ILLIT Opens Japan’s 2025 FNS Music Festival for the Second Year, Showcasing Rising Popularity and Stage Confidence

ILLIT appeared on Fuji TV’s 2025 FNS Music Festival on December 10, marking their second consecutive year opening the major year-end program and highlighting their growing popularity in Japan.

Opening the program, ILLIT performed the Japanese holiday classic “Koibito ga Santa Claus,” joined later by all participating artists for a large-scale chorus. The stage positioned the group alongside Japan’s mainstream acts, following a year of strong local momentum with original releases and official debut activities.

The group also showcased their Japanese original track “Almond Chocolate,” presenting improved vocal stability and stage control. Their cover of Every Little Thing’s “Deatta Koro no Yō ni” drew praise for clear diction and emotional delivery. Following the broadcast, ILLIT trended on X in Japan, with viewers highlighting their Japanese pronunciation, polished performance, and growing stage maturity.

• Second consecutive appearance at Japan’s major year-end music show
• Strong response to both ‘Almond Chocolate’ and the cover stage
• Trending on X Japan with positive viewer reactions

## KStarLoud Insight ILLIT’s rapid rise in Japan stems from consistent exposure through original releases, collaborations, and major live stages. Their second consecutive FNS appearance indicates growing cross-market appeal, while upcoming year-end shows may further solidify their brand presence. The group’s momentum positions them as one of the most promising new-generation acts in Japan.