Nagoya-based idol group SKE48 announced today, , that member Renan Minazawa will be unable to participate in scheduled online meet-and-greet events due to illness. The events, tied to the group’s 36th single “Sandal daze,” were slated to include online signing sessions, photo opportunities, and a lottery drawing.
The announcement, posted on the SKE48 official website, expressed sincere apologies to fans who were looking forward to the events, acknowledging the last-minute nature of the cancellation and the inconvenience it would cause. A reschedule date and further details regarding Minazawa’s participation will be announced on the SKE48 official website as soon as they are confirmed.
SKE48, formed in 2008 as the first sister group of the hugely popular AKB48, has cultivated a dedicated fanbase in the Chubu region of Japan and beyond. The group operates its own dedicated theater in Nagoya’s Sunshine Sakae shopping complex, and regularly releases singles and albums through avex trax. The group’s structure mirrors that of AKB48, featuring rotating teams and a constant influx of new members through a “research student” system.
The “Sandal daze” single represents the latest chapter in SKE48’s ongoing evolution. Online meet-and-greet events have become increasingly common for idol groups in recent years, offering a way to connect with fans remotely and expand accessibility beyond the constraints of physical venues. These events often involve tiered access based on single purchases, with higher tiers offering longer interaction times or exclusive content.
Minazawa’s absence from the scheduled events highlights the challenges faced by performing artists in maintaining a consistent schedule amidst health concerns. While the nature of her illness was not disclosed, the group’s prompt announcement underscores a commitment to transparency with fans. The decision to postpone her participation reflects a prioritization of her well-being and a desire to deliver a quality experience for those who have purchased access to the events.
The cancellation affects both the online signing session, scheduled for , and the online photo opportunity/lottery event, set for . Fans who have purchased access to these events are understandably disappointed, but SKE48’s commitment to rescheduling suggests a proactive approach to mitigating the disruption.
Beyond the immediate impact on the “Sandal daze” events, SKE48 has a busy schedule planned for the coming weeks. The group’s official website lists a theater performance on , featuring members of Teams S, KII, and E in a performance titled “Possibility is the Future.” the group is scheduled to appear on local television and radio programs, including a segment on Gifu Broadcasting and a regular spot on TOKAI RADIO.
SKE48’s continued activity across multiple platforms – including live performances, television appearances, and online events – demonstrates the group’s adaptability and its commitment to engaging with fans in a variety of ways. The group is also currently running a lottery promotion for SKE48 Mobile members, offering prizes including traditional *furisode* (long-sleeved kimono) worn by members who are coming of age in 2026, as well as handwritten messages from the idols themselves. This promotion underscores the group’s focus on fostering a strong connection with its dedicated fanbase.
The incident serves as a reminder of the demanding schedule and physical toll faced by members of idol groups. Maintaining a rigorous performance schedule while balancing personal health and well-being is a constant challenge, and SKE48’s handling of Minazawa’s situation reflects a growing awareness of the importance of prioritizing artist health. Fans will undoubtedly be hoping for a swift recovery for Minazawa and a successful reschedule of the affected events.
