BE:FIRST Members Profile 2026: Bio, Age, Career & Interesting Facts

BE:FIRST is a six-member Japanese dance and vocal group that has redefined what it means to be a global performance act. Formed through SKY-HI’s groundbreaking audition project THE FIRST, the group debuted in November 2021 and has since become one of Japan’s most formidable musical exports. While often mistaken for a K-Pop group due to their polished choreography, high-production music videos, and global ambitions, BE:FIRST is a J-Pop act that blends hip-hop, R&B, and pop into a sound uniquely their own.

Since their debut, BE:FIRST has achieved remarkable milestones: multiple number-one singles, four consecutive Japan Record Awards for Excellence, a historic MTV EMA win as the first Japanese artist to take home Best Asian Act, and sold-out dome tours. In 2025, the group transitioned from seven members to six following RYOKI’s departure, and they have since embarked on an ambitious global expansion with their first world tour and the release of their US debut EP, WATCH ME.

This comprehensive guide covers everything about BE:FIRST in 2026: their history, agency, complete member profiles, discography, achievements, and much more.

BE:FIRST Official Logo:

Official SNS:
Website: befirst.tokyo
Instagram: @befirst_official
X: @BEFIRSTofficial / Global: @BEFIRST_global
TikTok: @befirst_official
Facebook: BE:FIRST
YouTube: BE:FIRST
LINE: befirst

Quick Facts Table

Category	Details
Group Name	BE:FIRST
Korean Name	N/A (Japanese group)
Debut Date	November 3, 2021
Agency	BMSG (B-ME label with Avex)
Origin	Tokyo, Japan
Genre	J-Pop, Hip-Hop, R&B, Dance
Number of Members	6 (current)
Active Years	2021–present
Official Fandom Name	BESTY
Official Colors	No fixed official color (member colors used unofficially)
Current Status	Active

Who Is BE:FIRST?

BE:FIRST is a Japanese boy group under BMSG, the management company founded by rapper and producer SKY-HI. The group was born from the audition program THE FIRST, which SKY-HI funded with over 100 million yen of his own money. The name BE:FIRST carries a dual meaning: it reflects the group’s ambition to always aim for the top, and it honors their origins as the first group to emerge from the THE FIRST project.

The group is known for its exceptional vocal ability, razor-sharp choreography, and deep involvement in the creative process. All members participate in songwriting, composing, and choreography, and each is capable of serving as a lead vocalist or center. Their music is rooted in hip-hop and R&B but spans multiple genres, creating a sound that is both globally accessible and distinctly Japanese.

Group History

Formation and Pre-Debut

BE:FIRST was formed through THE FIRST, a boy group audition project broadcast on Hulu Japan in 2021. SKY-HI, a prominent rapper and member of the group AAA, personally invested over 100 million yen to fund the project after becoming frustrated with the traditional Japanese idol system. The audition was designed to find members who could sing, dance, and rap at a professional level, with the goal of creating a group that could compete on the global stage.

The audition process lasted approximately six months. Initially, only five members were planned for the debut lineup, but SKY-HI ultimately selected seven after seeing the chemistry and individual talent of the final candidates. The original seven members were JUNON, LEO, RYOKI, SOTA, MANATO, SHUNTO, and RYUHEI.

Before their official debut, BE:FIRST released the pre-debut single “Shining One” in August 2021, which immediately topped the Billboard Japan Hot 100.

Official Debut

BE:FIRST made their official debut on November 3, 2021, with the single “Gifted.” The song debuted at number one on the Billboard Japan Hot 100 and became the most-discussed song on Twitter in Japan on its release day. The debut was a massive success, establishing BE:FIRST as one of the most promising new acts in Japanese music.

Breakthrough Success

The group’s momentum continued into 2022 with the release of their first full album, BE:1, in August. The album showcased the group’s versatility and included hit singles like “Bye-Good-Bye” and “Betrayal Game.” In December 2022, BE:FIRST made their first appearance on NHK’s Kohaku Uta Gassen, Japan’s most prestigious year-end music program.

The year 2023 marked a major breakthrough. BE:FIRST won Best Asian Act at the MTV Europe Music Awards, becoming the first Japanese artist to receive this honor. Their single “Mainstream” achieved 116 crowns across various music charts and won the Excellence Award at the 65th Japan Record Awards.

