The Japanese idol industry has introduced many unique concepts, but none as unconventional as Kiyoshi Ryujin 25, an idol group centered around polyamory, consisting of a man and his wives.
According to KoreaBoo, while many K-Pop and J-Pop groups debut with eye-catching themes, like EXO’s superpower concept, Kiyoshi Ryujin 25 pushes the boundaries of convention, proving that there truly is something for everyone in the music industry.
A Group Unlike Any Other
In 2014, Japanese singer-songwriter and producer Kiyoshi Ryujin introduced his own idol group, centering himself as the leader and only male member. The group, named Kiyoshi Ryujin 25, consisted of Kiyoshi and multiple female members, whom he publicly referred to as his “wives.” Each woman took on his last name as part of her stage identity, adopting titles such as Wife #1, Wife #2, and so on.
Their debut single, “Will You Marry Me?”, was an extension of the group’s polygamous theme, embracing an unconventional concept that sparked significant discussion. Despite the controversy, the group managed to garner attention, leading to multiple singles, two albums, and even a public search for a “seventh wife” in 2015.
Disbandment and Unexpected Return
In 2017, Kiyoshi Ryujin 25 disbanded after a final concert, seemingly bringing an end to the group’s unusual journey. However, in 2024, Kiyoshi announced that the group would be making a comeback with an entirely new lineup of “wives,” all of whom have previous idol experience.
What makes this revival even more notable is that all the new members are in their 20s, and each reportedly joined after being personally “proposed” to by Kiyoshi. The revamped group has already released a remake of their debut single, along with scheduled performances and a planned tour across Japan later this year.
A Viral Sensation
The group’s return has reignited debates about idol culture, gender roles, and the boundaries of performance art. While some see Kiyoshi Ryujin 25 as a fresh and daring concept, others criticize it for its problematic undertones. Despite the divided opinions, the group is gaining traction online, especially through platforms like TikTok, where they actively engage with fans.
With their return to the music scene, Kiyoshi Ryujin 25 continues to challenge industry norms. Whether you view them as an artistic statement or an eyebrow-raising gimmick, one thing is clear: they know how to capture attention.
