RIIZE’s Shotaro absent from Macau show, agency points to “unforeseen circumstances”

RIIZE member Shotaro will not be participating in the group’s upcoming Macau concert, according to an announcement from the concert organizer.

On February 6, event production company IME MACAU shared via social media, “Shotaro will not be taking the stage at the 2026 RIIZE concert tour ‘Riizing Loud’ Macau performance.” The organizer explained, “All parties made prior preparations so that every member could participate. However, due to unforeseen circumstances, Shotaro will be unable to join the performance.” They added, “We kindly ask for the generous understanding of fans who have waited a long time and shown support for RIIZE. We sincerely apologize for the inconvenience caused by the lineup change.”

Shotaro had originally been scheduled to perform at RIIZE’s concerts set for February 7–8 at the Galaxy Arena. The other members departed for Macau on the morning of February 6, while Shotaro’s sudden absence drew attention from fans. Some observers have speculated that his nationality may be a factor. Shotaro is Japanese, and interpretations have emerged linking his exclusion to the recent cooling of China–Japan relations. There have been reports of schedules involving K-pop groups facing complications when Japanese members are included.

K-pop concerts in the region have recently encountered disruptions as well. Previously, 'Dream Concert 2026 World Tour - Hong Kong' and 'Show! Music Core in Macau' both announced cancellations roughly a week before their scheduled dates, reportedly in connection with broader regional restrictions.

Neither RIIZE’s agency nor additional officials have released further details regarding Shotaro’s absence.

SEE ALSO: RIIZE pre-releases ‘All of You’ ahead of Japan comeback

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