Major Career Milestones

In 2024, BE:FIRST performed their first solo concerts at Tokyo Dome and Kyocera Dome Osaka, a significant achievement for any Japanese artist. They also released their second album, 2:BE, which further solidified their reputation as one of Japan’s top performance groups.

In 2025, the group embarked on their first world tour, visiting 15 cities across Asia, Europe, and North America. They also released their first best-of album, BE:ST, and held their first stadium live at Ajinomoto Stadium in Tokyo, attracting approximately 100,000 fans over two days.

Recent Activities

In 2026, BE:FIRST released their US debut EP, WATCH ME, on September 18. The EP features collaborations with American rapper Flo Milli, producer ATL Jacob, and rapper BIA. The group also launched the BE:FIRST WORLD SHOWCASE 2026 “WATCH ME”, visiting Bangkok, Taipei, Manila, and New York. Additionally, they announced their fourth album, BE:4U, scheduled for release on November 3, 2026, to commemorate their fifth anniversary, along with a dome tour.

Agency and Management

BE:FIRST is managed by BMSG, a management company and label founded by SKY-HI in 2020. BMSG operates as a joint venture with Avex, with BE:FIRST releasing music under the B-ME label. SKY-HI serves as the group’s executive producer and has been deeply involved in their creative direction since the audition phase.

The agency is known for prioritizing music quality and artistic freedom. In interviews, the members have stated that BMSG creates an environment where they can focus on music without excessive commercial pressure. This philosophy has allowed BE:FIRST to experiment with different sounds and concepts while maintaining a consistent identity.

RYOKI, a former member, was managed by Flash Up etoile before his departure from the group in November 2025.

Member Profiles

SOTA Profile

Personal Information

Detail	Information
Full Name	Shimao Sota
Korean Name	N/A
Stage Name	SOTA
Date of Birth	January 18, 2001
Age (2026)	25
Zodiac Sign	Capricorn
Chinese Zodiac	Dragon
Birthplace	Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan
Nationality	Japanese
Height	174 cm
Weight	Not publicly available
Blood Type	AB
MBTI Type	Not publicly available

Group Role

• Position(s): Main Dancer, Rapper, Choreographer
• Representative Emoji: Not officially designated
• Training Period: Trained as a dancer from childhood; world champion before joining BMSG

Early Life and Education

SOTA was born in Kanagawa Prefecture and began dancing at a young age. He graduated from Human Campus High School Yokohama in March 2019. His mother was a dance instructor at the school he attended, which meant he grew up in a particularly disciplined training environment. SOTA has spoken about how his early exposure to different musical cultures, including a formative experience in the UK, shaped his understanding of rhythm and movement.

Career Journey

SOTA is one of the most accomplished dancers in Japanese pop music. Before joining BE:FIRST, he won multiple world dance championships, establishing himself as a top-tier dancer in the competitive dance scene. He was already well-known in dance circles when he auditioned for THE FIRST, and his skills were immediately recognized by both SKY-HI and viewers.

Since debuting with BE:FIRST, SOTA has choreographed numerous songs for the group, including “Mainstream,” “Masterplan,” and “Spacecraft”. His choreography is characterized by its complexity, musicality, and emotional depth, and it has become a defining element of BE:FIRST’s performances.

In addition to his group activities, SOTA has pursued solo work. He released the solo song “Chill with you,” which showcased a different side of his artistry-more relaxed and groove-oriented than his usual high-energy performances. He was also selected as the first artist for THE FIRST TAKE‘s HIGHLIGHT series, performing an impressive two-minute dance routine that demonstrated his technical mastery.

SOTA has also gained recognition beyond music. He was ranked first in a TBS professional ranking of rising artists in their 20s for his dance skills. His natural, unpretentious personality has made him a fan favorite, and his vocal tone-often described as natural and warm-has become an increasingly important part of BE:FIRST’s sound.

Family Background

SOTA’s mother was a dance instructor, which played a significant role in his development as a dancer. Other details about his family are not publicly available.

Relationship Status

SOTA’s relationship status is not publicly available.

