NewJeans Hanni's 'Blue Coral' Cover Revives Matsuda Seiko's Classic J-Pop Hit

NewJeans member Hanni's cover of Matsuda Seiko's classic Japanese song "Aoi Sangosho" (Blue Coral) has generated significant buzz, revitalizing the 1980s hit across both Korean and Japanese audiences. Her performance at a Tokyo Dome fan meeting brought this iconic track back into the spotlight, prompting discussions about its cultural impact and leading to new interpretations.

The original "Aoi Sangosho," released on July 1, 1980, was Matsuda Seiko's second single and played a crucial role in establishing her as a top idol, reaching second place on the Oricon weekly chart. The song, characterized by its refreshing high notes and lyrics about youthful first love, became a symbol of Japan's vibrant 1980s bubble economy. Hanni's solo stage at the NewJeans Fan Meeting 'Bunnies Camp 2024 Tokyo Dome' in June 2024, attended by 91,200 spectators, recreated the original's styling and mood, bridging different eras. Subsequently, AKMU's Suhyun released a Korean remake of "Aoi Sangosho" in 2026 as part of a J-POP remake project, further expanding the song's appeal.

Bloggers note that Hanni's performance resonated deeply by evoking nostalgia for older generations while introducing the 1980s J-pop culture to younger audiences. They emphasize the significance of a contemporary K-pop idol performing such a symbolic Japanese classic, fostering a cross-generational connection. Suhyun's remake is praised for her unique clear vocals and smoothly translated Korean lyrics, offering a fresh, healing interpretation that complements the original's retro charm and Hanni's revival.