AKB48 celebrates 20th anniversary with revival of 'Aitakatta

AKB48 is marking the 20th anniversary of its major debut with a revival of the song ‘Aitakatta 2026’. The new version, featured as a coupling track on the 68th single ‘Sukiish’, features a live arrangement performed by 16 junior members, with 17th-generation member Akiho Sato serving as the center.

The music video, scheduled for release on October 25, pays homage to the original 2006 production. Filmed at the Suzaki Lighthouse in Tateyama, Chiba Prefecture, the video recreates iconic scenes from the original, including the use of similar costumes and settings. Sato noted the emotional significance of performing in the same location and attire as former center Atsuko Maeda.

In a recent interview, Sato discussed the group's current momentum, noting that the single ‘Sukiish’ achieved the highest first-week sales for a female artist this fiscal year on the Oricon charts. Despite this success, Sato expressed a drive to increase concert attendance at larger venues, stating that the group's ultimate goal is to perform at the Tokyo Dome.