25-Year-Old Japanese Idol Quits Showbiz For Politics

At just 25, a Japanese popstar is trading the spotlight of the stage for the tough political arena.

On January 21, Nana Matsuura, a member of the idol group dela, announced her departure from both her agency and the group, officially ending her entertainment career.

In an announcement posted on dela’s X account, the statement emphasised that the contract termination was not a one-sided decision, but the result of mutual discussions. It further stated that Matsuura would conclude her activities with the group on that very day.

The following day, Matsuura announced her candidacy for the House of Representatives as a member of the Japan Innovation Party. The news took many by surprise, sparking widespread discussion online. 

"I'm 25 years old, a member of the younger generation. I'm determined to realise politics that takes responsibility for the future, and I am ready to take on that role," said Matsuura, who also shared about her goals to focus on economic revitalisation, educational reform, and measures to address the declining birth rate.

Matsuura said she joined dela during her university years, describing her five-year idol career as one filled with sweat and laughter. As she embarks on a major career switch, she expressed heartfelt gratitude to her fans for their support and added that she intends to bring the skills and experience she gained as an idol into the field of public service.

According to reports, Matsuura is a graduate of Nanzan University's Faculty of Law, and a former IT company employee.