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Oda Sakura, a core member of Morning Musume '25, has issued a heartfelt apology after a private photo featuring her with a man surfaced online, triggering speculation and concern among fans.
The 26-year-old pop idol addressed the incident through her official blog on the evening of 12 April, confirming that she was indeed the woman in the image circulating on social media.
The photo in question, shared on X (formerly Twitter) by user @takuma8012, shows a man taking a mirror selfie with a woman resembling Oda. In the room, a bottle of “NURERU” massage oil is visible on the bed, prompting some users to interpret the setting as intimate.
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The X post made indirect reference to Morning Musume’s Odasaku, casting doubt on the image's context but undeniably suggesting controversy. Fans were quick to connect the dots, fuelling online discussions over the implications of the scene.
In her statement, Oda explained that the image was one of many taken during a casual visit to a photographer acquaintance.
The individual, she said, often takes photos of friends and family. Among the numerous solo shots taken that day, the only photo shared publicly was the one featuring both her and the man.
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She admitted fault, expressing regret that such a photo had been left behind and allowed to become public.
"I sincerely apologise for causing such a disturbance," she wrote.
"That is indeed me in the photo. I went to have pictures taken with friends and family. It was purely coincidental that one shot included both of us, and it’s that one that ended up online."
She continued by acknowledging the damaging potential of such imagery in the idol world and the effect it may have on fans' trust.
"I deeply regret leaving behind a photo that could cause issues and reflect poorly on me. I also reflect on the fact that someone felt malicious enough to release it," she added.
The inclusion of NURERU lotion in the photo, a discontinued massage oil known for its use in adult contexts, has only worsened speculation. Although there's no direct evidence of inappropriate behaviour, the association has stirred unease.
Oda Sakura, who joined Morning Musume as the sole 11th-generation member in 2012, has grown into a reliable vocalist and one of the group's sub-leaders. With over a decade in the industry, she is held to a high standard, like many J-pop idols, where personal conduct is expected to reflect a pristine public persona.
She reaffirmed her dedication to Morning Musume and its fans, writing, "I want everyone to enjoy Morning Musume with their whole heart. I genuinely wish to be someone who gives strength to others. I love Morning Musume and the fans deeply."
She admitted her lack of caution in how she handled the situation and pledged to learn from it moving forward.
"This incident has made me realise how naïve I was in understanding the weight of my position. I promise to hold myself to higher standards and become someone who can support Morning Musume even more."
Oda concluded her blog by asking fans for continued support, despite the trouble the incident has caused.
Though the full context behind the photo remains uncertain, Oda's transparency and remorse reflect the weight idols carry in maintaining a carefully managed public image in the J-pop industry.