Former AKB48 member Fukutome Mitsuho has revealed her struggles with health and body image changes, primarily announcing her likely permanent exit from gravure modeling following recent updates shared on her YouTube channel. The 21-year-old star, who had taken time off due to health issues, expressed her worries over her physical transformation and its impact on her career.
On March 15, 2025, Fukutome candidly updated her fans about her situation, stating, "I think I’ve become a B cup, maybe C cup. I’ve said I’m D cup until now, and now my size has gone down, so there probably won’t be any gravure work for me for some time. I’m probably permanently banned from gravure magazines, because my breasts have gotten smaller." This admission sparked both concern and support from her fans, many of whom have followed her career closely since her time as part of the popular idol group.
Fukutome had previously announced her break from activities on January 15, 2025, due to poor health. After several weeks of absence, she revealed her return to work on February 10, intending to host the weekly radio show 'GURU GURU!' aired by J-WAVE. Despite her intentions, she missed four consecutive episodes before finally coming back to the program on March 12.
During her hiatus, Fukutome engaged in various activities aimed at improving her well-being. "I spent my time traveling, going to places like Moomin Valley Park with family, swimming, practicing Pilates, and focusing on my diet," she shared. Her new approach to health has included cooking for herself and using nutrition apps to track her meals, alongside incorporating regular exercises such as squats and planks.
Fukutome humorously referred to her new physical state, adding, "I hope people will still love 'Pechapai' Fukutome." The phrase 'Pechapai' translates loosely to 'flat-chested,’ indicating her hope to maintain her fanbase regardless of her changing appearance. This combination of humor and personal reflection has charmed her audience, making them feel even closer to her updates.
Many fans are relieved to see Fukutome returning to work, albeit with some reservations about her future role as a gravure idol. She expressed regret about the possibility of leaving the genre permanently but highlighted her focus on health and happiness above all else. "I don’t want to dwell too much on how I used to look. It’s important to adapt and accept these changes gracefully,” she explained.
Her recent posts have stirred discussions among her follower base about body image and expectations within the entertainment industry. Through her openness, Fukutome has undeniably become a voice for many fans who resonate with her experiences, making her updates not just personal but impactful on wider themes of body positivity.
Despite facing these challenges, Fukutome is committed to her work and intends to adapt her career to reflect her newfound priorities. Her encouraging demeanor and reliance on humor during these updates have solidified her relationship with fans, who continue to support her on this uncharted path.
Fukutome's story is not just about loss but about growth and transformation. She is redefining what it means to be successful and happy, regardless of societal standards imposed on women, especially those within the limelight. Her dedication to mental and physical health, alongside her history as part of the beloved AKB48 group, creates a narrative bridging her past with her present ambitions.
Regardless of her future choices, beloved 'Pechapai' Fukutome Mitsuho remains committed to engaging with her fans and sharing her authentic self. The shift away from gravure might be significant, but it undoubtedly opens new doors for her, transforming challenges of self-image and health concerns. The support from her fan base fuels her resolve to live life fully and with purpose, embodying her mantra of self-love and acceptance.