MOKA
illit moka illit moka

MOKA

모카
  • Korean Name:모카
  • Nickname:Caffè Moka
  • Birthday:October 8, 2004
  • Nationality:Japanese
  • Zodiac Sign:Libra
  • Height:162 cm (5’4″)
  • MBTI Type:ISFP
  • Blood Type:B
  • Occupation:Idol, Singer
  • Years Active:2024-Present
  • Agency:Belift Lab (HYBE)

Biography

Biography

Moka (모카), born Sakai Moka on October 8, 2004, is a Japanese singer and dancer under BELIFT LAB, best known as a member of ILLIT.

She officially debuted in 2024 after gaining attention through the survival program R U Next?.

Moka is recognized for her clean dance lines, soft vocal tone, and elegant aura, adding balance and grace to ILLIT’s youthful concept.

Career

Early Life & Background

  • Born and raised in Japan
  • Trained in dance prior to becoming a trainee
  • Joined BELIFT LAB and prepared extensively for debut
  • Known for musical sensitivity and expressive movement

The Path to ILLIT

Moka participated in R U Next?, where she stood out for her steady improvement, musicality, and calm confidence. Her performances highlighted precision and emotional delivery, earning her a spot in ILLIT’s final lineup.

Unique Point: Moka is often praised for blending seamlessly into group formations while still maintaining a distinct presence.

Public Image

  • Frequently described as:
    • Elegant
    • Gentle
    • Artistic
  • Often associated with ILLIT’s softer, dreamy side

Personal Image & Personality

  • Personality: Calm, thoughtful, artistic
  • Style: Soft, feminine, minimal
  • Known for being considerate and focused during practice
  • Languages: Japanese (native), Korean (learning/functional)

Discography

YearTitleTypeRole
2024SUPER REAL MEMini AlbumLead Vocalist, Member
2024MagneticTitle TrackLead Vocalist
2024My WorldB-sideVocalist
2024Midnight FictionB-sideVocalist
2024Lucky Girl SyndromeB-sideVocalist
2024I’LL LIKE YOU2nd Mini AlbumLead Vocalist, Member
2024Cherish (My Love)Title TrackLead Vocalist

Television Appearances

YearShowNetworkRole
2023R U Next?JTBCContestant/Finalist
2024Various Music ShowsMultiplePerformer
2024Variety Show AppearancesMultipleGuest

Fun Facts

  1. She is from Fukuoka, Japan, and has a younger sister (born in 2006).
  2. Her specialty is dancing, and she trained at Dance School BRIDGE.
  3. She joined Big Hit Japan (HYBE Japan) in September 2020 and trained for about 3 years before debut.
  4. Moka says she resembles a hamster and is often compared to a cat, rabbit, or hamster.
  5. She was introduced to K-pop by her mother, a big fan of BIGBANG, and is a BIGBANG fan herself.
  6. Her favorite karaoke song is “Let Me Hear Your Voice” by BIGBANG.
  7. She loves caffè mocha and likes being called “Caffè Moka.”
  8. Her favorite dessert is financier, and she enjoys bread, especially salt bread.
  9. Her grandfather owns a bakery.
  10. She is scared of heights and roller coasters, especially outdoor ones.
  11. She has dry skin and struggles to wake up early, often setting multiple alarms.
  12. Her favorite season is summer, especially summer nights.
  13. She is known as the “mother” of the group among members.
  14. She relieves stress by talking on the phone with her mom.
  15. Her audition song was “Through the Night” by IU.
  16. Her role model is Jennie from BLACKPINK.