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| HKT48’s Sakamoto Rino Announces Graduation – Final Show Set for 15 November 2025 (Pics: HKT48 Official) |
It’s the end of an era for HKT48’s Team H, as Sakamoto Rino (aka Riiko) has officially announced her graduation from the group during the theatre performance on Tuesday, 29 July 2025.
After nearly seven years with HKT48, the Tokyo-born idol will be wrapping up her activities on 15 November 2025, with her final stage set at the 17LIVE HKT48 Theatre.
Rino joined the group back in November 2018 as a 5th Gen kenkyuusei, and after years of hard work, laughter, tears and thousands of performances, she was promoted to Team H in January 2022. Now at 23, with six years and eight months under her belt, she’s decided it’s time to take the next step.
In her message to fans, Riiko shared her thoughts with heartfelt honesty:
“Through my time in HKT48, there were so many happy moments – especially dancing with all the members. I also learned so much and faced frustrations too. But I want to take what I’ve gained here and move forward with confidence. That’s why I’ve decided to graduate.”
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The announcement was met with a mix of surprise and warm support from fans in the theatre and online. While the news came a bit sudden, the management confirmed they had discussed the matter with her thoroughly and would respect her wishes.
What’s Next Before Sakamoto Rino Graduation?
Riiko won’t be disappearing straight away! She’s got a jam-packed schedule leading up to her farewell in November, including handshake and high-touch events for HKT48’s 19th single “Han-sode Tenshi”, and appearances at Boosty Fan Matsuri 2025 in Ariake this September.
Here’s a quick peek at her remaining activities:
🗓️ Final Stage:
15 November 2025 (Saturday)
17LIVE HKT48 Theatre
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🤝 Online & Offline Events:
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7 September – Online Handshake
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27–28 September – Online Handshake
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11–12 October – Online Handshake
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25–26 October – In-person Hi-Touch @ Hakata International Exhibition Centre
🎉 Other Appearances:
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20–21 September – Boosty Fan Festival 2025 (Tokyo)
Her SHOWROOM, HKT48 Mail, and LINE Official accounts will stay active until 23:59 on 15 November, while fan letters will be accepted up until the same day.
From her first shy days as a trainee to growing into a beloved core member of Team H, Rino’s journey has been one of quiet determination. She may not have always been centre stage, but she earned fans' respect for her consistency, her cheerful energy, and her steady growth as a performer.
As she takes her bow and prepares to chase new dreams, fans across the country – and overseas – are sending her off with love and support. Whether she stays in entertainment or takes a new path entirely, Riiko’s HKT48 chapter will be remembered fondly.