RIIZE Shotaro's mention of TWICE's Sana as a ‘national treasure' receives mixed reactions from netizens: Here's what happened

Time of India

27-05-2025

RIIZE's Shotaro recent interview with TWICE's
Sana
, but his innocent comment about her status in Japan sparked backlash from some fans.
Shotaro visits TWICE's Sana and reflects on his newfound fame
RIIZE member Shotaro recently appeared as a guest on TWICE's Sana's popular variety show, Sana's Fridge Interview.
The two, who are both Japanese idols in the K-pop industry, reunited after a long time apart and shared a light-hearted yet insightful conversation.
During the interview, Sana asked Shotaro about RIIZE's rapid rise to fame and how he felt about his growing popularity. Shotaro expressed his gratitude and shared an anecdote about his friends in Japan. He revealed that many of them previously had little interest in idol groups or K-pop music, but thanks to RIIZE's success, they've started paying attention.
He also reflected on how being recognized in public and hearing his group's music in everyday settings has made him more aware of his own celebrity status.
Shotaro calls Sana a '
national treasure
' in Japan
A
t one point in the interview, Shotaro shifted the topic to Sana's immense popularity in their home country. He mentioned that his friends were more excited about his appearance on Sana's show than about RIIZE itself. Laughing, Sana found the anecdote endearing.
Shotaro shared, 'My friends always ask, 'Hey, did you meet TWICE? Did you meet Sana?'' Speaking about Sana's influence, he added, 'Sana noona is like a god in Japan—that's what I think. Sort of a national treasure.'
Though clearly made as a compliment, the remark quickly went viral online and sparked a variety of reactions from netizens.
Netizens divided over Shotaro's comment
While many fans found the exchange wholesome and sweet, others criticized Shotaro for what they perceived as unnecessary name-dropping.
One user posted, 'Sadly, nobody knows him nor his flop-ass group lmfao... the need to name-drop Sana's name for clout.'
Another wrote, 'As a Japanese, tbh, I can only say we live in another world... I think 90% of Japanese may have only heard of TWICE but don't know her face or name.'
Still, many came to Shotaro's defense, praising his kind words. Supportive comments included, 'Shotaro said it perfectly; she is indeed a god and a national treasure,' and 'Sana is a god everywhere—I mean, just look at her.'
As the video clip continues to circulate, it remains clear that the admiration between the two idols resonated with many—whether taken as a sweet gesture or a controversial remark.
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