SKE48 Goto Mayuko Announces Graduation

SKE48 Kenkyuusei Goto Mayuko announced her graduation from the group on July 12th during her birthday show. She will have her graduation show on July 29th one day before Owaki Arisa's graduation show.

Goto Mayuko joined SKE48 as part of the 6th Generation in spring 2013.She is the 8th member of the 6th generation to leave.


Goto Mayuko's Graduation Announcement
Original Message

Thank you for holding this wonderful (birthday) show today. Truthfully speaking, this show, this wonderful show, might not have happened (note: referring to the fact that there were no SKE48 Kenkyuusei shows for a while so she did not get a birthday show around her actual birthday, May 31st). But because there were a lot of people who told us at handshake events and in G+ comments and in letters that they will wait for the day when we can do a theater show with all Kenkyuusei, I can now have my birthday show.
I am really happy but, well, to be honest during the time when there were no shows I was full of sorry feelings and frustrating feelings. That is why I am really thankful from the bottom of my heart for being able to perform shows and to hold a birthday show. Since the Seifuku no Me show ended about 3 months have passed. When there were no shows, I really didn't know what to do and for the time being I just went to school normally and with every single day that passed I felt like SKE48 became something more and more distant from me.
But these three months were also an important time in which I was able to face myself. Since I was little I never continued no matter what I started and I caused a lot of trouble to my father and mother and a lot of other people. But in order to not regret anything later I constantly spoke out about what I really wanted to do at the time and that I want to do the things I really felt were fun from the bottom of my heart. Those things I did after speaking so were not all right. I also had a lot of failures and regrets.
But my way of thinking hasn't changed. So one day when I was in my first year of high school I found a life called 'SKE48'. To be honest, it was a completely different world than I had imagined, and I think that there were much more hard things than fun things. But being on stage was so much fun that I forgot all hard and painful things and I could recklessly give my best.
I was really happy when I was with you all. But, I am still searching for something I really want to do. That I am still searching means that SKE48 wasn't right for me, I think. Also, at the moment there is a lot of talking about future paths at school and so I started to think  a lot about my future too. I talked to my teachers at school a lot, and I came to think that I want to learn about beauty (care). Because of that, I want to face and follow the path I have decided.
That's why, after about one and a half years I will graduate SKE48 at the end of July. On this way that I will follow from now on I want to do my best until the end without giving up no matter how hard it will be. So I would be happy if you supported me until the end. Well, having to announce it in this way, looking into the faces of the fans who seemed so happy from the opening on, it became harder and harder for me and it became really difficult to say it. But please support me until the end.
Thank you so much for today.

Read more ...

NMB48 Takayama Riko Announces Graduation

On July 7th NMB48 Kenkyuusei Takayama Riko has announced her graduation. The reason given is that she wants to focus on her studies. Her graduation show will be held on July 19th.

Takayama Riko joined NMB48 as pat of the 3rd generation in early 2012. She was the last 3rd generation member left unpromoted and after about 2 and a half years as a Kenkyuusei she has now decided to leave.


Takayama Riko's Graduation Announcement
Original Message

I have an announcement for you. I, Takayama Riko, will graduate from NMB48.
I joined NMB48 when I was in my 6th year of elementary school and I planned to dedicate my whole daily life to NMB48 in my own way. But since I became a 3rd year junior high student this spring I started to think about my studies frequently.
I am not very skilled so until now I wasn't able to properly balance my studies and NMB48. As a result of worrying and wavering I decided to now put what I have dedicated to NMB48 so far in my studies and concentrate on them.
Those feelings I told you about, my wish to be promoted to a team or to be chosen as single senbatsu, are no lie at all.
I am really sorry that so far I couldn't give back to you. But from now on I will concentrate on my studies and it would be nice if I'll be able to come back in front of you one day.
There is not much time left but please support me.

Read more ...

SKE48 Owaki Arisa Announces Graduation

On July 6th Team E member Owaki Arisa has announced that she will graduate SKE48 because she wants to try other things in life. She will leave at the end of this month but a precise date has not been decided yet.

Owaki Arisa joined SKE48 as part of the 5th Generation in fall 2011. She was promoted to Team E during the Daisokaku Matsuri this year.


Owaki Arisa's Graduation Announcement
Original Message

I have to tell you something.
At the end of this month I, Owaki Arisa, will graduate from SKE48. I was finally promoted to this Team E. It was a long-awaited promotion but I have found some things I want to try, things I'd like to do. I thought that from now on I want to do a variety of things and so I decided to graduate.
There is only a short time left but please, until the end of July, support me, Team E and SKE48.
Thank you very much for a fun time until now!
I will continue my activities until the end of July so please support me.
Thank you.

