Summary in English (Expanded and Detailed)
TWS, the six-member K-pop boy group under Pledis Entertainment, made a highly successful debut in Japan with the release of their first Japanese single titled “Nice to see you again” (はじめまして) on July 2, 2025. This marked a significant milestone in the group’s international expansion plans and was met with an overwhelmingly positive response from fans and media alike. Released digitally on July 2, the physical CD version is set to hit stores on August 22, 2025. The CD package includes a 56-page photobook as well as collectible items tailored to each individual member — a favorite among K-pop collectors and fans.
On the day of the single’s digital release, TWS achieved an impressive milestone by topping Oricon’s Daily Single Ranking, Japan’s authoritative music chart, with around 120,000 copies sold on the first day alone. This feat underscores the group’s growing popularity and the strong anticipation that preceded their Japanese debut.
In celebration of their debut, TWS held a special showcase event in Tokyo. During the showcase, the group performed songs from their Japanese single album, including “BLOOM” — a collaboration with Japanese singer-songwriter Ayumu Imazu — as well as a Japanese version of their existing Korean hit “Plot Twist.” The showcase was met with great enthusiasm by fans, many of whom identify under the group’s official fandom name, “42.” This fanbase has played a crucial role in supporting TWS’s growing presence both in Korea and Japan.
Musically, TWS identifies their style as “boyhood pop.” This genre is centered around themes of youth, emotional sincerity, and new beginnings. Their songs often tell stories of growing up and self-discovery, which allows them to connect with their audience on a deep emotional level. This musical style is especially compatible with the Japanese market, where themes of nostalgia and emotional resonance are particularly popular.
Following their debut, TWS embarked on an extensive promotional campaign in Japan. They appeared on prominent Japanese television programs, including Nihon TV’s morning show “DayDay.” on July 3 and the high-profile music program “THE MUSIC DAY 2025” on July 5. Their appearances on these programs helped introduce the group to a broader audience and reinforced their appeal with live performances praised for their vocal strength and charming presence.
TWS also participated in the “The MusiQuest 2025” music festival, held at the National Yoyogi Stadium in Tokyo. This performance marked their first appearance at a music festival in Japan and included tracks from their Japanese debut single along with fan-favorite songs. The festival stage allowed the group to showcase their performance capabilities on a larger scale, earning praise for their vibrant energy, synchronized choreography, and relatability.
As part of their expansion into the Japanese market, TWS launched their first Japan concert tour titled “24/7: With: Us.” The tour kicked off in Hiroshima on July 11 and includes performances across six major regions: Aichi, Fukuoka, Miyagi, Osaka, and Kanagawa. In total, the tour consists of 13 shows, running through August 10. This tour not only reinforces TWS’s dedication to their Japanese fanbase but also signifies their effort to establish a long-term presence in the Japanese music scene.
The single “Nice to see you again” features several noteworthy tracks. The song “BLOOM,” which features Ayumu Imazu, is especially significant as it has been selected as the opening theme for an upcoming anime series. This placement is strategic in expanding the group’s exposure to a wider audience, including anime fans and the general public, which often overlap with J-pop and K-pop demographics in Japan. The collaboration with Imazu also highlights cross-cultural synergy and reflects TWS’s intent to localize their music for the Japanese market.
Rounding out the single is the Japanese version of “Plot Twist,” a popular Korean track that showcases the group’s lighthearted yet emotionally resonant sound. By offering a familiar hit in a localized format, TWS caters to new fans in Japan while maintaining a sense of continuity for their existing followers.
Reception to TWS’s Japanese debut has been overwhelmingly positive. Keywords associated with the group and their debut, such as “TWS-chan” and “Japanese debut,” trended widely on Japanese social media platforms shortly after the release. This online buzz has played an important role in amplifying their presence and generating word-of-mouth awareness. Fans and critics have consistently praised the group for their authentic, high-energy performances whether on television or during live concert events.
In summary, TWS’s debut in Japan has been a resounding success on multiple fronts — from chart performance and TV appearances to livestage charisma and fan engagement. Their unique sound, dubbed “boyhood pop,” coupled with their creative approach to international collaborations and marketing, sets them apart in a competitive industry. With a promising start and a growing fanbase in Japan, TWS is well-positioned to become a leading figure in the J-pop and global pop scenes.