Where Is 'SaNakHi' Now? Recent Activities of IZ*ONE's 'J-Line' After Disbandment
After parting ways following IZ*ONE's disbandment, what happened to the group's "J-Line" SaNakHi? Keep reading to know their recent activities.
Sakura, Nako, Hitomi Pre-Debut: Idols' Respective Careers Before Entry in K-pop
Before the trio find their way into the K-pop scene, they initially established their respective careers in Japan.
Starting with Yabuki Nako, she originally debuted as a child actress in 2001 and as a huge fan of Sashihara Rino of AKB48, she also tried her luck to become a Japanese idol. In 2013, she debuted in HKT48, where she rose as the ace of HKT48's 3rd generation.
Miyawaki Sakura also started her singing and dancing career in HKT48, after debuting in 2011. Alongside the two, Honda Hitomi is also a member of its sister group AKB48.
In 2018, the three met on one stage after performing "NO WAY MAN."
Sakura, Nako, Hitomi in May 2018 to 2021: Produce 48, Debut in IZ*ONE
In May 2018 then, the trio confirmed their participation in Mnet's survival show, "Produce 48."
At first, Nako started in the lowest "F" class but later on rose as "Hidden Gem" for her clean dance and vocal potential. Hitomi then started in the middle "C" class but also climb to the top with her dance skills and bright image. Among them, Sakura became the crowd's favorite, starting in "A" class for her top-tier visuals, good Korean and impressive talent in dancing.
At the end of the show, the three Japan-born K-pop idol aspirants all entered the final lineup who will debut in a new girl group. Hitomi finished the show as #9, Nako as #6 and Sakura as #2.
In October of the same year, they finally debuted as IZ*ONE. During their active promotion, fans dubbed them as the Japanese trinity of the girl group, also called "SaNakHi," the line who was not only skilled in terms of dancing and singing but also have strong friendship chemistry when together.
Where Is 'SaNakHi' Now? Trio's Status After IZ*ONE Disbandment
Unfortunately, the beloved "J-Line" parted their ways after IZ*ONE disbanded in 2021.
Although some fans anticipated that she will sign a contract with a Korean agency, Nako decided to go back to Japan and resumed her activities as HKT48. However, she's continuing her activities in the Korean entertainment scene.
In July 2022, it was confirmed that HKT48 Nako will be joining SF9 Rowoon to host the Korean-Japanese audition show, "The Idol Band: Boy's Battle" to be aired by SBS M.
Hitomi also went back to her hometown and resumed her career at AKB48. She also pursued an acting career and in September, she announced her first female lead role for an upcoming Japanese drama.
Sakura
Among the "J-Line," Sakura is the only one who chose a different path and decided to continue being an idol. Initially, she also went back to HKT48, but later on, confirmed her graduation from the team.
Following that, she signed with HYBE along with co-IZ*ONE Chaewon and debuted as LE SSERAFIM in May.
READ MORE: Former IZ*ONE Hitomi Current Status in Japan Draws Divided Opinions – Here's Why
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Written by Eunice Dawson
