there’s a reason Ae! group feels more like a family than just a group of idols.
This year, Ae! group’s held their 2024 tour named “Debut Tour The World’s Best AeLIVE,” and it certainly lived up to its name. The word “debut” holds a significant meaning to the group and all the fans.
Last year, the group stood in the neighboring venue, Tokyo Garden Theatre, and performed in front of equally eager fans, however, the difference between the shows is not the size of the venue or the amount of fans attending. Nor is it the setlist of songs they perform.
This year, they have made their CD debut.
On May 15th, Ae! group released their long-awaited debut single “《A》BEGINNING”, and just like the name of the single, this tour symbolized a new chapter for the group—a beginning, a starting point that would propel them further into the hearts of their fans and the world beyond.
Get ready for a closer look at the moments that make us smile, the traits that make them shine, and why Ae! group has become more than just a group of idols—they’ve become an irreplaceable part of our lives.
Yoshinori “Massan” Masakado | 正門良規
If you’ve been following Ae! group from the beginning, you know that Yoshinori is the voice of reason in the group, among many things. Equipped with his beloved guitar, and excellent skills as their MC, Yoshinori brings you a refreshing and welcoming aura, well-fit for someone who has earned the title of “the Most Ria koi” (リア恋)1 for consecutive years.
Weak for cute, small things, like cats, Nao Oriyama (Shonen Ninja), and Ryusei Onishi (Naniwa Danshi), he also joined the agency at the same time as Ren Nagase (King & Prince) and Daigo Nishihata (Naniwa Danshi).
A fervent lover of denim—his wardrobe seems to be just denim and band shirts—leather jackets, and beer, Yoshinori radiates a warmth (and sweat) that draws people in. His infectious spirit, resounding laughter, and genuine heart make him incredibly lovable, leaving a lasting impression on everyone he meets.
There’s something about him that draws you in, something that goes beyond his performances. Whether it’s his deep guitar riffs or his quiet, yet undeniable presence on stage, Yoshinori is the steady heartbeat that keeps Ae! group grounded. Whenever he’s not having one of his adorable airheaded moments that is. Oh, our beloved ぽや門.
Yoshinori’s story is one that resonates deeply with fans because it speaks to the power of persistence and self-belief. When he first joined the agency, he didn’t have the immediate popularity of some of his peers. In fact, he was often teased for his mature appearance, earning him the nickname “father of the Kansai Juniors.” There’s also the endearing teasing about his quickly growing beard, and he even included one picture in the tour pamphlet of his Corona-beard.
He wasn’t the loudest or the flashiest Junior, but he had something that kept him standing out: an unwavering dedication to his craft.
For fans, Yoshinori is an artist in the truest sense. His guitar skills, nurtured over years of hard work, have become a key part of Ae! group’s identity. The moment he steps on stage with his guitar, there’s a magic that fills the air.
You can see how much music means to him, and it’s that passion that makes his performances so powerful. When he’s playing, it’s not just a performance—it’s an outpouring of his soul, something that fans feel deep in their hearts.
With his unique raspy, nasally voice that enchants anyone, Yoshinori has the full package from rap, and harmonies, delivering emotional ballad vocals to packing a punch in a rock song. It’s like watching someone fully in their element, lost in the music, and you can’t help but fall in love even more when you watch him.
From being the shy, somewhat overlooked Junior to stepping into the spotlight with his legendary solo live shows, his rise has been nothing short of inspiring.
He wasn’t handed success, but earned it through years of dedication. And when he finally had his moment to shine, fans were there cheering for him, knowing that every step of his journey had been worth it.
His legendary solo live, although never released on DVD, has become a cherished memory among fans—proof that Yoshinori’s talents are as enduring as they are profound.
Aside from being a force to be reckoned with on stage, Yoshinori is also a praised actor, having starred in various dramas and stage play works like “Scarlet,” “Sen Shoku” (Written and directed by NEWS’ Shigeaki Kato), “Vincent in Brixton,” etc. Upcoming works of his include the movie “Grand Maison Paris,” and his stage play “Touching the Void.”
