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STU48's New Single Tops Oricon Amid Sales Drop
STU48's latest single, Chiheisen ga Miteiru ka? (Do You See the Horizon?), sold 143,615 copies, a steep decline from their 10th single, Kimi wa Nani Koukai Suru no ka?, which reached 215,310. The first-day sales were notably lower at 94,066 CDs.
Despite the drop, the single secured the top spot on Oricon’s daily chart, outperforming renowned artists like L'ArcenCiel and Da-iCE, winners of the 2021 Japan Record Award.
Fans speculate the decline stems from the graduation of senior members and senbatsu arrangements not meeting expectations.
Industry experts view this as a natural phase for J-pop groups undergoing leadership transitions and evolving line-ups.
Nonetheless, topping Oricon reaffirms STU48's enduring popularity.
The group's management remains optimistic, highlighting their ability to compete with top-tier acts. Fans are hopeful future releases will reignite sales momentum.
STU48 continues to navigate challenges while cementing their legacy as a prominent force in the J-pop scene.