RIIZE member Shotaro will not be taking part in the group’s upcoming Macau concerts, leaving fans surprised just days before the highly anticipated world tour stop.
On February 6, the local production team behind RIIZE’s RIIZING LOUD Macau shows released an official statement confirming that the Japanese-born idol would be unable to appear at the performances scheduled for February 7 and 8 at Galaxy Arena. While organizers emphasized that the group had fully prepared for an all-member stage, they cited “unforeseen circumstances” as the reason for the sudden change.
The company apologized to fans for the unexpected lineup shift and asked for understanding from audiences who had been waiting to see the full group live. As a result, RIIZE will move forward with the Macau concerts as a five-member unit.
Although no official explanation has been provided, industry observers believe the situation may be connected to escalating tensions between China and Japan, which have recently affected entertainment events across the region. Reports of visa complications and heightened political sensitivities have led to speculation that Japanese nationals involved in international performances are facing additional hurdles.
The issue has not been limited to RIIZE alone. Several large-scale K-pop events planned in Macau and Hong Kong — including music broadcasts and major concert festivals — have reportedly faced last-minute cancellations or adjustments in recent weeks. While organizers rarely cite political factors directly, the timing has fueled ongoing discussion within the K-pop community about how diplomatic conflicts can ripple into the global music scene.
For RIIZE, the Macau stop remains a key part of their expanding world tour, and fans are expected to show strong support despite the unexpected absence. Online reactions have been mixed, with many expressing disappointment while also sending messages of encouragement to Shotaro.
As the situation unfolds, neither SM Entertainment nor the concert organizers have shared further details about whether Shotaro will rejoin upcoming tour dates, leaving fans watching closely for future updates.