Read more ...

NMB48 Yogi Keira Announces Graduation

On June 24th, NMB48 Team N member Yogi Keira announced her graduation because she wants to focus on her studies. Her graduation show will be on July 2nd.

Keira joined NMB48 in 2011 as youngest member of the 2nd Generation. She became an original member of Team M when it was formed in early 2012 and was shuffled to Team N during the Dai Sokaku Matsuri. She made NMB48 senbatsu four times, for [Oh My God!], [Junjou U-19], [Bokura no Eureka] and [Kamonegikkusu].


Yogi Keira's Message
Original Message

I, Yogi Keira will graduate NMB48.
I passed the NMB48 audition and joined as 2nd Generation member when I was in my 6th year of elementary school.
Right after joining I was chosen as senbatsu member for the 2nd single "Oh My God!" and also for the following single and then Team M was formed and I could be active as a team member.
I could also do a lot of different work and was able to participate at many concerts, I really, really had a fulfilling time everyday.
But I also had stuff to think about, now I am a third year junior high student which means I am an exam student (note: meaning she has to take high school entrance exams this school year). Thinking about my future I felt that I want to become able to speak English and I also want to study abroad.
I feel like balancing school and work would be a difficult thing in this case. So I consulted with various people and thought about it and in the end I chose this way of graduation because I have to decide my life for myself.
But I haven't given up on my dream of becoming a hollywood actress so I will do my best to become a great hollywood actress in the future!
Everyone, thank you so much for supporting me all this time. All those who supported me and all members who worked together with me, I really love you. My remaining time in NMB48 is short but please support me!

Read more ...

Team 8 Okubora Chinatsu Leaves AKB48

As announced on June 18, the newly formed Team 8 has now already one graduation. Okubora Chinatsu who represented Gifu Prefecture left the group that day because she had difficulties balancing her work in AKB48 with her schoolwork.

The Team 8 members began their activities only two months ago. Since the team is supposed to have a member from every prefecture in Japan new auditions will now be held in Gifu Prefecture. Girls aged 12~20 who live in Gifu can apply until July 4th.


Okubora Chinatsu's Message
Original Message

Hello to all fans,
I am Gifu Prefecture representative Okubora Chinatsu. I am sorry for doing so after such a short time, but I have to tell you that I have decided to retire from being an Team 8 member. Since we started our activities a bit more than 2 months have passed, but for me there are a lot of things which, due to my AKB48 activities, I could not do the way I would want to do them for example balancing work and school. And I began to think that if this goes on I could not be myself in front of the fans...In parts I also felt that since I have already started (AKB48) I want to do my best at it, so I worried a lot but please let me retire now from my activities as Team 8 member. I am sorry for this selfishness.
Since I am the represantative for Gifu prefecture, I cause a lot of trouble with this (decision) to all those who supported me in my home region and all fans, but from now on I will cheer for Team 8 as a fan. I will do my best in my own way, so I'd be happy if you continued to support AKB48 and Team 8.

Read more ...

SKE48's Sora Miyuka Announces Graduation

On May 23rd SKE48 Kenkyuusei Sora Miyuka announced her graduation because she wants to focus on her studies. Her last activity as an SKE48 member will be a handshake event on May 31st.

Sora Miyuka is a 6th generation member who joined SKE48 early last year. She was one of the eligible members who decided not to participate in this year's senbatsu election which means that out of the 14 members who do not participate 6 have already graduated or announced graduation.


Sora Miyuka's Message
Original Message

As was announced, I, Sora Miyuka, will graduate SKE48 at the end of May.
I worried a lot about this and as a result I want to focus on my studies from now on and so chose this way.
I am sorry for surprising you.
I want to treasure the short time I have left.
From now on I will work hard towards a new goal so please support me.

Read more ...

Akazawa Hono Leaves NMB48

On April 16 Team BII member Akazawa Hono announced that she will leave NMB48. The announcement came one day after Team BII's Senshuuraku via the official NMB48 blog and was effective the same day. As reason, poor physical health was stated.

Akazawa Hono joined NMB48 in early 2012 as part of the 3rd Generation. She became a member of Team BII when it was formed in October the same year. She was supposed to go to Team M once the new team system starts but after consulting with her doctor and family she decided to leave.


