AKB48's new�overseas sister group SGO48 have recruited 29 first generation members.�

SGO48 received over 7,000 applications when they opened up the registration in August. After narrowing down the number of applicants based on the applications, they held interviews, and ended up with 120 applicants for the final screening. Among the 29 selected members is Koseki Yumi, a 14-year-old Japanese girl who lives in�Ho Chi Minh. She commented, "I was very surprised the moment I found out the results. I felt that I need to work hard for the candidates who didn't make it in. This is a dream I finally achieved after so many years, so I will give it my all."

The first generation members have signed a contract with�YAG Entertainment who manages SGO48. They will participate in dance lessons and voice training to prepare themselves for their debut.�The group name is derived from "Saigon," which is the former name of Ho Chi Minh. The logo color was chosen in the image of the lotus, which is the national flower of Vietnam.�

Source & Image: natalie