'It's Time for Torture, Princess': Girl group ILLIT to perform theme song for Season 2 of popular Japanese anime

Korean girl group ILLIT will perform the opening theme song for the second season of the popular Japanese TV anime "It's Time for Torture, Princess," scheduled to air on terrestrial TV and streaming platforms in Japan beginning January 2026.

The anime, based on a manga that started in 2019, tells a comedic fantasy story about a princess held captive yet surrounded by delightful food and leisure disguised as "torture."

Excitement for anime collaboration

ILLIT expressed great honor and enthusiasm for being selected to sing the theme song for such a beloved Japanese anime. They shared their excitement about the potential synergy their song could create with the anime's unique and humorous concept.

The group also asked fans to show interest in both the anime and ILLIT as they continue to expand their presence in Japan.

Rising star in Japan

ILLIT has been steadily gaining popularity in Japan. Their Japanese debut single, "Toki Yo Tomare," was featured as a main OST for a popular local survival show, and their B-side track "Topping" appeared in a commercial for global fashion brand Lacoste Japan. They also achieved success with the song "Almond Chocolate" from a Japanese film soundtrack, which quickly amassed over 50 million streams and earned a Gold certification from the Japanese Recording Association.

Upcoming activities

ILLIT is set to make a domestic comeback in South Korea with a new single, "Not Cute Anymore," on November 24, reflecting a shift to a more edgy concept. Prior to that, they will hold an encore performance of their 2025 Glitter Day concert in Seoul, strengthening their growing fanbase and industry momentum.This anime collaboration marks an exciting new milestone in ILLIT's expanding career across Asia, blending their fresh sound with the charm of a highly anticipated series.​