Gone too soon: Japanese idol trainee Hirata Luna dies at 8
Hirata Luna, an idol trainee from Japan, has died. She was only 8 years old.
DIANNA Project, a girls' idol project based in Nagoya, Japan, announced Hirata's death on Sept. 28.
“It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Runa Hirata, a trainee with the DIANNA Project in Nagoya, due to myocarditis resulting from influenza,” the agency wrote in Japanese. “We extend our heartfelt thanks to all the fans who supported Runa Hirata and to everyone involved who provided their support."
The agency also asked the public to respect the family's privacy during this difficult time.
"Out of respect for the family's feelings, we kindly ask that you refrain from making individual inquiries, seeking interviews, or posting questions on social media regarding this matter," it added.
Her family later shared more details about her passing through Hirata's social media account, saying she died at around 4 a.m. on Sept. 25.
They thanked Hirata's fellow idols who had been kind to her as well as her fans, the agency that helped her become an idol, and everyone who became part of her life.
“One-third of Luna's life was spent as an idol. Luna loved everyone dearly,” her family said. “If possible, please let her remain in a corner of your hearts as an eternal idol.”
Born on April 16, 2018, Hirata was a Nagoya trainee under the DIANNA Project. Her official profile listed gaming and traveling as her hobbies.