SUPER EIGHT's Yu Yokoyama Completes 24-Hour Marathon, Igniting National Emotion and Showcasing Unbreakable Member Bonds at Finish Line

Yu Yokoyama of SUPER EIGHT successfully completed this year's '24-Hour Television' charity marathon, engulfing the Japanese archipelago in a wave of emotion. As Yokoyama bravely ran 105km through the intense heat, the hashtag '#YokoKansoKigan' (Prayers for Yoko's Completion) trended on social media, with many fans and industry figures offering praise and words of encouragement.

As the finish line approached, the presence of SUPER EIGHT members supporting Yokoyama drew particular attention. The members rushed to Yokoyama's side, with Shingo Murakami being the first to embrace him. Murakami then kept a supportive hand on Yokoyama's shoulder, and just before the goal, powerfully pushed his back, shouting, 'Go for it!' This scene vividly symbolized the deep bond between the two, often referred to as 'YokoHina,' and the strong unity of the group, making for a deeply moving moment. Fans expressed their emotions with comments like 'I burst into tears the moment the members rushed in,' 'It has to be Murakami-kun by Yokoyama-kun's side!' and 'Watching him cross the finish line surrounded by Eito really made me sob.' The members, displaying more 'mature expressions' compared to 11 years ago, evoked profound emotion.

After completing the marathon, a physically exhausted Yokoyama still managed to express gratitude to the staff and his fellow members, his sincere character resonating with many viewers. Social media was flooded with comments such as 'Yokoyama-san's true character shone through' and 'The cool, kind, and supportive back of a great senior.' Fans who cheered him on directly at the Kokugikan also shared their deep emotion, saying, 'He was incredibly cool,' and 'It might just be self-satisfaction, but I'm glad I could convey my support directly.'

Furthermore, for this marathon, SUPER EIGHT's official account launched a support project titled '#HashireYoko!! #24HourNuiMarathon' (Run, Yoko!! 24-Hour Plushie Marathon). Fans actively participated, using plush toys for supportive posts under the theme '#NuiToOuenUta' (Plushie and Cheering Song), united in their encouragement for Yokoyama. Calls for contributions to the charity donation were also made, with some voices suggesting further donations, commenting, 'It's amazing that it reached 740 million yen, but I couldn't help but wish it would hit 800 million...'

Yokoyama's completion also had a significant impact on junior groups, including Aぇ! group, who expressed their gratitude with messages like, 'Thank you for creating Aぇ and believing in us.' A surprise performance surrounding the song 'Onigishi' (rice ball) revealed during the program also became a topic of discussion, making it a 24-hour event filled with SUPER EIGHT's characteristic humor and warmth.

Yu Yokoyama, who delivered so much emotion and courage. The immense impact he made is evident from fans' pledges like, 'I'll make it a life where I can say I'm glad I lived.' While busy days, including work in Fukuoka on Tuesday, lie ahead, we sincerely wish him 'Otsukaresama deshita!' (Thank you for your hard work!) and hope he gets some well-deserved rest.

The context

24-Hour Television: This is an annual charity telethon broadcast live across Japan, typically over a weekend in late summer. It features a variety of segments, including emotional stories, live performances, and a challenging charity marathon undertaken by a celebrity, aiming to raise funds for various causes.

SUPER EIGHT (formerly Kanjani8): A popular Japanese male idol group managed by STARTO ENTERTAINMENT (formerly Johnny & Associates). Yu Yokoyama is a founding member of the group, known for their Kansai roots and humorous appeal. The group previously participated in the 24-Hour Television as main personalities and completed a marathon together in 2013, making this solo run by Yokoyama a poignant moment with historical context for fans.

YokoHina: A popular portmanteau used by fans to refer to the duo of Yu Yokoyama and Shingo Murakami. They are known for their close friendship, long history together (having joined the agency around the same time), and often playful yet deeply supportive dynamic within the group.

Aぇ! group: Pronounced 'A-e-group,' this is a junior idol group also under STARTO ENTERTAINMENT, known for their musical and comedic talents. As a senior member, Yokoyama's influence and support for junior groups like Aぇ! group are highly valued by fans and the younger artists themselves.

Kokugikan: The Ryōgoku Kokugikan in Tokyo is a famous indoor arena primarily known for sumo wrestling. It often serves as the main venue for the finale of the 24-Hour Television, where the marathon runner completes their journey to cheering crowds.