Japanese child pop star Hirata Runa has died at just eight years old. On Saturday, October 3, her passing was confirmed in a statement on social media. Her family announced that she "passed away peacefully" on September 25.
The statement, released by the DIANNA Project, said the rising star died "due to myocarditis resulting from influenza."
What is myocarditis?
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.
The translated post from Japanese reads: "We deeply apologise for this sudden report. Ryusei Hirate passed away peacefully around 4:00am on September 25. 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."
Tributes from fans
The statement concluded by asking for privacy on behalf of the grieving family. Fans soon took to social media to share their tributes. On Instagram, one user wrote: "So sad. Heartbreaking, so young girl gone too soon. RIP little angel."
Another added: "My condolences to family and friends, so sorry for your loss. RIP," as a third wrote: "So sad to hear so talented, you girl gone too soon."
Her final performance
Her death came just days after she performed on stage. On September 20, she entertained her fans with a show-stopping performance. Reflecting on it, she wrote: "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 her loyal fan base and the public.
Hirata Runa'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."
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.
