XG member Cocona has publicly come out as AFAB transmasculine non-binaryshare a deeply personal message with fans on their 20th birthday. The announcement, published on on December 6marks a rare and significant moment of gender identity declaration by an artist within the Japanese and Korean pop landscape, where such conversations still emerge.
In a written statement, Cocona reflected on entering adulthood and choosing this moment to speak honestly about who they are. They wrote with clarity and purpose, thanking those who supported them and expressing hope that their words might reach others navigating similar journeys.
Their full statement read:
“Hi, this is COCONA. Today I turn 20. As I reach this milestone, I wanted to take a moment to share something that has been deep in my heart for a long time. I am AFAB Transmasculine Non-binary.
Earlier this year I had top surgery. I was assigned female at birth, but I don’t see myself as female. I feel a strong discomfort with being seen as “feminine”, and I live my life feeling more aligned with a masculine identity. The hardest thing I ever faced in life was accepting and embracing myself.
But now, after taking a small step forward, just 0.1 step, I feel like I have opened a new door.
Opening that door has broadened my perspective and changed the way I see and interpret the world.
It has given me emotional growth and courage. Now I can finally feel that what is inside me is nothing to be ashamed of.
I owe this to the people who listened to me, who stood beside me, my fellow members, Simon-san, and my parents. I am deeply grateful for this and all the miraculous connections I have been blessed with. This got a little long, but I really want to express my gratitude to everyone who has supported me along the way.
I am excited for the future, I will continue to build with XG and XGALX. I hope this message can gently light a spark in someone’s heart. And may my love reach all who need it.
With love, always.”
Shortly after, XGALX founder and producer Simon (Jacops) shared a public message of support on to honor Cocona’s courage. “Today, as Cocona bravely shared her truth with the world, I am filled with deep emotion and respect,” he said.
He further reaffirmed his commitment to XG’s mission to honor each member’s individuality: “I will continue to offer sincere support so that each member is respected not only as a performing artist but also as a human being who can love his own life.” He also reflected on the group’s eight-year journey and the milestone of all seven members now reaching adulthood.
Cocona’s announcement comes as XG – known for their multilingual sound, crisp choreography and growing international footprint – prepares for their first full-length album, THE COREin January 2026 and their next world tour. While this announcement is separate from the group’s upcoming releases and tour plans, the moment’s visibility resonates within global pop culture.
Cocona’s statement stands as a rare example of a J-pop/K-pop bordering idol artist directly discussing gender identity with fans. It comes at a time when global audiences are increasingly vocal about the representation, support and visibility of LGBTQ+ individuals in the entertainment landscape.
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