CGM48

CGM48 is a Thai idol girl group based in Chiang Mai, serving as the first domestic sister group of BNK48 and the eighth international sister group of the Japanese idol franchise AKB48.^[1][2] The group was announced on June 2, 2019, during a BNK48 event in Chiang Mai as part of the "BNK48 Goes Regional" project to expand the idol presence in northern Thailand.^[1] Auditions for its first-generation members opened shortly after on June 15, 2019, targeting girls aged 12 to 22, with BNK48 members Punyawee Jungcharoen (as captain) and Rina Izuta (as manager) transferred to lead the group while retaining their BNK48 affiliations.^[1][2] The group officially debuted on February 9, 2020, with their first single "Chiang Mai 106" (เชียงใหม่ 106) performed at a mini-concert in Chiang Mai's Maya Lifestyle Shopping Center, marking the first public stage for 16 first-generation senbatsu members, selected from the 23 first-generation members divided into Team C and trainees.^[3] Produced by iAM (a subsidiary of Independent Artists Management) and following the AKB48 concept of "idols you can meet," CGM48 emphasizes fan interaction through handshake events, theater performances, and general elections to select single centers, while incorporating Lanna cultural elements and northern Thai identity into its music and visuals, symbolized by its spring green color inspired by mint leaves.^[2][4] Since debut, CGM48 has released multiple singles blending Japanese and Thai tracks, such as "Melon Juice" (2020), "Mali" (2021), and more recent ones like "Kaze wo Matsu" (2025), the latter serving as a farewell for the graduating first generation.^[3] The group has expanded through subsequent generations: the second generation debuted in 2023 with an adaptation of NMB48's "Yume wa Nigenai," the third in 2024, and the fourth on August 30, 2025, at Nippon Haku Bangkok, bringing the current roster to approximately 20 active members across Team C and trainees. All first-generation members graduated in September 2025. Auditions for the fifth generation opened on November 1, 2025.^[4][5][6] Notable activities include joint events with BNK48, participation in the AKB48 Group Asia Festival, and promotion of Chiang Mai tourism, contributing to the group's rapid growth with over 100,000 social media followers shortly after formation.^[2] As of November 2025, CGM48 continues to perform in a dedicated Chiang Mai theater, digital studios, and cafés, fostering a local fanbase while aligning with the global 48 Group network.^[4]

History

Formation and Auditions

CGM48 was announced on June 2, 2019, during the BNK48 Thank You & The Beginner event held at Central Festival Chiang Mai in Thailand, marking it as the first domestic sister group of BNK48 and the eighth international sister group of the Japanese idol collective AKB48.^[7][8] The group, named after Chiang Mai where it is based, follows the AKB48 Group's concept of establishing localized idol units to foster regional fan engagement and cultural promotion.^[9] The audition process for CGM48's first generation opened on June 15, 2019, and ran until July 15, 2019, targeting females aged 12 to 22 years old (born between July 15, 1997, and July 15, 2007).^[8][9] Applications were accepted online via the official CGM48 Facebook page, with no nationality restrictions, attracting over 3,500 applicants by mid-July.^[10] The selection process involved multiple rounds, culminating in the announcement of 23 first-generation members on October 26, 2019, of whom 14 ultimately joined as trainees for the debut, with 9 withdrawing during training.^[2][11] To support initial operations, two members transferred from BNK48: Punyawee Jungcharoen (stage name Aom) was appointed as captain, and Rina Izuta (stage name Izurina) as theater manager, with the announcement made on July 10, 2019, at a press conference in Bangkok.^[10] Both continued their BNK48 activities until the official CGM48 member reveal. Early organizational plans included establishing a dedicated theater in Chiang Mai for performances, alongside facilities for handshake events, a digital live studio, and training centers to mirror the AKB48 model while adapting to local needs.^[2]

