The South Korean K-Pop Girl Group ILLIT has officially been revealed as the artist behind the opening theme song for the upcoming second season of the Japanese anime ‘It’s Time for “Torture,” Princess’.
What’s the anime?
The series is based on the manga written by Robinson Haruhara and illustrated by Hirakei, which began serialisation in April 2019 on Shueisha’s Shōnen Jump+ platform.
Season 2 is set to premiere in Japan on January 12 2026. The show follows a tongue-in-cheek fantasy premise: a captive princess endures “torture” not of the medieval kind, but rather by indulgent food, comfort and lavish pleasures all while retaining her royal composure.
Why this is a big move for ILLIT
- ILLIT being tapped for a Japanese anime theme marks a significant cross-cultural moment a Korean girl group performing the opening theme for a Japanese TV anime.
- The group’s agency highlighted their honor and excitement:
“We are honored to sing the opening for an animation series that is being loved so much in Japan. We are so excited to see the synergy that we will bring with our song.” - This choice signifies ILLIT’s growing footprint in Japan: their Japanese debut single “Toki Yo Tomare” and other activities have already positioned them in the Japanese market.
Key Details
- Opening theme artist: ILLIT (title of song not yet revealed)
- Anime debut of season: January 12, 2026 in Japan.
- Ending theme artist: Japanese singer-songwriter Yuika (confirmed for the season)
Why this matters
- Cultural crossover – The collaboration reflects how K-pop and J-anime are increasingly interwoven. ILLIT’s involvement helps bridge fans of both worlds.
- Market strategy – For ILLIT this is a strategic move in expanding into Japan, where anime theme songs can significantly boost artist exposure.
- Brand synergy – For the anime, using a high-energy K-pop group can heighten global appeal and perhaps attract new viewers beyond Japan.
- Timing – With the preview of season 2 and key visuals already released, this announcement builds anticipation and sets the tone for the upcoming season.
What to keep an eye on
- The title and full release date of the opening theme song by ILLIT fans are already speculating and waiting for further details.
- Whether the track will be released as a single (physical/digital) and if there will be special editions tied to the anime.
- ILLIT’s promotional activities in Japan around the anime release: live performances, media appearances, tie-ins.
- How the energy of ILLIT’s music will match the comedic-fantasy tone of “Torture, Princess” early leaks or previews may hint at styling and concept.
- Streaming and international licensing: As season 2 will likely be available via streaming in many territories, the opening theme has global reach.
Final Thoughts
This collaboration signals a vibrant moment in global pop culture: a K-pop act lending its voice to a Japanese anime series, deepening the connection between music and animation industries across Asia. For ILLIT, it’s an opportunity to shine in a new medium and reach a broader audience. For the anime, the opening theme becomes part of its identity an auditory hook that sets the mood and stays with viewers.
If you’re a fan of either ILLIT, K-pop, or anime like “Torture, Princess,” this is one announcement to mark on your calendar. With the season set for January 2026, keep an ear out for previews and updates on ILLIT’s theme tune.