His ability to remain calm under pressure, his quiet leadership, and his deep care for his fellow members make him the emotional backbone of Ae! group—like a radish in a hot pot. Even if Google Translate never seems to be able to get his name right…
Yoshinori’s relationship with the other members also holds a special place in the hearts of fans. As the unofficial “father” figure, he’s often the one holding the group together when times get tough, often the voice of reason. However, he’s not shy of joining in the chaos when it occurs.
His more teasing side often comes out whenever he is with Seiya, finding amusement in the way the older playfully refuses to hang out with him. Even a simple walk together seems to be impossible for the two of them, but it might be a future YouTube video…
In the end, what makes Yoshinori Masakado truly special is that he embodies persistence, growth, and passion. Hardworking, earnest, and straightforward. Softness, roughness, flexibility.
Yoshinori represents the beauty of quiet strength, the kind that doesn’t need to shout to be heard, but is felt deeply in every chord, every note, and every heartfelt moment on stage.
Masa! Kado! Yoshi! Nori! Yoshinori Fever–!! Yaaaay–!!
Seiya Suezawa | 末澤誠也
There’s something about Seiya Suezawa that resonates deeply with not only Ae! group fans but with anyone who has witnessed a part of his long journey in the industry. Perhaps it’s his stubbornness or the way he pours and bares his entire soul into every performance. Maybe it’s how, despite all odds, he has carved out his space in the spotlight through sheer determination.
Being the oldest, he is often the topic of teasing among the group; whether it’s about his height or his age, but that doesn’t stop him from bickering back. His strong personality earned him the title “Kansai’s Mad Dog” back in the day, but the imagery nowadays is more of a barking chihuahua than a menacing guard dog.
Although tiny and explosive like a mini tomato, Seiya is larger than life itself, and his stage presence is just one of the many incredible things about him. As he stands on stage, the venue seems so small because he fills the space with himself and for a moment, the world only exists of Seiya.
“If you want to be recognized… believe in that 1% and keep going, I think that’s what it takes.”
When fans think of Seiya, one word comes to mind: pride. Not just because of his unwavering dedication, but because of the way he embodies Ae! group’s spirit, strength, and perseverance.
And no song encapsulates this better than their original track, “PRIDE”—a song that, in many ways, was made for Seiya. A song that helps his innate talent shine brighter than any spotlight on stage, along with the rest of the members who contribute to the song. But they all share the same sentiment: “This is Seiya. Their pride.” With every performance, his own pride and heart shine through, making him the member that fans can’t help but admire.
Resilience is one word to describe Seiya’s journey up until now. He wasn’t one of the most popular Juniors at first, often seen in the background, blending into the crowd during concert performances.
But there was always something about him that caught the eye—his precise movements, his unwavering focus, and the spark in his eyes that hinted at a fire just waiting to be unleashed. When Tomoyuki Yara spotted him at that Yuma Nakayama concert audition for back dancers, it felt like a victory not just for Seiya, but for everyone who had believed in his potential from day one.
What also makes Seiya stand out to fans is his sincerity. You can feel the passion behind every dance move and every note he sings. He has always said that for him, Ae! group is his “last chance,” and that’s exactly how he treats every performance. Whether it’s on the big stage at their concerts or in small TV variety shows, Seiya gives it his all.
It’s as if every moment is his final opportunity to show the world who he is and what he’s capable of—and fans feel that. His determination inspires them to give their all in their own lives, and to chase their dreams with everything they’ve got.
“It’s my PRIDE, just that is enough for me”
And let’s not forget his soft, playful side. As serious and hardworking as he is, there’s a warmth to him that makes fans feel like they know him personally. Those who have watched him grow over the years know that behind his tsundere exterior is someone who deeply cares about his fellow members and fans. He’s the one who reassures others with a smile, the one who steps up when the group needs a steady hand.
This is particularly seen through his anniversary gifts to his members; specifically designed and created for the occasion and always with the members in mind. Examples are the gray sweatshirts and pants seen in their Netflix documentary BORDERLESS, and anniversary stickers.
That’s why his words and actions —whether in interviews, at concerts, or during events—feel so genuine. It’s as though Seiya sees his members and every fan as someone who has been there with him through all the highs and lows, and he’s always grateful for their unwavering support.
