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SGO48
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SGO48 (read S.G.O. Forty-Eight) was a Vietnamese idol girl group based in Saigon, officially known as Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. They were the seventh international sister group of AKB48, after Indonesia's JKT48, China's SNH48 (former), Thailand's BNK48, Philippines's MNL48, China's AKB48 Team SH, and Taiwan's AKB48 Team TP, debuted on December 22, 2018, at Crescent Mall, District 7, Ho Chi Minh City.[1] Originally consisted of 29 founding members, known as the first generation, the group was consisted of 20 members as of April 2021, thus becoming the Vietnamese girl group with the most members.[2] The group officially disbanded on December 22, 2021, after their last activity.
Key Information
History
[edit]2018–2019: formation, recruitment and first generation debut
[edit]On June 21, 2018, AKS Co. announced the formation of SGO48, based in Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), Vietnam,[3][4] with the joint venture between CTCP Tập đoàn Yeah1 (Yeah1 Group) (YEG) and Geo Brain Corporation, and formed the YAG Entertainment company. After the recruitment announcement on August 3 by both the AKB48 and YAG Entertainment team, audition process for the group's first generation on August 10, 2018, consisted of three separate rounds: online registration, interview, and lastly, final round.[5] A concept for a SGO48 theater was brought up to conversation during the first livestream meeting with Japanese investors.[6][7] Within the first round, candidates had to apply online on the company's website by filling out personal information, with more than 8,000 applications sent and of whom 350 candidates were selected to advance to the interview round. The candidates then performed and answered questions from the judges on the interview round, where 120 candidates were chosen to proceed to the final round. They then had their own talent performance for the training and selection round, where the judges would proceed to select the final members to officially join the group.[7] The label then announced the 29 official members for the first generation of SGO48 on November 17, 2018, followed by their first live performance with AKB48's Team 8 a day after in Hanoi, Vietnam, as part of the "Kizuna Ekiden 2018" event.[8][9][10][11]
Following the withdrawal of member BunnyV on December 13, SGO48 officially debuted on December 22, 2018, through their Dream Performance concert at Crescent Mall Centre, Ho Chi Minh City, where the group performed a total of four Vietnamese-adapted AKB48 songs, including “Shonichi”, “Aitakatta”, “Shoujotachi Yo”, and “SGO48”.[12] Over 1,500 fans attended the concert, exceeding expectations for the newly formed idol group.[13] Shortly after, the group then had their first international performance at the 2019 Asia Festival, presented by SHANDA GAMES, in Bangkok, Thailand, on January 27, 2019.[14][15]
2019–2020: line-up changes, first releases and Senbatsu Battle
[edit]With member Yuumi graduating May 31, 2019, YAG Entertainment announced that SGO48 would release their first single on July 17, 2019, revealing the title to be “Heavy Rotation”.[16] The accompanying music video was later premiered through their official YouTube channel on August 1, 2019, followed by several appearances on their native television programs and events to perform the song live, as well as the group's first reality program Pinker School. On August 19, member Kaycee was announced as the group's first captain at their Hanoi meeting.[17] The group then joined their sister groups at the AKB48 Group Asia Festival in Shanghai on August 24, 2019, where they co-performed “Heavy Rotation”, “Namida Surprise!”, “Kokoro No Placard” in Japanese, “Ponytail to Shushu”, and “365 Nichi no Kamihikouki”. SGO48 then announced their second single to be "Koisuru Fortune Cookie" on December 7, 2019, at the group's Koisuru Xmas Party mini show, where their native label announced the upcoming plan to recruit the second generation for the group. An accompanying music video for the song was premiered during the event, and later released on December 12, 2019.[18] Member Anna then attended the 70th Kōhaku Uta Gassen on December 31, 2019, becoming the first Vietnamese idol member to join the other 48 sister groups for performance.[19][20]
Following the dismissal of member Sachi on May 24, 2020, as well as the graduation of member Elena and Celia two days later, YAG Ent. announced the premiere of Senbatsu Battle, the group's second reality program on June 8, 2020, focusing on the members' practice process to select the final sixteen members - known as the regular senbatsu line-up for their upcoming third single.[21]
On 22 August 2020, Captain Kaycee told on Kenh14 that there would be an MV featuring 23 members.[22] This is the first time for the first generation to appear fully as a way to thank fans for supporting them since debut. YAG later teased a poster for their MV, Shonichi (Ngày Đầu Tiên - The first day), which is a B-side from the first single, "Heavy Rotation". On 18 September 2020, the MV is released on SGO48's YouTube Channel.
