Popular Female Idol Makes Heartbreaking Comments About Idols’ “Expiration Date”

Ageism is something prominent in all aspects of entertainment, and music is no exception.

First-Gen Idol Fiercely Defended Against Comments Calling Her “Grandma”

One female idol who has gained attention for her heartbreaking comments is SAY MY NAME‘s Hitomi. The idol has more experience than most, debuting in Japan at the age of 12 before coming to Korea, being part of IZ*ONE before redebuting with a new group.

SAY MY NAME Hitomi | @sa2m2nam3/Instagram

Recently, popular YouTuber Kian84 followed the group for a day.

It showed the various stages of the group’s schedule during promotion periods.

During the video, netizens paid attention to Hitomi’s “heartbreaking” confession. The idol explained how she thought that idols have an “expiration date,” adding that she wanted to be an idol when she was at her “prettiest.” It seemingly implied that the idol thought that idols had to be young to be successful.

“Idols have an expiration date and I wanted to do it while I’m at my prettiest” pic.twitter.com/pe1DGV4iPI

— honda (@lowqhitomi) August 12, 2025

While some fans shared negative feelings about the comment, netizens shared sadness that Hitomi had been made to feel that way due to the sentiment within the industry. Some also hit back at backlash, explaining that the view shouldn’t be surprising, as many K-Pop fans show ageism towards idols.

People bashing Hiichan definitely didn’t watch the full documentary.
In that part, the interviewer was asking why she chose to return to K-pop when she was already doing so well in AKB . Appearing in dramas, variety shows, and building a strong career in Japan. Hiichan explained… https://t.co/VyOav7hPwZ

— Tina 🍉 (@taesecretfan) August 12, 2025

I’m sorry but I’m not about to demonize Hitomi for falling victim to an ageist mindset that is rampant throughout BOTH the kpop and jpop industries. https://t.co/mwARju3dTi

— xola 𖦹⋆✮ (@kiligpapillon) August 12, 2025

it shouldn’t be like this but she’s right and it’s not only korean fans’ fault. international fans be calling idols “hags” as soon as they hit 28 https://t.co/MPyQOcR2OI pic.twitter.com/MzhyAezGk9

— Andy (@J0J0POSE) August 14, 2025

Ya’ll were literally hate on any idol that’s 30+ all sort of names (like ya’ll did to boa a few weeks ago literally).

So Ofc most idols feel this way even if most of them don’t speak about it https://t.co/IGGobxlrVq

— ANTIFRAGILE; (@usuallyoffkpop) August 12, 2025