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| Tsujita Tokine to Graduate from NGT48 After One Year (Photo: NGT48) |
NGT48 kenkyuusei Tsujita Tokine has officially announced her graduation today on 12 February 2026, confirming that she will leave the group on 8 March 2026. The 18-year-old member shared the news during a SHOWROOM broadcast, marking the end of her short but meaningful journey with the Niigata-based 48 Group.
Tsujita Tokine joined NGT48 on 25 January 2025 as part of the 5th Generation and had been active for just over a year. Despite being a kenkyuusei, she already built a gentle but loyal fanbase thanks to her sincerity and steady growth on stage.
In her heartfelt statement, Tsujita Tokine apologised for the sudden announcement and reflected on the precious experiences she gained through theatre performances, radio, television, events, and even volunteer activities.
She said joining NGT48 was something she was genuinely happy about, as she truly loved the group.
However, she also admitted that as time passed, anxiety about her future began to grow. There were moments when she felt herself slowing down.
What unexpectedly helped her during that period was studying. She described academics as the one space where she could completely immerse herself and forget her worries. Through that focus, she discovered a new dream.
With that, she made the difficult decision to graduate and prioritise her studies moving forward.
Tsujita Tokine revealed that she had been thinking about graduation for several months, emphasising that it was not an impulsive choice.
Her final activities are scheduled for 8 March 2026. On that day, she will participate in NGT48’s individual online talk event.
As of now, there has been no confirmation of a graduation concert or special stage. In the 48 Group world, large-scale graduation concerts are usually reserved for senior or long-serving members, so fans are tempering expectations.
Graduation is a common chapter within the 48 Group system. Members often step away to pursue new challenges, personal goals, or simply a different path outside of the entertainment industry.
Tsujita Tokine’s case fits that tradition — young, thoughtful, and ready to shift focus.
During her time in the group, she participated in B-side tracks such as “Omoide wo Zero ni Shite” and “Yuudachi Gumo” from Kibou Ressha.
Known by nicknames Tokkii and Tokine, the Kyoto-born Capricorn also gained light attention among fans for her quirky special skill: imitating the sound of an electric toothbrush — a small detail that made her stand out in MC segments.
Fan and netizen reactions have been mixed but largely supportive. Some were surprised at how soon the announcement came, considering she had only debuted in 2025.
Others praised her maturity at 18 for choosing academics early rather than struggling quietly.
A portion of the fandom expressed regret that her potential as a performer will no longer fully unfold within NGT48, while many respected her honesty about anxiety and self-reflection.
On Japanese forums and social media, comments ranged from “It’s sad but understandable” to “Studying is a strong choice at her age.” A few fans also wondered whether the group might organise a small farewell segment during a theatre performance before her final day.
Tokine closed her message with gratitude, thanking fans, seniors, and fellow members for supporting her and liking her for who she is. She promised to give her best until 8 March.
Her idol journey may have been brief, but it clearly meant something — to her and to those who watched her grow. As graduation season continues to be part of 48 Group life, Tsujita Tokine’s departure feels less like an ending and more like a pivot toward a different stage.
What do you think about Tokine’s decision? Were you expecting her graduation, or does this come as a surprise?