On January 13, 2025, several male celebrities will celebrate their coming-of-age ceremonies, marking their transition to adulthood in Japan. This significant annual event, known as Seijin no Hi (成人の日), honors those who turn 20 years old within the year and epitomizes maturity and responsibility. Among those celebrating this milestone are well-known figures from various entertainment sectors.
One of the most recognized is Suzuki Fuku, who turned 20 on June 17, 2024. This talented actor began his career at just one year old and skyrocketed to fame with his role on the hit TV show Marumo's Story (“マルモのおきて”) aired on Fuji TV since 2011. Continuing to make waves, he starred in multiple productions, including Ooku and Kasukabe's Women, and he has also taken on the role of Thursday personality on the morning information program ZIP!.
Ichikawa Somegoro (the eighth-generation actor) has solidified his place as one of Japan's budding stars. He made his stage debut back in 2009 with Kadode Shukujitsu Renjishi and later took the name Ichikawa Somegoro VII. With impactful performances in NHK's historical drama Kamakura-dono no 13-nin and the 2024 drama Onihira Banka Part II, he remains a key figure worth following.
Another rising star is Mokudai Kazuto, born on May 20, 2004. He is part of the dance vocal group Genin wa Jibun ni Aru. and has been garnering attention for his acting skills. 2024 has seen him make appearances across multiple dramas, including the much-anticipated Class 3 is Having Affairs and Reasons for Our Love. He will also star in the upcoming drama Bussan Exhibition Girl: Miyazaki Edition airing on January 8, 2025. Mokudai expressed excitement about the upcoming challenges calling 2025 "going to be my year.”
Joining them is Touma Rukou, who turned 20 on April 22, 2024. He is the youngest member of the Kansai Junior group Lil Kansai. Starting from October 2024, he will serve as the Tuesday regular on the morning program Sumatan & ZIP!, marking his first solo appearance on television.
Meanwhile, Shogo Asa, born on November 24, 2004, is expected to make waves as he embarks on his professional baseball career with the Yomiuri Giants. Marked as “the prodigy born in Kagawa,” Asa has already made headlines by achieving 150 home runs throughout middle school and high school. His transition to the professional level is highly anticipated.
Adding to the list of stars celebrating their coming-of-age is JO from the group AND TEAM and HARUTO from the group TREASURE, both poised to mark this pivotal moment as part of their careers.
Each of these vibrant personalities reflects not only their personal achievements but also the hopes of their generation. The coming-of-age ceremony symbolizes more than just age; it is about responsibility, maturity, and becoming role models for the youth. It’s undeniable — with their talent, dedication, and charisma, they are set to shape the future of Japanese entertainment.