SB19 marks major Japan milestones with Summer Sonic debut, Kento Nakajima collab

Abi Sarabia M., Philippine Canadian Inquirer
August 20, 2026

Photo courtesy: SB19 Facebook Page

SB19 is strengthening its presence in Japan through major festival performances, television appearances, music releases and collaborations with Japanese artists.

The P-pop group made its Summer Sonic debut this month, performing in Osaka on August 14 and Tokyo on August 15.

During its Tokyo set, Japanese singer and actor Kento Nakajima joined SB19 for the first live performance of “GENTO feat. Kento Nakajima.”

The collaboration marked another major Japan milestone for the group as it continues to expand its reach outside the Philippines.

Before Summer Sonic, SB19 also made its first appearance on Japanese television through Nippon Television’s morning program “DayDay.” on August 13, where the group performed its latest single, “LAWLESS.”

SB19 also released the Japanese edition of its album “Wakas at Simula” on August 5 in two CD versions.

The album includes “Toyfriend,” the group’s collaboration with Japanese boy group BE:FIRST.

SB19 capped its Japan activities with its “I WAS THERE” Thanksgiving Fan Meet 2026 at KT Zepp Yokohama on August 18.

The group’s recent activities in Japan are part of its continuing push to bring P-pop to a wider international audience.