Net Worth

SOTA’s individual net worth is not publicly available. Estimates should not be made without verified sources.

Social Media Profiles

• Instagram: @souchin_the_davryu (personal account, revived in July 2026)

Interesting Facts

1. SOTA has won world dance championships multiple times.
2. He choreographed many of BE:FIRST’s biggest hits.
3. He was the first artist featured on THE FIRST TAKE‘s HIGHLIGHT series.
4. His mother was his dance instructor, making his training especially rigorous.
5. He is known for his natural, unpretentious personality despite his extraordinary skills.
6. He has a deep appreciation for music that goes beyond dance, often describing himself as someone who “loves music” before being a dancer.

---

SHUNTO Profile

Personal Information

Detail	Information
Full Name	Kubo Shunto
Korean Name	N/A
Stage Name	SHUNTO
Date of Birth	September 1, 2003
Age (2026)	23
Zodiac Sign	Virgo
Chinese Zodiac	Goat
Birthplace	Aichi Prefecture, Japan
Nationality	Japanese
Height	175 cm
Weight	Not publicly available
Blood Type	O
MBTI Type	Not publicly available

Group Role

• Position(s): Vocalist, Dancer, Rapper
• Representative Emoji: Not officially designated
• Training Period: Trained at Avex Artist Academy and was part of the training unit GEMSTONE before joining BMSG

Early Life and Education

SHUNTO was born in Aichi Prefecture and began training at a young age. He attended the same dance school as RYUHEI in Nagoya, where they participated in the same events despite not being in the same class. SHUNTO was known for being exceptionally strict with himself and had a strong sense of discipline from an early age.

Career Journey

SHUNTO’s vocal ability was immediately recognized by SKY-HI, who described him as a “genius” and said he had “the voice I wanted most”. His unique, edgy vocal tone and high-level dance skills made him a standout during the THE FIRST audition.

Before joining BMSG, SHUNTO was a member of the Avex training unit GEMSTONE alongside RYUHEI. He also trained at Avex Artist Academy Nagoya, where he developed his foundational skills in singing and dancing.

Since debuting with BE:FIRST, SHUNTO has been one of the group’s most versatile performers. He is capable of handling both powerful rap verses and emotional vocal performances, and his stage presence has been described as magnetic. His dance style is characterized by a blend of weight and flexibility, with a street-influenced aesthetic that has become more defined over time.

In 2026, SHUNTO released his first solo song, “Want it,” which allowed him to express a more personal artistic vision. The song was well-received by fans and critics alike, further establishing him as a multifaceted artist.

SHUNTO has also shown a growing interest in giving love to others through his art. In interviews, he has spoken about how he has learned to appreciate the emotional connection between artist and audience.

Family Background

Information about SHUNTO’s family is not publicly available.

Relationship Status

SHUNTO’s relationship status is not publicly available.

Net Worth

SHUNTO’s individual net worth is not publicly available.

Social Media Profiles

• Instagram: Personal account launched in July 2026 (specific handle not publicly confirmed)

Interesting Facts

1. SKY-HI called him a “genius” and said he had “the voice I wanted most.”
2. He trained at the same dance school as RYUHEI in Nagoya.
3. He was part of the Avex training unit GEMSTONE before joining BMSG.
4. He is known for his “gap charm”-sexy and intense on stage, but sweet and affectionate off stage.
5. He released his first solo song, “Want it,” in 2026.
6. He has a deep appreciation for the emotional connection between artist and audience.

---

MANATO Profile

Personal Information

Detail	Information
Full Name	Hirose Manato
Korean Name	N/A
Stage Name	MANATO
Date of Birth	April 29, 2001
Age (2026)	25
Zodiac Sign	Taurus
Chinese Zodiac	Snake
Birthplace	Fukuoka Prefecture, Japan
Nationality	Japanese
Height	173 cm
Weight	Not publicly available
Blood Type	A
MBTI Type	ISTP (unofficial)

Group Role

• Position(s): Main Vocalist, Dancer
• Representative Emoji: Penguin
• Training Period: Trained at EXPG; studied music in New York for 10 months at age 13

Early Life and Education

MANATO was born in Fukuoka Prefecture and began music lessons in his upper elementary school years. At age 13, he spent 10 months in New York, where he was exposed to hip-hop and R&B in their authentic cultural context. This experience had a profound impact on his artistic sensibility. He was a classmate of NBA player Yuki Kawamura, who is also from Fukuoka and the same age.

