AKB48 founder Akimoto Yasushi is expanding his “AKB” empire all the way to Fukuoka! At this time, he’s produced AKB48, SKE48, and NMB48; now he’s added “HKT48” (short for “HAKATA”) to the list. Akimoto says that his concept for this group is “Idols I can meet“. Auditions for “HKT48″ started on May 1st and will end of the close of the month. Those who wish to auditon will have to be between the ages of 17-22 and must showcase their dancing and singing abilities. Source: Tokyohive, Tokyo Shinbun, Oricon, Yucasse Media
