BNK48

BNK48 is a Thai girl group based in Bangkok that operates as the Thai sister group of Japan’s AKB48. Formed in 2017, it was created to bring the AKB48 “idols you can meet” concept to Thailand, with a large roster of members trained and managed to perform regularly for fans.

The group uses a theater-based format similar to its Japanese predecessor. BNK48 stage performances are held at a dedicated venue in Bangkok, offering frequent live shows where fans can see multiple members in person. Members are organized into teams and continually rotated through performances, with new generations introduced through auditions and member graduations.

Musically, BNK48 releases Thai-language singles and albums, including Thai versions of select AKB48 songs alongside original material. The group participates in events that resemble the AKB48 Group’s general election concept, allowing fans to influence lineups and center positions for releases and performances.

In keeping with the AKB48 model, BNK48 maintains a dynamic and evolving membership. Members join through auditions, train in singing and dancing, and may graduate when they choose or when the group’s management decides to refresh the lineup. The organization behind BNK48 emphasizes fan engagement, regular performances, and a structured system of teams and generations that supports ongoing activity and expansion. The group is part of the broader AKB48 ecosystem, collaborating on cross-group projects and benefiting from the international network of sister groups.