Japanese pop group Arashi ends 27-year career

The iconic Japanese boy band Arashi has officially brought their 27-year career to a close, marking the end of an era for J-pop. The group, comprised of Satoshi Ohno, Sho Sakurai, Masaki Aiba, Kazunari Ninomiya, and Jun Matsumoto, performed their final concert, concluding a journey that began in 1999.

Arashi achieved unparalleled success throughout their career, dominating music charts, selling out stadium tours, and becoming household names not only in Japan but across much of Asia. Their influence extended beyond music, encompassing television dramas, commercials, and various entertainment ventures, solidifying their status as a national phenomenon.

The group announced their intention to go on hiatus in January 2019, giving fans a year and a half's notice before their activities ceased at the end of 2020. This decision was reportedly made to allow members to pursue individual interests and explore different paths within the entertainment industry. The final concert served as a poignant farewell to their devoted fanbase, celebrating decades of music and shared memories.