Akazawa Hono's graduation announcement
Original Message

Here is Team BII's Akazawa Hono.
I am really sorry that I have to make this retirement announcement so sudden and in this form.
All the time, I have caused you nothing but worries, and I am really sorry that I have made you worry until the last moment. For a few months now I have been working while being concerned about my physical condition.
I have thought a lot until today's announcement.
I worried a lot...
My manager and the staff came up with various suggestions for me like "You also can choose a temporary leave!" or "Hang on and see how the situation develops!". But I did not have the confidence that I could lead a fulfilled daily life in this situation in which I feel the uncertainty of not knowing when I would be able to return, so I chose the path of retirement.
The NMB48 solo live at Saitama Super Arena!
Singing Almond Croissant Keikaku together at tthe AKB48 Request Hour!
Reaching the Tadaima Renaichuu Senshuuraku with the Team BII members!
I decided to make these three stages my last ones and to go back to being a normal high school student.
I am full of gratitude towards the staff and group officials who worried about my health and watched over me.
There were many senpai who addressed me with kind words when they heard about my situation.
My kouhai were sad for me and said things like "Honori-san we will miss you".
My fellow Team BII and 3rd Generation members, while calling my selfish decision "idiotic", supported me.
I was really happy until the end. This is the way I chose. I have no doubts.
However,...
"I am looking forward to see you in Team M"
"Let's aim higher!"
"Let's talk a lot again at the next handshake event"
I will leave without keeping all these promises I made with you and withou being able to give back to you all who supported me until today, and I regret this.
What I can do now is to return to perfect health and to spend my time as a normal high school student with a smile. And, to find a new goal and lead a fulfilled life!
While writing this last blog post, I remembered your kind looks, the warmth of your hands, the words we exchanged.
And what came to my mind is this:
"Ah, happiness
From tomorrow on, I will walk again
Even though we're apart
Inside my heart
This road always continues
Ah, happiness
I am watched over by everyone
Even now for sure
I am not alone
When I look back
There is the sky of my home town"
From 'Kikyou' (note: Akazawa Hono's stage unit song)
Thanks to joining NMB48 I was able to meet my beloved fellow members, and I was able to meet you, my beloved fans. Also, I was able to make a lot of wonderful memories. I am full of gratitude.
You might not understand my selfish decision...but from tomorrow on I will move forward on a new path. Thank you for cheering for me for 2 years. Thank you for supporting me.
Thank you so much for loving NMB48's Akazawa Hono.

While the occasion is sad, I am pleased with the way Honori wrote her graduation announcement. It's not one of those similar, standard announcements so often encountered. All the best for her future.

Read more ...

AKB48 Katayama Haruka Announces Graduation

On April 14, only one day after Kikuchi Ayaka had announced her graduation, Katayama Haruka did so as well. She wants to become a musical actress. Her last handshake event will be on September 23, the same day as Kikuchi Ayaka's last one. Her graduation show has not been decided yet but it is planned for the time after that handshake event. She will participate at stage shows of Team A, the team she was shuffled to at the Daisokaku Matsuri, until then. 

Katayama Haruka joined AKB48 in late 2006 as part of the 3rd Generation and became an original Team B member. She was transferred to Team A at the first shuffle, later to Team B and now A again. She ranked in the election several times: 2009 at #29, 2010 at #37, 2012 at #48 and 2013 at #34. Even though her graduation is planned for later this year she did not announce her candidacy for this year's election.



Katayama Harukas's comment on her graduation
Original Message

At today's theater show, I announced my graduation.
I have worked in AKB48 for 7 years and while I learned a lot of things I found my dream: musical actress. I want to perform several plays and want to do musicals seriously!! I strongly felt that I want to become a full, proper actress and so I decided to graduate. I think that the world outside will be even harder than now and that there will be lots of hard and painful things too.
In AKB48 I was not able to stand at the center position but I will definitely stand at the center position of the musical world and at the center at the Imperial Theatre (note: famous theatre located in Toyko)!! Even after my graduation I will work hard as 'Katayama Haruka' in order become known by more and more people and I will become a splendid musical actress!! A stage show after the handshake event in September will be my last activity. There is still half a year left, please continue to support me, Katayama, during this time!!

Read more ...

AKB48 Kikuchi Ayaka Announces Graduation

On April 13, AKB48 member Kikuchi Ayaka announced her graduation. She wants to pursue a career in fashion. Her graduation show will be Team A's Senshuuraku on April 21 but she will continue to participate at handshake events until September 23.

