Vertrag des 15-jährigen Mitglieds der Avex Idol-Gruppe „SUPER☆GIRLS“ wegen schwerwiegenden Verstoßes gekündigt

Hanafuji Karen, a 15-year-old member of the female idol group SUPER☆GIRLS, which is signed to Avex, had her exclusive contract terminated on December 31. The announcement was made via the company’s official website and other channels.

Hanafuji, who joined as a 6th-generation member in January of the previous year, had been diagnosed with “acute upper respiratory tract inflammation” on December 28 and was unable to attend an event on the 29th. Shortly after, her contract was terminated. The reason cited was a “serious violation of the exclusive contract.”

The official website explained: “A serious violation of the exclusive contract by Hanafuji Karen has come to light. After thoroughly considering the matter, we have made the decision to terminate her contract with the company and have her withdraw from the group, effective December 31, 2024.”

The statement continued: “We deeply apologise for the sudden nature of this announcement, and for the concern and inconvenience this has caused to our fans.”

It went on to say: “We sincerely take responsibility for the gravity of the situation and will continue to address this matter with the utmost seriousness and accountability moving forward. (omitted) Lastly, we deeply apologise again to all those affected, including fans who have supported us, and to those who have been inconvenienced by this.”

Fans reacted with shock, with some commenting, “This is too shocking on New Year’s Eve,” and “I can’t believe it.” Others, reflecting on her young age and the mention of “social responsibility” in the official statement, suggested that “given the severity of the issue, termination was probably unavoidable.”