Why Are Idols Getting Younger in Japanese Media?
The Average Age of Idols in Japan
The average age of idols in Japan has been decreasing in recent years. In the 1980s, the average age of an idol was around 18 years old. Today, the average age is closer to 14 years old. This trend is particularly noticeable in the idol group AKB48, which has a large number of members who are under the age of 18.
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There are several factors that have contributed to this trend:
- The rise of social media: Social media has made it easier for young people to share their talents and connect with fans. This has led to a greater demand for younger idols who are more relatable to their audience.
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The changing demographics of Japan: Japan’s population is aging, and this is leading to a decrease in the number of young people available to become idols. As a result, idol agencies are increasingly turning to younger and younger talent.
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The desire to create a more innocent image: Many idol agencies believe that younger idols are perceived as being more innocent and pure. This is seen as a positive attribute in Japanese culture, and it can help to attract fans.
The Impact of Younger Idols
The decreasing age of idols in Japan has had a number of impacts on the industry. One impact is that it has led to a greater focus on physical appearance. Younger idols are often more physically attractive than older idols, and this can lead to a sense of pressure to conform to certain beauty standards.
Another impact is that it has led to a decrease in the amount of creative control that idols have over their careers. Younger idols are more likely to be managed by their agencies, and this can limit their ability to express themselves creatively.
Conclusion
The trend of younger idols in Japan is likely to continue in the years to come. This is due to a number of factors, including the rise of social media, the changing demographics of Japan, and the desire to create a more innocent image. The decreasing age of idols has had a number of impacts on the industry, including a greater focus on physical appearance and a decrease in the amount of creative control that idols have over their careers.