XG’s Cocona Comes Out as Transmasculine Non-Binary On 20th Birthday
In a poignant and inspiring announcement, Cocona, a member of the rising Japanese girl group XG, has publicly come out as transmasculine non-binary in a heartfelt letter shared on Instagram, coinciding with their 20th birthday. The rapper, vocalist, and performer took this significant step to reflect on their journey of self-acceptance and identity, stating, “As I reach this new chapter in my life, I want to share something that’s been in my heart for a long time. I am AFAB transmasculine non-binary.” Cocona revealed that they had undergone top surgery earlier in the year and emphasized that the label of being born female never truly represented who they are. This brave declaration not only marks a personal milestone for Cocona but also serves as a beacon of hope and encouragement for others navigating similar journeys.
Cocona’s message resonated deeply with fans and the broader LGBTQIA+ community, who celebrated their courage and authenticity. The outpouring of love included supportive comments filled with unity and encouragement, highlighting the impact of their words. Cocona expressed gratitude towards their XG bandmates, the group’s founder Simon (Jakops), and their family, acknowledging that their support has been instrumental in their journey. Simon also publicly supported Cocona, sharing his respect for their courage and reaffirming XG’s mission to represent the true essence of each member beyond their roles as artists. This moment is particularly significant within the context of the Japanese and Korean entertainment industries, where discussions surrounding gender identity are gradually evolving. Cocona’s coming-out not only adds to the visibility of LGBTQ+ representation in pop culture but also underscores the importance of authenticity and self-love in a world that often pressures individuals to conform to traditional norms.
Since their debut in 2022, XG has garnered international acclaim for their dynamic performances and empowering messages, with Cocona’s announcement marking a pivotal moment in their narrative. As the group continues to break barriers in the music industry, Cocona’s journey serves as a reminder of the power of vulnerability and the importance of embracing one’s true self. Their story is not just a personal triumph but also a source of inspiration for many, encouraging others to embrace their identities and find strength in their authenticity.
XG
member Cocona has publicly come out as transmasculine non-binary, sharing a heartfelt letter with fans in honor of their 20th birthday.
The rapper, vocalist, and performer from the Japanese girl group
posted an emotional statement
on Instagram on Saturday (Dec. 6) reflecting on identity, growth, and self-acceptance.
“Today, I turned 20,” Cocona wrote. “As I reach this new chapter in my life, I want to share something that’s been in my heart for a long time. I am AFAB transmasculine non-binary. Earlier this year, I had top surgery. I was born and perceived as female, but that label never represented who I truly am.”
Cocona continued, “The hardest thing I’ve ever faced was accepting and embracing myself… Now, I can finally say, ‘There’s nothing wrong with who I am inside.’” The performer also expressed gratitude toward their XG bandmates, XGALX founder and producer
Simon (Jakops)
, and their parents, adding that their support helped make the journey possible.
The message quickly drew an outpouring of love and praise from fans, with XG supporters and members of the LGBTQIA+ community celebrating Cocona’s honesty. The post, which included emoji symbols of unity and infinity, ended with the words: “May these words gently light a spark in someone’s heart. And to everyone who needs it — may my love reach all of them.”
Shortly after, XGALX CEO and artistic director
Simon (Jakops)
shared his own statement on Instagram, expressing respect and support for Cocona. “I am deeply moved and filled with respect as Cocona courageously shared their passion with the world,” he wrote. “I will continue to provide sincere support so that each member can be truly respected not only as a ‘working artist’ but also as a person.”
Simon reflected on the group’s journey together — noting that all members have now reached adulthood — and reaffirmed that XG’s mission goes beyond music and visuals, aiming to share “the pure and essential heart of each member” with fans around the world.
Since debuting under XGALX in 2022, XG has earned international recognition for their polished performance style, multilingual lyrics, and message of female empowerment. Cocona’s coming-out marks a significant and visible moment for LGBTQ+ representation within the global pop landscape — particularly in the Japanese and Korean entertainment industries, where conversations around gender identity continue to evolve.
