Morning Musume。 10th Generation Auditions

In a surprise announcement on May 8th at Nakano SUNPLAZA during Morning Musume。's Shinsouseiki Fantasy DX~9 kimen wo mukaete~ national tour, it was unveiled that Hello! Project will begin recruiting members for the 10th generation of the idol group.

Group leader Takahashi Ai introduced a video message from producer Tsunku♂ who stated that the Morning Musume。 10th Generation [Genki Jirushi] Audition will search for girls' between the ages of 10-17 who have the potential to "energise Japan with their bright smiles". The deadline for applications is June 13th.

The announcement came as a shock to fans as Morning Musume。 only recruited 9th generation members Suzuki Kanon, Sayashi Riho, Ikuta Erina and Fukumura Mizuki in January. During the same performance, it was also reconfirmed that group leader Takahashi Ai will be graduating from Morning Musume。 following the final performance of their autumn tour.