On March 7, 2025, Nogizaka46’s Nagi Okamoto made her first appearance on the cover and within the pages of the idol magazine “BOMB,” which celebrates its 46th anniversary this month. The regular edition highlights Okamoto on the back cover, showcasing her casual home scenes including moments of her lounging around drinking coffee and brushing her teeth, all captured to create the feeling of intimacy.
Replacing traditional glamour shots, these snapshots feature Okamoto resembling just any girl-next-door. Dressed casually, she transitions to the park for more lively shots, indulging her love for sweet potatoes, capturing everyday scenarios meant to resonate deeply with fans.
The cover of the anniversary edition is graced by Ikeda Eisa, one of the fifth-generation members also known as “Terepan,” as she prepares for the release of her 38th single “Neoble Orange” on March 26, 2025. The photoshoot focuses on her artistic touches, surrounded by blooming flowers. The 19-year-old is depicted gracefully handling blue delphiniums, channeling the colors of spring, which multiply against her natural beauty as she poses dramatically.
Another highlight from the magazine is SKE48’s Haruka Kumazaki and Yuki Sugawara, showcased together for their first pair gravure shoot. Kumazaki has recently been honored as one of the centers for SKE48’s 34th single “Tick tack zack,” whereas Sugawara has announced her graduation, which is set to take place at the end of August. Their photos capture their vibrant personalities as they lounge together dressed in graceful yukata at what seems to be a delightful ryokan, complemented by lively bikini images.
Yuko Kuromi, another rising star from the idol scene, makes her debut appearance as well after leaving her previous group, Peel the Apple. Her representation has shown newfound glamour, embodying the more mature image she is now pursuing.
A standout feature of this anniversary edition includes the extra large double-sided poster of Ikeda Eisa, too large at 743mm x 526mm to be dismissed. This is part of the efforts to captivate their audience and give them memorable keepsakes of their favorite idols.
Beyond the traditional content of idol images and profiles, the recent edition hints at the changes within the Japanese idol world. Not only does it celebrate size and beauty, but it also talks about the dynamics as seen through the lens of celebrity life.
The magazine also teases the upcoming rising stars of SKE48’s new team lineup, as three leaders of the freshly-formed squad have begun discussions on their roles and the new direction for the team along with personal insights about differentiation among them.
Team captains Akiko Aikawa, Misaki Ito, and Kunie Akahori have come together as leaders for the significantly talked-about new team of SKE48, creating anticipatory discussions among fans and followers of the industry. These compelling exchanges provide inside perspectives not often shared.
AKB48 stands to continue the legacy with their 20th-anniversary celebrations, embarking on releasing their 65th single “Masaka no Confession” on April 2, 2025. Notably, new members Ayuki Yagi and first-time selected Momoka Ito are anticipated to shine. Their photos feature the beauty of tranquility away from the city, drawing contrasts to their urban lives.
The edition goes even broader, spotlighting ChiiMaki, the popular granser. This stunningly fashionable star offers exclusive shots showcasing her versatility through daring styles—bold swimwear and lingerie—each crafted to exhibit her standout form and appeal.
Before considering only traditional idol imagery, the magazine also showcases the recent success of comedian Ayano Sumida—whose latest photo book “Genai” has garnered notable praise, featuring captivating previously unpublished content.
The magazine remains steadfastly committed to presenting the compelling narratives and lives of idols beyond their staged personas. Compilations and interviews throughout talk about the approach taken by the newer groups, including the nine members of the rookie group “Roji Chronicle,” generating buzz around their debut single to be released on March 19, 2025, titled “Heirasshai! — Nippon de Aimashou — / Ubu to Zuru.”
For the special occasion of the magazine's anniversary, readers will have the chance to score signed caps from all the talented idols gracing their pages. Adding to the charm, the beloved series by Shin’ya Arino, “Cho Tana kara Bomb Mochi,” continues to remain popular.
BOMB magazine is steady at its core, steadily delivering the unique flair and flavor of J-pop idol culture to its readers, printing vibrant stories and showcasing youthful faces along the way. Readers can grab their copies through various platforms including Amazon, Seven Net, HMV&BOOKS Online, and many more.