Japanese idol group STU48 will proceed with its annual New Year’s Eve countdown performance with one less member, after announcing Wednesday that sara Shimizu is unable to participate due to illness. The concert, a key event for the Hiroshima-based group and its fanbase, is scheduled for December 31st at the STU48 Theater, marking a customary transition into the new year. STU48 stated that the lineup is subject to change and no refunds will be issued for artist alterations.
STU48 fans will be without one of their members for the group’s upcoming New Year’s Eve countdown performance.
The Japanese idol group announced Wednesday that Sara Shimizu will be unable to perform at STU48 COUNTDOWN LIVE 2025-2026 due to illness.
“We deeply apologize for the late notice,” the group said in a statement. “We ask for your understanding.”
The performance is scheduled for December 31, 2025, at the STU48 Hiroshima Theater (Hiroshima Club Quattro). Doors open at 10:45 PM JST, with the show beginning at 11:30 PM JST.
The lineup for the concert currently includes Yura Ikeda, Chiho Ishida, Yuna Ishihara, Rione Uchinai, Azumi Okada, Vina Okuda, Serika Ozaki, Yuna Kawamata, Ichigo Kizawa, Rico Kudo, Yuka Kurushima, Himena Sakamoto, Zuflower Shinano, Saki Zengawa, Sayaka Takao, Mafina Taniguchi, Mai Nakamura, Sachika Harada, Hinata Hamada, Aoi Hyodo, Jurri Fukuda, Rika Muneyuki, Fina Morimoto, Ayara Yoshida, Nazuki Watanabe, Mana Kabutake, Natsumi Komatsu, Ai Sakazaki, Shiori Takamura, and Nanako Tanaka.
STU48 noted that the performance lineup is subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances, such as illness, and that refunds will not be issued for any changes to the artist roster.
The New Year’s Eve concert is a staple event for the group and its dedicated fanbase, marking a significant moment as they transition into the new year.