Debut and Early Development

CGM48 officially debuted on February 9, 2020, holding a mini-concert at the Amphitheater on the 6th floor of Maya Lifestyle Shopping Center in Chiang Mai, where the 16 members (2 transferred from BNK48 and 14 first-generation recruits) performed their debut single "Chiang Mai 106" for the first time.^[12] The single, an adaptation of NGT48's "Max Toki 315-go" with Thai lyrics, was formally released on March 13, 2020, marking the group's entry into the Thai idol scene as BNK48's northern sister group.^[13] This debut event served as the group's initial public showcase, emphasizing themes of Chiang Mai's charm and local pride through its music and visuals.^[14] The COVID-19 pandemic significantly hindered CGM48's early momentum, causing delays in live promotions, theater openings, and fan interactions throughout 2020 and 2021.^[15] Plans for a dedicated theater in Chiang Mai, originally slated for late 2021, were postponed due to health restrictions and ultimately not realized, with the group relying on pop-up lives, online streams, limited roadshows, and various venues instead of regular theater performances.^[16][17] Despite these setbacks, the group participated in its first collaborative event with BNK48 on December 21, 2019, during the roadshow for BNK48's 7th single "77 no Suteki na Machi e," providing CGM48 an early platform to perform alongside their sister group.^[18] Handshake events, a core fan engagement activity, were also deferred for months; the inaugural one finally occurred on February 19-20, 2022, at CentralPlaza Chiang Mai Airport, allowing direct member-fan interactions after prolonged restrictions.^[19] To bolster the group's roster amid ongoing challenges, CGM48 launched 2nd generation auditions from June 3 to 26, 2021, ultimately adding seven new trainees announced on October 30, 2022, during the BNK48 & CGM48 Request Hour.^[20] These additions, combined with the original members and subsequent promotions, expanded the lineup to approximately 28 active members and trainees by late 2022, enabling broader participation in releases and events.^[21] Key milestones in this period included the release of follow-up singles like "Melon Juice" in 2020 and "Mali" in 2021, alongside joint activities that helped sustain visibility despite limited live venues.^[22] By 2022, these efforts laid the foundation for CGM48's growth, transitioning from pandemic-constrained operations to more stable programming.

Later developments (2023–2025)

The second generation officially debuted on April 2, 2023, performing an adaptation of NMB48's "Yume wa Nigenai" at Maya Lifestyle Shopping Center.^[23] Auditions for the third generation were held in 2023, with members debuting in 2024.^[20] The fourth generation, consisting of eight members, debuted on August 30, 2025, at Nippon Haku Bangkok.^[24] As of November 2025, the group has approximately 20 active members across Team C and trainees.^[4] In 2025, CGM48 released the special single "Kaze wo Matsu" on August 4, serving as a farewell for the first generation. All 17 remaining first-generation members (including transferred) announced their graduation, with special stages held on June 29, 2025, at The Bazaar Hotel Bangkok.^[25] The group continued joint events with BNK48, such as the AKB48 Group Asia Festival, and promoted Chiang Mai tourism through performances and social media, growing to over 100,000 followers.^[2]

Group Structure and Activities

Teams and Membership System

CGM48 employs a hierarchical membership structure centered on a single performing team, Team C, which serves as the group's primary unit for theater performances, singles, and major events. Established in 2020 upon the group's formation, Team C consists of promoted members who undertake the core activities of the group, including regular stage shows at the CGM48 Theater in Chiang Mai. As of September 2025, Team C consists of 6 members.^[26][4] The trainee system, referred to as Kenshuusei or Team Trainee, functions as the entry-level tier for new recruits. These members engage in limited public activities, such as select performances or support roles, while undergoing training to develop skills in singing, dancing, and fan interaction. As of November 2025, CGM48 maintains 11 trainees, who are prepared for potential promotion to Team C based on their progress.^[4][6] Promotions from trainee to full Team C status occur through a combination of internal auditions, performance evaluations, and decisions by group management. This process ensures that only members demonstrating sufficient readiness are elevated, maintaining the quality of the performing unit. For instance, select trainees from the 3rd and later generations have been promoted following evaluations, such as in 2024 and 2025, integrating them into Team C activities.^[27] Membership is organized into generations recruited via periodic auditions, reflecting the group's growth over time. The 1st generation joined in 2020 as founding members, many of whom have since graduated en masse in 2025. The 2nd generation debuted in 2023, followed by the 3rd in 2024, bolstering Team C after initial graduations. The 4th generation, announced in March 2025 with 8 members, entered as trainees and debuted later that year, contributing to ongoing recruitment efforts.^{[27][23][28][29]} CGM48 is managed by Independent Artists Management (iAM), a company rebranded from the former BNK48 Office in 2023 to oversee artist development, including sister groups like BNK48. The structure draws from the AKB48 Group's model, adapting elements such as team divisions and trainee progression to local Thai operations, while incorporating influences like draft selections and fan-voted elections for single centers.^[30][4]

