Sakura Miyawaki (宮脇 咲良, 미야와키 사쿠라, Miyawaki Sakura) is a highly prominent Japanese K-Pop idol, currently a member of the Source Music (HYBE subsidiary) girl group LE SSERAFIM. Her career is notable for its incredible longevity and transitions across different major idol systems.
Here’s a detailed look at Sakura Miyawaki:
Basic Information
- Full Name: Miyawaki Sakura (宮脇 咲良, 미야와키 사쿠라)
- Birthday: March 19, 1998
- Birthplace: Kagoshima, Japan
- Nationality: Japanese
- Height: 163 cm (5’4″)
- Current Group: LE SSERAFIM (Debut: May 2, 2022)
- Agency: Source Music (under HYBE Corporation)
- Positions: Vocalist, Dancer, Visual
Her Illustrious Career Journey
Sakura’s journey in the idol world is truly unique, encompassing three major idol debuts:
- HKT48 / AKB48 (2011-2021):
- Sakura began her career in 2011 as a first-generation member of HKT48, a sister group of the legendary Japanese idol group AKB48, based in Fukuoka.
- She quickly rose through the ranks, becoming one of HKT48’s most prominent “aces” and a consistent front-row member in AKB48’s general elections and single releases.
- Her popularity extended to AKB48 itself, where she held concurrent positions and was often chosen for their main “senbatsu” (selection) lineup.
- She was known for her consistent hard work, sweet visuals, and growing stage presence within the J-Pop system.
- She officially graduated from HKT48 in June 2021.
- Produce 48 & IZ*ONE (2018-2021):
- In 2018, Sakura participated in Mnet’s highly popular survival show Produce 48, a collaboration between the AKB48 Group and the Produce 101 series.
- Despite initial struggles with the intense K-Pop training style, her dedication, growth, and undeniable charm resonated with viewers.
- She consistently ranked high throughout the show, eventually securing 2nd place in the final lineup, earning her a spot in the project girl group IZ*ONE.
- As a member of IZ*ONE, Sakura (often referred to by fans as “Kkura”, “꾸라”) became one of the group’s most popular members, known for her captivating visuals, improved dancing, and unique vocal tone.
- IZ*ONE achieved massive success, becoming one of the best-selling K-Pop girl groups of its generation.
- The group disbanded as planned in April 2021, after a 2.5-year run.
- LE SSERAFIM (2022-Present):
- After IZ*ONE’s disbandment and her graduation from HKT48, there was much speculation about Sakura’s next move.
- In March 2022, it was officially announced that she had signed with Source Music (a HYBE subsidiary) and would be re-debuting in a new girl group.
- On May 2, 2022, she debuted as a member of LE SSERAFIM alongside fellow former IZ*ONE member Kim Chaewon, as well as Huh Yunjin, Kazuha, and Hong Eunchae.
- As one of the most experienced members, Sakura brings a wealth of stage knowledge and professionalism to the group. Her journey from J-Pop, through a K-Pop project group, to a permanent K-Pop group under HYBE, is an unprecedented feat.
- LE SSERAFIM has quickly risen to prominence with hits like “FEARLESS,” “ANTIFRAGILE,” “UNFORGIVEN,” and “EASY,” showcasing a fierce and confident concept.
Key Characteristics & Strengths
- Visuals: Consistently praised for her beauty, often recognized as a top visual in both J-Pop and K-Pop.
- Professionalism & Stage Presence: With over a decade of experience, Sakura possesses an exceptional understanding of idol performance and can captivate an audience.
- Dedication & Growth: She is known for her immense work ethic and her ability to adapt and improve, particularly her dancing and Korean language skills, which significantly developed during her K-Pop journey.
- Bilingual: Fluent in Japanese (native) and highly proficient in Korean.
- Relatability: Known for her love of gaming, often sharing her passion with fans through streams or mentions, making her very relatable. She even has a YouTube channel where she occasionally posts gaming content.
- Resilience: Her ability to navigate and succeed in three distinct and highly competitive idol systems speaks volumes about her strength and determination.
- Songwriting: She has also shown her talent in songwriting, with credits on several LE SSERAFIM tracks, such as “Good Parts (When the quality is bad but I am),” “No Celestial,” and “Blue Flame.”
Impact & Legacy
Sakura Miyawaki is a trailblazer, demonstrating the possibilities of a successful cross-cultural idol career. Her journey from being an “ace” in the J-Pop scene, to a top-ranked member of a K-Pop project group, and now a vital member of a global K-Pop group, solidifies her status as one of the most influential and enduring idols of her generation. She continues to inspire fans with her talent, hard work, and unwavering passion for performing.
Link
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/39saku_chan