This year, Seiya has taken on the role of D’Artagnan in the musical “The Three Musketeers,” and it has been a beautiful way of demonstrating the talents he has on a different stage than when he is with Ae! group.
To many, Seiya is someone who wasn’t handed success, but earned every bit of it through dedication, humility, and hard work. His journey is a reminder that sometimes, the ones in the back row are the ones worth watching, because when they finally step into the spotlight, they shine the brightest.
Seiya Suezawa is more than just an idol—he’s a symbol of hope, perseverance, and the belief that, no matter how difficult the road may be, it’s worth every step when you give it your all. At the same time, there are not enough words to express the gratitude that all fans feel that he stayed and persevered.
Filled with pride, he goes on with conviction and determination and resonates with anyone in his way.
Keita Richard Kusama | 草間リチャード敬太
There’s something undeniably magnetic about Keita Richard Kusama. From the moment he steps on stage, his energy lights up the room, and fans can’t help but be drawn to his infectious enthusiasm and charming personality.
In the BORDERLESS documentary, he’s introduced as the one who takes on challenges for the sake of the group. In charge of playing the saxophone and bass, Richard also has a unique sense of humor and a knack for laughter that brings a smile to everyone’s faces. With just two months to prepare, he had to face the tallest wall yet when he picked up the bass to learn in that short time for their 5th-anniversary livestream.
He brings a unique flair to the group, but what truly sets him apart is his unwavering determination, unique groove, big heart, and the way he makes everyone around him smile.
Initially, during band performances, Richard plays the saxophone, a skill he picked up when he joined the school band in his first year of junior high school. He started playing the tenor saxophone after joining Ae! group, and he uses an instrument passed down to him by Tadayoshi Ohkura from SUPER EIGHT.
A fan of design and drawing, he has also taken on the task of designing concert merchandise. His designs, which balance originality with a sense of style, have been met with high praise from both his fellow members and fans.
His motto is “Live in the moment.” Originally, Richard used to be someone who thought ahead and planned for the future, but at some point, overthinking began to weigh him down.
He revealed that during his teenage years, he struggled with his appearance due to his mixed heritage, and he often wrestled with his sense of identity both in school and as an idol.
However, after embracing the philosophy of “If you live earnestly in the present, things will work out,” Richard felt a sense of relief. Since then, he has focused on living in the moment and cherishing his instincts in his daily life.
His favorite food is senmaizuke (pickled sliced radish), and for many years, he claimed that he disliked hamburgers, but later confessed on a television program that, despite what he’d said, hamburgers were actually one of his favorite foods. This has become a staple joke with Richard, and it’s even included in one of their original songs—“Bokura Ae! group tte iimasunen” (僕らAぇ! groupって言いますねん).
Richard spent years in the background, honing his skills and working tirelessly to improve. He wasn’t a natural dancer when he first started, but that didn’t stop him. Fans watched him push himself harder with each performance, proving that hard work beats natural talent when you have the heart to match.
His relentless dedication bore fruit as he ultimately garnered the admiration of Tomoyuki Yara, who hailed him as one of the finest dancers in the Kansai juniors. In a stunning turn of fate, he was frequently chosen by Tomoyuki to grace the stage of her self-crafted spectacle, “The Young Love Discotheque,” which captivated audiences since 2018.
Richard excels in the ability to bring joy to others. Whether he’s making goofy faces on variety shows or handling challenges with his signature humor, Richard has a gift for turning every situation into something fun.
His episodes in early Ae! group variety shows, like taking electric shocks or eating impossibly spicy food, were the kind of moments that had fans laughing along with him—but also appreciating how game he is for anything.
Richard’s ability to make people smile isn’t just about comedy—it’s his lighthearted approach to life and how he always seems to look on the bright side, no matter what.
“Look at your feet, ensure your safety, look far ahead, and step forward, one step at a time.”
But behind all that humor and charm, there’s another side of Richard: his deep sense of gratitude and humility. Despite becoming more well-known in recent years, especially through his regular appearances on program THE! Tetsuwan! DASH!!, Richard has remained grounded.