Performances and Events

CGM48 has conducted regular theater performances at Muan More Space in Chiang Mai since shortly after their debut in 2021, serving as the group's primary venue for live stage shows adapted from the AKB48 Group's repertoire. These performances typically feature revival stages with songs translated into Thai, emphasizing ensemble dancing and vocal units to engage local audiences. Notable examples include the Team C 1st Stage "RESET," a revival of AKB48's Team K 6th Stage, which premiered in June 2024 and continued into 2025 with multiple rounds at venues like The Theater Hall at The Bazaar Hotel in Bangkok due to scheduling and capacity needs.^[31][16] The group incorporates original content into their theater lineup, such as the title track "Hokori no Oka" from their 3rd album, which received its first live performance on July 5, 2025, during the CGM48 Tanabata event at Muan More Space, blending motivational themes with high-energy choreography. Similarly, "Totsuzen Do Love Me!" from their 9th single debuted in stage format at Japan Expo Thailand 2025 on February 8, 2025, at CentralWorld in Bangkok, marking a shift toward more narrative-driven sets influenced by romantic pop elements. These shows often adjust lineups following member graduations, such as the 1st generation's departures in 2025, which prompted revamped unit formations to maintain performance quality.^[32][33][16] Major events form a core part of CGM48's calendar, including annual handshake events and fan meetings that foster direct interaction, typically held jointly with BNK48 to amplify reach. The BNK48 & CGM48 Fan Festival 2025 in March at MCC Hall, The Mall Ngamwongwan, featured handshake sessions alongside live sets, drawing thousands of attendees for personalized greetings. In 2025, key highlights encompassed 5th anniversary celebrations tied to the group's founding in 2020, alongside participation in broader AKB48 Group tours across Asia, such as promotional stages at international expos. The 4th generation's debut events earlier in the year, including integration into trainee showcases, further energized lineups amid ongoing member transitions.^[34][18][35] Local initiatives in Chiang Mai highlight CGM48's regional roots, with promotions like mini-concerts at Central Chiang Mai Airport and charity events such as the Praew Charity 2025 in September, which supported community causes through performances and fan donations. These activities integrate cultural elements, occasionally featuring Lanna-inspired attire and motifs in sets to celebrate northern Thai heritage. Fan engagement mirrors AKB48 traditions, utilizing voting via the iAM48 app for request hour setlists—where fans select songs for live renditions—and the annual Senbatsu General Election, whose 2025 results influenced single center positions and were revealed in a joint BNK48 livestream.^[36][37][38]

Members

Team C

Team C serves as CGM48's primary performing unit, responsible for leading the group's theater productions and major concert events.^[4] As of November 2025, the team comprises six members, formed through a combination of original generations and recent promotions following the announcement of the graduation of first-generation members in June 2025 and their subsequent departure in August 2025.^[39][26] Jingjing Arunya Kaewmalai is the captain of Team C, appointed in early 2025. Born on January 30, 2002, she joined CGM48 on October 30, 2022, as part of the second generation. Lookked Pimlapas Suwannoi, also serving as the overall CGM48 group captain, was born on July 6, 2000. She joined the group on October 30, 2022, as a second-generation member and was promoted to Team C on August 5, 2023.^[40][41] Nana Penpichaya Boonsaner was born on February 27, 2003. A second-generation member, she joined CGM48 on October 30, 2022, and was promoted to Team C on April 3, 2023.^[42][43] Kwan Thidatip Jiraphan, born on March 4, 2008, represents the third generation. She joined CGM48 on July 6, 2024, as a trainee and was promoted to Team C on June 1, 2025.^[44][39] Prae Nattapond Pinyoying, serving as vice-captain of Team C since September 2025, was born on January 3, 2005. From the third generation, she joined as a trainee on July 6, 2024, and was promoted to the team on June 1, 2025.^[45][46] Runma Tantaya Shishida, born on January 19, 2003. She joined CGM48 on July 6, 2024, and was promoted to Team C on June 1, 2025.^[47][39]