Kikuchi Ayaka first joined AKB48 in late 2006 as part of the 3rd Generation and became an original Team B member but had to leave in 2008 because of a purikura scandal. She re-auditioned and came back to AKB48 as part of the 7th generation. She was promoted at AKB48's first Sokaku Matsuri in 2009 and became a Team K member but then was transferred to Team A at the following shuffle. She made senbatsu six times, ranked at the election twice (2012 and 2013 at #51) and was a member of the subgroup Watarirouka Hashiritai.

Ayarin was supposed to transfer to NMB48 this year but declined that transfer and also did not announce her candidacy for the election, now we know why.


Kikuchi Ayaka's G+ post about her graduation
Original Message

At tonight's theater show, I announced my graduation.
I began thinking about graduation at the occasion of the Watarirouka Hashiritai's disbandment live. It was an opportunity to take a break with my AKB48 graduation.
I wanted to move forward finding more things that I wanted to do, not as an idol but in the field of fashion or as a model. I properly thought about this before making my decision.
Even though I will graduate, there continue to be no stops on my way. My life is a one-time only thing so I want to work hard and move forward and forward without regrets.
My last show wil be on April 21, the senshuuraku of Yokoyama Team A will be my final one.
To my fans who support me: I am sorry for this soon date.
I will continue to participate at individual handshake events until September 23, so I want to make a lot of memories with you.
The senshuuraku is near but I want to treasure the short time I still have and give my best with full power!!
Please support me until the end.

Read more ...

SKE48 Iguchi Shiori and Kaneko Shiori Announce Graduation

On April 8th, two SKE48 members announced their graduation: Team E's Iguchi Shori and Kaneko Shiori. Both girls will have their graduation show on April 22nd. Their last activity in SKE48 will be a handshake event on April 29. It was also announced that this handshake event will be the last activity for Deguchi Aki too who had already announced her graduation last month and will have her final theater show on April 21.

Iguchi Shiori is a 2nd Generation member. She debuted in 2009 and became a member of the original Team KII but was demoted to Kenkyuusei at the end of 2010. In August 2012 she was promoted again to Team KII and shuffled to Team E last year.

Kaneko Shiori joined as part of the 4th Generation in 2010 and became part of Team E at the end of the same year. She made senbatsu three times, for [Oki Doki], [Kataomoi Finally] and [Aishiteraburu]. Last year she ranked #63 in the senbatsu election. According to her graduation announcement she wants to continue in the entertainment industry.



Iguchi Shiori's graduation announcement
Original Message

Here is Team E's Iguchi Shiori. I joined SKE48 when I was 14 and have been part of it for 5 years. Now I decided to graduate SKE48.
I wanted to announce it to you as quickly as possible that is why I chose to do it via the official homepage. I felt more and more strongly that I want to do what I want to do from now on and so I decided to graduate.
I plan on telling you more details via the blog etc. Please continue to support me, Iguchi Shiori!

Kaneko Shiori's graduation announcement
Original Message

I am sorry that this announcement is so sudden. I, Kaneko Shiori, decided to graduate my beloved SKE48 at the end of April. This year I was able to graduate high school without problems and in spring I became a university student. I came to Nagoya when I was in my third year of junior high and now is my 4th year in SKE48. I thought now is the right timing to take a new step forward. I want to appear in fashion magazines! That is my goal. Because of that I plan to continue activities in the entertainment industry. I want to look for a place where I can shine more.
It took me a long time to reach this decision and I worried a lot, but I put a lot of thought into this decision.
I plan on writing more about my feelings on the blog etc. I'd be glad if you read it.

Read more ...

NMB48 Kobayashi Rikako Announces Graduation

On March 22, Team BII member Kobayashi Rikako announced her graduation from NMB48. Her dream is to become a fashion designer and she wants to focus on that now. Graduation details will be announced on a later date.

Kobayashi Rikako joined NMB48 in early 2012 as part of the 3rd Generation. She was selected for Team BII when it was formed in October the same year. In September last year she had to temporarily stop her NMB48 activites due to a foot injury but came back in December.  


Kobayashi Rikako's graduation announcement
Original Message

I, Kobayashi Rikako, will graduate from NMB48.
I am sorry that this is such a sudden announcement.
I have the dream of becoming a fashion designer in the future. During my remaining school life I want to study fashion, and prepare myself for the next step, so I decided to graduate NMB48.
There was the shuffle recently, but in my head I had already decided to graduate even before the shuffle was held.
The two years I have spent together with such wonderful members and with all my fans was such a great time that I really, really cannot express it with words. I am really proud of being able to work as a NMB48 3rd Generation and as a Team BII member.
There is only little time left, but I'd be happy if you watch over me kindly until the end.
Thank you very much.

