Madein Heads to Tokyo: A Global Dream vs Local Concerns
Madein, a six-member multinational girl group, was recently spotted at Seoul Gimpo International Airport heading to Tokyo for a release event. Debuting in 2024, the group has been riding a wave of international attention, especially in Japan, one of the world’s most vibrant markets for K-pop outside Korea.
Trying to Have It Both Ways: The Global Push vs The Local Bond
Advantages of Going Global
Madein's appeal lies in its diverse roster—members hail from multiple countries, making it easier to build connections with international fans. This structure isn’t new, but it's especially timely now. With streaming platforms erasing borders, K-pop is no longer just a Korean phenomenon.
Take TWICE as an example—early success in both Japan and Korea stemmed from its multicultural lineup. Madein seems to be following a similar roadmap. With a global mindset baked into their very identity, their activities in Japan aren't just a short-term strategy, but part of a bigger, longer plan.
But What About Home?
While global expansion is thrilling, there’s a growing concern among Korean fans that the group might be skipping crucial steps at home. Overseas promotions take time, physically and emotionally distancing idols from the domestic scene.
This isn’t hypothetical—it’s happened before. Several K-pop groups have scaled back on local fan engagements like meet-ups and variety show appearances when focusing abroad. This created a rift (gap or disconnect) between them and the fans who supported them from the start.
There's also the issue of cultural misalignment (not fully understanding each other's customs) among group members. While diversity is a strength, it can also slow down team bonding and affect what fans sense as genuine group chemistry.
What’s Madein’s Next Move?
Ideally, Madein would walk a fine line: reaching out to international fans without making their Korean supporters feel left behind. That’s not easy, but not impossible either. BTS, for example, routinely held fan events in Seoul even while leading global charts—showing that geographic expansion doesn’t always mean emotional distance.
If Madein wants to become a long-lasting pillar in the industry, managing this balance will be crucial. Skipping domestic growth may offer fast fame abroad, but the home fanbase remains the lifeblood of sustained careers in K-pop. The group’s global vision is bold—and admirable—but they’ll need local roots to support it.