Trainees

The trainees of CGM48, referred to as kenkyuusei in the AKB48 Group tradition, are entry-level members undergoing intensive training in performance, vocals, and dance with the goal of promotion to full team status.^[48] As of November 2025, CGM48 has 11 active trainees spanning the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th generations, who primarily support events by filling in for absent members, participating in backup roles during theater shows, and attending training sessions, while their public appearances remain limited compared to promoted members.^[4] These trainees represent a mix of experience levels, with earlier generations having joined through auditions in 2022–2023 and the latest additions from the 2025 4th generation recruitment.^[26] The current trainees are profiled below, including their stage names, real names, birthdates, and generations. Trainees like Praifa and Valentine, who are sisters, exemplify the group's emphasis on local talent from Chiang Mai and surrounding areas, contributing to CGM48's regional identity through their ongoing development.^[49]

Former Members

As of November 2025, CGM48 has seen approximately 25 members graduate or resign since its formation, with departures often attributed to personal choices, health issues, contract terminations, or pursuits of solo careers. These transitions have been particularly notable among the 1st generation, many of whom joined in 2019 and contributed to the group's early establishment in Chiang Mai. The most significant change occurred in 2025, when the remaining 1st generation members announced a collective graduation during a special stage on June 29, 2025, marking the end of their contracts and shifting focus toward younger generations, particularly the 4th generation trainees. This mass exit reduced the active roster of 1st generation members to zero, emphasizing renewal and fresh talent in the group's activities.^[50] The 1st generation mass graduation culminated in performances throughout August 2025, including graduation stages on August 2 at Muan More Space in Chiang Mai and a final concert on August 24 at MCC Hall The Mall Bangkapi in Bangkok, where members like Angel, Champoo, Kaiwan, Kaning, Kyla, Latin, Marmink, Nenie, Pim, Ping, Punch, and Sita bid farewell after years of contributions to singles, theater shows, and regional promotions. Reasons for their departures included contract endings and personal decisions to explore opportunities beyond the group, with Latin notably sharing a personal coming-out announcement alongside her exit. Prior to this, individual graduations from earlier generations highlighted key figures' impacts, such as leadership roles and pioneering international elements.^[50][51][52] Notable former members include: These departures underscore CGM48's evolution, with promotions from trainee status occasionally filling gaps, though the 2025 wave accelerated the transition to newer members for sustained growth.^[50]

Discography

Singles

CGM48's main singles represent the group's core discography of original and adapted songs, released annually since their debut. These releases typically feature a title track performed by a senbatsu lineup drawn from Team C and trainees, with a designated center member leading the performance. Each single includes 4-6 tracks, blending J-pop structures with Thai lyrics and instrumentation to appeal to local audiences. Production is handled by iAM, the label managing BNK48 and its sisters, often incorporating cultural elements like Lanna influences in early works. As of November 2025, the group has issued 10 main singles, with digital streaming driving broader reach. The debut single, Chiang Mai 106 (เชียงใหม่ 106), was released on February 9, 2020, as a digital pre-release, with the full CD edition following on March 13. The title track, an adaptation of NMB48's "Max Toki 315," was centered by Sita Teeradechsakul and performed by the initial 16-member senbatsu from Team C. Coupling tracks included "Onegai Valentine - วาเลนไทน์...โชคดี (Valentine Chok Dee)" and "CGM48 (Chiang Mai 48)." The single marked CGM48's introduction, emphasizing Chiang Mai's local identity.^[59][60][61] The second single, Melon Juice, arrived on October 31, 2020. Centered by Kaning (Vithita Srasreesom) and Sita Teeradechsakul, the title track is an original upbeat pop song highlighting tropical themes. The senbatsu expanded to include trainees, and coupling tracks featured "Koisuru Fortune Cookie - คุกกี้ที่อวยพรความรัก (Cookie Sarang)" and unit songs like "High Tension." This release solidified the group's presence during the early COVID-19 period through online promotions.^[62]

• Mali* (มะลิ), the third single, was released on March 21, 2021. The title track, an original composition symbolizing purity with jasmine flower motifs, was centered by Kaning (Vithita Srasreesom) and performed by a 16-member senbatsu. Coupling tracks included "Yume wo Shinaseru Wake ni Ikanai - ฝันที่ไม่อาจเลือนลาง (Dream Not Fade)" and "Off Vocal" versions. It achieved notable streaming success in Thailand, exceeding 1 million views shortly after launch.