Read more ...

SKE48 Team E Kito Momona Announces Graduation

On March 16, another SKE48 member announced her graduation: Kito Momona, member of Team E, will leave the group in April. An exact date is yet to be decided.

Kito Momona is a 2nd Generation member. She joined SKE48 in 2009 and became a Team KII member the same year.  At the end of 2010 she was demoted to Kenkyuusei alongside some other KII members. After more than one and a half year as Kenkyuusei she was promoted to Team S in August 2012 and then transferred to Team E during the SKE48 shuffle last year. As announced during the Dai Sokaku Matsuri, she was supposed to go back to Team S but Momona chose a different path in life and will now leave the group.

This is the fourth graduation announcement for SKE48 in a week. Two Kenkyuusei, Orito Aisa and Yamamoto Yuka, as well has Team S member Deguchi Aki had already declared their leave before today.

Kito Momona's graduation announcement
Original Message

I have an announcement for you. I, Kito Momona, will graduate from SKE48 in April.
The reason is that, last year I turned 20 and I had several things to think about, like what do I want to do, and how do I want to go on from here, and this is the result of my consideration. Of course I loved working as an idol, and parting from you all and parting from the other members makes me feel lonely, but I made the decision to do what I want to do and decided to graduate.
So I don't think of this as a sad parting. Please continue to support SKE48 and to support me, Kito Momona.
I still have time until April, so it would be great if I am able to create a lot of memories.
Thank you.

Read more ...

Subunits Not yet and DiVA are back

Over the past days it was announced that two subunits from the AKB48 group are back again: Not yet with an album and DiVA with a new song.

Not yet, consisting of Oshima Yuko, Sashihara Rino, Yokoyama Yui and Kitahara Rie, will release their first album titled [already] on April 23, more than a half year after their last release [Hiri Hiri no Hana]. Interesting is that the release date is set after Oshima Yuko's graduation. A release event for May 10 is also scheduled. What will happen with the group afterwards has not been announced yet. The tracklist for the album can be found below.

The other unit, DiVA, has made a new song, a cover of  [WOW WAR TONIGHT ~Toki ni wa Okose yo Movement], a number one hit from 1995 by H Jungle With t. The music video is currently only distributed via the Softbank app UULA, a preview can be seen on the UULA Youtube Channel. Whether an official single release will follow is not known. DiVA now consists of graduated member Akimoto Sayaka, SNH48 and as recently announced concurrent SKE48 member Miyazawa Sae, Umeda Ayaka who transfers to NMB48, as well as the 6 backdancer members that were casted for DiVA'S previous single. Former member Masuda Yuka is not part of the new DiVA. DiVA's last release already dates back two years: the single [Lost the way] was released on March 21, 2012.







Not yet 1st Album
already 
23 April 2014

Type A
[CD]
01. Shuumatsu Not yet (1st single)
02. Naminori Kakigoori (2nd single)
03. Pera Pera Perao (3rd Single)
04. Suika Baby (4th single)
05. Hiri Hiri no Hana (5th single)
06. Hirahira (1st single coupling)
07. Hug Tomo (2nd single coupling)
08. Uminari yo (3rd single coupling)
09. Tsugi no Pierce (5th single coupling)
10. Aikata (3rd single coupling)
11. Moto Kare ga Kekkon Suru Toki (3rd single coupling)
12. Kibou no Hana (4th single coupling)
13. Bakuhatsu Professor (5th single coupling)
14. guilty love (4th single coupling)
15. May (Yokoyama Yui solo, 4th single coupling)
16. Sekai no Kaze wo Bokura wa Ukete (new song)
17. Title TBA
[DVD]
Sekai no Kaze wo Bokura wa Ukete (MV) + special footage


Type B
[CD]
01. Shuumatsu Not yet (1st single)
02. Naminori Kakigoori (2nd single)
03. Pera Pera Perao (3rd Single)
04. Suika Baby (4th single)
05. Hiri Hiri no Hana (5th single)
06. Hirahira (1st single coupling)
07. Hug Tomo (2nd single coupling)
08. Uminari yo (3rd single coupling)
09. Tsugi no Pierce (5th single coupling)
10. Fumou no Yoru (3rd single coupling)
11. Warau ga Ii (1st single coupling)
12. Girisha no Kamotsusen (2nd single coupling)
13. Moshimo Te wo Tsunaideitara (5th single coupling)
14. Mienai Sora wa Itsudemo Aoi (Yokoyama Yui with friends (from AKB48, 5th single coupling)
15. Bokutachi no Offshore (2nd single coupling)
16. Sekai no Kaze wo Bokura wa Ukete (new song)
17. Title TBA
[DVD]
Sekai no Kaze wo Bokura wa Ukete (MV) + special footage

