Hitomi

Honda Hitomi, known to fans as Hitomi, is a Japanese singer, dancer, and actress who first gained widespread recognition as a member of the South Korean-Japanese project group IZ*ONE. Born on October 6, 2001, in Utsunomiya, Tochigi Prefecture, Hitomi began her idol career at just 12 years old, joining AKB48’s Team 8 in 2014 as the representative of Tochigi Prefecture.

Before IZ*ONE, Hitomi built up years of stage experience with AKB48, cycling through Team 8, Team A, and a concurrent stint in Team B, while also hosting her own radio program and doing local reporting work. In 2018, she joined the cast of Produce 48, where her lively energy, dancing skills, and warm personality made her a standout contestant. She finished 9th overall in the final ranking, earning her a spot among the twelve members of IZ*ONE.

Hitomi debuted with IZ*ONE on October 29, 2018, serving as the group’s lead dancer, sub-vocalist, and sub-rapper. Throughout the group’s two-and-a-half-year run, she was known for her cheerful demeanor, athletic dance performances, and close bond with fellow members, contributing to hit releases including “La Vie en Rose,” “Violeta,” “Fiesta,” and “Panorama.”

Following IZ*ONE’s disbandment in April 2021, Hitomi transitioned back into her AKB48 activities before eventually announcing her graduation from AKB48 in August 2023, with a farewell concert titled Yume to Kibou ni Michita Michi held in January 2024. She subsequently reinvented herself as the leader of the K-pop girl group Say My Name under iNKODE, marking her return to the South Korean idol scene.

Recognized for her chubby-cheeked charm, discipline, and leadership qualities, Honda Hitomi has built a career that spans two idol generations and two countries, remaining a fan favorite from her early AKB48 days through IZ*ONE and into her current role leading Say My Name.