URGENT UPDATE: In a shocking development, Japanese girl group ME:I faces a major lineup change as LAPONE GIRLS confirms that four members—Ran, Cocoro, Shizuku, and Kokona—will leave the group when their contracts expire on December 31, 2024. This news, announced on December 22, gives fans less than two weeks to say goodbye to the departing members.
The decision, revealed just days before the New Year, has left fans reeling. ME:I, formed through the survival audition program PRODUCE 101 JAPAN THE GIRLS, debuted in April 2024 with a total of 11 members. Following these upcoming departures, only seven members will remain, raising questions about the group’s future and planned promotions.
LAPONE GIRLS expressed regret over the sudden announcement but did not disclose details regarding the remaining members’ final activities or how ME:I will proceed after the departures. Fans are particularly concerned as three of the four members—Cocoro, Ran, and Shizuku—had already paused their activities earlier this year due to health issues, while Kokona continued to perform with the group.
Adding to the turmoil, speculation surrounds Shizuku’s previous rule-breaking incident, which was publicly addressed in October. This situation may have influenced the decision to restructure ME:I, leaving fans anxious about the future direction of the group.
The agency’s announcement has sparked widespread discussion on social media, with fans sharing their disbelief and disappointment. Many are now calling for transparency from LAPONE GIRLS regarding the group’s future and the remaining members’ plans.
What happens next for ME:I remains uncertain as fans await further updates from the agency. The clock is ticking down to the end of the year, and the emotional impact of these changes weighs heavily on the dedicated fanbase. As this story develops, fans and followers of ME:I are encouraged to stay tuned for news regarding the group’s next steps and any potential farewell activities for the departing members.