2021: original song and disbandment
[edit]On April 4, 2021, YAG Entertainment, at the handshake event of single RIVER , announced the 7 members with the highest number of tickets: Anh Sang (750 tickets), Hikari (648 tickets), Mochi (641 tickets), Le Trang (536 tickets), Janie (507 tickets), Ashley (486 tickets) and Trung Duong (468 tickets), and these members will join the group's first original song, which will be released in May. YAG Entertainment also announced their next single to be released in August. The Senbatsu will comprise 7 members who have the largest number of pre-order singles, including first and second generation members. On December 5, 2021, it was announced they will disband after their 3rd anniversary on December 22, 2021, due to the COVID-19 pandemic.[23][24]
Final members
[edit]Originally debuted with a 29-member line up on December 22, 2018, the group had 20 first-generation members as of April 11, 2021.[25][26] The captain of the group is Kaycee, announced on August 19, 2019, at the SGO48 Party in Hanoi meeting.[17]
| Stage name | Birth name | Date of birth (age) | Place of birth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tiên Linh | Lê Phạm Thủy Tiên | April 24, 1998 | Bình Thuận |
| Hikari | Châu Ngọc Đoan Thảo | July 11, 1998 | Ho Chi Minh City |
| Lệ Trang | Nguyễn Thị Lệ | October 13, 2001 | Bắc Ninh |
| Mochi | Nguyễn Thanh Hoàng My | May 9, 2004 | Lâm Đồng |
| DONA | Nguyễn Thị Nhi | August 10, 2000 | Đắk Lắk |
| Ashley | Trần Lý Minh Thư | May 23, 2000 | Ho Chi Minh City |
| Anna | Trần Cát Tường | September 24, 2000 | Bình Dương |
| Tammy | Nguyễn Thị Minh Thư | November 12, 2003 | Đồng Nai |
| Trúc Phạm | Phạm Lâm Ánh Trúc | September 4, 1997 | Ho Chi Minh City |
| Thu Nga | Lê Thị Thu Nga | December 25, 2003 | Ho Chi Minh City |
| Sunny | Lê Sunny | October 30, 2003 | Ho Chi Minh City |
| Mẫn Nghi | Lê Mẫn Nghi | November 25, 2005 | An Giang |
| Ánh Sáng | Nguyễn Lê Ngọc Ánh Sáng | January 13, 2006 | Ho Chi Minh City |
| Kaycee | Võ Phan Kim Khánh | October 18, 1997 | Vĩnh Long |
| Janie | Nguyễn Trương Tường Vy | January 3, 2002 | Ho Chi Minh City |
| Linh Mai | Vương Mai Linh | May 1, 1997 | Nghệ An |
| Trùng Dương | Nguyễn Hồ Trùng Dương | December 3, 1999 | Bình Dương |
| Xuân Ca | Võ Ngọc Xuân Ca | September 20, 2001 | Bình Thuận |
| Mon | Huỳnh Ngô Kim Châu | February 2, 2001 | Ho Chi Minh City |
| Nini | Ngô Thị Cẩm Nhi | August 12, 2000 | Hậu Giang |
Former members
[edit]| Stage name | Birth name | Date of birth (age) | Place of birth | Graduation date | Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BunnyV | Trần Nguyễn Phương Vy | June 28, 1997 | Ho Chi Minh City | Dec 18, 2018 | Withdrew for personal reasons. |
| Yuumi | Yuumi Koseki (小関優実) | August 30, 2004 | Japan | May 31, 2019 | Graduated to continue her studies in Japan.[27] |
| Gia Nghi | Thái Gia Nghi | December 6, 2004 | Ho Chi Minh City | Dec 7, 2019 | Withdrew to focus on studies. |
| Sachi | Nguyễn Quế Minh Hân | June 25, 2003 | Ho Chi Minh City | May 26, 2020 | Removed from the group due to secret dating.[28][29][30] |
| Elena | Nguyễn Lê Thùy Ngọc | February 22, 1999 | Đồng Nai | May 28, 2020 | Graduated due to health reasons.[31] |
| Celia | Nguyễn Thị Thúy Nga | August 25, 2002 | Ho Chi Minh City | Graduated to focus on studies.[31] | |
| Như Thảo | Lê Nguyễn Như Thảo | May 15, 2000 | Cần Thơ | April 11, 2021 | Graduated for personal reasons.[32] |
| Minxy | Đặng Thị Huỳnh Như | September 16, 1999 | Tây Ninh | ||
| Phụng Nhi | Lê Nguyễn Phụng Nhi | October 23, 2004 | Long An |
Discography
[edit]Singles
[edit]| Year | Name | Date of release |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | Heavy Rotation | August 25, 2019 |
| Koisuru Fortune Cookie - Thất Tình Tích Cực | December 12, 2019 | |
| 2020 | RIVER | December 20, 2020 |
Music videos
[edit]| Year | Title | Director | Ref. |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 | Heavy Rotation | Kim Sin Wook | [33] |
| Koisuru Fortune Cookie (Thất Tình Tích Cực) |
