Quadlips, the first-ever international sub-unit of the known Japanese idol group AKB48, is making waves across Asia. Formed by girls from different countries, including Indonesia, Japan, the Philippines, and Thailand, this four-member girl group embodies multicultural diversity and innovative musicality. Debuting in Bangkok on March 11, 2024, with their debut single “Catch Me Kiss Me,” Quadlips is establishing its presence with a fresh and edgy sound that blends hip-hop and R&B genres.
Meet the members
The group is led by Feni, Feni Fitriyanti from JKT48 Indonesia, alongside Aoumi Hinano, known as Hina, from SKE48 in Japan. The Filipino representative, Ashley Nicole Tanael Somera or Cole, hails from MNL48, while Nunthapak Kittirattanaviwat, or Fame, represents BNK48 from Thailand. This diverse composition is not accidental. Each member was carefully selected from their respective sister groups to create a unique, multicultural identity. Cole emphasized this point, saying, “I feel like Quadlips is very diverse po, and since we’re from different backgrounds, it serves as our identity as Quadlips.” Their shared background in the 48 Group system fuels their sense of unity while enabling them to explore varied musical genres beyond traditional idol styles.
Feni
Hina and Cole
Cole
Cole and Fame
Resilience and training
The path to becoming part of Quadlips involved nearly two years of intense training, even for members already familiar with the 48 idol system. Cole recounted her Thai training experience, “It feels very heartwarming, actually, that the first time I went to Thailand, to be honest, was really difficult for me.” Adjusting to a new cultural environment proved challenging, especially as a Filipino deeply family-oriented. Yet, through unwavering support from management and fellow members, they adapted and grew stronger. Language barriers and cultural differences presented hurdles as well. Feni explained, “We can learn our cultures. We try to speak Thai, we try to learn Tagalog, and we try to speak Taiwanese, and also we try to speak Indonesian.” Despite all efforts, occasional miscommunications happen, which Cole admitted, “It’s inevitable, but it’s what makes us unique. It’s what makes Quadlips, Quadlips.”
Cultural differences
Some cultural shocks, particularly Japan’s strict punctuality norms, also tested their adaptation skills. Fame recalled, “In Thailand, when we have a meeting or schedule. If the time is like, ‘You have to meet us at 4 P.M.’ Thai people will say, ‘Okay, 4 P.M. I will go 4 P.M. or 4 one minute P.M.'” But Japanese culture emphasizes arriving early, with members often arriving well before scheduled times. Hani shared her first experience: “When I arrived early for training and found others weren’t there, I worried, ‘Don’t have today? Did I make a mistake?'” These experiences deepen their understanding of each other’s backgrounds and foster resilience.
Release of “IDGA”
Quadlips is not just cultural exchange but also redefining idol music with their original releases. Their latest single, “IDGA” (I Don’t Give A), was unveiled at a press conference in Quezon City on August 15, 2025, as part of their expanding Asian tour. Described as a playful, empowering breakup anthem, “IDGA” integrates hip-hop and R&B influences, sung primarily in English. Cole highlighted its distinct vibe, stating, “‘IDGA’ has ‘school vibes’ and a lighthearted tone, perfect for anyone navigating relationship differences.” The song’s energetic, relatable theme centers on confidence and independence—core messages that resonate with their global audience.
Feni, the group’s leader, also contributed creatively to the project. She explained, “I’m trying to get involved with it and become the senior there. I have a lot of time with the management and sharing my idea.” Her leadership was evident during the development of the concept, costumes, and choreography, reflecting her commitment to their artistic vision. The accompanying music video, shot in Tokyo’s Shibuya district, features colorful visuals and TikTok-friendly moments, further amplifying their global appeal.
@randomrepublika Early throwback to #Quadlips in Manila ✨ Meet Feni, Hina, Cole, and Fame of the international four-member girl group 🎶 The girls launched their latest single IDGA earlier this month. #Feni #Hina #Cole #Fame ♬ IDGA – Quadlips
Cultural exchange
Beyond music, Quadlips expresses a desire to collaborate with Filipino P-pop sensation SB19, acknowledging their admiration for the group’s performance prowess. Cole remarked, “I feel like our vibe and genre are quite similar,” and Fame enthusiastically added, “I really admire how they perform. It’s so amazing and cool!”
The group’s global aspirations are supported by strategic partnerships, notably with Creat8 Stories, a prominent design and marketing agency in the Philippines. The collaboration aims to craft memorable brand experiences and facilitate Asian talents’ entrance into the international market. Nariaki Terada, CEO of A-Nexus, articulated the significance of this partnership, stating, “This launch is a key milestone for A-Nexus, and we are eager to explore more opportunities in Asia, particularly the Philippines. We’re committed to supporting our artists and creating memorable experiences for fans, and this is just the start.”
Fan support
As Quadlips continues to grow outside Japan and Thailand, their message of gratitude remains clear. Fame expressed appreciation to their supporters. She said, “Thank you for supporting us from the start until right now. And we hope we’re gonna make like a lot of memories and you will remember our moment for a long time when you come to meet Quadlips.” Cole echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of fans’ backing. She shared, “We wouldn’t be here if it weren’t for your support. Thank you very much po for everyone who’s been supporting us from the start and to everyone who’s already discovering us.”
The group’s zeal is evident as they prepare for upcoming performances in the Philippines, with Hani sharing her excitement. “We are happy to be back in the Philippines, and we cannot wait to meet the Filipino fans, and we want to perform a lot on the stage. Mahal kita,” she said. Feni is equally enthusiastic, saying, “We will perform with our hearts, of course. I want to really know more about Philippine people, so I can’t wait to work here.”
@randomrepublika LIVE PERFORMANCE 👏🏻 Early throwback to #Quadlips in Manila ✨ Meet Feni, Hina, Cole, and Fame of the international four-member girl group 🎶 The girls launched their latest single IDGA earlier this month. #Feni #Hina #Cole #Fame ♬ original sound – randomrepublika
Quadlips stands as a pioneering force in Asian pop culture — a melting pot of diverse backgrounds, fresh sounds, and bold ambitions. With their recent release “IDGA,” their strategic collaborations, and heartfelt connections with fans, the group exemplifies how cultural diversity and musical innovation can elevate a girl group onto the global stage. Their journey is just beginning, and the world awaits more of their artistry. We’re here to watch out for that!
