Japanese child pop star Hirata Runa has died aged just eight years old, her agency has confirmed. The youngster passed away peacefully on September 25, according to a statement released on her official X account.
The statement, issued by the DIANNA Project, said the rising star died “due to myocarditis resulting from influenza”. According to the British Heart Foundation, myocarditis is “inflammation of the heart muscle, usually following a virus”. The organisation says that while some people have no symptoms, it can cause chest pains, palpitations and shortness of breath.
Agency statement and tributes
Translating the post from Japanese, the statement read: “We deeply apologise for this sudden report. Ryusei Hirate passed away peacefully around 4:00am on September 25.”
It continued: “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.” The statement also asked for privacy on behalf of the family.
Fans were quick to pay tribute on social media. On Instagram, one user wrote: “So sad. Heartbreaking so young girl gone too soon Rip little Angel.” Another added: “My condolences to family an friends so sorry for your loss R.I.P,” and a third said: “So sad to hear so talented young girl gone to soon.”
Final performance and career
The youngster’s death came days after she had performed on stage. On September 20, she entertained her fans and wrote afterwards: “Thank you for today too, I appreciate it. It was so much fun.”
According to The Standard, Runa loved taking to the stage. She had spent a third of her life in the entertainment industry and would often interact with fans and the public.
Hirata Luna’s family and team wrote on X: “One-third of Runa’s life was spent as an idol. She loved you all dearly. If possible, please let her remain—even just in a small corner of your hearts—as an eternal idol. On her behalf, I offer my heartfelt gratitude. Thank you so much for everything.”
Agency background and funeral
The DIANNA Project is a development agency based in Nagoya, Japan, that specialises in turning aspiring Japanese stars into idols. They currently manage groups including MERUCHU and Lovelys, while previous links included groups like PREDIANNA.
A private funeral was held for Runa, with her close relatives in attendance, according to the DIANNA Project.
