YENA to Release Korean-Language Remake of Ai Otsuka’s ‘Sakuranbo’
Published October 20, 2026 12:08 AM
Sharon Jung
Courtesy of YH Entertainment
Singer YENA will release a Korean-language remake of Japanese singer Ai Otsuka’s hit song “Sakuranbo” on Nov. 17.
Originally released in 2003, “Sakuranbo” is known for its upbeat melody and repetitive chorus. More than two decades after its release, the song remains widely recognised in Japan.
The remake is part of the “J-POP REMAKE” project, which introduces new interpretations of established Japanese songs by Korean artists. YENA is expected to retain the defining features of the original while incorporating her own vocal and musical style.
Teaser images released through social media draw on Japanese popular culture from the early 2000s, when the original song was issued.
One image shows a glass filled with cherries against a pink background. Another features the word “SAKURANBO” alongside a mobile phone resembling an accessory used by a magical-girl character in Japanese animation.
The visual direction connects the remake to the period associated with the original release rather than presenting it solely as a contemporary cover.
YENA recently released the digital single “보기 드문 여자,” featuring NOWIMYOUNG.
Her Korean-language version of “Sakuranbo” will be available through major music platforms at 6 p.m. on Nov. 17.
SayArt.net Sharon Jung guhuijeong784@gmail.com
New version of the 2003 J-pop hit will arrive Nov. 17 as part of the “J-POP REMAKE” projectCourtesy of YH Entertainment
Singer YENA will release a Korean-language remake of Japanese singer Ai Otsuka’s hit song “Sakuranbo” on Nov. 17.
Originally released in 2003, “Sakuranbo” is known for its upbeat melody and repetitive chorus. More than two decades after its release, the song remains widely recognised in Japan.
The remake is part of the “J-POP REMAKE” project, which introduces new interpretations of established Japanese songs by Korean artists. YENA is expected to retain the defining features of the original while incorporating her own vocal and musical style.
Teaser images released through social media draw on Japanese popular culture from the early 2000s, when the original song was issued.
One image shows a glass filled with cherries against a pink background. Another features the word “SAKURANBO” alongside a mobile phone resembling an accessory used by a magical-girl character in Japanese animation.
The visual direction connects the remake to the period associated with the original release rather than presenting it solely as a contemporary cover.
YENA recently released the digital single “보기 드문 여자,” featuring NOWIMYOUNG.
Her Korean-language version of “Sakuranbo” will be available through major music platforms at 6 p.m. on Nov. 17.
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