Junretsu confirmed today that lead vocalist Yoji Shirakawa will leave the group on March 31, 2027. The announcement came during a press conference held at Charmant Shina Tokyo in the capital.

Shirakawa's departure marks a significant transition for the veteran group. At the press event, group leader Sakai addressed the challenge ahead, reportedly saying the members are prepared to "defeat Monaki" as they move forward—a reference suggesting they view this period as a major test of the group's resilience.

Alongside the graduation announcement, Junretsu revealed plans to hold auditions for new members to join the lineup. The group appears to be taking a measured approach to their future, keeping an eye on how other groups—particularly Monaki—navigate similar transitions.

While details about the audition process and timeline remain limited, the announcement reflects Junretsu's commitment to continuity. Rather than disbanding or drastically restructuring, the group is actively recruiting fresh talent to fill the void left by Shirakawa's departure.

This move comes at a time when the Japanese music industry continues to see veteran acts refresh their lineups. Junretsu's decision to hold open auditions signals they're open to bringing in new energy while maintaining their core identity.

Fans and industry observers will likely watch closely to see how the group's dynamic shifts following Shirakawa's exit. The group's leadership appears confident in their ability to weather this change, though the true test will come once new members are selected and integrated into the ensemble.