UPDATE: In a shocking announcement, Japanese girl group ME:I will undergo significant lineup changes as four members prepare to leave the group. LAPONE GIRLS revealed on December 22, 2024, that the contracts for members Ran, Cocoro, Shizuku, and Kokona will end on December 31, just days before the New Year.
This unexpected news has left fans with less than two weeks to bid farewell to their favorite members, prompting many to express their disappointment and sadness online. ME:I, formed through the survival audition program PRODUCE 101 JAPAN THE GIRLS, debuted in April 2024, and this restructuring marks a significant shift for the group.
LAPONE GIRLS issued an apology for the abrupt decision but did not elaborate on the reasons behind the members’ departure or their future plans. Fans are particularly concerned as three of the four departing members—Cocoro, Ran, and Shizuku—had already paused their activities earlier this year due to health issues, while Kokona continued to perform.
Speculation is rife among fans regarding the factors contributing to this lineup change. Notably, Shizuku faced disciplinary actions earlier in 2024 for breaking rules, which may have influenced the group’s restructuring.
The emotional impact of this announcement cannot be understated, as dedicated fans now grapple with the reality of losing beloved members. As ME:I looks to the future, many are left questioning what this means for the remaining seven members and the group’s promotional strategies going forward.
As the clock ticks down to December 31, fans are urged to show their support and celebrate the departing members’ contributions. The urgency of this situation underscores the ever-changing landscape of the K-pop industry, where lineup changes can occur suddenly and dramatically.
What happens next remains uncertain, but fans will be watching closely for any updates regarding ME:I’s future activities and the remaining members’ roles. Stay tuned for more developments as this story unfolds.
