AKB48 has terminated its contract with member Hanada Ai as of June 23, making this the first time the group has expelled a member in its 21-year history.

According to a statement from DHInc., the company managing AKB48, the decision came after a series of issues beginning in late 2025. Hanada had repeatedly arrived late to scheduled activities due to health concerns, prompting the company to suspend her activities so she could focus on treatment and recovery.

However, during this process, management discovered that Hanada had violated group rules by maintaining contact with a specific fan. While Hanada claimed the meetings were accidental and limited to two occasions, the company determined she had met with the individual multiple times. When the company attempted to discuss the situation, Hanada refused to participate in conversations. Her legal representative subsequently declined further dialogue on her behalf.

Hanada joined AKB48 as a 19th generation trainee in March 2024 and made her theater debut two months later. She achieved her first selection for a single's title track as part of the main lineup with "Masaka no Confession" in April 2025. Earlier this year, she became an ambassador for the Odawara Fish Association before suspending activities in May due to health reasons.

In its formal apology, DHInc. stated: "We sincerely apologize for the concern and inconvenience caused to our fans and all parties involved. We take this matter with utmost seriousness and will thoroughly review our talent management and guidance systems to prevent such incidents in the future."

The termination represents a significant moment for the longtime idol group, which has maintained a relatively stable membership throughout its existence. AKB48, produced by Yasushi Akimoto, debuted in 2005 with the concept of being "idols you can meet," performing regularly at their dedicated theater in Akihabara.