Honda Hitomi, a former IZ*ONE member, announced her graduation from the Japanese idol group, AKB48.
Is she planning to re-debut as a K-pop idol?
Honda Hitomi To Graduate from AKB48 in January 2024
On August 30, Honda Hitomi personally announced her graduation from AKB48 on various social media platforms including X and YouTube.
She confirmed:
"I, Honda Hitomi, will graduate from AKB48."
The "La Vie En Rose" singer added:
"As a representative of AKB48 Team 8 Tochigi Prefecture, I joined at the age of 12 and worked for about 10 years. I was in charge as the center of the group, a Team 8 member, I was an IZ*ONE member and was given the chance to be a Senbatsu member. These valuable experiences helped me grow day by day."
Looking back at all the roles she has fulfilled, Hitomi didn't forget to thank the people and her fans who supported her throughout her journey.
"I'm sure all of that will be my cornerstone and brighten me up in the future. I am truly grateful to Akimoto-sensei who helped me grow up to this point, to all the fans who supported me, to all the staff, all members and everyone who put in their hard work.
I was able to spend happy and memorable days with everyone. Thank you so much for always supporting me, who has been inexperienced for 10 years."
According to reports, Honda Hitomi will continue to serve in AKB48 and will officially graduate in January 2024.
Hitomi (Instagram)
What's Next for Hitomi After Graduation? Fans Hope for Her Re-Debut in Korea
Prior to her departure from the Japanese group, Hitomi teased fans that their upcoming single would be special as it would be her last release for AKB48.
"I'll leave such a grateful and blessed environment, but I don't want to forget the love you gave me and try various things in the future. I want to confirm my potential.
Since the single, which will be released on September 27, will be the last one, I will attend all the talk sessions that have been confirmed so far."
Regarding her graduation concert:
"I will tell you about the graduation performance as soon as it is decided. I will cherish the rest of the time and do my best for AKB48, so I look forward to your continued support."
Honda Hitomi Mnet Twitter
After hearing this, fans expressed regrets about her sudden graduation but at the same time, her fans from Korea and international fans were curious about what would be her next move after leaving AKB48.
Some are focused on the possibility that she would follow former IZ*ONE and now LE SSERAFIM Sakura's steps and re-debut as a K-pop idol in Korea, or choose Nako's path of becoming an actress instead.
Meanwhile, Honda Hitomi made her name known in the K-pop industry after debuting as IZ*ONE through Mnet's "Produce 48 and promoted in Korea.
After leaving IZ*ONE, she returned to Japan and worked for AKB48, her main group.
