Hitomi Honda, a former member of the popular project group Iz*One, will make her return to the K-pop scene as part of a newly debuting girl group, Say My Name, according to an official statement from inKode Entertainment on Friday. The announcement came with the reveal of Hitomi as the final and seventh member of the group through a promotional video clip.
Hitomi first rose to prominence as a contestant on the audition program Produce 48, which culminated in the formation of IzOne, a temporary project group. After the group disbanded in 2019, its 12 members pursued various paths in the entertainment industry. Some, like Jang Wonyoung and Ahn Yujin, went on to join the successful girl group Ive, while others like Kim Chaewon and Sakura became members of Le Sserafim. Hitomi, who returned to Japan after IzOne's disbandment, focused on activities in her home country before recently making moves toward her K-pop comeback.
Speculation surrounding Hitomi's return to the Korean music industry first emerged in May when her previous management company, AKB48, announced the conclusion of her contract. Rumors gained momentum earlier this month when fans reported sightings of the singer near inKode Entertainment’s headquarters in Seoul. Her reappearance in Korea fueled excitement among her followers, who had long awaited her potential return to the K-pop scene.
Say My Name, the group Hitomi will be debuting with, is generating significant attention as it prepares for its official launch. With Hitomi’s inclusion, fans are eager to see how the group's dynamic will unfold, particularly given her experience and strong fanbase. The other members, who were revealed gradually through teasers and promotional materials, are also gaining recognition for their diverse talents.
Hitomi’s re-entry into the highly competitive K-pop industry marks a pivotal moment in her career. Her experience as a former Iz*One member, combined with the training and exposure she gained through Produce 48, positions her as one of the most anticipated members of this new group. Fans are not only excited about her return but are also curious about the group's music style, choreography, and overall concept.
Industry insiders believe that Say My Name has the potential to make a significant impact on the K-pop scene, given the experience and star power of its members, especially with the addition of Hitomi. The group’s upcoming debut will undoubtedly be closely monitored by fans, critics, and media alike, as it seeks to carve out a space in the ever-expanding K-pop landscape.
Sayart / ReaA JUNG, queen7203@gmail.com
Courtesy of inKode Entertainment
Hitomi Honda, a former member of the popular project group Iz*One, will make her return to the K-pop scene as part of a newly debuting girl group, Say My Name, according to an official statement from inKode Entertainment on Friday. The announcement came with the reveal of Hitomi as the final and seventh member of the group through a promotional video clip.
Hitomi first rose to prominence as a contestant on the audition program Produce 48, which culminated in the formation of IzOne, a temporary project group. After the group disbanded in 2019, its 12 members pursued various paths in the entertainment industry. Some, like Jang Wonyoung and Ahn Yujin, went on to join the successful girl group Ive, while others like Kim Chaewon and Sakura became members of Le Sserafim. Hitomi, who returned to Japan after IzOne's disbandment, focused on activities in her home country before recently making moves toward her K-pop comeback.
Speculation surrounding Hitomi's return to the Korean music industry first emerged in May when her previous management company, AKB48, announced the conclusion of her contract. Rumors gained momentum earlier this month when fans reported sightings of the singer near inKode Entertainment’s headquarters in Seoul. Her reappearance in Korea fueled excitement among her followers, who had long awaited her potential return to the K-pop scene.
Say My Name, the group Hitomi will be debuting with, is generating significant attention as it prepares for its official launch. With Hitomi’s inclusion, fans are eager to see how the group's dynamic will unfold, particularly given her experience and strong fanbase. The other members, who were revealed gradually through teasers and promotional materials, are also gaining recognition for their diverse talents.
Hitomi’s re-entry into the highly competitive K-pop industry marks a pivotal moment in her career. Her experience as a former Iz*One member, combined with the training and exposure she gained through Produce 48, positions her as one of the most anticipated members of this new group. Fans are not only excited about her return but are also curious about the group's music style, choreography, and overall concept.
Industry insiders believe that Say My Name has the potential to make a significant impact on the K-pop scene, given the experience and star power of its members, especially with the addition of Hitomi. The group’s upcoming debut will undoubtedly be closely monitored by fans, critics, and media alike, as it seeks to carve out a space in the ever-expanding K-pop landscape.