Career Journey

MANATO is widely regarded as one of the most technically skilled vocalists in BE:FIRST. SKY-HI has called him the “backbone” of the group, recognizing his exceptional stability and control. His vocal ability is complemented by strong dance skills, making him a true all-rounder.

Before joining BE:FIRST, MANATO trained at EXPG, a renowned performing arts school in Japan. His time in New York also gave him a global perspective on music that sets him apart from many of his peers.

Since debuting with BE:FIRST, MANATO has been a consistent presence in the group’s creative process. He has participated in songwriting and composing, and his solo work has further demonstrated his artistic depth. In 2026, he was involved in the production of BE:FIRST’s US debut EP WATCH ME.

MANATO is also known for his passion for basketball and the NBA. He was appointed a “Friend of NBA” and has expressed a desire to one day perform at an NBA arena. He has conducted interviews with NBA players and has become a bridge between the worlds of music and sports.

His personality is often described as laid-back and occasionally goofy, which contrasts with his serious and polished stage presence. This gap has made him a fan favorite and one of the most popular members of the group.

Family Background

MANATO is from the same prefecture as NBA player Yuki Kawamura, and they were classmates. Further family details are not publicly available.

Relationship Status

MANATO’s relationship status is not publicly available.

Net Worth

MANATO’s individual net worth is not publicly available.

Social Media Profiles

• Instagram: Personal account launched in July 2026 (specific handle not publicly confirmed)

Interesting Facts

1. He was a classmate of NBA player Yuki Kawamura.
2. He was appointed a “Friend of NBA” and is a huge basketball fan.
3. He spent 10 months in New York at age 13, studying music.
4. SKY-HI called him the “backbone” of BE:FIRST.
5. He was selected as one of the top 30 in the Junon Boy contest out of approximately 16,000 applicants.
6. He has expressed a desire to perform at an NBA arena.
7. His representative emoji is a penguin.

---

RYUHEI Profile

Personal Information

Detail	Information
Full Name	Kuroda Ryuhei
Korean Name	N/A
Stage Name	RYUHEI
Date of Birth	November 7, 2006
Age (2026)	19
Zodiac Sign	Scorpio
Chinese Zodiac	Dog
Birthplace	Aichi Prefecture, Japan
Nationality	Japanese
Height	183.7 cm
Weight	Not publicly available
Blood Type	O
MBTI Type	Not publicly available

Group Role

• Position(s): Vocalist, Dancer, Rapper, Creative Contributor
• Representative Emoji: Not officially designated
• Training Period: Trained at Avex Artist Academy Nagoya; member of CoCoPoP and GEMSTONE; former XGALX trainee

Early Life and Education

RYUHEI was born in Aichi Prefecture and began dancing at age 5, inspired by his older sister. He started attending Avex Artist Academy Nagoya at age 7, where he decided to pursue dancing and singing professionally. He was inspired by Miura Daichi and wanted to be in a boy group because of K-pop group BIGBANG.

Career Journey

RYUHEI has one of the most extensive pre-debut training histories of any BE:FIRST member. In April 2016, he was chosen to be part of the Avex training unit CoCoPoP, which disbanded in March 2017. In January 2017, he was the only boy selected for the starting lineup of trainees for Avex subsidiary XGALX, with the goal of debuting in what would later become the group XG. However, he was cut from the project by October 2017. In March 2018, he was chosen for the special performing team GEMSTONE alongside SHUNTO.

RYUHEI auditioned for THE FIRST in February 2021 and passed the Quality screening round in Nagoya. He ranked second after this round and was eventually selected as the youngest member of BE:FIRST.

Since debuting at just 14 years old, RYUHEI has grown significantly as an artist. He has become an important creative contributor to the group, with a clear vision for the kind of music he wants to create. His performance style is characterized by a unique expressiveness that blends youthful energy with surprising maturity.

In 2024, RYUHEI released the solo song “Sailing,” which was used as the ending theme for the anime ONE PIECE. This was a significant solo achievement and further demonstrated his range as an artist.

