[All] [Shocking] What's the truth behind Rio Kitagawa's "secret account leak" controversy? Why did she "graduate" instead of "withdraw"?

Morning Musume '25 member Kitagawa Rio is in hot water after her secret social media account is leaked. Despite being found to have criticized other members and secretly taken photos, she has decided to "graduate" rather than "withdraw." There are also rumors that she has been offered a job as a TV Tokyo announcer. We'll provide a thorough explanation of her decision, the fan reaction, and the entire controversy.

1. The story behind the controversy surrounding Rio Kitagawa's "secret account leak"

Rio Kitagawa (21), a member of Morning Musume '25, had her "secret social media account" leaked in April 2025, causing an unprecedented uproar in the group's history.

The issue was that she had been posting complaints and badmouthing about other members on a private account that appeared to be Instagram. The posts also included private photos of members and images that appeared to have been taken secretly, causing a stir among fans and those involved.

2. Content of the post and its spread

The leaked posts included harsh comments about the group's leader at the time, Erina Ikuta (28).

These posts quickly spread on X (formerly Twitter), and were met with a flood of criticism, with comments such as "betrayal," "disgusting," and "losing trust." Kitagawa herself acknowledged the facts and apologized in a blog post:

"I have no doubt that all of this was written by me. I have caused trouble to many people with my thoughtless actions. I am truly sorry."

While some people saw this statement as sincere, many others said that "even if he honestly admitted it, it is not an acceptable problem," and the internet was filled with mixed reactions.

3. The process from hiatus to graduation decision

After the controversy, Kitagawa went on an indefinite hiatus.
Initially, there were rumors that she might return after a period of reflection, but on October 20th, it was finally announced through her official website that she would be graduating by the end of the year.

In his own words, he expressed deep regret:

"During my hiatus, I repeatedly regretted my past careless actions and wondered whether I should continue with my activities. I felt that it would be wrong to place any more burden on the members and staff, so I have decided to put an end to it."

The official website also announced that the decision was made with "respect for the individual's wishes."
In the end, the curtain fell on her "graduation" rather than "withdrawal" or "dismissal."

4. The truth behind the news that she was selected as a TV Tokyo announcer

The day after the graduation announcement, Sports Hochi reported that "Kitagawa Rio has been offered a position as a TV Tokyo announcer."
If this is true, she will be the second Morning Musume member to become a TV announcer after Konno Asami (former TV Tokyo announcer).

When this news came out, it caused a stir on social media.
"Wasn't graduation already decided on the assumption that you would receive a job offer?"
"How can you become a news announcer if you've been on fire?"
There were many critical voices saying this, and the situation temporarily became a hot topic again.

However, TV Tokyo has stated that they "do not respond to questions about information about accepted candidates," and no official confirmation has been obtained.

5. Fan reaction and divided public opinion

Opinions were divided among fans regarding Kitagawa's "graduation" announcement.

In particular, it was not easy to restore trust in her, not only because her private account was leaked, but also because of the scandal in January 2025 in which her boyfriend was revealed.

On the other hand, there were also strong voices saying, "If he is remorseful, we want to support him in his new path," and in the end, his graduation was amid a mixture of support and opposition.

6. Risks for idols in the age of social media

This incident also symbolizes the dangers of social media.
We live in an age where private complaints or careless remarks can spread in an instant and cause a person to lose social credibility.
For idols, who are public figures, their "secret accounts" are no longer private, but a public space that is constantly being viewed.

This incident has shown how "freedom of expression" and "heavy responsibility" are two sides of the same coin.
The Kitagawa incident may become a trigger for a review of the rules for using social media by celebrities in the future.

7. Q&A: Frequently asked questions about Kitagawa Rio

Q1. When will Kitagawa Rio's graduation event be held?
A. I am planning to hold my final fan meet-and-greet at an event related to my new single, which will be released on December 3rd. I will not be appearing at the graduation concert at Yokohama Arena.

Q2. Isn't "graduation" effectively dismissal?
A. The agency explained that she "graduated of her own volition," but the impact of the social media scandal was so great that some see this as a "compassionate graduation" that essentially has the connotation of disciplinary action.

Q3. Is it true that you have been offered a job as a TV Tokyo announcer?
A. This has been reported in multiple media outlets, but TV Tokyo has refrained from commenting, and at this point it is "unofficial information."

Q4. Will Kitagawa Rio continue her entertainment career in the future?
A. At present, there are no plans for her to re-debut or resume her entertainment activities, and it is highly likely that she will devote herself to a career as a reporter or announcer after graduating from university.

8. Summary: Rio Kitagawa's "Sincere Withdrawal"

The process from Kitagawa Rio's scandal to her graduation symbolizes the risks facing the entertainment industry in the age of social media.
It was also an example that showed the world how much influence a personal space such as a "secret account" can have.

She admitted her mistake, apologized sincerely, and chose to "graduate" of her own volition.

This decision is not just the end, but a "new start," and many people are looking forward to seeing what she will show in her next stage.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

🔥Other interesting articles recommended for you

[2025 Latest] Who is Ryoko Yonekura's current husband? Is she remarried? A thorough investigation into rumors about her ex-husband, boyfriend, and past boyfriends!

[2025 Latest] Who is Girls' Generation's Yoona's Love Partner? A thorough explanation of her 8 past boyfriends and the possibility of marriage!

[2025 Latest] Is V and Jennie's relationship true? A complete summary of the evidence of their relationship and the whole process leading up to their breakup!

[2025 Latest] What is Gisele's nationality? A thorough investigation into her real name and origin!

[2025 Latest] BTS Jimin suddenly marries an ordinary woman!? The truth is revealed!