Beloved Japanese young idol Hirata Runa has tragically died at just 8 years old.
Runa, who was a trainee with Japanese girls’ idol group DIANNA Project, “passed away peacefully” on September 25, according to a post on her X (Twitter) account that was posted abruptly and without warning earlier this week.
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DIANNA Project said the young performer died “due to myocarditis resulting from influenza,” while asking fans and the public to respect her family’s privacy during this devastating time.
The group shared:
“We extend our heartfelt thanks to all the fans who supported Runa Hirata and to everyone involved who provided their support.”
According to The Standard, and others, Runa’s final performance took place earlier last month, on September 20. Afterward, the young idol wrote:
“Thank you for today too, I appreciate it. It was so much fun.”
Just days later, her team shared another heartbreaking message on X:
“To all the fellow idols who were kind to Ruyu during her lifetime, to the fans who supported Ruyu, to everyone at the agency who made Ruyu an idol, and to all the people who were involved with Ruyu, thank you very much.”
Awful…
If you’re wondering, the American Heart Association says that myocarditis is inflammation of the myocardium, the muscular middle layer of the heart wall.
We’re just so, so heartbroken. Eight years old. Just eight!!! A child who had only just begun her life and was already bringing joy to fans through performing.
Our thoughts are with Runa’s family, friends, fellow idols, and everyone who loved her.
Rest In Peace.
[Image via Hirata Runa/X/Twitter]