STU48 Dives into Freezing Rough Seas! Special Program 'STU48 no Uchira Suki ni Narinchai' Featuring a 3-Day Mud-Stained Co-living Experience to Air for Free on ABEMA on March 30, 2026, at 9:00 PM

The new future television "ABEMA" will broadcast a special program titled 'STU48 no Uchira Suki ni Narinchai' on Monday, March 30, 2026, at 9:00 PM. The show follows members of the idol group STU48, which is based in the seven prefectures of Setouchi, as they live together in harsh environments, including diving into freezing, rough seas.

In this program, STU48 members apprentice under fishermen in the freezing sea, documenting a grueling three-day, two-night co-living experience. From harvesting over 200kg of oysters to performing fish dispatching (ikejime) themselves, and finally eating the ultimate fisherman's meal after enduring hunger, the show reveals a new side of the members as they cast aside their idol status to struggle in the mud.

The program features commentary from Hiroyuki Iguchi of the comedy duo Westland (from Okayama Prefecture) and former Nogizaka46 member Maaya Wada (from Hiroshima Prefecture). After filming, STU48 captain Azumi Okada commented, "I realized once again that the reason we can enjoy delicious seafood at our tables every day is thanks to the hard work of fishermen." Westland's Iguchi praised the members' efforts, saying, "Their individual personalities really shone through, and I thought they were all truly hard workers." Reflecting on her own experiences with grueling location shoots during her idol days, Wada offered warm encouragement: "It reminded me of how my bonds with my group deepened through various location shoots. Youth is fleeting, so I hope they really enjoy this time." (Full comments after recording are provided at the bottom of the release.)

'STU48 no Uchira Suki ni Narinchai,' which captures the true feelings and bonds of these idols, will begin airing on "ABEMA" on Monday, March 30, 2026, at 9:00 PM. Please look forward to it.

<Full Comments from STU48 Captain Azumi Okada, Westland's Hiroyuki Iguchi, and Maaya Wada>

STU48 Captain Azumi Okada

We spent three days in Etajima experiencing the fishing industry. It was much tougher than I had imagined, and I realized that the seafood we eat daily is only possible because of the fishermen's hard work. The people who took care of us in Etajima were so warm, and I was deeply impressed by how the entire island supported each other like one big family. The program shows the warmth of the people of Etajima and the various expressions of our members as they struggle through their first fishing experience! Also, keep an eye out for segments that will make you want to shout, 'Is this a Showa-era variety show?!' Please enjoy it!

Westland Hiroyuki Iguchi

Whether they were rotating in or staying the whole time, everyone's personality really came through. I thought they were all truly hard workers. Also, a 'special guest from Hiroshima' appears, which is the biggest highlight!

Maaya Wada

I felt that the members are very close, and that the depth of the bond they formed with the locals over three days is a testament to the members' own charm. I think this is a program where fans can discover the individual appeal of each member. I had many first-time experiences during location shoots when I was in my group, so I felt nostalgic many times. Spending time together, getting closer, and supporting each other...