Family Background

RYUHEI has an older sister who inspired his interest in dance. Further family details are not publicly available.

Relationship Status

RYUHEI’s relationship status is not publicly available.

Net Worth

RYUHEI’s individual net worth is not publicly available.

Social Media Profiles

• Instagram: Personal account launched in July 2026 (specific handle not publicly confirmed)

Interesting Facts

1. He was the youngest member of BE:FIRST at debut, only 14 years old.
2. He was the only boy selected for the XGALX trainee lineup in 2017.
3. He was inspired to pursue music by Miura Daichi and BIGBANG.
4. He released the solo song “Sailing” for the ONE PIECE anime.
5. He started dancing at age 5 because of his older sister.
6. He is known for his “genius boy” image but has grown into a mature artist.
7. His height has grown significantly since debut, now standing at 183.7 cm.

---

JUNON Profile

Personal Information

Detail	Information
Full Name	Ikegame Junon
Korean Name	N/A
Stage Name	JUNON
Date of Birth	May 23, 1998
Age (2026)	28
Zodiac Sign	Gemini
Chinese Zodiac	Tiger
Birthplace	Tokyo, Japan
Nationality	Japanese
Height	183 cm
Weight	Not publicly available
Blood Type	A
MBTI Type	ISTJ (unofficial)

Group Role

• Position(s): Main Vocalist, Actor, Songwriter
• Representative Emoji: Turtle
• Training Period: No formal training before THE FIRST; learned on the job

Early Life and Education

JUNON was born in Tokyo and grew up surrounded by music. His father was a band member, and JUNON attended live concerts from the age of 5. Despite this musical upbringing, JUNON had no formal training in singing or dancing before auditioning for THE FIRST. He was actually in the process of job hunting at a general company when he decided to participate in the audition as a “last chance” to pursue music.

Career Journey

JUNON’s story is one of the most remarkable in BE:FIRST. With no professional training, he auditioned for THE FIRST and impressed everyone with his natural vocal ability. His high-tone voice, often described as transparent and beautiful, became one of the group’s signature sounds.

Since debuting, JUNON has grown into a complete artist. He has taken on acting roles, including a significant part in the 2025 film WIND BREAKER and the 2026 film RYUJI, where he played a yakuza’s younger brother. He also wrote and composed the theme song for RYUJI, “It’s not a bad life”.

JUNON is known for being shy and introverted, which contrasts with his powerful stage presence. He has described himself as “really shy” and has spoken about how performing allows him to express emotions he finds difficult to convey in everyday life.

As the oldest member, JUNON often provides a calming presence within the group. He is also the most laid-back member, preferring to wake up at his own pace and take things slowly.

Family Background

JUNON’s father was a band member, and his younger sister is a singer-songwriter who performs under the name Remifa#. His cousin is the model Shimamura Miyako. These family connections to the entertainment industry have given JUNON a unique perspective on music and performance.

Relationship Status

JUNON’s relationship status is not publicly available.

Net Worth

JUNON’s individual net worth is not publicly available.

Social Media Profiles

• Instagram: Personal account launched in July 2026 (specific handle not publicly confirmed)

Interesting Facts

1. He had no formal vocal or dance training before THE FIRST.
2. He was job hunting at a regular company before the audition.
3. His father was in a band, and his sister is a singer-songwriter.
4. His cousin is model Shimamura Miyako.
5. He lost over 10 kg since his debut.
6. He can speak Korean and English.
7. His favorite K-pop groups are BTS, Stray Kids, and iKON.
8. His entire house burned down in 2020, and his dog passed away.
9. He is the oldest member of BE:FIRST.
10. He played soccer in high school.

---

LEO Profile

Personal Information

Detail	Information
Full Name	Kamimura Leo
Korean Name	N/A
Stage Name	LEO
Date of Birth	September 8, 1998
Age (2026)	28
Zodiac Sign	Virgo
Chinese Zodiac	Tiger
Birthplace	Tokyo, Japan
Nationality	Japanese
Height	179 cm
Weight	Not publicly available
Blood Type	O
MBTI Type	ESFP (unofficial)

Group Role

• Position(s): Vocalist, Dancer, Mood Maker
• Representative Emoji: Lion
• Training Period: Former Avex trainee; member of a training group before THE FIRST

Early Life and Education

LEO was born in Tokyo and was involved in numerous activities as a child, including swimming, baseball, abacus, and karate. He played baseball in middle school and was in a light music club in high school. He also has a deep interest in traditional Japanese culture, particularly Japanese swords.

