Junnosuke Watanabe has officially returned as CEO of WACK, the alternative idol management company he previously led.

Watanabe announced his return to the role in a characteristically understated manner. The executive had previously stepped down from his position at the company, which manages several prominent alternative idol groups including BiSH, EMPiRE, and GANG PARADE.

WACK (short for Watanabe Alternative Current Collective) has become known for its unconventional approach to idol management since its founding. The company has built a reputation for creating groups that challenge traditional idol norms, often incorporating punk rock aesthetics and rebellious attitudes into their acts.

Under Watanabe's previous leadership, WACK groups gained significant popularity both domestically and internationally. BiSH in particular achieved mainstream success, performing at major venues like the Nippon Budokan and appearing on popular TV shows.

The timing of Watanabe's return comes as the Japanese idol industry continues to evolve, with alternative idol groups gaining more recognition alongside traditional acts. His leadership style and vision for WACK's roster will likely influence the company's direction as it continues to develop its stable of artists.

Watanabe's return suggests continuity for WACK's existing projects and potentially signals new developments for the company's various groups. Fans will be watching to see what changes, if any, his leadership brings to WACK's operations and artistic direction.