Girl Group Charged Ahead Of Their Official Debut, Investigated By Police

A girl group has found themselves in hot water ahead of their official debut. Although police did not release the group’s name to the public, the group has now confirmed media reports.

CiON is a Japanese girl group that currently consists of five idol-musicians: Shion (vocals), Kinui Aika (vocals), Ishihara Kako (alto saxophone), Seina (euphonium/bass trumpet), and Ami (piano). Although the group has existed in various forms since 2016, it rebranded as CiON on October 1 after receiving feedback that the previous group name, C;ON, was difficult to search for on X. The current lineup was set to release their debut single, “Shimasho,” as CiON on Christmas Day.

Now, CiON has announced that they will be suspending activities. This includes canceling planned events and releases. The group’s members have been charged–along with their agency’s president and four other people–with holding a street performance at a plaza in Tokyo without the necessary permits, violating Japan’s Road Traffic Act.

On their official website, CiON confirmed media reports, apologized for performing at the plaza without permission, and expressed regret to their fans, who will now be receiving refunds.