The fourth single, Maeshika Mukanee (สุดเส้นทาง), debuted on May 28, 2022. Adapted from AKB48's "Saboten Jiken," the title track was centered by Phichayapha Showtale (Fai) and focused on perseverance themes. The senbatsu comprised 12 members, with coupling tracks such as "Tomodachi - เพื่อน (Friend)" and "Binkasai Renai - รักไฟลั่น (Love Fireworks)." This single highlighted post-pandemic recovery through live events.^[63] 2565, the fifth single, was released on December 24, 2022, tying into the Thai calendar year. The original title track, centered by Marmink (Manichar Aimdilokwong), celebrated contemporary life with a 14-member senbatsu. Coupling tracks included "Only Today" and "Kimi wa Boku da - เธอคือฉัน (You Are Me)." It was promoted via roadshows.^[64][65] The sixth single, Sansei Kawaii! (เธออะ Kawaii!), came out on June 7, 2023. This AKB48 adaptation was centered by Nenie and Pim in a 12-member senbatsu, emphasizing cuteness and confidence. Coupling tracks featured "Yume wa Nigenai - ฝันไม่หนี (Dream Won't Run)" and "Hotei Sokudo to Yuuetsukan." The release coincided with theater revivals, enhancing fan engagement.^[66] The seventh single, LOVE TRIP, was released on May 18, 2024. An original track centered by Nana, it involved a 14-member senbatsu exploring travel and romance themes. Coupling tracks included "Hetaretachi yo - สิ้นสุดทาง (End of the Road)" and unit performances. It marked increased collaboration with Thai artists for production. The eighth single, Sakura, Minna de Tabeta, launched on November 11, 2024, in multiple editions. Adapted from HKT48's 2013 single, the title track was centered by Champoo and Punch with a 12-member senbatsu. Coupling tracks comprised "Kimi no Kuse ni - นิสัยเธอ (Your Habit)" and "Off Vocal" versions. The release emphasized seasonal themes and achieved strong digital streams. The ninth single, Totsuzen Do Love Me!, was released on March 22, 2025. The title track, an energetic original, was centered by Lookked (Lookked Aiumprapai) in a 14-member senbatsu. Coupling tracks included "Hokori no Oka - เนินเขาแห่งความฝัน (Hill of Dreams)" and "Hisashiburi no Lip Gloss." It featured vibrant choreography and topped Thai streaming charts upon release.^[67] The tenth single, Dai (Daai) Mai (ได้ (ด้าย) ไหม), was released in November 2025. This original track, centered by Nisha (Nisha Hemmatawee), highlights 4th generation members in the 12-member senbatsu, with themes of connection and possibility. Coupling tracks include "Baby! Baby! Baby!" and "Hetaretachi yo (สิ้นสุดทางแพ้) / 4th Generation Only." The production incorporated modern pop with traditional Thai instruments, marking a generational shift.^[68]

