Key Facts
• In 2021, Fukushima Prefecture established the ‘TOKIO Division’ to support recovery efforts.
• On June 25, 2025, the prefecture announced plans to rename the division after TOKIO disbanded.
• TOKIO member Taichi Kokubun announced an indefinite hiatus on June 20, 2025.
• The prefecture expressed hope for continued support from Shigeru Joshima and Masahiro Matsuoka.
• The division was created due to TOKIO’s involvement in the TV show ‘The! Tetsuwan! DASH!’.
• The division promoted projects to aid recovery from the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake.
• In 2023, the prefecture separated TOKIO’s activities from controversies surrounding their former agency.
• A local resident expressed sadness over the disbandment, citing personal connections to the group.
Summary
Fukushima Prefecture announced plans to rename its ‘TOKIO Division’ following the disbandment of the band TOKIO. Established in 2021, the division collaborated with the group to promote recovery efforts from the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake. The decision comes after member Taichi Kokubun’s indefinite hiatus announcement on June 20, 2025, which led to the band’s dissolution. Despite the change, the prefecture hopes to maintain ties with Shigeru Joshima and Masahiro Matsuoka, who have been instrumental in supporting local initiatives. The division was originally inspired by TOKIO’s involvement in the TV show ‘The! Tetsuwan! DASH!’ and has played a significant role in showcasing Fukushima’s recovery. Local residents expressed mixed emotions, with some lamenting the loss of direct engagement with the group. The prefecture previously defended TOKIO’s contributions during controversies surrounding their former agency, emphasizing the band’s positive impact on Fukushima’s image.
