INI, an 11-member global boy group, will release their 3rd album "THE ORIGIN" on Wednesday, June 25, 2025. They will be featured on the cover and in the main article "INI and Words" of "Quick Japan" vol.178, which will be released on Wednesday, June 18.
This marks the third time INI has graced the cover and been featured in "Quick Japan," following vol.162 (released August 2022) and vol.168 (released October 2023). This issue includes solo interviews with all 11 INI members on the theme of "words."
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Since their formation, INI has championed "Log in to us," emphasizing the connection between "us" and "the world." The tool they have consistently valued is "words." Their passion is evident in every "word" delivered to us through songwriting, music, essay writing, and television appearances, and they use every "word" to communicate with each other.
Therefore, the editorial department of Quick Japan chose "INI and Words" as the special feature theme for this issue.
We conducted solo interviews with all 11 INI members on the theme of "words." Additionally, KENTA of the three-piece band WANIMA, who wrote and composed "HERO," one of INI's most popular songs, appears in an interview and shares a message for the INI members.
Furthermore, Akutagawa Prize-winning author Ryohei Machiya, who regularly follows INI's activities and serializes the "Boys Group x Sci-Fi" novel "Hakkou Suru, Ra" in "Quick Japan," also contributes an essay reflecting on their expressions.
Using "words" as a clue, interviews and content totaling over 30,000 characters multi-angle reveal why INI is loved in this day and age.
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After surviving an audition with 101 trainees, the 11 members debuted on November 3, 2021. As a "global boy group," they have constantly strived for results, achieving their first million sales with their 6th single "THE FRAME" in 2024. They have become one of Japan's leading dance & vocal groups, both in name and in reality.
"Log in to us"
This phrase, repeated countless times by INI, expresses their desire to connect "us" with "you" and "the world." Indeed, since their debut, they have prioritized "connection" over competition.
This sentiment is evident in their emphasis on dialogue among members, their self-penned lyrics, their emails and blog posts to fans, their comments on music programs and variety shows, and their daily demeanor. Their intentions can truly be felt in every one of their "words."
In an era where a single word can create great division and conflict, why do INI's words attract so many people? Through interviews with the 11 members and the words dedicated to them, we explore the secret behind their appeal.
─── From the lead text of the "INI and Words" special feature in "Quick Japan" vol.178 (to be released on June 18, 2025)
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For the gravure photoshoot, to highlight the mature side of INI, who will celebrate their 4th anniversary in June 2025, the members were photographed in chic attire, with a world of "light and shadow" inspired by Rembrandt's paintings. The photoshoot was handled by photographer Tim Gallo, who explores "chiaroscuro," or light and dark. In addition to the cover, the special feature includes numerous group and solo photos that share this aesthetic.
Please look forward to the special feature "INI and Words," which delves into why INI is needed in this era and the secret to their popularity.
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