Miki Saotome leaves AKB48

Miki Saotome (17), once a member of AKB48’s Team B, has officially graduated from the group. Her final stage appearance was on April 18.

Saotome made her debut as part of Team B in April 2007. However, she was demoted to trainee status this past January. According to a new post in the group’s official blog, Saotome said that she felt she had been lacking in her skills such as singing, dancing, and speaking. Due to her lack of confidence, she ultimately decided to leave the group.

Saotome’s future plans are uncertain, but she explained that she may not be able to give up on show business, so she plans to continue trying to find her place in the industry.

Source:
Natalie