Shion Tsurubo Embarks on Solo Career Following Gambling Scandal and JO1 Departure
Table of Contents
After a period of reflection and a month-long hiatus, Shion Tsurubo is officially launching his independent career following his departure from the popular Japanese boy group, JO1, due to involvement in illegal gambling. The artist together unveiled a personal account, channel, and the music video for his self-composed song, “Howolnim,” on Thursday, signaling a steadfast return to the entertainment industry.
A Fresh Start after Controversy
Tsurubo’s decision to pursue a solo path comes after a series of events that began in June of last year when he was discovered participating in online gambling. This lead to a temporary suspension of his activities and, afterward, an indictment on gambling charges in August, causing importent public disappointment. In December, he formally announced his withdrawal from JO1 alongside the expiration of his contract with his agency.
According to a company release, the agency expressed “deepest apologies to the fans who have shown warm support” and requested “generous understanding and understanding” regarding the situation. A spokesperson acknowledged the sadness this decision would bring to the group’s fanbase, known as JAM, stating, “I am well aware that this decision will bring sadness… who have been waiting for my return for a long time,” and emphasized that it was made “after thinking deeply, facing myself, and sorting out my emotions.”
“Howolnim” – A Song of Resilience and Gratitude
tsurubo’s new single, “Howolnim,” which translates to “Shining alone,” appears to be a deeply personal reflection on his recent experiences. He described the song as projecting “life’s adversity into the image of the moon shining alone,” while also conveying “a message of gratitude for the people around you and comforting yourself.” He further explained his intention to communicate that “the moon shines with help from those around it.”
he shared his ambitions for the future, stating, “I want to continue various activities little by little in the future,” indicating a cautious yet optimistic approach to rebuilding his career.
from “Produce 101 JAPAN” to Solo Artist
Tsurubo first gained recognition through the 2019 Japanese adaptation of the reality competition show, “Produce 101,” known as “PRODUCE 101 JAPAN.” His “outstanding visuals and stable skills” throughout the program garnered significant attention from viewers, ultimately leading to an 11th-place finish and his d
Why: Shion Tsurubo launched a solo career after being involved in illegal gambling, leading to his departure from the boy group JO1.
Who: Shion Tsurubo, a former member of the japanese boy group JO1, is the central figure. The agency involved is not specifically named, but released a statement. The fanbase is known as JAM.
What: tsurubo was discovered participating in online gambling in June 2023, indicted in August, and announced his withdrawal from JO1 in December. He has now launched a solo career with the song “Howolnim.”
How did it end?: tsurubo formally left JO1 upon the expiration of his contract with the agency. He is now pursuing a solo career, releasing his first self-composed song and establishing independent social media channels.The situation concluded with an apology from the agency and Tsurubo’s expressed intention to rebuild his career cautiously.