Vo Thanh Hoa, Do Vu | [34] | |
| 2020 | Shonichi (Ngày Đầu Tiên) |
To Buu Phat | [35] |
| RIVER | Khuong Vu | [36] |
Filmography
[edit]TV shows
[edit]| Year | Name | Channel | No. of episodes | Members | Date | Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2018 | Giọng ải giọng ai (Hidden Singer Vietnam) | HTV7 | 1 (E14) | Tiên Linh | February 3 | Contestant |
| 2019 | Bí mật chuyện sao (Star Secret) | HTV9 | 1 | Ánh Sáng, Kaycee, Linh Mai, Lệ Trang, Sachi, Tiên Linh | January 21 | – |
| 2IDOL | Yeah1TV | 2 | All | March 26–27 | – | |
| Siêu bất ngờ | HTV7 | 1 | April 21 | S4 E24 | ||
| Bữa trưa vui vẻ (Happy Lunch) | VTV6 | Lệ Trang, Minxy, Sachi, Thu Nga, Trùng Dương | August 10 | – | ||
| Đại tiệc FA | Anna, Dona, Hikari, Janie, Kaycee, Lệ Trang, Linh Mai, Mon, Minxy, Sachi, Sunny, Thu Nga, Tiên Linh, Trúc Phạm, Trùng Dương, Xuân Ca | August 11 | Guest | |||
| Một trăm triệu một phút (Million Dollar Minute Vietnam) | VTV3 | Ánh Sáng, Kaycee, Thu Nga | December 22 | Contestants |
Films
[edit]| Year | Name | Channel | Platform | Members | Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2018 | Tình đầu đại ca | DIEN QUAN Film | YouTube | Tiên Linh | Before joining SGO48 |
| 2019 | La la school S4: Trại hè âm nhạc (Music Camp) | LA LA School | YouTube | Linh Mai, Trùng Dương, Thu Nga, Anna, Ánh Sáng, Mochi, Lệ Trang | - |
Reality shows
[edit]| Year | Name | Channel | No. of episodes | Members | Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 | Pinker School |
|
8 | E1: Ánh Sáng, Anna, Ashley, Celia, Hikari, Janie, Kaycee, Lệ Trang, Linh Mai, Mochi, Mon, Như Thảo, Sachi, Sunny, Thu Nga, Tiên Linh, Trúc Phạm, Trùng Dương, Xuân Ca
E2: Ánh Sáng, Anna, Dona, Gia Nghi, Hikari, Janie, Kaycee, Lệ Trang, Linh Mai, Mochi, Sachi, Sunny, Tammy, Thu Nga, Tiên Linh, Trùng Dương - E3: Team A: Gia Nghi, Janie, Linh Mai, Tien Linh Team B: Anh Sang, Anna, Hikari, Sunny Team C: Dona, Le Trang, Thu Nga and Trung Duong Team D: Kaycee, Mochi, Sachi, Tammy - E4: Team 1: Man Nghi, Tammy, Tien Linh and Trung Duong Team 2: Ashley, Hikari, Le Trang and Sunny Team 3: Linh Mai, Mochi, Sachi, Thu Nga Team 4: Anh Sang, Anna, Janie, Truc Pham Team 5: Dona, Gia Nghi, Ni Ni Team 6: Elena, Minxy, Phung Nhi - E5: Anh Sang, Anna, Ashley, Celia, Dona, Gia Nghi, Hikari, Janie, Kaycee, Le Trang, Linh Mai, Mochi, Mon, Minxy, Nhu Thao, Sachi, Sunny, Tammy, Thu Nga, Tien Linh, Trúc Phạm, Trùng Dương, Xuân Ca - E6: Ashley, Celia, Dona, Elena, Gia Nghi, Hikari, Le Trang, Minxy, Mon, Nhu Thao, Ni Ni, Phung Nhi, Sunny, Truc Pham, Trung Duong, Xuan Ca - E7: Team 1: Kaycee (Team Leader), Hikari, Minxy, Tien Linh Team 2: Sachi (Team Leader), Ashley, Mochi, Thu Nga Team 3: Anna (Team Leader), Tien Linh, Trung Duong, Truc Pham, Sunny Team 4: Anh Sang (Team Leader), Janie, Le Trang, Linh Mai, Xuan Ca - E8: Team 1: Anh Sang, Janie, Sachi, Xuan Ca Team 2: Anna, Ashley, Mochi, Trung Duong Team 3: Hikari, Minxy, Thu Nga, Truc Pham, Sunny Team 4: Kaycee, Le Trang, Linh Mai and Tien Linh |
– |
| 2020 | Senbatsu
Battle |
|
9 | E1: Ánh Sáng, Anna, Ashley, Dona, Hikari, Janie, Kaycee, Lệ Trang, Linh Mai, Mẫn Nghi, Minxy, Mochi, Mon, Như Thảo, Nini, Phụng Nhi
E2: Sachi, Sunny, Tammy, Thu Nga, Trúc Phạm, Trùng Dương, Tiên Linh, Xuân Ca E3:
E4:
E5:
E6:
E7:
E8:
E9+E10:
|
[21] |
Radio broadcast
[edit]| Year | Name | Members | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 | SGO48 Radio Show | Mochi, Sachi, Sunny, Thu Nga | Ep 1 |
| Gia Nghi, Linh Mai, Mon, Xuân Ca | Ep 2 | ||
| Ánh Sáng, Kaycee, Lệ Trang, Mochi, Minxy, Tiên Linh | Ep 3 | ||
| VOH Radio Online | Ánh Sáng, Anna, Kaycee, Linh Mai | – |
Documentaries
[edit]| Year | Name | Channel | No. of episodes | Members | Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2018 | Road To The Dream / Hành Trình Vươn Tới Ước Mơ | SGO48 | 4 | Senbatsu | – |
| 2019 | Light up your dream / Hành trình bắt đầu | 3 | |||
| SGO48 2nd Single DOCUMENTARY | 7 |
References
[edit]- ^ "SGO48". sgo48.vn. Retrieved 2018-12-23.
