Many were sure he would be included.
Koreaboo
9 minutes ago
As with previous groups, SM Entertainment has often introduced trainees before their official debuts through SM Rookies. In recent years, members of NCT, aespa, and RIIZE were all part of SM Rookies before making their official debuts.
| SM Entertainment
Last year, the latest set of SM Rookies, SMTR25, was introduced, with plans for the trainees to become members of SM Entertainment’s upcoming boy group.
SM Entertainment Staff Reveals 1st Member Of New Boy Group, Earning Strong Reactions
However, it appears that another trainee believed to be in the group’s final line-up has left the company.
On May 23, it was noted that Takeru, one of the members introduced through the various live performance the rookies participated in made his Instagram account public and shared updates.
Usually, trainees are not allowed to have individual solo media accounts, so it is a usual indication that one has left the company they were under.
Many commented on his apparent departure, expressing surprise over someone who many believed would be in the final group.
it seems like takeru has left SM. he made his instagram public and posted two videos on his story 🥹 whatever path you choose in the end, i hope you always find success. our little cute beret boy thank you for being part of SMTR25 🤍 pic.twitter.com/rHWNr6IwHK
— 𝐍𝐢𝐜🍀 (@itsnicholla) May 23, 2026
what the hell. i honestly expected he’d debut with seongwook and xulun. so that’s why we don’t see him with them any longer 🥺 https://t.co/PnRM0oaPzp
— gene 💭 (@ginjangmyeon) May 23, 2026
Training from a young age and having to endure so many hardships in SM must’ve been difficult. Good luck… why am i tearing up 🥺 https://t.co/jnaGoes4YJ
— Reys🌲__semi-mia (@kesonghaa) May 23, 2026
Fans are currently still waiting for the official group line-up as SMTR25 continues with activities.