Popular Japanese male group ARASHI member Jun Matsumoto announced his departure from talent agency STARTO ENTERTAINMENT on May 16 through the official website. He will officially leave the agency on May 30, becoming the first artist to depart from the company since it began operating in April.
Matsumoto expressed his gratitude, saying, “When I first entered this new world, my fans reached out to me with warm hands. I sincerely thank everyone for their support and encouragement over the years, which allowed me to grow. I have decided to stand independently starting from May 30, 2024.”
Reflecting on the precious moments he spent with the company’s staff since his teens, Matsumoto emphasized that leaving this environment and standing on his own made him feel anxious. However, he believes it is a necessary step in shaping his own future. He recalled the unforgettable experience of stepping onto the big stage for the first time, where the support and trust from the staff amidst nervousness and excitement still serve as his strength.
In addition, Matsumoto emphasized, “This new challenge of independence is by no means an easy path, but it will offer opportunities for new creations and realizing dreams. I will utilize the experiences and connections I have accumulated during this time to explore various forms of expression through new encounters and experiences. The warmth and passion of the people I’ve met so far continue to be the source of my creative activities. I will also take each day and the present as inspiration and reflect them in my future works.”
Matsumoto shared that he will begin rehearsals for a new stage in June and will face the roles on stage with new challenges under a new system, working even harder to discover a new self.
Regarding ARASHI’s agency contract, Matsumoto stated that the group’s contract with STARTO ENTERTAINMENT is still in place, expressing hope that everyone will continue to show support and cheer him on for his proactive challenges.