- ^ "The beauty of the members of the largest girl group in Vietnam". zingnews.vn. 18 November 2018. Retrieved 2020-08-09.
- ^ "AKB48、ベトナム拠点「SGO48」結成へ 海外7グループ目". ORICON NEWS. 22 June 2018.
- ^ "Idol group AKB48 increases reach in Asia with new unit SGO48 in Vietnam". Japan Times. 22 June 2018.
- ^ "AKB48 - SGO48 AUDITION ANNOUNCEMENT". www.facebook.com. Retrieved 2020-08-09.
- ^ "SGO48 – Dự án AKB thành công tiếp theo của đế chế 48 tại Đông Nam Á?". Yeah1 News (in Vietnamese). 2018-10-08. Archived from the original on 2018-10-08. Retrieved 2018-11-10.
- ^ a b "Japan's largest girl group AKB48 to perform with Vietnamese sister band in Hanoi". Tuoi tre News. 12 November 2018.
- ^ Elle (2018-11-20). "Nhóm nhạc thần tượng nữ SGO48 ra mắt thành viên thế hệ thứ nhất | ELLE". elle.vn (in Vietnamese). Retrieved 2020-08-09.
- ^ "Nhan sắc các thành viên trong nhóm nhạc nữ đông nhất Việt Nam". zingnews.vn. 18 November 2018. Retrieved 2020-08-09.
- ^ "チーム8が〈交通安全ベトナム「絆」駅伝2018 IN HANOI〉に出演！ - AKB48 Team 8 ニュース＆レポート". AKB48 Team 8公式ホームページ (in Japanese). Archived from the original on 2018-11-16. Retrieved 2020-08-09.
- ^ "Cuộc gặp gỡ của hai nhóm nhạc đông thành viên nhất Việt Nam và Nhật Bản". VTV NEWS (in Vietnamese). 18 November 2018.
- ^ "SGO48". sgo48.vn. Retrieved 2018-12-24.
- ^ "Hơn 1500 bạn trẻ đến cổ vũ show đầu tiên của SGO48". Tuổi trẻ Online (in Vietnamese). 23 December 2018.
- ^ "Event Pop | AKB48 Group Asia Fes 2019 in Bangkok Presented by SHANDA GAMES". eventpop. Retrieved 2018-12-23.
- ^ "AKB48、史上初アジア7グループ集結に歓喜 横山由依「これを機に一つに」＜AKB48 Group Asia Festival 2019＞" (in Japanese). 28 January 2019.
- ^ VnExpress. "Nhóm nhạc 27 thành viên ra mắt đĩa đơn đầu tay - VnExpress". vnexpress.net (in Vietnamese). Retrieved 2020-08-09.
- ^ a b "SGO48 - Captain đã lộ diện!!!". www.facebook.com. Retrieved 2020-08-09.
- ^ "Nhóm nhạc SGO48 công bố chính thức tuyển thế hệ 2 vào đầu năm 2020". Chuyên trang Hoa Học Trò - Chuyên trang Hoa Học Trò - Báo điện tử Tiền Phong. 2019-12-08. Retrieved 2020-08-09.
- ^ "AKB48小栗有以 、センター抜擢にプレッシャーも「私がやっていいのか…」＜紅白リハ2日目＞". ModelPress (in Japanese). 29 December 2019.
- ^ "ANNA ĐẠI DIỆN SGO48 THAM DỰ KOUHAKU UTA GASSEN". Nhật Bản Vetter (in Vietnamese). 9 January 2020. Archived from the original on 21 June 2020. Retrieved 21 June 2020.
- ^ a b Thegioidienanh.vn (2020-06-14). "Chương trình thực tế "Senbatsu Battle" của SGO48 có gì hấp dẫn?". Thế giới điện ảnh (in Vietnamese). Retrieved 2020-08-09.
