Kōhaku, is an annual music show on New Year’s Eve produced by Japanese public broadcaster NHK and broadcast on both television and radio, nationally and internationally by NHK’s networks and some overseas (mainly cable) broadcasters which bought the program. The show ends shortly before midnight (when NHK switches to a frenzy of “Happy New Year” greetings from around the nation).

The “red” team or akagumi is composed of all female artists (or groups with female vocals), while the “white” team or shirogumi  is all male (or groups with male vocals). The honor of performing on Kōhaku is strictly by invitation, so only the most successful J-Pop artists and enka singers can perform.

The songs and performers are examined by a selection committee put together by NHK. The basis for selection are record sales and adaptability to the edition’s theme.

The Korean idol groups who got the top spot in this year’s ” Red and white ” ( Kouhaku ) event are KARA and SNSD. The groups who qualified are being shortlisted.
Since, the groups needed a white pair for the event, TVXQ was considered instead of Supernova. Jang Geunsuk was also considered for the white pair as well. It was highly expected that Supernova will make it to this event, being a mainstay of the NHK TV program. An official from the NHK has stated that, TVXQ’s case is different as they ” rank better in the ratings “.

A representative from Korea has reported, the groups’ respective activities in Korea and their popularity are also being considered in this case.

source: news-postseven

english translation by AngelMae0515 @ Starlight