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NGT48’s 4th generation Kenkyuusei, Matsuzaka Saho, has announced her graduation from the group.
The 18-year-old idol shared the news during today’s Pajama Drive theatre performance (22 March).
Saho’s final performance as an NGT48 member is set for 26 April 2025, with her official graduation activities wrapping up by the end of the month.
A Short But Memorable Journey
Saho, known affectionately as Sahochan or Sahorin, joined NGT48 in December 2023 and quickly made her mark as part of the 4th generation.
Despite being a Kenkyuusei, she participated in Kisetsuhazure no Ice Lemonade and performed unit songs like Tenshi no Shippo and Kagami no Naka no Jean Da Arc.
Originally from Tokyo, she moved to Niigata alone at 16 after passing NGT48’s auditions.
Reflecting on her journey, she admitted that the past year was filled with both struggles and joys.
Why She’s Leaving
In her statement, Saho shared that she had been thinking deeply about her future and felt she needed to take a new path.
"I realised that staying as I am won’t be enough," she confessed.
"There were times I disliked myself, but I want to move forward as my true self. That’s why I’ve decided to graduate at the same time as finishing high school."
She expressed gratitude to her fellow 4th-gen members, the fans who supported her, and the unique experiences she had as an NGT48 member.
"I wouldn’t have made it through this year without the fans. Your support helped me overcome tough times," she added.
Final Performance and Farewell
Saho’s last stage as an NGT48 member will be at the Pajama Drive performance on 26 April. The exact date of her final activities is yet to be announced.
She promised to cherish the remaining days with her fans and asked for their continued support until the very end.
With only a month left in her idol journey, fans have one last chance to create memories with Saho before she steps into a new future.