Kumi Koda Performs “real Emotion” Live For The First Time After 25 Years
Kumi Koda delivered a long awaited moment for Final Fantasy fans when she performed the iconic song “real Emotion” from Final Fantasy X-2 live on television for the very first time, marking a milestone that fans have been hoping to witness for decades. The performance finally happened during the FNS Music Festival, where artists from across Japan gathered for an end of year celebration, turning the broadcast into a major event for music lovers and gamers alike.
Final Fantasy X-2 has always stood out in the franchise for its bold direction and for presenting a transformed version of Yuna, whose shift from summoner to charismatic performer reflected the emotional changes she experienced after the events of Final Fantasy X. Her new cowgirl inspired outfit, her dynamic team of performers and her upbeat stage presence were all dramatically different from her earlier role, creating a memorable opening sequence that set the tone for the game’s journey. The song “real Emotion” played a central part in that transformation and has stayed in the hearts of many players for years.
Kumi Koda provided the Japanese vocals for the song in 2003, yet despite its popularity it never appeared on television as a live performance. For 25 years, the song was exclusive to Kumi Koda’s concerts, and since her live shows were already high in demand, many fans of both the Final Fantasy series and the singer herself never had the chance to watch her perform it. This rarity only strengthened the anticipation surrounding the piece.
That changed at last when she included “real Emotion” in her setlist during the FNS Music Festival broadcast on December 10. Kumi Koda expressed her excitement beforehand, hoping that fans would finally enjoy the moment they had been waiting for. Once the performance was announced on social media it quickly gained massive attention, reaching more than 3.6 million views from people checking the program lineup. The reaction reflected how deeply Final Fantasy X and its characters remain rooted in the memories of RPG fans, especially those who grew up with the story of Spira.
Final Fantasy X-2 first released on PlayStation 2 in 2003 before being remastered for modern platforms in 2019. The game expanded on Yuna’s journey as she ventured out to search for Tidus after his disappearance at the end of the first game. With its dress changing battle system and multiple endings shaped by player actions, it remains one of the most distinct entries in the series. As always, fans can look forward to more stories and highlights as the legacy of Final Fantasy continues to inspire conversations worldwide.
Kumi Koda’s long awaited live performance of “real Emotion” proves how powerful nostalgia remains in gaming culture, and seeing a moment 25 years in the making finally come to life reminds us why Final Fantasy continues to endure as one of the most emotional franchises ever created.
