XG Rebrands from 'Xtraordinary Girls' to 'Xtraordinary Genes' Following Member Cocona's Transmasculine Nonbinary Coming Out

The seven-member Japanese girl group XG, based in South Korea and known for its hip-hop and R&B influences, revealed a significant rebranding on Monday. The group's name, previously standing for "Xtraordinary Girls, "now represents "Xtraordinary Genes." This change follows member Cocona's public coming out as a transmasculine nonbinary person assigned female at birth .

In an official statement posted on their website and social media, XG explained the rationale behind the update. "The word 'Genes'represents the power and creativity that resides within our core, as well as our spirit of continuously creating new culture without being bound by conventional norms, "the group stated. They added, "Building upon our origins as 'Girls, 'and returning to the 'Genes'at our core, XG will continue to evolve more deeply and authentically. Through this evolution, we aim to remain a presence that empowers people around the world from diverse backgrounds."

Cocona, who turned 20 last month, shared their gender identity in a personal Instagram post on their birthday. "Today, I turned 20. As I reach this new chapter in my life, I want to share something that’s been in my heart for a long time," Cocona wrote. They disclosed identifying as AFAB transmasculine nonbinary and having undergone top surgery. Cocona continued, "I was born and perceived as female, but that label never represented who I truly am. I live in a way that feels more masculine and true to who I am. The hardest thing I’ve ever faced was accepting and embracing myself. But as I slowly began to do that, I was able to open a new door." They concluded, "Now, I can finally say, ‘There’s nothing wrong with who I am inside. ’"

The timing of the announcement aligns with XG's upcoming milestone: the release of their first full-length album, *The Core*, scheduled for January 23. This move signals a commitment to authenticity amid growing international attention for the group, which debuted in 2022 under label XGALX and has garnered fans globally through hits like "Woke Up"and "Shooting Star." XG's members—all Japanese women trained in South Korea—have positioned themselves as boundary-pushers in the male-dominated K-pop industry, blending English lyrics with J-pop and hip-hop elements.

For transgender and nonbinary individuals in the public eye, particularly in Asia's conservative entertainment spheres, such disclosures carry weight. Cocona's openness highlights challenges faced by transmasculine people, including societal expectations around gender presentation and access to affirming care like top surgery. The group's supportive response—altering its foundational branding—stands as a model of allyship within artist collectives. This evolution resonates in LGBTQ+ communities, where visibility from idols can foster acceptance and inspire youth navigating similar identities.

While broader coverage remains emerging, the story has sparked discussion on platforms like X and Instagram, with fans praising XG's inclusivity. No official statements from major K-pop outlets like Soompi or AllKpop were immediately available in initial reports, but the group's direct communication underscores its proactive stance. XG's pivot to "Xtraordinary Genes"not only honors Cocona's truth but also reframes the group's mission to transcend binary labels, potentially broadening its appeal to diverse global audiences.

The announcement arrives as K-pop continues to grapple with gender diversity. Past instances, such as soloist Holland's 2018 queer debut or Jessi's advocacy, show slow but steady progress. XG's action may encourage other acts to prioritize member well-being over rigid branding. For Cocona, a person who has embraced their transmasculine nonbinary identity after personal struggle, this collective step amplifies a narrative of self-acceptance. As The Core nears release, observers anticipate how this chapter shapes XG's trajectory in an industry ripe for change.