Written by: Thomas Blackwood

Haruna Iikubo: The Rise of a Japanese Pop Icon

A Shining Star in Morning Musume

Haruna Iikubo, also known as Hau Dan, is a Japanese actress and former pop singer, best recognized as a former tenth-generation member and subleader of the iconic pop group Morning Musume. With a career spanning over a decade, Iikubo has left an indelible mark on the Japanese entertainment industry.

Early Life and Modelling Career

Born on November 7, 1994, in Tokyo, Japan, Haruna Iikubo's journey to stardom began in 2009 when she won a special award at the exclusive auditions for the fashion magazine Love Berry. She made her modelling debut in the June issue of the magazine, adopting the stage name Hau Dan. During her time with Love Berry, Iikubo appeared in several issues, eventually graduating from the project in the February 2011 issue.

Debut in Morning Musume

In 2011, Haruna Iikubo's fate took a dramatic turn when she was announced as a new member of Morning Musume, alongside three other girls, at a concert at Nippon Budokan. This marked the beginning of her fruitful career with the group, during which she participated in various stage plays, including Staceys Shoujo Saisatsu Kageki, and formed the unit DIY with other esteemed members.

Rise to Prominence

On May 21, 2013, Haruna Iikubo was appointed as the subleader of Morning Musume, alongside Fukumura Mizuki, during Tanaka Reina's graduation concert. This milestone solidified her position within the group, as she continued to enchant audiences with her captivating performances and charming persona.

Graduation and New Ventures

On August 17, 2018, Iikubo announced her graduation from Morning Musume and Hello Project, bringing an end to her remarkable 7-year journey with the group. However, this marked the beginning of a new chapter in her career. She went on to produce and lend her voice to the virtual idol Nina, under the VR corporation HIKKY. This ambitious project showcased her versatility as an artist and her willingness to explore new horizons.

Legacy and Impact

Throughout her career, Haruna Iikubo has inspired countless fans with her dedication, passion, and charm. Her contributions to Morning Musume have left an indelible mark on the group's history, and her foray into virtual idolry has opened new avenues for Japanese pop culture. As an actress and singer, Iikubo's impact on modern Japanese entertainment is undeniable, cementing her status as a lasting icon of her generation.

Key Achievements and Milestones

• Won a special award at the exclusive auditions for Love Berry in 2009
• Debuted as a model in the June 2009 issue of Love Berry
• Joined Morning Musume in 2011 as a tenth-generation member
• Appointed as the subleader of Morning Musume in 2013
• Graduated from Morning Musume and Hello Project in 2018
• Produced and voiced the virtual idol Nina in 2018

Trivia and Fun Facts

• Haruna Iikubo's stage name, Hau Dan, was used during her modelling career.
• She was the first Morning Musume member to produce and voice a virtual idol.
• Iikubo's favourite Morning Musume song is "Maji Desu ka Ska!"

As Haruna Iikubo continues to explore new avenues in the entertainment industry, her dedicated fan base eagerly awaits her next move, inspired by her unwavering passion and commitment to her craft.