Special Singles and Collaborations

CGM48 has produced a series of special singles beyond its core numbered releases, typically limited-edition or event-specific tracks that mark milestones like generation changes or anniversaries. These releases often adopt digital-only formats and feature select members, emphasizing thematic narratives tied to the group's evolution. In 2025, two prominent special singles highlighted this approach, aligning with broader AKB48 Group commemorations and internal transitions.^[18] The first, "Oh my pumpkin! (CGM48 ver.)," was released digitally on August 13, 2025, as a localized cover of AKB48's 66th single. Performed by a senbatsu lineup of current members, it captured themes of growth and festivity, distributed exclusively through streaming platforms to celebrate the idol network's legacy without physical editions.^[69][70] The second special single, "Kaze wo Matsu" (ความทรงจำในสายลม), followed in August 2025 as a tribute to the graduating 1st generation members. This Thai-adapted version of STU48's track featured the full cohort—Angel, Champoo, Fahsai, Jjae, Kaiwan, Kaning, Kyla, and others—in a digital release that served as their farewell, focusing on themes of waiting and memory during the group's special stages.^[71][27] CGM48's collaborations extend to joint tracks with sister groups and external artists, fostering regional ties within the AKB48 ecosystem. In 2020, CGM48 released "Touch By Heart (Lanna Version)," a special regional adaptation in Lanna dialect as a digital track to promote unity, with members performing in hybrid Thai-Japanese arrangements.^[20][72] A notable early joint effort involved BNK48's "Warota People" project in 2021, where CGM48 members contributed to comedic track performances and related media, including covers like "Melon Juice" integrated into the album's humorous concept, blending idol pop with sitcom elements across events.^[73][72] In 2021, CGM48 participated in the AKB48 Group's seasonal collaboration "สวัสดีปีใหม่" (Happy New Year) with BNK48, a festive digital track released for New Year celebrations, featuring joint vocals to symbolize cross-group harmony.^[20] More recently, adaptation of HKT48's "Sakura, Minna de Tabeta" (2013) saw CGM48's involvement through covers and events, culminating in their 2024 single adaptation that reinforced shared cherry blossom motifs.^[74] In October 2025, CGM48 collaborated with BNK48 and hip-hop artist SYR3N on "Hip Chain," a high-energy digital single tied to the Senbatsu General Election, with fan-voted members from both groups adding verses to promote cultural exchange.^[75][76]

Music Videos and Films

CGM48 has released music videos for each of their singles, with a strong emphasis on visual storytelling that incorporates Chiang Mai's cultural landmarks, urban landscapes, and natural beauty to reflect the group's regional identity. The debut single's video, "Chiang Mai 106" (2020), captures the essence of the northern Thai city through scenes featuring iconic sites like temples and streets, introducing the first-generation members in energetic performances amid local settings.^[77] Similarly, the third single "Mali" (2021) was filmed at prominent Chiang Mai museums and monuments, such as the Lanna Local Museum and the Three Kings Monument, blending traditional architecture with the group's synchronized choreography to evoke themes of jasmine flowers symbolizing purity and local pride.^[22] Subsequent videos continue this location-driven approach, often highlighting everyday Thai life and emotional narratives tied to youth and aspiration. For instance, the seventh single "LOVE TRIP" (2024) was shot at bustling markets like Chin Chai in Bangkok but maintains a Chiang Mai-inspired warmth through its portrayal of youthful romance and group dynamics. The group's tenth single, the original track "Dai (Daai) Mai" (2025), shifts toward urban themes with modern pop visuals incorporating local instruments like the salaw, filmed in contemporary Chiang Mai settings to convey themes of connection and inquiry in relationships.^[68] As of November 2025, CGM48 has produced at least 14 music videos, prioritizing accessible, fan-engaging productions that reinforce their "Chiang Mai 48" branding without notable awards or nominations in film festivals. In addition to music videos, CGM48 members have ventured into feature films, showcasing their acting talents in projects that blend idol culture with narrative storytelling. The 2021 mockumentary "God Bless The Trainees Too!" (original title: Hao Peng Ja Ya Kaeng Nong), directed by Nareubadee Wetchakam, follows the group's trainees in a comedic, behind-the-scenes style, exploring their training mishaps and personal growth in Chiang Mai-based settings over a runtime of 103 minutes.^[78] The film received a 6.0 rating on MyDramaList for its lighthearted portrayal of idol life.^[79] The 2022 anthology film "The Cheese Sisters" marks another milestone, with multiple CGM48 members acting alongside BNK48 counterparts in four interconnected girls' love stories centered on family and romance, directed by a team including Chookiat Sakveerakul, Natthaphong Aroonnet, and Chantana Tiprachart.^[80] Spanning 134 minutes, the narrative-driven production, produced by iAM Film, uses diverse Thai locales to depict emotional bonds, earning praise for its representation of LGBTQ+ themes in Thai cinema and a 3.2 average rating on Letterboxd.^[81] These films highlight CGM48's expansion beyond music into acting, though no major awards have been documented for their involvement.

