UPDATE: SMAP have confirmed that they won’t be disbanding.

Japan’s arguably most recognizable group SMAP has seemingly announced their disbandment.

According to reports the decision came as a result of the group’s manager announcing her resignation from the Johnny & Associates company.

Four out of five of the members: Masahiro Nakai, Goro Inagaki, Tsuyoshi Kusanagi, and Shingo Katori announced their decision to accompany her as she leaves the company. Takuya Kimura will be staying with the company.

According to a report sent out by the company, it seems to be semi-confirming the issue, but it doesn’t seem to confirm outright whether the group will be disbanding. Here is the report (thanks to TokyoHive).

Recently, there was a report regarding some SMAP members’ leaving and their manager’s resignation from a directors position. It is true that we are having consultation and negotiations about the matter, however, we cannot answer any detailed inquires yet.

It seems like a disbandment isn’t being confirmed outright, but it seems like there are some issues with the group and their company. Of course, until the confirmation is out we can’t say 100% for sure if this is valid.

We’ll keep on updating as the issue proceeds.

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Source: Daily Sports Online