According to foreign media ‘Yorozo News’ on the 5th (local time), Hanase Mai of the 9-member Japanese idol group iLiFE! has been demoted from a regular member to a trainee due to her past involvement in entering a hostess bar and underage drinking.
The agency announced detailed information through the official website on the 1st, stating, “Due to Hanase Mai’s past actions causing anxiety among fans, imposing a significant burden and concern on the members, and reckless behavior causing unease among the members during activities, we decided to take demotion measures.”
Initially, the agency reached a conclusion to accept the past and strive to continue with the nine members lightly penalized. However, after observing behavior during activities that raised distrust among the members, the decision was reconsidered through repeated discussions with the members. It was concluded that continuing activities without disciplinary action would cause significant disturbance to the members and affect their activities.
The agency explicitly stated that they could provide a chance for Hanase Mai to return without expulsion. The agency stated, “Until now, Hanase Mai has made diligent efforts in iLiFE! activities, which both members and staff closely observed. We concluded that demotion instead of expulsion is the final decision.”
In conclusion, the agency expressed regret for causing concern due to insufficient explanations and apologized. They stated, “Hanase Mai herself deeply reflects on this incident and accepts the disciplinary action. We ask for your understanding and support.”
Meanwhile, regarding this decision, Hanase Mai posted on her social media, “I have been demoted to iLiFE’s trainee this time. I’m sorry for causing concern, and I apologize for the late announcement. I will work hard to audition and hope to be selected as an official member in the future,” expressing sincere apologies and determination for the future.
