After nearly a decade, an idol has decided to take her career in a new direction.
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Nakamura Izumi is a member of SKE48, a popular J-Pop girl group. She joined the group in November of 2016 as a kenkyuusei (trainee) and was promoted to SKE48’s Team S unit in 2018 before being transferred to her current unit, Team E, in 2025.
During a performance on January 15, Izumi announced that she would be leaving or “graduating” from SKE48 after nine years as a member. Her final performance as a member will take place on March 31.
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In an official statement posted on SKE48’s website after her announcement, Izumi said she had thought about the matter many times before making her decision. She also thanked her fans, members, and staff, and hopes they will continue to cheer her on.
SKE48 Team E 仲村和泉 卒業のご報告 https://t.co/2YYLDw9Smg #SKE48
— SKE48 (@ske48official) January 15, 2026
That said, Izumi’s future plans and all the details about her activities between now and March have not been announced yet.
Unfortunately for fans, this isn’t the only idol who’s saying goodbye in the New Year.
Girl Group Announces Disbandment Just Four Months After Their Debut
