AKB48 Group is a popular Japanese idol group franchise formed in 2005 by producer Yasushi Akimoto. The group is known for its unique concept of "idols you can meet," where members perform regularly in a theater and interact with fans. The franchise has expanded to include several sister groups across Japan and internationally, such as SKE48, NMB48, and BNK48. Each group has its own distinct identity while following the same performance and fan engagement model, contributing to the overall success and popularity of the AKB48 Group.