🎤 Amid controversy, XG makes their decision—the world tour goes on. After their producer's arrest sent shockwaves through the music world, the seven members of XG announced "THE CORE" continues as planned. Here's the full story, the tour schedule, and how fans worldwide are responding.

XG Officially Confirms World Tour "THE CORE" Will Continue

On February 27, 2026, the seven-member HIP HOP/R&B group XG announced via their official X (formerly Twitter) account that their ongoing 2nd world tour "XG WORLD TOUR: THE CORE" will proceed as scheduled.

Their statement read: "After careful deliberation regarding upcoming shows, we have decided to proceed with performances as planned." They also noted that ticket refunds would be available for those who wish, with details to be announced later. The statement closed with a commitment to ensuring "a safe and enjoyable experience for all attendees."

This announcement comes in the wake of the February 23 arrest of JAKOPS (SIMON), CEO and executive producer of XGALX—the label behind XG—on suspicion of violating Japan's Narcotics Control Act.

What Happened — Timeline of Events

The arrest took place immediately after XG's Nagoya IG Arena shows on February 21-22. After the show on the night of the 22nd, Tokyo Metropolitan Police searched a hotel room in Aichi Prefecture and seized cocaine and dried marijuana. JAKOPS (real name: Junho Sakai, age 39) was arrested on the spot in the early hours of the 23rd, along with three others: two Avex employees and a music producer affiliated with XGALX. Details such as whether the suspects admit to the allegations remain under investigation.

JAKOPS, born in Seattle to Japanese and Korean parents, debuted in South Korea in 2010 as a member of the boy group DMTN (formerly DALMATIAN), began producing under the JAKOPS name in 2013, and founded XGALX in 2017. He oversaw everything from member recruitment to creative direction, building XG into an internationally recognized group.

On February 24, XG issued a formal statement declaring: "XG has absolutely no involvement in this matter." The members also shared a personal message: "We ourselves are processing this sudden event with great surprise and bewilderment," adding, "XG will continue to walk forward as XG."

About the Tour — "THE CORE"

"XG WORLD TOUR: THE CORE" supports the group's 1st full album THE CORE, released January 23, 2026. This is XG's second world tour, following "The First Howl," which spanned 35 cities and 47 shows worldwide, including a sold-out Tokyo Dome concert.

The current tour kicked off February 6 with three nights at K-Arena Yokohama (approximately 60,000 attendees across the three shows), followed by Osaka-Jo Hall and Nagoya's IG Arena. The remaining Japan dates are:

  • March 14 (Sat): Sundome Fukui, Fukui Prefecture
  • March 20 (Fri/Holiday): Sekisui Heim Super Arena, Miyagi Prefecture
  • March 25-26 (Wed-Thu): GLION ARENA KOBE, Hyogo Prefecture
  • April 4-5 (Sat-Sun): Kitakyushu Messe, Fukuoka Prefecture
  • April 10-12 (Fri-Sun): Yoyogi National Stadium First Gymnasium, Tokyo (3 nights)

After Japan, the tour is set to expand across Asia, North America, UK & Europe, Australia, and Latin America. The North American leg is scheduled to begin in October 2026, covering eight cities.

Who is XG? — The "Xtraordinary Girls"

XG consists of seven members: JURIN, CHISA, HINATA, HARVEY, JURIA, MAYA, and COCONA. The name stands for "Xtraordinary Girls." What makes them unique is that all seven members are Japanese, yet they perform primarily in English and have built their career targeting the global market from day one.

Their genre-defying style spans hip hop, R&B, house, and punk rock. Since debuting in March 2022 with "Tippy Toes," they've racked up multiple firsts: first Japanese artists selected for Apple Music's "Up Next Artist" program, first Japanese act to top Billboard's "Hot Trending Songs Powered by Twitter" chart, and first Japanese girl group to grace the cover of Billboard magazine.

Their fanbase, called "ALPHAZ" — meaning "leader of the wolf pack" — has grown into one of the most passionate global fan communities in the music industry. XG also has a strong connection to the broader K-pop ecosystem, as XGALX operates with a training and production model similar to Korean entertainment companies, while proudly maintaining a distinctly Japanese identity.

Most recently, member COCONA was appointed as an ambassador for luxury brand Gucci, showcasing the group's expanding influence beyond music.

The Members' Show of Resolve

On February 26, XG posted a message on their official X account after their Nagoya shows: "Our CORE remains unchanged, unstoppable, and right here. Trust the process. Only what's real matters." They continued: "No matter what happens, XG will walk forward as XG, continuing our dream journey and charging toward the universe together with all of you."

These words, shared alongside photos from their Nagoya performances, resonated deeply with fans around the world who saw them as a declaration of resilience.

What Do You Think?

In Japan, most people believe the members should not be held responsible for the actions of their management, and the overwhelming response has been supportive. But attitudes toward separating an artist from their management's scandals vary by culture.

How would this situation be handled in your country? When a producer or manager faces legal trouble, does the artist's career typically continue? And is XG popular where you live? We'd love to hear your perspective!

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