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| Double Graduation Shock: Reina & Akane Say Goodbye to Morning Musume. ’25 and Hello! Project This Autumn |
It’s a heartfelt double graduation for Morning Musume. ’25 as long-time members Reina Yokoyama and Akane Haga have announced they’ll be stepping away from the group — and the entertainment industry altogether — at the end of the group’s fall 2025 concert tour.
The news, confirmed on 8 July via an official statement from Up-Front Promotion, marks a significant turning point for the iconic Hello! Project group. Reina, a 13th gen member who's been with the group for over eight years, and Akane, part of the 12th gen and active for a whopping 11 years, will both be closing the curtain on their idol careers this year.
Reina Yokoyama’s Message: “I Want to Live True to Myself”
In a warm and emotional handwritten letter, Reina looked back on her eight-and-a-half-year journey, expressing deep gratitude to fans, fellow members, and staff.
“I’ve always been the type to get curious about all sorts of things and think, ‘I want to give it a try!’” she wrote. “That vision of a fun future in my mind kept growing. I want to open the door to freedom, live true to myself, and pursue what I truly want to do!”
Reina confirmed she’ll be ending her entertainment activities altogether after graduation and embarking on a brand new path outside the limelight.
“From the 15-year-old me back then to the 24-year-old me now, I’m filled with gratitude. Every person I’ve met and every encounter — they’re lifelong treasures.”
She also promised to treasure every moment left as part of Morning Musume. and asked fans to stay with her until the very end.
Akane Haga’s Message: “This Decision Took Me a Very Long Time”
Akane, meanwhile, shared her own heartfelt thoughts, noting just how difficult the decision was — not only because of her love for Morning Musume., but also for the fans and fellow members who’ve shaped her life.
“Morning Musume. has always been by my side throughout my 23 years of life,” she wrote. “Just imagining being apart from all of it filled me with fear.”
But eventually, Akane reached a decision she felt was right for her future. Like Reina, she also plans to leave the entertainment world entirely.
“Even though part of me feels lonely, I truly believe that this will become a very important choice for the future me. I hope that in your hearts, I can always remain Akane Haga of Morning Musume.”
What’s Next for the Group and Fans?
The official statement confirmed that discussions about both graduations have been ongoing since around 2023. While no exact concert dates have been revealed just yet, both Reina and Akane will take part in the upcoming autumn tour, which will serve as their final send-off.
The management team also emphasised their appreciation for both members’ contributions over the years, noting:
“We will continue to cherish the remaining time with them as part of Morning Musume. ’25, and move forward with heartfelt gratitude.”
For many fans, this double graduation feels like the end of a major chapter — but also the start of something new and full of possibility for both Reina and Akane.
As the group prepares for the next phase, one thing’s certain: these two members have left a lasting mark on Morning Musume. ’25 and the hearts of their supporters.
Stay tuned for further details on their graduation concerts and any final appearances.