Just days after shocking fans with the news of member Taichi Kokubun's indefinite hiatus, long-running Japanese boy band TOKIO, celebrating 31 years since their debut, has dropped another bombshell.
On June 25, the group's official website released a major announcement: the trio — Shigeru Joshima, Masahiro Matsuoka, and Taichi Kokubun — would officially disband today, sparking immediate online buzz.
▼ TOKIO quickly shot to the top of X's trending topics.
The official statement, titled "Explanation Regarding TOKIO's Disbandment," declared: "The group 'TOKIO,' comprised of Shigeru Joshima, Masahiro Matsuoka, and Taichi Kokubun, has officially disbanded today."
The statement also addressed the elephant in the room: "Taichi Kokubun's recent violation of internal company regulations has caused immense distress and concern among stakeholders and fans. We take this matter extremely seriously and once again offer our deepest, most sincere apologies. We are truly sorry."
Following extensive discussions and confirmation among the members, the group concluded that "it would be incredibly difficult to continue activities as 'TOKIO' and regain everyone's trust and support" under the current circumstances, leading to the decision to bring their group activities to an end.
The statement also extended gratitude to their loyal fanbase: "Since our debut in 1994, we are deeply grateful to all the fans, partners, media, sponsors, and local communities, like Fukushima Prefecture, who have warmly embraced us. We sincerely apologize for this sudden announcement and express our heartfelt thanks for your long-standing support."
Regarding future plans, the TOKIO members stated: "Moving forward, we will individually apologize and explain to all relevant parties. At the same time, we will seriously reflect and consider what we can do for everyone who has supported us, hoping to respond with sincerity."
The announcement concluded: "For these 31 years, we thank everyone who has been involved with, accompanied, and supported TOKIO. Thank you, truly."
This isn't the first time TOKIO has faced turbulence. Former member Tatsuya Yamaguchi left the group and Johnny & Associates in 2018 following an indecency scandal. Then, in 2020, lead vocalist Tomoya Nagase announced his retirement, leaving the remaining three members to carry on. Now, with the unexpected incident involving the usually well-regarded Taichi Kokubun, the band's disbandment today is a heartbreaking blow for fans.
How the three members will address their fans moving forward remains to be seen, with official arrangements likely to follow.