Tokyo International News Agency

A radio show hosted by Hikaru Iwamoto, the leader of the popular male idol group Snow Man, has sparked a major buzz online, sending the word “Tonttu” trending across social media platforms. The trend originated from an episode of his FM NACK5 radio program, Seibu Railway presents Iwamoto Hikaru no Loyly Shitemo Ii desu ka? (May I Pour the Loyly?). Renowned in the Japanese entertainment industry as a passionate sauna connoisseur, Iwamoto coined the endearing nickname “Hikaru’s Tonttu” for his listeners. Explaining his affectionate reasoning, he shared that “everyone tuning in is like a little fairy to me, and I want to cherish them.” In Nordic folklore, particularly in Finland, a “Tonttu” is a mythical, elf-like creature traditionally revered as the protective guardian spirit of the sauna, watching over its safety and cleanliness. The unique and heartfelt moniker was a natural reflection of Iwamoto's deep knowledge and love of sauna ...

On October 3, popular idol group Snow Man's leader Hikaru Iwamoto launched his very first regular solo radio program, titled Seibu Railway presents Hikaru Iwamoto no Loyly shitemo ii desu ka? (FM NACK5, airing Saturdays from 7:30 to 8:00 AM). Right from its premiere broadcast, related terms shot to the number one trending spot on social media, sparking an immediate and enthusiastic buzz. Hosted by Iwamoto—well known as a passionate sauna enthusiast—the 30-minute talk show offers behind-the-scenes stories about Snow Man's activities, as well as local highlights and the charm of Saitama Prefecture, his home region. True to its title, which references "loyly" (the practice of pouring water onto heated sauna stones to create aromatic steam), the program features soothing, relaxed conversations designed to gently warm both the body and mind of listeners. In the memorable inaugural episode, Iwamoto shared his excitement for the show alongside an endearing self-introduction...

A special radio program featuring the five-member vocal dance unit M!LK, titled "M!LK's Radio Show to Energize Everyone, You, and Japan!," was broadcasted on NHK AM, creating a massive buzz on social media with fans posting live reactions and expressions of joy. The program was divided into the first and second halves. The first half featured the "Shio Lemon" duo, Jinto Yoshida and Daichi Shiozaki. Their gentle and soothing conversation filled with warm tones prompted listeners to leave comments such as "It feels so comforting to listen to" and "It's heartwarming and healing." Meanwhile, the second half starred Hayato Sano, Jutaro Yamanaka, and Shunta Sono. The atmosphere shifted to a lively mood reminiscent of a school club vibe, captivating fans who commented, "It's truly the best when all five are together" and "Their playful banter is so much fun." Particularly, heartwarming interactions—such as members being b...

Excitement is mounting on social media ahead of the broadcast of popular idol group Snow Man's regular radio program, 'Snow Man no Suna no Manma' (every Thursday at 9:00 PM), on Bunka Hoso. This week's personalities are leader Hikaru Iwamoto and Koji Mukai. Affectionately known by fans as the 'Iwamoto Brothers,' the duo's well-matched chemistry has sparked a continuous stream of anticipatory comments. When show staff announced in advance that 'there will be no baseball broadcast extension tonight, and the show will start promptly at 9:00 PM,' fans reacted immediately with posts like 'Standing by for 9 PM' and 'Ready to listen live.' Anticipation for Mukai's lighthearted hosting combined with Iwamoto's gentle responses flooded the platform, causing related keywords to trend on X (formerly Twitter). In addition, earlier in the day, Iwamoto made a solo appearance on the talk show 'Tetsuko's Room,' and new information ...

A special live broadcast of the radio program personality-driven by Ren Nagase of the popular group King & Prince, titled 'King & Prince Ren Nagase's Radio GARDEN ~"So Honey EP" Release Commemoration! 2nd Live Broadcast SP~', recently aired and became a major topic of discussion. During the broadcast, Nagase's close friend Yoshinori Masakado of Aぇ! group appeared as a guest, entertaining listeners with witty banter that highlighted their strong bond. The conversation turned to their experience with live radio broadcasting. While Masakado has experience with around 100 live broadcasts including his trainee days, Nagase, who only has two live broadcast experiences under his belt, jokingly acted like a senior by telling him, 'If there's anything you don't know, just ask me. Relax.' This prompt led to a flurry of heartwarming comments on social media from fans, such as 'The interaction between Masakado, who has over 100 live broadcasts,...

The phrase "I missed it" ( kikinoshita ) recently trended on social media in Japan, as fans rushed to post about real-time radio broadcasts and live streams. The surge in activity was especially noticeable around popular idol groups' radio shows, where listeners turned to social media to exchange information following unexpected announcements. At the center of the buzz were hints dropped during these group-hosted broadcasts regarding upcoming live streams and future developments. Listeners posted a mix of surprise and confusion, with comments like, "I missed the big announcement!" and "Wait, when is this live stream happening?" Those who momentarily looked away or were distracted by work, errands, or noise turned to social media in real time to fill in the blanks with the help of fellow fans. To catch up on these missed moments, platforms like Radiko and its "Time Free" feature, along with archived streaming services, are playing an increasin...