Sakura Miyawaki of IZ*ONE: A Star in the K-pop Industry
As a member of the Korean-Japanese girl group IZ*ONE, Sakura Miyawaki has established herself as a notable figure in the K-pop industry. With her participation in the reality competition show Produce48, she quickly gained significant recognition and popularity, leading to her successful debut with her group.
Behind the Scenes of IZ*ONE
IZ*ONE is a K-pop girl group created by MNET’s Produce48, which is the third season of the renowned Produce101 series. Produce48 originated from bringing together Japanese trainees from AKB48 and its sister groups, as well as Korean trainees from various labels. The final lineup of IZ*ONE includes talented members such as Sakura Miyawaki, Jang Wonyoung, Jo Yuri, Choi Yena, Ahn Yujin, Yabuki Nako, Kwon Eunbi, Kang Hyewon, Honda Hitomi, Kim Chaewon, Kim Minjoo, and Lee Chaeyeon.
Her Journey to Fame
Sakura Miyawaki's journey to fame began in her early years. Born in Kagoshima City, Japan, she was inspired to become a singer after listening to opera with her mother. Attendance at a musical school and a private middle school called Shigakukan in Kisarazu, Japan, further fueled her passion. Her special skills include drawing and being able to sleep anywhere, which makes her unique and relatable to fans.
Her career in the entertainment industry started when she joined HKT48, a sister group of AKB48, as a trainee. She eventually became a part of Team H in March 2012 and later moved to Team KIV in 2014. Known for her talent, she ranked No. 2 in the Produce48 competition, winning the first place in the group and thus debuting with IZ*ONE in October 2018 in South Korea and February 2019 in Japan.
Despite the disbandment of IZ*ONE in April 2021, Sakura continued to be active in the entertainment industry, further cementing her status as a renowned personality in K-pop.
Gifts, Challenges, and Personal Traits
Sakura's popularity is evident not only through her rankings and performances but also through the gifts she has received from her fans. During fan sign events, fans gifted her with a PlayStation 4 and a Nintendo Switch, showcasing their support. Some of her favorite foods include sushi, and she enjoys green tea latte. In addition to her singing and acting skills, she has a passion for gaming and maintains an active YouTube gaming channel.
Throughout her career, Sakura has faced various challenges. She dislikes red bean paste and has concurrently held positions in AKB48's Team A. Despite these challenges, her unique running style, expressed in her unconventional way of running, has become one of her charm points. Her connection with other HKT48 members, including Murashige Anna, adds a personal touch to her fanbase.
Sakura also expressed a desire to continue acting, participating in Japanese horror miniseries titled Crow’s Blood and AKB48’s drama series, Majisuka Gakuen 4. Her well-rounded personality and diverse talents have contributed to her enduring popularity in the K-pop industry.
Conclusion
From her beginnings as a trainee in HKT48 to her successful debut with IZ*ONE, Sakura Miyawaki has demonstrated remarkable talent and dedication. Her journey through the Produce48 competition and her subsequent ranking confirm her place in the K-pop landscape. Despite the group's disbandment, Sakura's influence and popularity remain significant, making her a compelling and enduring figure in the entertainment industry.