It's been reported that NHK received a record of over 1.26 million applications for tickets to "The�62nd NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen". The previous record was set back in 2004, with a total of 759,722 applications.

The applications were collected from October 7th to the 27th. Out of the 1,264,923 applications, 1,234 were selected to view the show from the audience.

The timing of the announcement of hosts is said to be the cause of this impressive record. Every year, the announcement would be made in early-November, after the deadline of applications. However, NHK announced on October 19th (during the application period)�that Arashi and Inoue Mao would serve as this year's hosts. Arashi's popularity has continued to rise, while Inoue, whose career mainly revolves around acting, almost never stands on a stage in front of an audience. Fans were attracted to this rare opportunity and combination, which reportedly caused the flood of applications.

Source: Nikkan Sports