- ^ "Kaycee (Center mới của SGO48): 'Làm nhóm trưởng không đồng nghĩa có xác suất làm Center cao hơn'". 22 August 2020.
- ^ "Nhóm nhạc đông thành viên nhất Việt Nam tan rã". ZingNews.vn (in Vietnamese). 2021-12-06. Retrieved 2021-12-09.
- ^ "HCM City's SGO48 girl band breaks up". vietnamnews.vn. Retrieved 2023-04-24.
- ^ "SGO48 – Members List". www.sgo48.vn.
- ^ VCCorp.vn (2020-07-24). "SGO48 Senbatsu Battle: Lệ Trang khóc từ đầu đến cuối, các cựu thành viên trở lại gây xúc động mạnh". kenh14.vn (in Vietnamese). Retrieved 2020-08-09.
- ^ TV Tokyo (13 March 2022). "「模擬裁判」と「模擬国連」に注力する2人の17歳が目指すは中央大学の人気学部! 卒業生の約9割が内部進学する中央大学杉並高校の魅力に迫る". Retrieved 13 September 2025.
- ^ "Nữ ca sĩ 17 tuổi bị đuổi khỏi nhóm nhạc đông thành viên nhất Việt Nam". Zing News (in Vietnamese). 26 May 2020.
- ^ "THÔNG BÁO VỀ VIỆC TỐT NGHIỆP CỦA THÀNH VIÊN SACHI". SGO48 (in Vietnamese). 29 September 2022. Archived from the original on 21 June 2020. Retrieved 21 June 2020.
- ^ "Thành viên SGO48 bị đuổi khỏi nhóm vì bí mật gặp fan" (in Vietnamese). Archived from the original on 2020-06-22. Retrieved 2020-06-21.
- ^ a b "SGO48 - 📢 Thông Báo Tốt Nghiệp, Elena & Celia 📢". www.facebook.com. Retrieved 2020-08-09.
- ^ "THÔNG BÁO VỀ VIỆC TỐT NGHIỆP CỦA BA THÀNH VIÊN MINXY, NHƯ THẢO VÀ PHỤNG NHI". Facebook.
- ^ SGO48 Heavy Rotation MV, retrieved 2020-07-30
- ^ SGO48 Koisuru Fortune Cookie MV, retrieved 2020-07-30
- ^ SGO48 Ngày Đầu Tiên - Shonichi MV, retrieved 2020-07-30
- ^ SGO48 RIVER MV, retrieved 2020-12-20
External links
[edit]| Authority control databases: Artists |
|---|
SGO48
View on Grokipediafrom Grokipedia
Overview
Concept and structure
SGO48 was established as the seventh international sister group of the Japanese idol collective AKB48, adapting the originating group's foundational "idols you can meet" philosophy to emphasize direct accessibility and engagement with fans in Vietnam. This concept prioritizes proximity between performers and supporters, enabling interactions such as handshake events where fans could meet members by purchasing singles, alongside regular live performances designed to foster a sense of community and ongoing connection. Unlike more distant idol models, SGO48's approach aimed to make idols relatable figures in everyday Vietnamese youth culture, drawing on AKB48's model of rotating lineups to sustain frequent public appearances.[5][6] The group's operational structure mirrored AKB48's hierarchical system but was scaled for the local market, dividing members into teams—such as Team A and specialized units like Team Baby Queen—alongside a trainee category for emerging talent. At its formation in late 2018, SGO48 comprised 29 members, reducing to 20 by disbandment in 2021, with a deliberate emphasis on young performers aged 14 to 22 to appeal to teenage and early adult audiences. Training focused on vocals, dance, and stage presence under Vietnamese management, ensuring members embodied both idol aesthetics and developmental growth within the group dynamic.[6][2] Tailored to Vietnamese contexts, SGO48 incorporated local cultural elements, including performances with lyrics adapted into Vietnamese—such as in their debut cover of "Heavy Rotation" featuring contributions from prominent local composer Huy Tuấn—and a name derived from "Saigon," the historic moniker for Ho Chi Minh City, symbolizing regional pride. Departing from AKB48's fixed theater model, SGO48 lacked a dedicated venue, instead relying on public stages for concerts across major cities and online platforms like YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Music for broader dissemination of music and events. This adaptation suited Vietnam's entertainment landscape, prioritizing mobile live shows and digital accessibility over stationary performances.[6][2][5]Management and affiliation
SGO48 served as the seventh international sister group of the Japanese idol collective AKB48, established as part of the broader AKB48 Group's global expansion strategy.[2] The group was produced by renowned Japanese lyricist and producer Yasushi Akimoto, who oversees the creative direction and songwriting for the AKB48 network, ensuring alignment with the flagship group's idol model.[7] The group's operations were managed by YAG Entertainment, a Vietnamese company formed in 2018 as a joint venture to handle auditions, member training, and promotional activities.[6] YAG Entertainment adapted AKB48's training system for the local context, selecting initial members through competitive auditions that emphasized vocals, dance, and performance skills, with training provided by invited music producers and composers.[8] This localized approach included a trainee phase similar to AKB48's, where candidates underwent rigorous preparation before promotion, though tailored to Vietnamese cultural and linguistic elements.[5] SGO48 received promotional and logistical support from the AKB48 Group, including participation in joint Asia Festival events and licensing of signature songs such as "Heavy Rotation" and "Koisuru Fortune Cookie" for covers and performances.[9] These ties facilitated cross-promotion but also presented management challenges inherent to international sister groups, such as coordinating between Japanese production oversight and Vietnamese operations amid cultural and language differences.[10]History
