Tomoyama Kasumi, the beloved member of AKB48, officially announced her graduation from the iconic girl group during a performance on December 27, 2024. Fans and fellow members alike were moved as she shared her heartfelt remarks during the event held at the AKB48 Theater.
"I, Tomoyama Kasumi, will graduate from AKB48 on June 15, 2025. It is very sad to graduate from AKB48, which has allowed me to grow so much, and I feel it is strange to leave this comment," said Kasumi to the audience, eliciting gasps and tears from many present.
Reflecting on her time with AKB48, Kasumi emphasized the emotions surrounding her departure, saying, "I want to run with no regrets with my AKB48 life. Now with this decision, I hope it proves not to be the wrong choice." Her words highlighted the significance of her decade-long experience, filled with personal and artistic growth.
Since joining AKB48 as part of the 13th generation, Tomoyama Kasumi has become one of the group's standout members. She gained significant recognition within the community, performing some of the most memorable songs and participating in numerous concerts. Notably, she achieved the milestone of over 1,000 performances, making her one of the most prolific members to ever grace the stage.
During her announcement, Kasumi expressed gratitude to her fans, stating, "Graduation is not goodbye. Though I will no longer be as an idol, I will continue to run forward." This sentiment reassured fans of her commitment to continue pursuing her passion, albeit in new forms outside of her idol persona.
The reaction from fellow group members was overwhelmingly supportive. Many wept at the thought of losing such a dedicated member, whose presence has been synonymous with the group's spirit and tenacity. Members, sharing their own experiences with Kasumi, spoke about the leadership and inspiration she provided to them, particularly as they worked together through the challenges of their performances and public appearances.
Kasumi’s decision to step down from the group was met with tears and hugs, showcasing the tight-knit community AKB48 has cultivated over the years. Other members commented on the legacy she is leaving behind, particularly her role as one of the inspiring figures within the group known colloquially as 'the theater goddess'. "We will continue to protect the theater just as you did," said one tearful member during the emotional farewell.
Adding to the emotional weight of her announcement, Kasumi assured her fans and the group of her future endeavors: "I hope to continue performing and giving back to AKB48, even after I graduate." She expressed her desire to support the younger members of the group as they navigate their own careers, indicating her enduring dedication to AKB48, regardless of her departure.
Kasumi's graduation is part of the ever-evolving story of AKB48, where members frequently come and go, each leaving their mark. The group continues to be recognized not only for its musical talents but also for the strong bonds formed among its members, some of whom have grown up together under the spotlight.
Anticipation now builds as her final performance approaches. Fans are eager to see how Kasumi will incorporate her experiences and reflections from her time at AKB48 as she transitions to the next chapter. Her legacy lies not just in her performances but also in the lives she touched and the friendships she built along the way.
Through her heartfelt messages, it's evident Kasumi intends to remain active within the entertainment community even after she leaves the idol scene. The excitement surrounding her future pursuits is palpable, with many supporters eager to follow her career post-AKB48.
With the graduation date fast approaching, one sentiment reigns supreme among fans and members alike: gratitude for the moments shared with Tomoyama Kasumi and anticipation for what her future holds.
