 |
| iLiFE! Leader Riri Konoka Demoted and Penalised for “Inappropriate Behaviour” |
Japanese idol group iLiFE! has been hit by another sudden shake-up right before their big Budokan concert. Management announced on 26 August that group leader Riri Konoka (26) has been demoted from her position and placed under a period of penalties after what they described as “inappropriate behaviour” scandal that went against company rules.
The news comes as a double blow for fans—just a day earlier, it was revealed that member Nodoka Nara would be leaving the group due to a “serious breach of rules.”
Konoka Riri’s Apology and Reflection
 |
Konoka has already issued an apology, admitting fault and confirming that the issue stemmed from personal information about her from 2023 that recently resurfaced.
She wrote that she deeply regrets her actions and will reflect on her behaviour while continuing activities with the group under stricter conditions.
On social media, she had earlier commented on Nodoka’s departure, saying she was “truly sorry that this situation happened right before Budokan.”
She added that the group had long discussions with management and decided to face the stage as nine members, prioritising the success of the concert. Ironically, just a day later, her own case was announced.
Basically showing her in a close, affectionate interaction with a man, prompting speculation about their relationship status, whether friends or romantic partners, amidst her group's strict no-dating policy.
Video context:
4度目ましてポケカメンです！！！！！
— ポケカメン@ちょこらび (@GC5R5OGIKgV0yvz) August 25, 2025
こちら先ほどツイートした男性とぎゅうしてる動画ですかお友達ですかね？？？
ご返信お待ちしてます！！！こちら2023年頃ですね！！！@iLiFE_official pic.twitter.com/2kXJkX6xBD
Official Statement from iLiFE!
In its notice, the company apologised to fans for the concern caused, confirmed Riri’s demotion from leadership, and explained that she will face a set period of penalties under internal regulations.
The statement stressed that Konoka herself has admitted her lack of judgement, and promised to follow rules more carefully from now on. It also requested fans not to spread speculation or harmful comments towards her or other members.
Timing Ahead of Budokan
The announcement lands just before the group’s highly anticipated Nippon Budokan live performance on 27 August. Despite the leadership shuffle and back-to-back controversies, management assured fans that the members and staff will do their utmost to deliver a successful show.