Taking the opportunity provided by the project on THE! Tetsuwan! DASH!!, he completed an 8-hour academic lecture and a practical training course over two days and obtained certification as a gas welding operator.
Upcoming works for Richard include the Japanese edition of Jonathan Larson’s musical “tick, tick…BOOM!,” as the best friend Michael, who once aimed to be an actor, but has already given up on his dream and became a businessman instead.
He’s always quick to thank fans, and he’s never taken his growing success for granted. Fans feel his sincerity every time he expresses his gratitude for the opportunities he’s been given. It’s these moments when he lets down his comedic guard and shows his vulnerable side that fans feel closest to him.
In the end, Richard is the bright spark of Ae! group. He’s the embodiment of hard work, joy, and gratitude—a shining example of what it means to keep pushing forward, even when the road is tough.
For many, he is more than just a member of the group—he’s the heartbeat that reminds them to laugh, to keep smiling, and to never give up. Whether he’s making us laugh with his antics or warming our hearts with his sincerity, Richard is the gratitude and warmth embracing both fans and the members of the group.
Ken “Kojiken” Kojima | 小島健
If there’s one person who embodies the spirit of togetherness in Ae! group, it’s Ken Kojima. The leader of the group stays in the back line with his keyboard, often teased by members and fans alike for waving his hands more than actually playing the keys.
But his sense of responsibility and deep care for his fellow members make him the glue that holds Ae! group together. As the voted leader of the group, Ken’s role goes beyond performances—he’s the heart that keeps everyone grounded, the one who makes sure no one gets left behind.
He is someone who naturally captures attention, not only with his striking features and impressive aura but also with his unique charm that fans have affectionately dubbed “Kojiken World.”
As a regular model of the magazine FINEBOYS, it’s no wonder why Ken emits almost a regal aura—even if he’s often teased for being the handsome one when he’s quiet (which is not often). But it’s his quirky, fun-loving personality that really makes him stand out.
He seamlessly transitions from hilarious variety show moments to serious, heartfelt performances, all while making sure that everyone can see him for who he is. All the sides that make up Ken Kojima.
His skills as a keyboardist, which stem from piano lessons with his sister in elementary school, add another layer of depth to Ae! group’s band performances.
When he first started playing seriously, Ken could only read sheet music, but in 2019, he took private lessons to build his foundation, a testament to his quiet determination and work ethic. It’s not hard to see why both fans and his fellow members admire him so much.
His involvement in writing the lyrics for their original songs like “Kamisama no Bakayaro” (神様のバカヤロー), “Boku Blues” (ボクブルース), and their recent song “Aishiteru-tte Iwa Night” (愛してるって言わ Night), shows his commitment to not only performing but also contributing to the group’s creative process.
His lyrics, often personal and reflective, provide fans with a glimpse into his thoughts and feelings. Whether expressing frustration and hope in “Kamisama no Bakayaro” or crafting a message of solidarity in “Boku Blues,” Ken’s songwriting adds depth to Ae! group’s music and gives fans even more reasons to appreciate him.
Though, what most people love about Ken is his wonderfully weird side, where his humor and creativity truly shine through. Whether he’s introducing himself with his iconic “Viva!” gag or performing the hilarious “Kojiken Samba,” his ability to make people laugh is a key part of his charm.
This comedic genius didn’t stop back then, but has since evolved and been nurtured carefully. Earlier this year, he took on the new project on the Junior CHANNEL, where the Kansai Juniors took over Ae! group’s Tuesday spot. He acts as the director for the Kansai Juniors, sharing his experience and insight as a senior in the industry and agency.
Ken might be new to the role as a producer for the YouTube project, but he is no stranger to directing and producing content. Aside from his work as a member of Ae! group, where he has been in charge of their skits for years, he soon expanded his work to produce such works for the younger groups in the Kansai scene.
One notable project was the 2022 Kansai Junior comedy stage show “THE BEGINNING~Shogeki~,” which was planned and produced by SUPER EIGHT’s Tadayoshi Ohkura and written, arranged, and directed by Ken himself. Initially, Tadayoshi needed assistance from fellow Ae! group member Masaya Sano to understand Ken, but his producing abilities were eventually recognized, and he was given more opportunities to produce for Kansai Junior shows.
