On November 8, a top idol announced that he will officially be withdrawing from his group. Previously, he was on hiatus.
Miyama Ryoki is a member of BE:FIRST, a popular Japanese boy group formed through the audition program THE FIRST, produced by SKY-HI. After debuting in November 2021, the seven-member group quickly gained popularity. Ryoki, in particular, attracted attention for his skills as an all-rounder.
Ryoki reportedly began his secret relationship with Ono Akari (also known as R-Chan) in 2021. She is a popular YouTuber and a successful entrepreneur in the fashion industry, who met the idol as a CEO when he was just starting his career.
During their relationship, Akari reportedly spent thousands of dollars on Ryoki, buying him a Mercedes-Benz, a 10 million JPY (approx $70,000 USD) watch, and giving him a monthly allowance of 2 million JPY (approx $14,000 USD). The couple was engaged when Ryoki was accused of infidelity.
Ryoki’s image took a hit, with the public accusing him of using Akari for her wealth. The situation escalated when Shukan Bunshun, a major Japanese tabloid, revealed that it had obtained two video recordings allegedly related to the case. Though BE:FIRST’s agency, BMSG, confirmed that Ryoki had been in a serious relationship with Akari, the agency also said that the couple had split amicably and that no unlawful activity had occurred.
On May 25, BMSG announced that Ryoki will be halting his group activities with BE:FIRST after the group performed on July 5 for their Singapore World Tour. Ryoki personally explained why he would be taking this break.
I’ve thought deeply about everything that’s happened — the reports, my personal experiences, and where I’m headed as an individual. After all that reflection, I’ve reached the conclusion that it’s time for me to walk my own path. I’ve decided to go independent.
— Ryoki Miyama
On August 29, Ryoki and 35-year-old Japanese actress Shuri, the daughter of Partners star Mizutani Yutaka and Candies idol Ito Ran, announced their marriage. They also revealed Shuri’s pregnancy. Their child was born in September.
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After several discussions, Ryoki and his members have decided that BE:FIRST will continue without him. BE:FIRST announced the news on their official social media accounts, thanking Ryoki and stating that they will “continue delivering high-quality performances” as a six-member group. In his own statement, Ryoki expressed his heartfelt thanks. He will cheer on his former group while continuing his own journey. He hasn’t revealed his plans yet.
We’ll walk our own paths from here, but my support for BE:FIRST will never change.
— Miyama Ryoki
