In the West, a pop star is often an untouchable deity, distant and cool. In Japan, the "Idol" (pop star) operates on the concept of zettai souai (absolute love) and accessibility. Groups like AKB48 (and their many sister groups) or the sensational K-pop rivals, NCT (specifically their Japanese units), operate on a unique business model.
The newest frontier is virtual. —animated avatars controlled by real people—have become million-dollar earners. Agencies like Hololive sell out Tokyo Dome for hologram concerts. Meanwhile, Netflix and Disney+ are finally investing heavily in anime and J-dramas ( Alice in Borderland ), forcing local broadcasters to adapt.
: Perhaps Japan’s most famous export, this "huge comic book industry" provides the source material for nearly all other entertainment forms, including films and video games. Physical Social Hubs
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It is impossible to discuss Japanese entertainment without acknowledging the behemoth in the room: Anime.