One of his recent projects is the 2024 show “Come Visit! Minami Laughing Street”/“Oide yo! Minami Shoutengai” featuring Boys be and AmBitious, both Kansai Junior groups. Fully directed and written by Ken, this show is filled with ad-libs from the members, making each performance unique and showcasing their talents as Ken intended.
Despite being seen as the “funny guy,” Ken is also a man of wisdom and depth, even having his own 350+ “Words of Wisdom“. His memorable quotes, which range from hilariously absurd to surprisingly profound, reveal a side of him that’s thoughtful and reflective.
From his musings on life—“The reason to live? Not wanting to die is good enough”—to his witty takes on everyday moments—“You ever see Mt. Fuji up close? It’s huge”—Ken’s words never fail to make fans smile. His playful but philosophical outlook has become an endearing aspect of his personality, further cementing his place in fans’ hearts.
Even when fans can’t see it, Ken is often the one holding everything together, ensuring that Ae! group moves forward with pride.
At the heart of it all, Ken Kojima is more than just the group’s leader—he’s their emotional anchor, their creative spark, and their beloved “weirdo.” Whether he’s performing on stage (or waving his hands), leading the group through tough times, or just being his quirky self, Ken continues to surprise, inspire, and delight those who follow him—members, fans, and Juniors alike. The world is simply his stage for brilliancy… or weirdness.
Masaya Sano | 佐野晶哉
If you’re looking for a member of Ae! group who can do it all, look no further than the youngest member Masaya Sano. With his incredible range of talents—from singing and dancing, acrobatics, to playing multiple instruments and even composing music—Masaya is the definition of a multi-talented idol.
But what truly makes him stand out to fans isn’t just his skills; it’s his humble, down-to-earth personality that wins everyone over. He may be brimming with talent, but his modesty and quiet charm, like a big golden retriever puppy, make him a fan favorite in ways that go beyond the stage.
As a former child actor of Shiki Theatre Company who joined the agency in 2016, Masaya quickly became known for his exceptional vocal abilities.
One of his notable roles from the Shiki Theatre Company is performing in roles such as Kurt in The Sound of Music and Young Simba in The Lion King, which often results in people teasing him with the line “心配ないさ〜〜〜〜” (Shinpai nai sa; Hakuna Matata; Don’t worry about it).
Yet, despite his talents, he initially found himself in the background as the drummer in the Kansai Junior band, leaving fewer opportunities to showcase his other skills.
Surprisingly, Masaya only started playing the drums about six months after joining the agency. During a concert rehearsal, a choreographer asked him if he could play the drums. Although he had no prior experience, he saw this as an opportunity and boldly replied, “I can.” He prepared in just two weeks and managed to perform in time for the concert, driven by sheer determination.
This was the turning point when he began performing in a band trio with Yoshinori and Ken, who would later become his group mates.
Masaya is often one of the group’s mood-makers, someone who loves making others smile. He enjoys throwing in jokes and making others laugh, which frequently makes him the source of joy within the group. And you can’t help but adore him and spoil him.
There’s a reason behind his unwavering dedication as an idol. Before Ae! group was formed, he had considered leaving the agency to focus on university, but it was Ken and Yoshinori who convinced him to stay.
In fact, it was their support that led to him becoming a member of Ae! group in the first place. Deeply touched by how much his seniors cared for him, it’s clear that the group’s presence has always been Masaya’s source of motivation.
At the time of Ae! group’s formation, they were informed by the agency that they weren’t necessarily being assembled with the goal of debuting. Despite this, Masaya, then only 16 years old, made an immense commitment to the group.
But true to his nature, Masaya didn’t complain or seek the spotlight—he just kept working hard, mastering his craft behind the scenes. Little by little, his undeniable talents shone through, and fans couldn’t help but root for this soft-spoken, hard-working artist.
What fans love most about him is his genuine love for music. As a student of music composition and arrangement, he doesn’t just perform—he creates. Aside from their songs “Kamisama no Bakayaro,” “Boku Blues,” “Bokura Ae! group tte Iimasu Nen,” and “Aishiteru-tte Iwa Night,” which he worked with Ken on, one of the most exciting moments in Ae! group’s history was when he composed and wrote their original song “Story!.”
