Sho Hirano’s Merchandise Sells Out in a Flash, But a Deeper Issue Lurks: The Widening Membership Gap

Sho Hirano’s Merchandise Sells Out Immediately, While Others Remain Unsold

Number_i, a three-member group consisting of Sho Hirano, Yuta Kishi, and Yuta Jinguji, will embark on a nationwide tour from October 3 to December 26.

Merchandise sales began on September 20, ahead of the tour, but concerns have emerged about the disparity between the members.

A fan with photos of the three members was among the merchandise sold. However, Hirano’s fans were sold out on the night of September 20, the first day of sales, while Kishi and Jinguji’s fans remained unsold on September 23, the last day of sales.

On the online store, at 18:00 on September 23, it was confirmed that two other fans besides Hirano were still on sale.

The Disparity Between Members

Number_i was formed in October 2023, consisting of Hirano, Kishi, and Jinguuji, who left King & Prince and Johnny’s former office. The group’s activities have sparked discussions about the three members, with concerns about the “disparity” between them.

Hirano has signed a partnership agreement with Louis Vuitton, became the Asian ambassador for Yves Saint Laurent, and became the MC of his first terrestrial variety show after his transfer to the variety show “3people 1minute” (Nippon TV), which aired on July 23.

Kishi and Jinguji have appeared in fashion magazines, but concerns have been raised about the lack of solo work.

Impact of Hirano’s Advertising Work

An advertising agency official noted that Hirano’s work as an advertising executive may have an impact on the disparity between the members.

Hirano has been used in commercials and as a frontman for a wide range of companies, from high-end brands like Yves Saint Laurent to manufacturers familiar to many, like Ikeda Gendo, the company behind Liquid Muhi.

Compared to his time at Kinpuri, Hirano’s fan base appears to be broad, which may contribute to the disparity between the members.

Number_i’s Future

Number_i will celebrate its first anniversary in October, but the disparity between members is likely to become an issue in the future.

When Kinpuri debuted, Hirano’s popularity was great, but gradually the other four members found their areas of expertise, such as variety shows and acting, and became active as solo artists, increasing the value of the Kinpuri group.

For Kishi and Jinguji, if their individual work increases, such as independent commercials and TV dramas, the situation may change.

The road to becoming “number one” does not seem to be easy for Number_i.