Type C
[CD]
01. Shuumatsu Not yet (1st single)
02. Naminori Kakigoori (2nd single)
03. Pera Pera Perao (3rd Single)
04. Suika Baby (4th single)
05. Hiri Hiri no Hana (5th single)
06. Hirahira (1st single coupling)
07. Hug Tomo (2nd single coupling)
08. Uminari yo (3rd single coupling)
09. Tsugi no Pierce (5th single coupling)
10. Sunao ni Naritai (1st single coupling)
11. Fuusha ga Mieru Machi (3rd single coupling)
12. Sasayaka na Boku no Teikou (5th single coupling)
13. Vermeer no Tegami (2nd single coupling)
14. Nakinagara Hohoende (Not yet version, 1st single coupling)
15. Aisareru to Iu Koto (Not yet version, 4th single coupling)
16. Sekai no Kaze wo Bokura wa Ukete (new song)
[DVD]
Sekai no Kaze wo Bokura wa Ukete (MV) + special footage


Type D (Playbutton)
[CD]
01. Shuumatsu Not yet (1st single)
02. Naminori Kakigoori (2nd single)
03. Pera Pera Perao (3rd Single)
04. Suika Baby (4th single)
05. Hiri Hiri no Hana (5th single)
06. Hirahira (1st single coupling)
07. Hug Tomo (2nd single coupling)
08. Uminari yo (3rd single coupling)
09. Tsugi no Pierce (5th single coupling)



I am glad about DiVA coming back, I always liked them. Not sure what to think about Not yet. The album title [already] is a contradiction of the band name Not yet, raising speculation that it is a sign that the group has come full circle and will follow Watarirouka Hashiritai 7's example: one last album and than disbanding. On the other hand, DiVA shows that a subunit can also continue with graduated members. Well, we'll see.

Read more ...

Team S Deguchi Aki Graduates SKE48

SKE48 Team S member Deguchi Aki has announced during her birthday show on March 13th that she will be graduating from the group. She wants to focus on becomíng a singer. The graduation will be in April, further details will be revealed on a later date.

Before becoming an SKE48 member, Deguchi Aki had already been an AKB48 Kenkyuusei. She joined AKB48 in 2007 as part of the 4th Generation but graduated the same year. Being originally from Mie, a region close to SKE48's home base Nagoya, she decided to make a comeback and applied for SKE48 when it was formed in 2008. She became part of the 1st Generation and later an original Team S member. As part of Team S she was also senbatsu for the 1st single [Tsuyokimono yo]. She never made senbatsu again nor ranked in the election, but last year, at SKE48's Request Hour, her duet song with Sato Mieko [Anata to Christmas Eve] was voted no. 1 by the SKE48 fans. Her graduation brings down the number of 1st Generation members left in SKE48 to 5.


Deguchi Aki's graduation announcement
Original Message

Thank you for holding such a wonderful birthday show today. The past year as a 25 year old was a very intensive one of my life. Being able to sing [Anata to Christmas Eve] as number one song at the Request Hour last year was a really big event for me, and as part of SKE48 I was able to stand (on the stage) in the Nagoya Dome, which also had been my dream. Thanks so much to all those who supported me till now.
Making use of this opportunity today, I have something to tell you. I, Deguchi Aki, will graduate from SKE48 in April. This is a forward-facing/looking graduation. As a 1st Generation member, I have been active for approx. 6 years and I really was able to learn a lot.
Because of this, graduating will be very sad. But because I want to study singing professionally from now on in order to advance on the way to my dream of becoming a singer, I will graduate SKE48. From now on a lot things will happen, but I want to live on with the memories I have made in these 6 years in SKE48 in my heart.
The exact date is yet undecided, so I will tell you later on. Please continue to support SKE48 and Deguchi Aki.

Read more ...

SKE48 Kenkyuusei Orito Aisa and Yamamoto Yuka Announce Graduation

On March 10th, two SKE48 Kenkyuusei, Orito Aisa and Yamamoto Yuka, announced that they will graduate from the group. Both girls want to focus on their studies. Orito Aisa will graduate in April and Yamamoto Yuka in March. Her graduation show will be held on March 22nd, one day before Mukaida Manatsu's who will graduate on March 23rd.

