URGENT UPDATE: Just days before the New Year, the Japanese girl group ME:I is facing a dramatic lineup change that has left fans reeling. LAPONE GIRLS announced on December 22, 2024, that the contracts of four members—Ran, Cocoro, Shizuku, and Kokona—will expire on December 31, effectively reducing the group from 11 to just seven members.
This unexpected news has sent shockwaves through the fandom, granting fans less than two weeks to bid farewell to the departing members. LAPONE GIRLS acknowledged the abrupt nature of the announcement but did not clarify the specifics of the members’ final appearances or the future direction of ME:I.
The timing of this announcement raises questions, especially since three of the four members, Cocoro, Ran, and Shizuku, had already paused their activities earlier this year due to health concerns. Meanwhile, Kokona continued to perform with the group, leaving fans perplexed about the reasons behind these sudden departures.
Adding to the speculation, some fans believe that Shizuku’s past rule-breaking incident, which was disclosed in an official statement in October, may have contributed to the group’s restructuring. Fans are now left wondering not only about the immediate future of ME:I but also about how these changes will impact the group’s overall dynamics and upcoming promotions.
As we approach New Year’s Eve, the emotional toll on fans is palpable. Many are taking to social media to express their disappointment and support for the departing members. The urgency of the situation has fans rallying together, pleading for more transparency from LAPONE GIRLS regarding the transition.
With less than two weeks left for fans to show their love and support to the departing members, all eyes are now on LAPONE GIRLS for further updates. What happens next could dramatically shape the future of ME:I as they enter 2025. Stay tuned for more developments on this unfolding story.
