The official YouTube channel for Japanese musical group HoneyWorks has released the music video for their new song, "Hatsukoi Reply" (First Love Reply). This track features virtual YouTuber Sara Hoshikawa and is set to be the ending theme for the upcoming fall 2026 TV anime, The Salty Koharu Has a Soft Spot for Me. The song was digitally released on September 29.
About Sara Hoshikawa
Sara Hoshikawa is a virtual YouTuber affiliated with the agency Nijisanji, having started her activities in October 2019. Her official YouTube channel boasts over 1.22 million subscribers. As a singer, she released her first album, "Kimi to no Shining Days," in April 2023. She is also preparing to release her second mini-album, "Stella Note," on November 25, 2026. "Hatsukoi Reply" marks her first involvement in an anime theme song.
Artist's Comment on the Song
Hoshikawa shared her excitement about performing the ending theme for The Salty Koharu Has a Soft Spot for Me on the anime's official website. She highlighted the character Sato-san, who is described as cold to others but shows her true feelings and expressions only to Oshio-kun, finding this aspect incredibly cute. The announcement provides a first look and listen to the musical accompaniment for the upcoming anime series.
Key points
- HoneyWorks feat. Sara Hoshikawa released the music video for "Hatsukoi Reply."
- "Hatsukoi Reply" is the ending theme for the fall 2026 TV anime The Salty Koharu Has a Soft Spot for Me.
- The song was digitally released on September 29.
- This marks Sara Hoshikawa's first participation in an anime theme song.
- Sara Hoshikawa is a virtual YouTuber with over 1.22 million YouTube subscribers.
Source: Crunchyroll News · Sep 30, 2026
