Popular Girl Group’s “Center” Tearfully Announces Her Departure, Devastating Fans
A rising star made an unexpected announcement during a recent concert. After debuting just two years ago, she is leaving her group.
Sogawa Saki is a member of STU48, an idol girl group that was formed in 2016. She joined STU48 in 2023 as a trainee before being promoted to an official 3rd Generation member in 2024. It took less than a year for this talented ace to become STU48’s center for the group’s 11th single “Chiheisen wo Miteiru ka?”. The song was released in early 2025.
Like many Japanese idol groups, STU48 has a graduation system that allows current members to “graduate” and new members to take their place. However, given that Saki was promoted to this coveted position not long ago, fans expected her to stay for the foreseeable future.
Saki tearfully broke the news during STU48’s November 19 performance, dashing those hopes. Some fans had reportedly expected her to take the place of another popular member, Takino Yumiko, who left STU48 after eight years as a member.
Saki mentioned her age–she will be turning 20–as part of the reason why she has decided to leave, but she didn’t provide details. In her official statement, shared on STU48’s website, Saki thanked fans for their support, kindness, and positivity. Her official graduation date and final appearance have not yet been decided.
えっ！さっちー卒業発表しちゃったよ？#僕の太陽公演_STU#曽川咲葵 pic.twitter.com/3CBdaanAa5
— masanori0901（まきまきまっきー） (@masanori0901) November 19, 2025
Sadly, Saki isn’t the only idol fans have had to say goodbye to this year.
