On March 11, 2025, Sumire Tashiro, a member of the idol group OCHA NORMA, officially announced her graduation from both the group and Hello! Project due to health concerns. This news came as she has been on hiatus since September 2024 following her diagnosis of adjustment disorder.
The announcement was made on OCHA NORMA's official website, where the management conveyed, "The symptoms are almost resolved, but there is much anxiety about being able to continue activities as OCHA NORMA." After discussions with her family and officials from the group, Tashiro decided to conclude her membership, highlighting her concern over her ability to resume her duties effectively.
Tashiro expressed her regret sincerely, stating, "I am filled with feelings of regret for not being able to convey my words directly to everyone and for graduating without resuming activities." During her break from performing, she contemplated her future and came to realize the difficulty of balancing her health with her passion for the group.
Having joined Hello! Project at only 16 years old, she was thrilled to be part of OCHA NORMA, which debuted in December 2021 after she successfully passed the Hello! Project New Members Audition earlier the same year. Reflecting on her three years with the group, she shared, "I joined Hello! Project at the age of 16, and I was really happy to be active as a member of OCHA NORMA for three years." This period has provided her with invaluable memories and experiences.
During her time with OCHA NORMA, Tashiro cultivated meaningful relationships with her colleagues and fans alike. "I am really grateful to everyone I met. Thank you so much for your support. I love you all very much," she expressed, displaying sincere appreciation for the support received from her fans throughout her career.
The management team issued apologies to fans waiting for her return, noting, "We regret we could not respond to the wishes of everyone who was waiting for her to resume activities." They expressed their intention to continue supporting Tashiro as she moves on to the next chapter of her life.
Upon reflecting on her idol life, Tashiro took the opportunity to share her growth and aspirations moving forward. "I have always taken my role as an idol seriously and have done my best until the end. I plan to utilize this experience to move forward as my true self," she stated, signaling her hope for future endeavors.
Despite her exit from the group, Tashiro’s impact on OCHA NORMA and her contributions to the idol community remain significant. Fans have followed her career closely since her debut, inspired by her cheerful demeanor, talent, and dedication.
The idol group OCHA NORMA consists of Tashiro and her fellow member, Kokoro Tsutsui, who was also part of the audition process. Last year, OCHA NORMA released singles and built a dedicated fanbase, reflecting the hard work of its members and their commitment to their art.
Tashiro’s departure marks the end not only of her role as a performer but also symbolizes the often challenging balance between mental health and the demands of the entertainment industry.
With Tashiro’s future plans not yet specified, all eyes will be on her as she embarks on her next adventure. Fans and the idol community are encouraged to continue supporting both her and OCHA NORMA as they navigate this change. The heartfelt sentiment shared during her graduation indicates her deep connection with her audience and her intention to cherish the time spent with them.
Tashiro’s graduation highlights the importance of prioritizing mental health, especially within the high-pressure sphere of idol culture, and serves as a reminder for many others who might find themselves facing similar challenges.