J-Pop fans were hit with bittersweet news today as STARTO ENTERTAINMENT announced that Shonen Ninja, the 16-member idol group under Johnny’s Jr. line-up, will officially end their group activities on 30 November 2025.
According to the agency’s official statement released on their website on 12 November, the decision was made “so that each member can continue to grow individually and deliver even greater performances to their fans.”
From December onwards, each member will be focusing on solo projects.
“Shonen Ninja will end group activities as of 30 November 2025 to allow each member to pursue new heights and personal growth,” the statement read.
“Though their time as a group will conclude, we will continue to support each member as they carve out their own future paths.”
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From Rookie Juniors to Arena Performers
Formed in June 2018, Shonen Ninja quickly became known for their youthful energy and large-scale performances.
The group’s major spotlight came in 2020, when they stepped in for Snow Man at NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen, performing a memorable “fukkin-daiko” (abs drum) act with veteran singer Tendo Yoshimi.
Over the years, the group’s flexible line-up became part of their charm.
Shonen Ninja showcased their first solo arena concert in 2024, proving that the Johnny’s Jr. generation could still command massive crowds.
This year, they successfully wrapped a 29-show solo tour at Tokyo’s Kanadevia Hall, drawing an impressive 60,000 fans in total.
Evolving in the New Era of STARTO
【少年忍者 グループ活動終了】
— Johnny's information (@info__Johnnys) November 12, 2025
少年忍者が2025年11月30日をもって、グループとしての活動を終了することが発表されました。
今後は個人の活動に専念されるとのことです。#少年忍者
The announcement comes during a period of major structural change within STARTO ENTERTAINMENT (formerly Johnny & Associates).
Earlier in 2025, several Junior groups were reshuffled, resulting in the birth of new units such as ACEes, KEY TO LIT, and B&ZAI — a move signalling a generational shift in the agency’s idol landscape.
Interestingly, some of Shonen Ninja’s former members have already gone on to join or debut under other units — including Raul (now in Snow Man) and Ryusei Fukada (now part of ACEes).
Fans React: “End of an Era, But a New Beginning”
Japanese fans flooded social media following the announcement, expressing both sadness and pride.
Many commented that the group “grew up together in front of us” and that “their teamwork and spirit will never be forgotten.”
Others said they’re looking forward to seeing how each member develops individually, calling it “a natural step after seven years of hard work.”
【速報】
— ғ_ᴍᴏɴᴀ_ɴᴇᴡ_ᴋᴀᴡᴀɪɪ (@f_mona_new_kawa) November 12, 2025
けーまる、裏垢?で少年忍者 解体を呟く
（現在削除済み）#少年忍者 #ジュニア pic.twitter.com/mJUljWkz67
Agency’s Appreciation Message
STARTO ENTERTAINMENT extended heartfelt gratitude to supporters, saying:
“To all the fans and partners who have continuously supported Shonen Ninja, we express our deepest thanks. While group activities will conclude, we will keep walking alongside each member as they take on new challenges.”
TL;DR
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Group name: Shonen Ninja (Johnny’s Jr.)
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Formed: June 2018
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Group activities end: 30 November 2025
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Agency: STARTO ENTERTAINMENT (CEO: Katsuaki Suzuki)
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Reason: Members to focus on individual growth and solo careers
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Notable achievements: NHK Kōhaku performance (2020), first solo arena concert (2024), 29-show tour (2025)