Relation to AKB48 Group

Sister Group Connections

CGM48 serves as the eighth international sister group of the Japanese idol collective AKB48 and the first domestic sister group of Thailand's BNK48, formed as part of AKB48's global expansion strategy to localize the idol model in regional markets. The group was officially announced by BNK48 on June 2, 2019, during an event in Chiang Mai, with auditions held from June 15 to July 15, 2019, targeting local teenagers aged 12 to 22 to establish a presence in northern Thailand.^[1] Under BNK48's oversight, CGM48 operates as a subsidiary within the broader AKB48 network, which includes other international affiliates such as JKT48 in Indonesia and SGO48 in Vietnam, adapting the core idol framework to foster cultural exchange and fan engagement across Asia.^[1] Shared elements with AKB48 and BNK48 include the idol training system, fan-voting mechanisms for selecting center members in performances, and interactive events like handshake sessions, all designed to build direct fan-idol connections central to the 48 Group concept. CGM48 localizes these by incorporating Lanna cultural influences from northern Thailand, evident in its signature song "CGM48," which highlights the region's language and traditions, and its representative color of spring green, inspired by the mint leaf symbolizing freshness and local flora. Based in Chiang Mai, the group maintains a dedicated theater, training center, café, and dormitory to immerse members in the northern identity while aligning with BNK48's Bangkok operations.^[2] Key ties between CGM48 and its sister groups are reinforced through shared management by Independent Artist Management (iAM), formerly BNK48 Office, which handles operations, talent development, and licensing under the AKB48 umbrella since its rebranding in November 2019. This structure facilitates member transfers from BNK48 to support CGM48's launch and ongoing activities, as well as joint auditions to recruit talent across the Thai network, ensuring consistency in training and performance standards while promoting regional unity within the 48 Group.^[30][2]

International Collaborations

CGM48 has actively participated in cross-group initiatives within the AKB48 ecosystem, emphasizing joint performances and shared projects that bridge Thai and international idol cultures. A key event was the AKB48 Group CIRCLE JAM 2023, held on February 4, 2023, at CentralWorld LIVE in Bangkok, Thailand, where CGM48 collaborated with AKB48 and BNK48 across two stages themed "Cute" and "Cool." During the event, CGM48 members joined in full-group renditions of songs like "Hisashiburi no Lip Gloss" and "Nemohamo Rumour," adapted with Thai lyrics, as well as a multilingual version of BNK48's "Believers" featuring Japanese and Thai elements. Additionally, interactions extended to JKT48 members through preparatory meetings and TikTok challenges, such as covers of "Hashire! Penguin" and "Oogoe Diamond," fostering direct member-to-member exchanges.^[82] In 2025, CGM48 contributed to the AKB48 Group's 20th anniversary celebrations through the 66th single "Oh my pumpkin!," released on August 13, 2025, marking the first time CGM48 members were included in the senbatsu lineup alongside representatives from BNK48, MNL48, AKB48 Team SH, AKB48 Team TP, and KLP48. CGM48 specifically released a Thai-language version of the track, performed by selected senbatsu members, which highlighted the group's role in localizing AKB48 content for broader Asian audiences. This participation underscored CGM48's integration into global milestones, with members like Lookked (CGM48 Captain) featured prominently in promotional visuals.^[83][84] Further international engagements in 2025 included collaborations with AKB48 Team SH under the Thai-Chinese Cultural Ambassador Project, announced on October 10, 2025, where six members from BNK48 and CGM48 were paired with three from Team SH to promote cross-cultural ties through performances of original songs. This initiative culminated in a joint appearance at the NSE2025 event in Shanghai, China, on November 29-30, 2025, alongside BNK48 and NMB48, focusing on Thai-Chinese harmony themes. These efforts built on earlier member exchanges, such as the 2019 transfers of Izurina (Rina Izuta) and Aom from BNK48 to CGM48, which strengthened operational and performative links between the Thai sister groups.^[85] Such collaborations have significantly boosted CGM48's visibility beyond Thailand, enabling cultural exchanges that blend Lanna influences with broader Asian idol traditions and facilitating member development through shared stages. For instance, the CIRCLE JAM and anniversary projects exposed CGM48 to diverse fanbases, while the Team SH partnership enhanced diplomatic outreach, contributing to sustained growth in international fan engagement.^[82][83]