On April 16, 2025, Ren Nagase, the charismatic member of the popular Japanese boy band King & Prince, took to the airwaves during his radio show "Ren Nagase's RadioGARDEN," which airs every Wednesday from 24:05 to 24:25 on Bunka Hoso. The episode featured a light-hearted segment where Nagase pondered what qualities make someone princely, a topic that sparked both introspection and humor.
The concept of the show is rooted in elegance, originally designed as a setting where listeners could imagine sipping tea in a castle garden while engaging in refined conversation. However, during this particular episode, the atmosphere was anything but formal. Listeners sent in their thoughts, and one message humorously depicted Nagase as a relatable figure, suggesting he might be seen at a local izakaya (Japanese pub) sharing drinks and casual banter with friends.
"What makes me princely?" Nagase mused aloud, as he searched for inspiration. His reflections led him to question his own qualities, asking, "Is being kind to others considered princely?" After a moment of contemplation, he admitted, "I really can’t think of anything!" This candid admission drew laughter from his team and showcased his down-to-earth personality.
Upon further prompting from his staff, who encouraged him to think about future aspirations rather than just current traits, Nagase jokingly remarked, "I can’t think of anything for that either!" Eventually, he resorted to an online search for "Prince Actions" to find guidance on what behaviors might align with a princely image.
The results of his search painted a vivid picture of a prince: someone raised in a nurturing environment, characterized by honesty, beauty, knowledge, refinement, polite speech, and luxurious living—perhaps even a mansion and a white horse. Nagase reflected on this idealized image, stating, "The only aspect I can relate to is that I’m good-looking!" He humorously noted the disparity between the princely image and his own reality, admitting, "I was a bit shocked to realize how far I am from that image of a prince."
Despite the playful nature of the discussion, Nagase concluded on a hopeful note, saying, "But people can change!" He expressed a desire to evolve and adapt, hinting at a willingness to embrace new qualities that might align more closely with the princely persona he was examining. "Maybe I should change my style a bit," he added with a laugh, showcasing his lighthearted approach to self-improvement.
This episode of "Ren Nagase's RadioGARDEN" not only entertained fans with its humorous take on self-reflection but also reinforced Nagase's relatable charm. His candidness about his own insecurities and aspirations allows fans to connect with him on a deeper level, reminding them that even stars have their moments of doubt.
King & Prince continues to capture the hearts of fans across Japan and beyond, with their engaging personalities and talents. As they prepare for future performances and projects, fans eagerly anticipate how Nagase and his bandmates will continue to grow and inspire.