Career Journey

LEO trained as an Avex trainee before auditioning for THE FIRST, giving him valuable experience in a professional training environment. His stable performance skills and clear, refreshing vocal tone made him a natural fit for BE:FIRST.

LEO is often described as the “sun” of BE:FIRST, bringing warmth and energy to the group. He is a natural mood maker who keeps the atmosphere positive and uplifting. His kindness and emotional openness are central to his personality-he has spoken about how showing vulnerability can be a strength.

In addition to his group activities, LEO has pursued solo work. He has been featured in interviews with authors and artists, showcasing his intellectual curiosity and artistic depth. He has a close friendship with the writer Moegara, who is 25 years his senior, and the two have conducted joint interviews together.

LEO has also done narration work for NTV programs and has appeared in various variety shows, demonstrating his versatility as an entertainer.

Family Background

Information about LEO’s family is not publicly available beyond his upbringing in Tokyo.

Relationship Status

LEO’s relationship status is not publicly available.

Net Worth

LEO’s individual net worth is not publicly available.

Social Media Profiles

• Instagram: Personal account launched in July 2026 (specific handle not publicly confirmed)

Interesting Facts

1. He was an Avex trainee before joining BE:FIRST.
2. He is known as the “sun” of the group for his bright personality.
3. He is close friends with writer Moegara, who is 25 years older.
4. He has a deep interest in Japanese swords and traditional culture.
5. He played baseball in middle school and was in a light music club in high school.
6. His representative emoji is a lion.
7. He has done narration work for NTV.
8. He has spoken openly about the importance of showing vulnerability.

---

Former Members

RYOKI Profile

Personal Information

Detail	Information
Full Name	Miyama Ryoki
Korean Name	N/A
Stage Name	RYOKI
Date of Birth	April 26, 1999
Age (2026)	27
Zodiac Sign	Taurus
Chinese Zodiac	Rabbit
Birthplace	Aichi Prefecture, Japan
Nationality	Japanese
Height	177 cm
Weight	Not publicly available
Blood Type	B
MBTI Type	Not publicly available

Group Role

• Position(s): Main Rapper, Dancer, Vocalist
• Representative Emoji: Not officially designated

Career Journey

RYOKI debuted as an actor in 2016 with a role in the TBS drama Dame na Watashi ni Koishite Kudasai before joining BE:FIRST through THE FIRST in 2021. He served as the group’s main rapper and brought a distinct hip-hop flavor to BE:FIRST’s sound.

RYOKI was known for his sharp rap delivery and strong stage presence. He also maintained an active acting career while in the group, appearing in the NHK morning drama Tora ni Tsubasa in 2024.

RYOKI went on hiatus from group activities in July 2025 following reports in Weekly Bunshun about personal matters. He officially left BE:FIRST on November 8, 2025, with BMSG stating that “walking separate paths is the best decision-both for RYOKI to pursue his own dreams and for the remaining six members to continue striving toward theirs”.

Since departing, RYOKI has pursued solo activities. He married actress Shuri in August 2025 and has continued his acting career.

Current Status

RYOKI is no longer a member of BE:FIRST. He continues to pursue acting and solo activities.

Discography

Studio Albums

Album	Release Date	Type
BE:1	August 31, 2022	First Full Album
2:BE	August 28, 2024	Second Full Album
BE:4U	November 3, 2026 (announced)	Fourth Album

EPs and Mini Albums

EP	Release Date	Type
WATCH ME	September 18, 2026	US Debut EP
BE:ST	October 29, 2025	Best-of Album
GRIT	July 1, 2026	Single

Singles

Single	Release Date
“Shining One” (pre-debut)	August 2021
“Gifted.”	November 3, 2021
“Bye-Good-Bye”	2022
“Betrayal Game”	2022
“Mainstream”	2023
“Masterplan”	2024
“GRIT”	2025
“WATCH ME”	2026
“BRUCE WAYNE” (feat. Flo Milli, ATL Jacob)	July 31, 2026

Japanese Releases

All of BE:FIRST’s music is considered Japanese releases, as the group is based in Japan and performs primarily in Japanese.

