YOSHIKI inducted into Asian Hall of Fame as “Cultural Icon”
YOSHIKI has been officially inducted into the Asian Hall of Fame, receiving the 2025 “Cultural Icon” award for his significant global impact on art and culture.
The induction ceremony was held at the historic Biltmore Hotel in Los Angeles on Saturday, November 1.
The Asian Hall of Fame is a non-profit foundation established in 2004 by the Robert Chinn Foundation to honor the achievements and cultural influence of people of Asian descent.
YOSHIKI now joins a prestigious list of inductees that includes Queen’s Freddie Mercury, BLACKPINK’s LISA, and world-renowned conductor Seiji Ozawa.
YOSHIKI was honored for his international achievements across music, film, and fashion.
The Asian Hall of Fame presenter introduced him as “musician, director, fashion designer, and the first Japanese artist to leave his hand and footprints at the Hollywood Walk of Fame.”
He was praised as “one of the most influential creative geniuses of our time,” citing his “creative attention to detail and his continued commitment to bringing hope, beauty, and love to the world.”
YOSHIKI opened the awards ceremony, delivering a moving speech before his performance.
“Thank you, Asian Hall of Fame, for this incredible honor,” he began.
“I’ve learned that the greatest risk in life is not taking any risk. Every step forward, no matter how uncertain, brings us closer to our purpose.”
He also hinted at his future, stating:
“And now… a new chapter begins. Something I’ve been building quietly, with everything I have, including releasing my own album. I can’t wait to share what’s coming next.”
YOSHIKI also touched on his personal losses, saying:
“I lost my father, I lost my mother, and I lost three of my band members. That pain will always stay with me, but I’ve been blessed with amazing fans and friends who give me the strength to keep moving forward.”
He concluded by dedicating a performance of “Endless Rain” to the audience and his loved ones, which was met with thunderous applause.
The 2025 inductees include 12 individuals and groups from diverse fields.
Among them are Chinese basketball legend Yao Ming, Olympic figure skating medalist Michelle Kwan, and SM Entertainment founder Lee Soo-man.
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