Orito Aisa and Yamamoto Yuka are both 6th Generation Kenkyuusei who joined SKE48 about a year ago in March 2013.  

Yamamoto Yuka's graduation announcement
Original Message

I, Yamamoto Yuka, have decided to graduate from SKE48 at the end of March.
I think I surprised you and also the other members with this sudden announcement, but as a result of lots and lots of worrying I have decided to graduate.
After my graduation, I will move towards my dream and make an effort at my studies.
There is not much time left for me, but I will do my best, so please support me.

Orito Aisa's graduation announcement
Original Message

I, Orito Aisa, will graduate from SKE48, too.
I love SKE48 and I also love this stage show, but while working here I also found a new dream and from April on I will be a high school student. There were a lot of things I worried about, so I decided to focus on my studies.
I will graduate in April, and, as I have done before, I will work with all my power until then, so please support me till then.

Read more ...

NMB48 Kenkyuusei Shimazaki Momoka Announces Graduation

On March 8th, NMB48 Kenkyuusei Shimazaki Momoka announced that she will graduate the group because she wants to focus on her studies. Her graduation show is scheduled for March 14th and her last activity will be a handshake event on March 15th.

Shimazaki Momoka who is currently NMB48's youngest member joined the group in December 2012 as part of the 4th Generation. She is the fifth 4th Generation member who leaves NMB48.

This is the second graduation announcement for NMB48 in a week. On Monday Nakagawa Hiromi had already announced her leave. Her graduation show is one day before Momokas.


Shimazaki Momoka's graduation announcement
Original Message

I, Shimazaki Momoka, will graduate from NMB48.
At age 11, I joined NMB48 as part of the 4th Generation. Now I am 13 and in the time until today, I have been able to make various experiences, I was able to get support by many people, I was able to spend a really happy time, and I am grateful for that.
But while being active (in NMB48), I worried about balancing NMB48 and my studies.
I thought "If I graduated now, I would not be able to meet all those people again who supported me" and so I tried my best. But I also thought, if I didn't choose studying now I would not be able to advance, so in order to be able to advance on the way to my dream, I now chose to graduate NMB48.
I am really sorry for not being able to repay all those who at times supported, at times  encouraged me. I will never forget the love I have received from you. I also will never forget the people who took care of me in NMB48. I want to make use of all the things I have learned (in NMB48) and work hard with all my power in order to grow into a wonderful adult. I will focus on my studies, and definitely fulfill my dream.
Also I will treasure the time I have left in NMB48 until my graduation. Please support me until the end.

Read more ...

NMB48 Kenkyuusei Nakagawa Hiromi Announces Graduation

On March 3rd, NMB48 Kenkyuusei Nakagawa Hiromi has announced her graduation from NMB48. She decided to go to vocational school and follow a different path in life. Her graduation show will be on March 13th and her last activity will be a handshake event on March 15th.

Nakagawa Hiromi joined NMB48 in mid-2011 as part of the 2nd Generation. Unfortunately she was never promoted, so after being a Kenkyuusei for more than two and a half years she now decided to leave.


Nakagawa Hiromi's graduation announcement
Original Message

I, Nakagawa Hiromi, will graduate from NMB48.
In the two and a half years since joining NMB48 I have seen the work of people supporting those on stage and became fascinated by it. The wish to learn about this awakened in me.
The things I have made my goal the whole time were: being promoted to a team, and doing away/abroad shows (note: referring to shows at the theaters of the other 48groups) with my beloved Kenkyuusei members. My feelings towards these two goals were by no means a lie.
I also felt that my feelings towards these goals were growing every day with your support. That is why I have also thought that it might somehow be possible to pursue two things at the same time: my goals I have continously chased until now, and my want to follow a new path. But I thought that by doing so I would end up doing both things half-heartedly. This I did not want to happen. As a result of thinking as well as I could about my future and about what I want to do, I chose the way of going to a vocational school from April on and graduating NMB48.
To all those who supported me this whole time: thank you for cheering for someone like me all the time.
For me, the members and the two and a half years I have spent with you all are a big treasure. I want to make use of all those things I have learnt in NMB48 and to advance on a new path looking forward. 
I would be happy if you pushed my back.
Thank you so, so much for everything until now.

Read more ...