The song was made for their stage play “Gachi de Never-ending na Story!.” With its refreshing melody, the song carries a message about living life while searching for small moments of happiness.
But behind all the talent and genius, Masaya is one of the most humble members of the group. He never flaunts his abilities or demands attention—instead, he lets his work speak for itself.
Whether it’s his perfect drumming in a live performance, his flawless vocals in a ballad, or his playful energy during a variety show, Masaya’s presence is always a quiet but powerful force—except when he has his moments of absolute chaos, and nobody can quite figure out what goes on in his mind.
These moments have earned him the title of “魔王” (Maou; Demon King), and Masaya is not shy of putting his body and soul on the line for the sake of entertainment and laughter. For better or worse…
Despite the chaos he might bring, with his exceptional vocal ability, has dominated variety show karaoke and music competitions, scoring a perfect 100 on his second attempt when he appeared on Nama Hoso de Manten Daseru ka? 100-Ten Karaoke Ongakusai (Can You Score a Perfect 100 on Live Broadcast?), successfully achieving his goal.
In another challenge during Saigen Dekitara 100-Mannin! THE Kamiwaza Challenge, he participated in the “Kamiwaza Acapella Karaoke” challenge, singing SMAP’s “Yozora no Mukou.” The challenge only allowed the participant to hear the first 5 seconds of the intro, requiring them to rely solely on their internal timing and sense of pitch to sing the rest of the song.
Under the difficult condition of needing a score of 95 or higher to pass, Masaya set a new show record with an astonishing 99.123 points and won 1 million yen.
Later, he went on to achieve a 10-game winning streak on Chidori’s Oni Renchan and successfully hit the mark on his fourth attempt in the Rabbit karaoke 100-point challenge. So far, the youngest of the group has earned a total of 5.1 million yen in prize money through various challenges (though he’s probably lost track at this point, to be honest..).
Initially, he had expressed the wish to use it to fund filming a music video, but it never happened. However, when Ae! group filmed the music video for their debut song “《A》BEGINNING,” part of the prize money was used for the venue fee of Sundome Fukui and air conditioning. In a way, his initial wish did come true.
For his lead role in the drama “Rikon Kouya,” Ae! group also sings the theme song “Never End,” and the heartfelt ballad will showcase Masaya’s gentle vocals and emotional delivery to its max.
Initially unsure about being an idol, he has since grown to love the job, saying that realizing he’s able to help and support others has made him truly passionate about his work as an idol.
His personality is one of the reasons fans feel such a deep connection with him. There’s a softness to him, a gentle kindness that makes him easy to relate to. He’s the member who listens, who supports his teammates, and who quietly takes on responsibility without ever seeking praise.
Whether he’s providing the musical backbone of the group or bringing his chaotic humor to the front, Masaya has a way of making every moment feel meaningful.
Exploring the unique qualities of each member, it’s clear that Ae! group is much more than the sum of its parts. Every member—Yoshinori, Seiya, Richard, Ken, and Masaya—brings something irreplaceable to the group.
They each have their own stories, talents, and personalities that make Ae! group not just a successful group, but a family that fans can’t help but feel deeply connected to. It’s their bond, their resilience, and their unwavering support for each other that sets them apart in the world of idols.
For fans, Ae! group is a source of joy, inspiration, and pride. These boys have woven themselves into the hearts of fans. Their journey is a testament to hard work, unity, and the power of believing in each other. And as Ae! group continues to grow and resonate, one thing is certain: their story is just beginning—a starting point—and we’ll be there every step of the way, cheering them on with all the love and pride they’ve given us.
Don’t forget to follow Ae! group on all their official accounts to keep yourself updated with the recent news!
Photo assets © STARTO ENTERTAINMENT.
- It’s a term often used in fan culture, referring to the state where someone not only supports their favorite idol or celebrity but also harbors romantic feelings, expressing a desire to date or even marry them. Similar terms include “リア恋” (ria koi) and “ガチ恋” (gachi koi), which convey the same meaning as “real-life crush.” ↩︎