Shortly after Woollim Entertainment announced her departure from girl group Rocket Punch, Takahashi Juri took to her Instagram to dedicate a heartfelt letter to her fans.
Takahashi Juri wrote,
"Hello, this is Juri.
My artist's contract with Woollim Entertainment has expired after 5-years, and I have concluded my activities as Juri of Rocket Punch. It was difficult for me to inform you that my contract period was 5-years beforehand, so I am letting you know of it after the fact.
I am writing letter to express my gratitude toward all those who worked so hard alongside me for the past 5-years, from CEO Lee Joong Yeob to the staff Woollim, and of course, to KETCHY.
During the past 5-years I spent promoting in Korea, I was able to challenge myself countless times. I would like to sincerely thank Woollim Entertainment for being with me through it all since the beginning and for always taking care of me. And to the many fellow artists, broadcasting station staff, and the hair, makeup and styling staff, I was greatly inspired by your hard work and professionalism. The time that I spent working alongside you all was truly an honor. I will not forget all those times that we worked together for our comeback activities, on the set of the audition program, during variety programs, and various contents. Thank you.
I believe that everyone goes through a time when they must fight through tough times in their lives, and for me, what truly matters is who is with you during those times. My members. If I had been alone all this time, I would have been so lonely and would not have been able to endure through it all.
I was so happy to have Yeonhee, Suyun, Yunkyoung, Sohee, and Dahyun by my side, and it was because I was with them that I was able to do everything I did. They were meaningful and joyful times because we were together. Thank you girls.
And to KETCHY. I'm sure that you were surprised by the sudden news.
First and foremost, I'm sorry for bringing you such surprising news.
Combining the 5-years I spent promoting in Korea with the 8-years I spent promoting in Japan, I was an idol for 13 years. To all the fans who acknowledged my efforts as artist Juri, to all the fans who cheered me on and were by my side, to all my fans and all KETCHY, thank you so much.
I have spent nearly half of my life being supported by my fans. I don't know that I was happy to be an idol or that it was fun being an idol. Rather, I was happy about the fact that I was able to make so many memories with my fans and KETCHY, supporting one another and sharing our values with one another.
I am so grateful to have had people to whom I could show 'Juri's colors' to no matter what world or what moment I was. Even when the times were tough, what endured in my heart was the love I received from my fans and the gratitude I felt toward them. While I can't remember every single difficulty I faced all this time, I remember each and every one of the smiles, words, and messages exchanged with KETCHY, and I will never forget them.
Thank you so much for making up all the bright and beautiful colors in my world. Thank you for being my light. I will be starting a new chapter of my life from her on out, but KTCHY, please promise me that you will always be happy and healthy.
The world is always changing, but to me, KETCHY are unchanging people and the people most dear to me.
For the last time, as idol Juri, I want to say thank you and I love you, KETCHY.
- Juri -"
In addition to announcing her departure from Rocket Punch and the idol industry, Takahashi Juri revealed her future plans. The idol hinted at the launch of an online consultation service known as 'UI', offering quality advice and support for aspiring K-Pop idols.
More details on Juri's consultation service can be found below.
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I love the idea about support for those in the industry or are curious about it, I think its a much needed service and I hope everything goes well for her. She seems so so sweet.