JKT48 itself is an idol group fouded in Indonesian and is a direct adaptation of the Japanese idol group AKB48. The form of public diplomacy between Indonesia-Japan through cultural diplomacy carries a soft power approach by utilizing culture as a mean of introduction. The existense of idol girl band noy only fuctions as representatives of the goverment, but also as non-states actors who play important role in facilitating interaction between nations. The girl band has the ability to promote culture, making in ta effective instrument in carrying out public diplomacy. Choosing culture as an approach to a country is considered more effective and atracctive to society ot large.
Theoretically, the emergence of JKT48 as the first idol group in Indonesia to adopt the concept of popular idols from Japan can be studied from the perspective of cultural diplomacy and soft power. JKT48 basically uses the influence of pop culture as a diplomatic instrument to bring closer relations between Indonesia and Japan. JKT48 also has a big role in introducing and displaying elements of Indonesian culture in several of its musical works. The concept of Indonesian culture that is raised can be seen in the music video entitled "Dirimu Melody". The elements of the Joglo traditional house which are the background for making the music clarify the impression of Indonesia that JKT48 is trying to convey. The combination of Japanese and Indonesian elements contained in the seifuku used also brings a new appeal to the JKT48 members. According to Junianatha, an active member of JKT48 at that time, the seifuku concept used combined traditional Javanese elements without losing the essence of JKT48 itself (JKT48 2017).
This is a form of cultural hybridization which produces a unique combination in itself. These new and unique hybrid cultures produce new and distinctive hybrid forms that indicate ongoing global heterogeneity. Apart from that, JKT48 often combines cultural elements from various regions in Indonesia in its performances. Not only to entertain JKT48 fans, it aims to introduce the diversity of Indonesian culture to its fans.
The phenomenon of JKT48 as the first idol group in Indonesia to adopt popular Japanese idol culture has had an influence on several aspects of the development of contemporary Indonesian culture, especially pop culture among young people. In the context of contemporary international relations, pop culture such as pop music and entertainment crosses national borders and is able to influence global public opinion. In the aspect of music and entertainment, JKT48 introduced a new concept of an idol girl group with a dance formation that is compact, cheerful and full of energy. Different from male bands that were previously dominant in Indonesia, JKT48 displays a feminine and cute side through Indonesian language pop songs such as Rapsodi. This enriches the color of the country's music. The fresh and cheerful style of JKT48 idols is also considered entertaining amidst the gloomy socio-political conditions in Indonesia.
Overall, JKT48 has given a new color to the development of Indonesian pop culture and changed society's conventional view of idol groups. Despite the controversy, JKT48 is now considered a dynamic representation of youth pop culture. JKT48's presence shows pop culture Indonesia is increasingly open and able to adapt to global elements. Apart from that, JKT48's popularity is also useful in promoting Indonesian tourism and products in Japan, and vice versa. This is in line with the theory that pop culture plays a role in a country's nation branding. JKT48's success in the Japanese music industry has also improved Indonesia's image as a modern country with talented talents. In terms of local culture, the JKT48 phenomenon has significantly influenced the development of Indonesian pop culture itself. Starting from the music industry, fashion, lifestyle to the emergence of supporting creative industries such as song lyric writers and dance choreographers. JKT48 has essentially enriched the dynamics of Indonesian pop culture with new values from Japan.
JKT48, as an idol group from Indonesia, has had a big influence on the culture of the country. They not only brought the idol phenomenon to Indonesia, but also created a close relationship between members and fans. JKT48's live theater concept creates unique interactions, enriching the fan experience with unprecedented intimacy. The group has also been an inspiration to the younger generation, encouraging interest in performing arts and music. JKT48's success also reflects the potential of the Indonesian entertainment industry to compete globally. Through their unique style, JKT48 has formed an important part of Indonesia's cultural identity in the realm of music and entertainment. JKT48 is not just a music group; they created a new wave of direct interaction between idols and fans in Indonesia. Their breakthrough live theater gave fans the opportunity to experience a rare sense of closeness. The success of this group has not only penetrated the world of entertainment, but also provided inspiration for Indonesia's young generation to pursue their dreams of performing arts. JKT48 reflects the spirit of creativity and courage to create new trends in the Indonesian entertainment industry. Through their charm, they have raised the standards for Indonesian performing arts and supported the global development of the local music industry. The existence of JKT48 is proof that performing arts can be a driving force for culture, enrich Indonesia's heritage and inspire future generations.
With the spread of Japanese popular culture  in Indonesian, expecially among the youger generation, they have become more open the expression and developing creative thingking. Apart from that, this phenomenon can also add to the country's cultural richness and form an innovative culture without destroying the essence of original culture. This creates a mutually beneficial relationship between the two countries through intertwined cultural diversity.
In addiction JKT48' success not only creates cultural ties, but also has economic and diplomatic impacts. This project creates opportunities for collaboration between the two countries' entertaiment industries and increases understanding of their cultures. Thus, the existence of JKT48 as an adaptation of AKB48 Â makes a positive contribution to international relations between Japan- Indonesia, in bridging the cultural gap through language, music and entertaiment.Â
The packaging of cultural elements owned by a country in such a way is then used as a means to attract the attention other countries through the application of cultural diplomacy in the context international relation. This can certainly invite cooperation and ultimately advance the interests of each country concerned. The success of cultural diplomacy is of course also determined by factors of economic strenght,political authority and consistency in its implementasion, because the real target of cultural diplomacy is opinion formation. So cultural diplomacy will often be very effective and relevant carried out by countries that have the power to support their diplomacy.
Farida Miftakhurohmah | 5221611072Â
Yogyakarta University of Technology Accreditation B | Batch 2022