2018–2019: Formation, recruitment, and debut
On June 21, 2018, AKS Co., the management company behind AKB48, announced the formation of SGO48 as its seventh international sister group, to be based in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.[11][1] Auditions for the first-generation members began in July 2018, attracting 7,626 applicants from Vietnam and abroad.[12][13] The process included online registrations, followed by in-person interviews and performances, narrowing down to 120 finalists whose profiles were shared on the group's YouTube channel starting November 4, 2018, for public voting input.[11] On November 17, 2018, 29 members were officially selected and announced at a press event in Ho Chi Minh City.[14] The group launched publicly on November 18, 2018, when 14 selected members joined AKB48 for their first performance at the Kizuna Ekiden 2018 event in Hanoi, marking Vietnam-Japan cultural exchange.[15] This promotional appearance introduced SGO48 to audiences through covers of AKB48 songs. The official debut concert followed on December 22, 2018, as a 28-member group at Crescent Mall in Ho Chi Minh City, after one member withdrew; the setlist featured Vietnamese-adapted versions of AKB48 tracks like "Heavy Rotation" and "Aitakatta."[11][15] Preparation for their debut single centered on a Vietnamese-language cover of AKB48's "Heavy Rotation," recorded with Japanese engineering and Korean-Thai production teams.[16] The first-generation members, initially operating as trainees without formal team divisions, underwent intensive rehearsals to synchronize performances, with the single released digitally on August 25, 2019.[17] From selection through debut, members faced rigorous training in dance, vocals, and stage presence, led by instructors from Japan, Korea, and Thailand under YAG Entertainment, which took over management in December 2018.[6] Adapting to the idol lifestyle involved strict schedules, including daily lessons in Japanese language and performance etiquette, alongside restrictions on personal activities to maintain group image.[2]2019–2020: Line-up changes, releases, and Senbatsu Battle
Following the group's formation and debut performances in late 2018, SGO48 experienced its first significant line-up adjustments in 2019, beginning with the graduation of Japanese member Koseki Yuumi on May 31, due to her need to focus on high school studies in Japan.[11] Shortly after, the group released its debut digital single, "Heavy Rotation," on August 25, 2019, a Vietnamese adaptation of the AKB48 hit that featured 16 selected members and emphasized synchronized choreography in its music video.[18] This release marked a milestone, coming after the single's announcement and initial showcase on July 17, 2019, at a press event in Ho Chi Minh City.[19] The track's production involved Vietnamese composer Huy Tuấn and aimed to introduce SGO48's idol style to local audiences through upbeat pop-rock elements.[20] Later that year, additional changes occurred with the graduation of member Thái Gia Nghi on December 7, 2019, announced on November 30 to allow her to prioritize education.[21] On the same day as her farewell, SGO48 launched its second digital single, "Koisuru Fortune Cookie (Thất Tình Tích Cực)," another adaptation of an AKB48 song, centered on member Ánh Sáng and released at 12:12 p.m. on December 12, 2019.[22] The music video, filmed with over 1,200 extras, highlighted themes of positive heartbreak and featured vibrant street dance sequences in Ho Chi Minh City locations.[23] These early releases helped solidify the group's presence in Vietnam's V-pop scene, with both singles distributed digitally via platforms like Zing MP3 and accompanied by collectible cards.[24] On January 9, 2020, YAG Entertainment opened auditions for the group's second generation of members, but these were ultimately cancelled amid the escalating COVID-19 pandemic. On February 26, 2020, SGO48 released a special digital single "nCoV" to raise awareness about the virus. In 2020, amid ongoing membership evolution, SGO48 faced further upheaval with the dismissal of member Nguyễn Quế Minh Hân (Sachi) on May 26, following violations of group rules including undisclosed personal relationships and information leaks.