8-year-old Japanese idol trainee Runa Hirata has recently passed away.
Her family announced the news on X, writing that the Nagoya-born singer passed away peacefully at around 4am on 25 September.
“To all the fellow idols who were kind to Runa during her lifetime, to the fans who supported Runa, to everyone at the agency who made Runa an idol, and to all the people who were involved with Runa, thank you very much,” they added.
The news was later confirmed by her group DIANNA Project, saying, “We regret to inform you that Runa Hirata … has passed away due to myocarditis resulting from influenza.”
“…We extend our deepest gratitude to all the fans who have supported Runa Hirata and to all those involved who have provided assistance,” it added.
Her agency also urged everybody to give some space to the family to grieve the loss, and not make speculations via social media.
Prior to her passing, Runa performed in concert on 20 September, and posted a photo of herself on social media, writing, “Thank you for today too, I appreciate it. It was so much fun.”
