On April 10, Rina Kawaei and Tomoki Hirose shared the news through their personal accounts. Rina Kawaei stated, “We have decided to conclude our relationship as a married couple and walk our own paths in life.”

Tomoki Hirose also expressed gratitude toward fans, saying, “We have decided to end our relationship as a married couple and move forward on separate paths. I am sincerely thankful for the time we spent together and for our beloved children.” He added that his respect for Kawaei as an actress remains unchanged.

Despite their separation, the two emphasized their commitment to co-parenting. Kawaei shared that she will continue to do her best as both an actress and a mother, while Hirose stated that they will build a new relationship as parents and raise their children together.

The couple first announced their marriage in May 2019, along with news of their pregnancy. They met in 2018 through the stage production “Karephone,” and their sudden marriage announcement, without prior dating rumors, drew significant public attention at the time.

According to reports, their divorce was officially filed on April 9. While no specific reason was disclosed, sources suggest that rather than a single major issue, the separation was the result of accumulated differences over time. The couple shares two children, born in 2019 and 2023. Under Japan’s revised civil law, which came into effect earlier this month, they are expected to maintain joint parental authority.

Rina Kawaei, originally from Kanagawa, debuted as part of AKB48 after passing the group’s 11th generation audition in 2010. She later transitioned into acting, appearing in works such as NHK’s historical drama Seiten wo Tsuke and the stage adaptation of Spirited Away, where she played Chihiro. Tomoki Hirose, born in Saitama, built his career primarily in 2.5D stage productions, including adaptations like Yowamushi Pedal and Ace of Diamond, as well as various theater and film projects.

Their divorce marks the end of a relationship that began unexpectedly but lasted nearly a decade, with both now focusing on their individual paths while continuing to share responsibilities as parents.

Sources: Daum | 스포츠조선