In a move similar to his groupmate Kazunari Ninomiya, Jun Matsumoto has decided to go independent for his solo activities, while remaining part of ARASHI. This transition will take place on May 30, after the final “WE ARE! Let’s get the party STARTO!!” concert at Kyocera Dome Osaka, which he produced.
Of this departure from STARTO ENTERTAINMENT, Jun said, that he “feels that it is a necessary step for me to shape my own future.”
While Jun acknowledged that his new path will not be smooth, he said it “offers the opportunity for new creations and the realization of long-held dreams.” In his post-STARTO era, he said that he would like to “explore various forms of expression through new encounters, making the most of the experiences and relationships I have cultivated so far.”
Jun said that this news may come as a surprise, but he would like to think of this as a “positive challenge”, and asks fans for their continued support on his new path.