Notable Songs

Song	Significance
“Gifted.”	Debut single; number one on Billboard Japan
“Mainstream”	116 chart crowns; Japan Record Award
“Bye-Good-Bye”	Breakout hit
“夢中” (Muchu)	Japan Record Award winner
“WATCH ME”	US debut title track
“BRUCE WAYNE”	Collaboration with Flo Milli and ATL Jacob

Music Style and Influence

BE:FIRST’s music is characterized by a blend of hip-hop, R&B, and pop, with a strong emphasis on performance. The group’s sound has evolved significantly since their debut, moving from polished pop to more hip-hop-influenced tracks with the release of singles like “GRIT” and “Mainstream”.

The members have stated that they don’t belong to any single genre, and their music reflects this versatility. Their hip-hop roots are evident in their rhythmic delivery and beat-driven production, while their R&B influences shine through in their vocal harmonies and emotional ballads.

A defining characteristic of BE:FIRST is their commitment to performing in Japanese. Even when collaborating with international artists like Flo Milli and BIA, they maintain Japanese lyrics, viewing it as a core part of their identity.

The group’s artistic evolution has been marked by increasing involvement in the creative process. All members contribute to songwriting, composing, and choreography, and their music has become more personal and experimental over time.

Awards and Achievements

Major Awards

Award	Year	Category
MTV VMAJ Rising Star Award	2021	Rising Star
Yahoo! Search Grand Prize	2021	Idol Category Award
MTV EMA Best Asian Act	2023	Best Asian Act
Japan Record Award	2023, 2024, 2025, 2026	Excellence Award (4 consecutive years)
MTV VMAJ Best Editing	2025	Best Editing

Music Show Wins

BE:FIRST has achieved numerous number-one placements on Billboard Japan and other Japanese music charts. Their debut single “Gifted.” topped the Billboard Japan Hot 100, and “Mainstream” achieved 116 crowns across various charts.

Industry Recognition

• First Japanese artist to win Best Asian Act at the MTV EMA
• First group from BMSG
• Sold-out dome tours and stadium concerts
• Billboard Japan cover feature

Global Achievements

• First world tour in 2025 across 15 cities
• US debut EP WATCH ME in 2026
• Collaborations with international artists including Flo Milli, BIA, and ATL Jacob
• World showcase tour in 2026 across Bangkok, Taipei, Manila, and New York

Tours and Concerts

Tour	Year	Locations
BE:FIRST 1st One Man Tour	2022	Japan
BE:FIRST Dome Tour	2024	Tokyo Dome, Kyocera Dome Osaka
BE:FIRST World Tour 2025	2025	Asia, Europe, North America (15 cities)
BE:FIRST Stadium Live 2026	2026	Ajinomoto Stadium (Tokyo)
BE:FIRST World Showcase 2026 “WATCH ME”	2026	Bangkok, Taipei, Manila, New York
BE:FIRST Dome Tour 2026 (announced)	2026	Japan

Brand Endorsements and Ambassadorships

Brand	Role	Year
FamilyMart	Christmas Ambassador	2025, 2026
NBA	Friends of NBA (MANATO)	2024

BE:FIRST has been appointed as FamilyMart’s Christmas Ambassador for two consecutive years (2025 and 2026). The collaboration includes original Christmas cakes, merchandise, and television commercials. MANATO was appointed a “Friend of NBA” in 2024, reflecting his passion for basketball.

Social Media Presence

Platform	Handle/URL
Instagram	@befirst__official
X (Twitter)	@BEFIRSTofficial
X (Global)	@BEFIRST_global
TikTok	@befirst_official
YouTube	@BEFIRSTOfficial
Facebook	BE:FIRST
Weverse	Not available
Official Website	befirst.tokyo

Net Worth and Revenue Sources

BE:FIRST’s collective net worth is not publicly available. However, their revenue sources include:

• Album Sales: Multiple chart-topping albums and singles
• Streaming: Significant streaming revenue from platforms like Spotify and Apple Music
• Concerts: Dome tours, stadium concerts, and world tours
• Merchandise: Official goods, collaborations, and limited editions
• Endorsements: Brand partnerships including FamilyMart
• Acting Projects: JUNON and RYOKI’s acting careers

Individual net worth estimates are not available from reliable sources.