[25] To select performers for the upcoming third single, the group launched "Senbatsu Battle," a nine-episode reality competition series that premiered on June 11, 2020, airing weekly Thursdays at 8:00 p.m. on the official SGO48 YouTube channel.[26] The program divided remaining members into teams for challenges encompassing song performances, acting tasks, and fan-voted handshake events, culminating in the selection of 16 senbatsu members based on cumulative scores from evaluations and public voting.[27] Notable elements included discipline point deductions for team infractions and special episodes revealing previews of the single "RIVER," with the finale on August 31 determining the center position. The COVID-19 pandemic, which intensified in Vietnam from mid-2020, prompted SGO48 to pivot to virtual formats, delaying in-person events and shifting promotions like the Asia Festival appearance to online streams.[28] This adaptation allowed the Senbatsu Battle to proceed remotely, maintaining fan engagement through digital voting and live broadcasts while minimizing health risks during lockdowns.[26]2021: Final releases and disbandment
In late 2020, with promotions continuing into 2021, SGO48 released their third single titled RIVER on December 20, 2020, a Vietnamese adaptation of AKB48's "River" with lyrics by Huỳnh Hiền Năng based on the concept by Yasushi Akimoto.[29] The track incorporated local cultural elements, blending J-pop idol style with V-pop influences, and was performed by the Senbatsu members selected through the prior year's Senbatsu Battle. However, the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted promotional efforts, including a delay in the official music video release from early December 2020.[30] Throughout early 2021, SGO48's activities remained severely limited due to pandemic-related restrictions in Ho Chi Minh City, such as social distancing mandates and event cancellations, which prevented regular live theater performances and large-scale fan interactions. The group shifted to virtual and pre-recorded formats, notably contributing performances to the AKB48 Group Asia Festival on June 27, 2021, where they showcased songs without live attendance to adhere to health protocols. Fan meets were scaled back or conducted online, focusing on digital engagement to maintain connections with supporters amid venue closures. On December 5, 2021, management company YAG Entertainment announced SGO48's disbandment, attributing the decision to the prolonged effects of the COVID-19 pandemic that disrupted all group operations and made continuation unfeasible, including the cancellation of second-generation recruitment. The announcement came amid ongoing lockdowns in Vietnam, which exacerbated challenges like restricted gatherings and economic pressures on the entertainment sector. Following the announcement, the group released their fourth and final digital single, "ABCDEFA!", on December 25, 2021. SGO48 concluded their three-year run with a final concert, SGO48 The Last Show (Gửi Lại Thanh Xuân), held on December 22, 2021, at VOH Theater in Ho Chi Minh City, allowing over 1,500 fans to attend in a controlled setting for a farewell performance featuring key songs from their discography.[31][32]Members
Final members
At the time of SGO48's disbandment on December 22, 2021, the group consisted of 19 active members, all from its first generation announced on November 17, 2018.[33] These members represented diverse regions across Vietnam, including Ho Chi Minh City, Vĩnh Long, An Giang, Hậu Giang, Bình Dương, Lâm Đồng, Đồng Nai, Quảng Nam, Bình Thuận, and Nghệ An, highlighting the group's nationwide recruitment.[34] By 2021, their ages ranged from 15 to 24, spanning a mix of teenagers and young adults.[32] The lineup was led by captain Kaycee, with no formal team divisions established during the group's activity.[34] The following table lists the final members, including their stage names, real names, birthdates, birthplaces, join dates, and notable roles where applicable:| Stage Name | Real Name | Birthdate | Birthplace | Join Date | Role |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kaycee | Võ Phan Kim Khánh | October 18, 1997 | Vĩnh Long | November 17, 2018 | Captain |
| Hikari | Châu Ngọc Đoan Thảo | July 11, 1998 | Ho Chi Minh City | November 17, 2018 | - |
| Linh Mai | Vương Mai Linh | May 1, 1997 | Nghệ An | November 17, 2018 | - |
| Trúc Phạm | Phạm Lâm Ánh Trúc | November 4, 1997 | Ho Chi Minh City | November 17, 2018 | - |
| Tiên Linh | Lê Phạm Thủy Tiên | April 24, 1998 | Ho Chi Minh City | November 17, 2018 | - |
| Trùng Dương | Nguyễn Hồ Trùng Dương | December 3, 1999 | Bình Dương | November 17, 2018 | - |
| Ashley | Trần Lý Minh Thư | May 23, 2000 | Ho Chi Minh City | November 17, 2018 | - |
| Anna | Trần Cát Tường | September 24, 2000 | Bình Dương | November 17, 2018 | - |
