It's been announced that Keyakizaka46 will be putting an end to their five-year career after their last live in October. Then they will restart their activities with a brand new name. 

On July 17, the group held their online live 'KEYAKIZAKA46 Live Online, but with YOU!' After the live, captain Sugai Yuka made the sudden announcement about the end of their activities. 

She commented, "We love Keyakizaka46, and it's not like we've continued as a group until now with half-hearted feelings. We carried out our activities hoping to protect Keyakizaka46 that we love so much. But in order for this group to become more and more strong, we had a discussion with the staff and members and came to a conclusion. I believe that there were dreams that only Keyakizaka46 could grant, and dreams that the members and fans who aren't here right now could grant. It is my pride that I was able to meet the countless number of people who support us." 

She thanked their fans, saying, "Thank you very much for encountering Keyakizaka46, loving Keyakizaka46, and supporting Keyakizaka46." She continued, "Especially these past two years, it was like we were wandering around a tunnel with no exit. The more I loved Keyakizaka46, it became more painful, and it was like I grew attached to the group. But right now, I want to do my best with the second generation members, who joined to make the group even stronger, and the 28 first generation members in order to grant everyone's dreams. In order to become stronger, we must let go of the things we held close to us, but I feel that empty space will soon be filled with even more precious things. A new start might mean a road with many thorns, but I hope to add some color to this uncolored group together with everyone. I believe that the experience gained from Keyakizaka46 will support us, so I promise you a new, strong group. As such, please look forward to us, and please continue to cheer us on."

Keyakizaka46's last single will be "Dare ga sono Kane wo Narasu no ka?", which is currently being used as the CM song for Aeon Card. 

Source & Image: natalie