Kotoko

Kotoko, the bubbly sub-rapper of the rising K-pop girl group UNIS, has quickly become a fan favorite since the group’s debut. Born on October 28, 2007, in Osaka, Japan, this Japanese idol caught viewers’ attention on the SBS survival show Universe Ticket, where she stood out with her playful energy and distinct charm. You might know her by her nickname Ko-chan, a name that fans and fellow members use affectionately whenever she’s around.

Kotoko’s journey to stardom wasn’t a straight line. Before joining Universe Ticket, she wasn’t part of a big trainee system — she competed as an individual trainee, relying purely on her own talent and charisma. During her audition, she performed TWICE’s “Candy Pop,” a nod to the kind of bright, playful energy she’d go on to bring to UNIS. When the show wrapped up, she’d secured 8th place with an impressive 470,502 points, cementing her spot in the eight-member lineup of UNIS under F&F Entertainment.

On March 27, 2024, Kotoko made her official debut with UNIS through their first EP, “We Unis,” featuring the title track “Super Woman.” Since then, she’s been part of every major UNIS release, from the infectious “CURIOUS” single to the group’s second mini album “SWICY,” and even their expansion into the Japanese market with “MoshiMoshi♡.” Fans often point to her rapping style and her natural comic timing as two of her biggest strengths on stage.

Off stage, Kotoko is exactly as sweet as she seems. She’s an avid sticker collector — teddy bears, cats, little-girl designs, you name it — and isn’t shy about admitting she’d spend serious money each month just adding to her collection. Her role models, K-pop stars Hanni of NewJeans and Winter of aespa, reflect the kind of bright, approachable image she’s cultivating as she grows alongside UNIS.

As UNIS continues to build momentum across South Korea, Japan, and beyond, Kotoko remains one of the group’s most endearing personalities — proof that you don’t need the loudest voice in the room to leave a lasting impression.