| DONA | Nguyễn Thị Nhi | August 18, 2001 | Quảng Nam | November 17, 2018 | - |
| Mon | Huỳnh Ngô Kim Châu | February 2, 2001 | Ho Chi Minh City | November 17, 2018 | - |
| Janie | Nguyễn Trương Tường Vy | January 3, 2002 | Ho Chi Minh City | November 17, 2018 | - |
| Xuân Ca | Võ Ngọc Xuân Ca | September 20, 2001 | Bình Thuận | November 17, 2018 | - |
| Ni Ni | Ngô Thị Cẩm Nhi | August 12, 2000 | Hậu Giang | November 17, 2018 | - |
| Sunny | Lê Sunny | October 30, 2003 | Ho Chi Minh City | November 17, 2018 | - |
| Thu Nga | Lê Thị Thu Nga | December 25, 2003 | Ho Chi Minh City | November 17, 2018 | - |
| Tammy | Nguyễn Thị Minh Thư | November 12, 2003 | Đồng Nai | November 17, 2018 | - |
| Mochi | Nguyễn Thanh Hoàng My | May 9, 2004 | Lâm Đồng | November 17, 2018 | - |
| Mẫn Nghi | Lê Mẫn Nghi | November 25, 2005 | An Giang | November 17, 2018 | - |
| Ánh Sáng | Nguyễn Lê Ngọc Ánh Sáng | January 13, 2006 | Ho Chi Minh City | November 17, 2018 | Youngest member |
Former members
SGO48 saw the departure of ten members prior to its collective graduation on December 22, 2021, primarily from the first generation trainees who joined on November 17, 2018. These exits, often due to personal circumstances, health concerns, academic pursuits, or rule violations, contributed to fluctuating team sizes and required the remaining members to adapt to changing line-ups during key periods like single releases and theater performances. No pre-debut trainees were reported who failed to promote to full membership. The following table lists the former members, including their stage names, real names, birthdates, leave dates, and reasons:| Stage Name | Real Name | Birthdate | Leave Date | Reason |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BunnyV | Trần Nguyễn Phương Vy | June 28, 1997 | December 13, 2018 | Resignation for unspecified personal reasons.[35] |
| Yuumi | Koseki Yumi | August 30, 2004 | May 31, 2019 | Graduation to focus on studies in Japan.[35] |
| Gia Nghi | Thái Gia Nghi | December 6, 2004 | December 7, 2019 | Graduation to focus on studies.[35] |
| Sachi | Nguyễn Quế Minh Hân | June 25, 2003 | May 26, 2020 | Dismissal due to a secret dating scandal and unauthorized disclosure of group information.[36][35] |
| Elena | Nguyễn Lê Thùy Ngọc | February 22, 1999 | July 12, 2020 | Graduation for health reasons.[35][37] |
| Celia | Nguyễn Thị Thúy Nga | August 25, 2002 | July 12, 2020 | Graduation to focus on studies.[35] |
| Như Thảo | Lê Nguyễn Như Thảo | May 15, 2000 | April 11, 2021 | Graduation for personal reasons.[35] |
| Phụng Nhi | Lê Nguyễn Phụng Nhi | October 23, 2004 | April 11, 2021 | Graduation for unspecified reasons.[35] |
| Minxy | Đặng Thị Huỳnh Như | June 19, 1999 | April 11, 2021 | Graduation for unspecified reasons.[35] |
| Lệ Trang | Nguyễn Thị Lệ | October 13, 2001 | September 30, 2021 | Graduation for personal reasons following a hiatus.[38][35] |
Discography
Singles
SGO48 released four singles between 2019 and 2021, with the first three under the licensing of AKB48 and produced by Yasushi Akimoto through YAG Entertainment, featuring Vietnamese adaptations of popular AKB48 tracks along with coupling songs; the fourth was an original digital single. These releases were available in both digital and physical formats, with physical editions including photocards, lyric booklets, and event tickets, but no full-length albums were produced by the group.[11][39] The debut single, "Heavy Rotation," was released on August 25, 2019, as a cover of AKB48's 2010 hit, performed by the selected senbatsu members with Anna as center. It marked the group's entry into the V-pop scene and was issued in three physical CD types alongside a digital version. The tracklist emphasized upbeat J-pop influences adapted for Vietnamese audiences.[17]| No. | Title | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Heavy Rotation | 4:38 | Senbatsu (Anna center) |
| 2 | Shonichi | 3:48 | (Mochi & DONA centers) |
| 3 | Aitakatta | 3:47 | (Trùng Dương & Anna centers) |
| 4 | SGO48 | 3:57 | (Hikari center) |
| No. | Title | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Koisuru Fortune Cookie | 4:42 | Senbatsu (Ánh Sáng center) |
| 2 | Namida Surprise! | 4:39 | 16 members (Janie center) |
| 3 | Shoujotachi yo | 4:29 | 16 members (DONA & Anna centers) |
| 4 | 365 Nichi no Kamihikouki | 4:39 | 16 members (Kaycee center) |
| No. | Title | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | RIVER | 4:41 | Senbatsu (Kaycee center) |
| 2 | Ponytail to Shushu | 4:25 | 16 members (Trùng Dương & Anna centers) |
| 3 | SGO Festival (Lễ Hội SGO) | 4:09 | 16 members (Anna & Kaycee centers); original track |
| 4 | RIVER (Off Vocal) | 4:41 | Instrumental version |
| No. | Title | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | ABCDEFA! | 3:09 | TOP7 members |