The Junretsu trio held a press conference on Tóquio this Monday. Members Kazuyoshi Sakai and Shota Gogo have announced the graduation of lead vocalist Yujiro Shirakawa. The departure is scheduled for March 31, 2027. The decision marks the end of a phase for the group known for melancholic ballads.
The press conference provided details about the future of Junretsu. Sakai, the group’s leader, expressed concern about the impact of the change on fans. Ele projected a significant reduction in attendance and highlighted the need for reinforcements. Plans include the immediate opening of auditions to attract male talent.
Junretsu launches Second Chance 2026 audition to reinforce the group
Registration for Junretsu Second Chance Audition 2026 begins this Monday, June 8th, and runs until July 31st. The process seeks male candidates with no apparent age restrictions. The objective is to fill vacancies and expand training.
Kazuyoshi Sakai detailed the vision for the new format. Ele wants a five-member group, with him and Shota Gogo on the sides and three new members in the center. The idea aims to maintain the visual and sound balance that the public knows.
- The registration period runs from June 8th to July 31st
- Candidatos must be male
- Foco initial on reinforcing Junretsu to five members
- Possibilidade expansion to new sister group
Shirakawa’s departure represents an internal challenge. Sakai admitted that he and Gogo cannot support the group alone. The honesty about the crisis reflects the transparency adopted by the leadership during the press conference.
Líder of Junretsu demonstrates rivalry with sister group Monaki
Kazuyoshi Sakai did not hide his admiration and competition with Monaki. The quartet, formed through a previous audition, officially debuted in April this year and gained prominence on social media. Sakai used direct terms when commenting on the youngest group’s current situation.
Ele expressed the desire to strengthen Junretsu to the point of surpassing Monaki. The statement was accompanied by observations about the current stance of younger members. Healthy rivalry emerges as motivation for ongoing changes.
Monaki emerged as a sister group and quickly gained attention. Sua trajectory serves as a reference for Junretsu’s expansion plans. Sakai mentioned the possibility of transfers between formations and even solo debuts for talents identified in the auditions.
Planos include third group creation and flexibility between formations
The press conference moved on to discussions about a system with three groups. Sakai has not ruled out that members of Monaki will migrate to Junretsu or that new talents will occupy vacancies in any of the formations. Atletas and other profiles may also be considered depending on audition performance.
The strategy seeks longevity for the project. The leader cited the positive experience with Monaki as a basis for new initiatives. Flexibility allows for adjustments depending on available talent and audience response.
Junretsu maintains activities as a trio until the date of graduation. Yujiro Shirakawa, 49, leaves the group after years as main vocalist. His graduation was the central point of the conversation with the press.
Reações and next steps after the announcement
The news should generate movement among fans. The leadership already anticipates adjustments to the audience base and works to minimize negative impacts. Auditions represent the main path to renewal.
Detalhes additional information about the selection process should be released soon. The focus remains on maintaining the melancholic and emotional essence that defines Junretsu. The expansion aims to ensure continuity and sustainable growth.
