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| Viral Photos Explained: Fujisawa Riko and ≒JOY Agency Respond to Online Speculation |
J-pop idol Fujisawa Riko, a member of rising group ≒JOY, has found herself at the centre of online speculation after private photos began circulating on social media. On the 18th, the group’s management released an official statement addressing the situation directly, clarifying the context behind the images and warning against the spread of unverified rumours.
According to the official announcement, posts had surfaced suggesting that Fujisawa was dining and drinking with a man in what was framed as a romantic setting. However, after confirming with the member herself, management stated clearly that the man in the photo was her older brother, and the images were taken during a family meal.
The photo in question was reportedly shared originally via her brother’s own social media story.
The agency emphasised that it has repeatedly urged the public to refrain from defamation, baseless rumours and harmful commentary aimed at the group or its members.
Despite prior warnings, posts presenting unclear information as fact have continued to spread across various platforms.
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In their statement, management firmly requested that fans and social media users do not further circulate the images or misleading interpretations.
They also made it clear that they are consulting with legal advisors and will consider necessary action against malicious posts moving forward.
The announcement did not stop there. It also addressed separate online claims involving another member, where posts allegedly implied inappropriate overnight stays with a man.
Management clarified that the referenced image was posted by a female friend from her school days, not a romantic partner. They reminded the public that online posts can spread instantly and urged people to pause and reflect before sharing content that may harm someone’s reputation.
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One notable admission in the statement involved the use of a so-called “private account.”
Management confirmed that a referenced account did belong to the member in question. As company policy does not allow the use of private accounts to prevent misunderstandings, the member has received a strict warning and has promised not to continue using such an account. The agency apologised for causing concern and reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining fans’ trust.
Meanwhile, Fujisawa Riko also personally addressed the situation through a clarification video, calmly explaining that the viral image was simply a family snapshot taken while dining with her older brother. She revealed that the photo was actually a screenshot from her brother’s private social media story posted around a year ago, and that it was never intended for wider circulation.
Fujisawa Riko admitted she felt slightly embarrassed about appearing without make-up in the picture, joking that it was hardly her best angle, but stressed that she holds no resentment towards anyone and is not upset about the speculation itself. Instead, she thanked fans for their concern and reassured them that there was nothing dramatic behind the image at all.
写真について説明
— KK-8🍙 (@K3PO4846) February 18, 2026
お兄ちゃんとの写真
お兄ちゃんが1年前にSNSのストーリーにあげてしまった写真のスクリーンショット#藤沢莉子 pic.twitter.com/tzBn4FCaEn
For context, ≒JOY debuted in March 2022 as the third group following =LOVE and ≠ME, created under producer Sashihara Rino’s vision. The group name symbolises the joy shared between members and fans when they meet.
J-pop groups operate under carefully managed public images, with strong emphasis on transparency, professionalism and fan trust. When rumours appear, agencies typically respond quickly with formal statements, especially if members’ reputations are involved.
Fan and netizen reactions have been varied. Loyal supporters have rallied behind Fujisawa, urging others to stop spreading speculation and expressing frustration over how quickly narratives can spiral online.
Some netizens criticised the speed at which assumptions were made without verification, while others debated idol privacy boundaries and social media culture. There are also voices calling for stricter moderation of false posts to protect young artists.
What are your thoughts on how agencies handle viral rumours in the idol industry? Do you think management responses like this are enough to protect artists?