On December 16, AKB48 member Kato Rena announced her graduation from the group.

During a live streaming event on YouTube, Kato read a letter with tears in her eyes, "I, Kato Rena, will graduate from AKB48. During my 12 years in AKB48, this is the first time I made a life decision myself." She added, "I was able to continue for 12 years thanks to the support of my fans. This experience has also become a guide for my future. It was an important course [of life] for me." 

Kato then revealed that she is currently attending a beauty school online, "I love makeup. From now on, I want to become useful with makeup." Her last job will be 'Online Ohanashikai' on February 20. According to her agency, she plans to continue her activities in showbiz. 

Kato joined AKB48 as its tenth generation member in 2010. She was promoted to an official member in March of 2012. Her first senbatsu was "Manatsu no Sounds good!" in May of the same year.