72nd NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen

The 72nd NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen is an annual New Year's Eve music special broadcast by NHK. It features a competition between two teams, the red (female artists) and white (male artists), who perform their latest hits. The event showcases a wide range of Japanese musical talent, from pop idols and rock bands to traditional enka singers and emerging artists. Viewers and a panel of judges vote to determine the winning team.

The Kōhaku Uta Gassen is a highly anticipated annual event in Japan, consistently drawing massive television audiences and serving as a barometer for the year's popular music. While specific critical reviews are rare for this type of live broadcast, its consistent viewership and cultural significance are widely recognized. It is often lauded for its grand production values and the sheer diversity of musical styles presented, though some may note a predictable format.

• A star-studded showcase of Japan's biggest musical acts.
• Consistently one of Japan's most-watched television programs.
• Praised for its high production quality and diverse musical performances.

Google audience: Audience reception for the Kōhaku Uta Gassen is overwhelmingly positive, with viewers tuning in year after year to celebrate Japanese music and ring in the new year. It is seen as a cultural touchstone that brings families together, offering a mix of beloved veterans and exciting new talent.

None notable (as it is a broadcast event)

The 72nd NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen was the first edition since 2014 to feature an in-person audience, after two years of broadcasts without them due to the COVID-19 pandemic.