A whirlwind of excitement swept through the Yoyogi National Gymnasium in Tokyo on May 3rd as Ae! group, STARTO ENTERTAINMENT’s upcoming debut group comprising Yoshinori Masakado, Seiya Suezawa, Richard Keita Kusama, Ken Kojima, and Masaya Sano, graced the stage as secret guests at the prestigious “Rakuten GirlsAward 2024 SPRING/SUMMER” fashion and music extravaganza.
The theme of this 25th edition of the event was “TOKIMEKI GALAXY TRIP.” Comparing the present-day enjoyment of expressing individuality through fashion to a galaxy, regardless of age or gender, the event aimed to provide attendees with an exciting journey of self-discovery in the cosmos.
Taking center stage on the illustrious “FILA Special Stage,” the group made an unforgettable entrance that sent shockwaves of euphoria through the audience. The group has an ongoing collaboration with FILA, the latest installment being the “Ae! Summer” collection.
The beginning of the runway was led by Masakado and each following member strutted down the runway with confidence, exuding charm and enthusiasm. They all greeted the audience with bright smiles and waves, expressing their unwavering gratitude to everyone present.
As they dazzled the crowd with their signature “Ae! pose,” a peace sign upside-down over one eye, the atmosphere crackled with energy. Masakado captivated the cameras and the hearts of the audience with his polished, top-notch idol aura and genuine, dazzling smile, while Suezawa melted hearts with a graceful blown kiss in a charming pink outfit matching his striking visuals, leaving everyone breathless in awe.
Richard charmed with a courteous bow, his dimples an adorable detail to his infectious smile and his unique groove is unmatched, and Kojima injected humor with a nod to the beloved comedian Edo Harumi while walking the runway with grace befitting him as a regular FINE BOYS model.
Sano, the last and youngest member to grace the stage, radiated infectious joy as he shared a high-five with Kojima and flashed a smile rivaling the sun itself. Sano’s gap between his puppy-like appearance and his sudden mature gait is absolutely captivating and charming, making you want to put him in your pocket and protect him at all costs.
Every stage that Ae! group stands on is undoubtedly a universe of its own, and this time was no exception.
Reflecting on the electrifying experience, Kojima expressed sheer delight, declaring, “It was an absolute blast—pure joy!” Meanwhile, Suezawa confessed to initial nerves but found solace in the warmth of the audience. “It was nerve-wracking, but everyone’s kindness put me at ease. I hope you’ll remember Ae! group long after tonight,” he expressed with heartfelt gratitude.
Adding a touch of comedy to the affair, Kojima and Sano continued to delight fans with their impromptu impressions of Edo Harumi, much to the amusement of the audience and the playful chagrin of host Ryota Yamasato. There’s truly no calm moment with Ae! group, and their natural comedic charm shines on stage along with their striking appearances!
As the curtains closed on “Rakuten GirlsAward 2024 SPRING/SUMMER,” attendees departed with hearts full of excitement and memories of a night illuminated by the electrifying presence of Ae! group. They’re indeed a good group to remember and it’s just the beginning for them.
Ae! International 