SMAP Breakup Announcement Day

What Is SMAP Breakup Announcement Day?

August 14 marks the day in 2016 when Johnny & Associates announced, via fax to various media outlets in the early hours of the morning, that the nationally beloved idol group SMAP would disband by the end of the year.

An Announcement That Shocked the Nation

Since forming in 1988, SMAP had been beloved across generations for their music, variety shows, and dramas, becoming one of Japan's most iconic groups. Their breakup announcement became an unforgettable moment for many.

• Announcement date: Early morning of August 14, 2016, via fax to media outlets from Johnny & Associates
• Content: Announced that SMAP would disband on December 31 of that year
• Reaction: Widely covered across television, newspapers, and social media as the breakup of a beloved national group

A Group That Defined an Era

SMAP captured audiences of all ages through music programs and the variety show "SMAP×SMAP." In the months between the announcement and the group's dissolution on December 31, their situation remained a major topic of conversation nationwide.

How to Spend Today

• Look back on the era when SMAP was at its peak
• Revisit your favorite SMAP songs or shows
• Read about how the news was reported at the time
• Reflect on the impact a group's breakup can have on society

A Day Etched Into Memory

SMAP Breakup Announcement Day is a chance to look back on a moment that marked the end of an era for many people. On August 14, take a moment to remember the surprise and emotion of that day.