TVXQ, KARA, Girls' Generation officially invited to Japan's "Kohaku Uta Gassen"

Earlier this week, we reported that idol groups TVXQ, KARA, and Girls' Generation were rumored to receive invitations to Japanese year-end program "Kohaku Uta Gassen", a great honor for both Japanese and Korean artists. Rumors also surfaced of Jang Geunsuk, Supernova, SHINee, and 2PM receiving invitations, heightening the anticipation of many K-Pop fans. 

NHK, the network behind the annual program, released the final lineup on their website on November 30th, confirming that TVXQ will make a third appearance on "Kohaku" and KARA and Girls' Generation their first. In addition, Sankei Sports reported that KARA will collaborate with a young Japanese singer, Ashida Mana, during the program. Due to Japanese laws preventing minors from appearing on television after 9PM, Korean publications are speculating that they will open the show, but this has yet to be confirmed. 

"KARA's devoted fan Ashida Mana begged during the Guest List Press Conference on November 30th, 'I would like to dance with KARA'," the site reported. "Kara's leader Gyuri who was there replied, 'We want to perform with Ashida Mana too'". 

"Kohaku Uta Gassen" will be broadcast in Japan on December 31st. Well-known Japanese artists invited include AKB48, Arashi, and L'Arc~En~Ciel. 

Sources: NHK, Karaholic, Star News, Sankei Sports