On July 8, 2025, Haruna Iikubo (30 years old), a former member of Morning Musume and currently active as a singer and actress, updated her Instagram (@harunaiikubo_official). She reported that she rushed to Nippon Budokan to watch Erina Ikuta's graduation concert and sent a warm message to her fans. This post has captured the hearts of many fans and has become a hot topic on social media.
Iikubo shared her excitement and joy, writing, "I went to Nippon Budokan to see Ikuta Erina's graduation concert!" She and Ikuta met at the Morning Musume 9th generation auditions in 2009 and have been working together for 14 years. The bond between the two who have spent such a long time together was further strengthened at this graduation concert. Iikubo's post was filled with photos filled with memories from the past, and fans have been quick to comment that it is "precious."
A history of business discord and true friendship
The relationship between Iikubo and Ikuta has been spoken of as something a little special even among fans. Because they had similar standing positions, movement distances during dance formations, and singing parts, they were sometimes called "not getting along in business." However, in this post, Iikubo seemed to clear up that misunderstanding, looking back, saying, "Although people sometimes said we weren't on good terms in business, somehow we got along well and worked together as a group, and we had fun days." These words suggest a deep friendship that goes beyond a superficial rivalry.
The two have countless memories from their 14 years together. Iikubo said, "We laughed together, and sometimes we clashed, but now those are wonderful memories," and fans sympathized with her story. It is clear that their bond has been nurtured not only on stage, but also off time. In particular, behind-the-scenes stories from their concert tours and recording sessions have become a hot topic among fans, with many saying, "I want to hear more!"
Graduation concert: moving and encouraging
The graduation concert at Nippon Budokan was the culmination of Ikuta Erina's 14 and a half years of work with Morning Musume '25 and Hello! Project. Iikubo praised her, saying, "Ikuta looked amazing in that sparkling, no, glittering dress!" It seems Iikubo was also moved by the way Ikuta shone on stage. She also sent her a message of encouragement, saying, "I hope your days from tomorrow will continue to shine brightly," conveying her support for her new start after graduation.
This concert took place on July 8, 2025 as "Morning Musume '25 Concert Tour Spring Mighty Magic DX ~ Farewell to Ikuta Erina ~". As Ikuta has been the leader of the group, it was a very emotional day for fans. Iikubo's post included photos of Ikuta's smile and dress from the concert, warming the hearts of fans with their gorgeous looks.
Fan reactions and 14 years of history
Iikubo's Instagram post was inundated with comments from fans. Particularly notable were comments such as, "It was a great concert! I'm glad you posted so many photos," and "All the girls I've seen since '14 are so cute and amazing, it's so precious." The photos looking back on their 14-year history included old stage photos and off-shots, and fans were immersed in nostalgia, saying, "This brings back memories!" and "I loved the two of them back then too."
Iikubo and Ikuta became beloved by fans through the time they spent together in Morning Musume. Iikubo graduated in 2018, but the two have continued to support each other ever since. Their reunion at this graduation concert has led some fans to say, "The bond between Morning Musume members is eternal." It seems that their friendship continues undiminished even after they graduate from the group.
Future after graduation and words of encouragement
Ikuta Erina's graduation marks a new beginning for Morning Musume '25. Iikubo commented, "From now on, I want to support Ikuta as she pursues her new dreams as an individual." Fans are looking forward to her new challenge, and are excited to see what she will accomplish next. Iikubo herself is also active as an actress and singer, so we can't wait to see what the two of them do next.
This Instagram post has become a precious record for fans. Filled with Iikubo's kind words and affection for Ikuta, her followers have sent her warm messages such as "Thank you" and "I'll always support you." It was a wonderful opportunity to look back on this moment filled with memories from the past 14 years together with her fans.