AKB48 Nonaka Misato Announces Graduation

AKB48 Team B member Nonaka Misato has announced her graduation during a broadcast of AKB48 no Anta, Dare? on February 28. Details about her graduation have yet to be announced. After the broadcast Micha commented on her blog about her decision. A translation of the post can be found below.

Micha joined AKB48 in 2008 as part of the 6th Generation. During AKB48's first shuffle in 2009 she was promoted to Team K and later shuffled to Team B. Unfortunately she never was a prominent member of the group, but in 2012 AKB48 named their 47 prefectures tour after her calling it Nonaka Misato, Ugoku. ~47 Todoufuken de Aimashou~. After her graduation, Takajo Aki will be the only 6th Generation member left in AKB48.


Nonaka Misato's blog post about her graduation
Original Message

Hello.
Yesterday during the live broadcast of 'AKB48 no Anta, Dare?' on NOTTV I announced my graduation. I am sorry for this sudden announcement.
I have been thinking about graduation for a while now. I also have consulted Akimoto-san and my manager. It is not a graduation I have decided because of the recent shuffle.
This is my 6th year since joining AKB48. I think I really was able to change through joining AKB48. The time I have spent in my beloved AKB48 is really special and precious (^^). I won't talk about memories yet! The date of my graduation is not yet decided and I still have time, so until the day I graduate I want to learn a lot and make many memories.
To all those who always support me...I am sorry for surprising you. When I remind myself of the smiles and memories I made with everyone I spent my time with until now, I feel lonely...But we still have time! Let's laugh a lot together. I love you all.
I will do my best until the end. Please support me.
Nonaka Misato

Read more ...

NMB48 Team M Shimada Rena Announces Graduation

During Day 3 of Team M's Osaka Tour, Team M captain Shimada Rena announced her graduation from NMB48. A date for her graduation has yet to be decided.

Shimada Rena joined NMB48 in mid-2011 as part of the 2nd Generation. Following a purikura/boyfriend scandal she was suspended for four months. After a fan voting she was allowed back in and resumed her activities on January 1st, 2012. In order to prove herself, she was made captain of the 2nd Generation Kenkyuusei and later captain of Team M when it was formed. She was part of NMB48 senbatsu once, for [Bokura no Eureka].




Shimada Rena's graduation announcement
Original Message

I, Shimada Rena, will graduate from NMB48.
Last year I had my 20th birthday, and I started to think about my future more than before. I was allowed to make a lot of experiences in this really blessed place that is NMB48 and, including painful and frustrating things, I was able to learn a lot here.
I started thinking about graduation, but the staff and the presence of the members I spent every day with and the words of all my fans who cheered me on during handshake events etc, kept me back. There were times my heart trembled and wavered too, but consulting with my family and thinking a lot, I decided to graduate NMB48.
Taking over the responsibility of being captain was the condition at the time of my comeback, incomprehensibly for me at that time, I became the Team M and 2nd Generation captain. I kept running against walls so much that there was not a day as captain I did not worry, but with the strong wish "I want to make Team M a good team" I came to where I am now as well as I could.
With this tour, I could once again confirm that this team is a really great one.
I really was not the captain-type, but everyone followed me, and I am really grateful that I could make it this far. I am grateful that Akimoto-sensei layed the responsibility of being captain on me at the time of my comeback.
To tell the truth, I wanted us to grow even further through this tour. There was the shuffle, but this Team M overcame so many walls and it only consists of really great members. No matter where they are going, I think they will be able to continue to shine.
I am sad that I won't be able to meet all the fans who supported me until now at handshake events or theater shows anymore. But I haven't given up my dream and there are also a lot of things I want to do from now on, so I would be happy if you continued to watch over me.
Thank you so much for everything until now.

Read more ...

SKE48 Matsumoto Rina Announces Graduation

On February 21st, Team KII member Matsumoto Rina annouced her graduation from SKE48. She will leave in April to concentrate on her studies. An exact graduation date has yet to be announced but it was already confirmed that she will participate in the AKB48 Group spring concerts in Saitama Super Arena (April 4~6).

Matsurina joined SKE48 in 2009 as part of the 2nd Generation and became an original Team KII member the same year. She was a senbatsu member twice: for [Kataomoi Finally] and [Aishiteraburu] and ranked 41st in last year's election.



Matsumoto Rina's graduation announcement
Original Message

I, Matsumoto Rina, will graduate from SKE48 in April.
To all those who supported me until now: I was really happy these past 5 years.
From now on I want to do my best at my studies and want to work hard towards my future dream.
Thank you so much.
There is only little time left for me but please support me.

Read more ...