Interesting Facts About BE:FIRST

1. The group name “BE:FIRST” means “always aiming for the top” and references their origin from THE FIRST audition.
2. SKY-HI personally invested over 100 million yen of his own money to fund the audition project.
3. The fandom name “BESTY” is a combination of the first and last letters of “BE:FIRST” and is also a slang term for “best friend.”
4. Originally, only five members were planned, but SKY-HI selected seven after seeing the final candidates’ chemistry.
5. All members are Japanese, despite the group often being mistaken for a K-Pop act.
6. The group has won the Japan Record Award for Excellence four consecutive years.
7. BE:FIRST was the first Japanese artist to win Best Asian Act at the MTV EMA.
8. RYUHEI was only 14 years old when he debuted.
9. JUNON had no formal training before the audition and was job hunting at a regular company.
10. SOTA has won multiple world dance championships.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Who is the leader of BE:FIRST?
BE:FIRST does not have an official leader. The group operates with a collaborative structure where all members contribute equally.

How many members does BE:FIRST have?
BE:FIRST currently has six members: SOTA, SHUNTO, MANATO, RYUHEI, JUNON, and LEO. The group originally had seven members before RYOKI’s departure in November 2025.

When did BE:FIRST debut?
BE:FIRST officially debuted on November 3, 2021, with the single “Gifted.”

Who is the oldest member?
JUNON is the oldest member, born on May 23, 1998.

Who is the youngest member?
RYUHEI is the youngest member, born on November 7, 2006.

What agency manages BE:FIRST?
BE:FIRST is managed by BMSG, founded by SKY-HI, with music released under the B-ME label, a joint venture with Avex.

What is the fandom name?
The official fandom name is BESTY.

What are the members’ positions?
SOTA (Main Dancer, Rapper), SHUNTO (Vocalist, Dancer), MANATO (Main Vocalist), RYUHEI (Vocalist, Dancer), JUNON (Main Vocalist), LEO (Vocalist, Dancer).

Is BE:FIRST a K-Pop group?
No, BE:FIRST is a Japanese J-Pop group, though their performance style and global ambitions have drawn comparisons to K-Pop.

What was BE:FIRST’s debut song?
Their debut song was “Gifted,” released on November 3, 2021.

Has BE:FIRST won any international awards?
Yes, BE:FIRST won Best Asian Act at the 2023 MTV Europe Music Awards, becoming the first Japanese artist to do so.

What is BE:FIRST’s most successful song?
“Mainstream” achieved 116 chart crowns and is considered one of their signature songs.

Why did RYOKI leave BE:FIRST?
RYOKI left the group on November 8, 2025, with BMSG stating that “walking separate paths is the best decision-both for RYOKI to pursue his own dreams and for the remaining six members to continue striving toward theirs.”

What is BE:FIRST’s most recent release?
Their most recent release is the US debut EP WATCH ME, released on September 18, 2026.

What is BE:FIRST’s official color?
BE:FIRST does not have an official group color. Individual member colors are used unofficially by fans.

Conclusion

BE:FIRST has established itself as one of Japan’s most innovative and globally ambitious performance groups. From their origins in SKY-HI’s self-funded audition project to their current status as chart-topping, award-winning artists, the group has consistently pushed boundaries and defied expectations. The BE:FIRST members profile 2026

reflects a group in transition-now six members strong, they are embracing a new chapter with global ambitions while staying true to their Japanese identity.

As they prepare for their fifth-anniversary album BE:4U and an upcoming dome tour, BE:FIRST continues to evolve creatively and expand their reach worldwide. For fans new and old, this is an exciting time to follow one of Japan’s most dynamic musical acts.

More Info About Kpopbio

Medium	Follow
Pinterest	Follow
Tumblr	Follow
Pearltrees	Follow
Website	Follow