TOKYO (TR) – Former idol singer Kokoro Kato made a public appearance in Tokyo on Saturday to promote her debut style book, revealing the drastic dietary restrictions she endured to maintain her slender figure for the camera, reports Nikkan Sports (Nov. 1).
Kato, who celebrated her 26th birthday on the day of the event, appeared at a press conference for the launch of “Kokoro Kato First Style Book C+LOVER,” published by Shufu to Seikatsu Sha. The publication marks a major milestone in her transition to modeling and acting following her departure from the pop group ME:I.
During the event, reporters questioned Kato about the preparation behind her notably slim physique. The former pop star admitted that she resorted to an intense food regimen in the days leading up to the shoot.
“I usually take care of myself, but I wanted to be in peak condition, so for two to three days beforehand I lived exclusively on baked sweet potatoes and eggs,” Kato said. “I completely cut out salt.”
The book features newly shot fashion spreads, personal views on romance, and an in-depth interview reflecting on her past struggles and future ambitions. Portions of the book were photographed in her native Aichi Prefecture.
“We shot at places I visited almost every week as a student,” Kato said. “It felt strange, but it was deeply memorable to immerse myself in those memories.”
Kato first debuted in South Korea in 2019 before competing on the reality audition program “Produce 101 Japan The Girls in 2023,” where she secured a spot in ME:I. The group debuted in 2024, but Kato suspended her activities due to poor health in March 2025. She officially terminated her involvement with the group that December and subsequently switched talent agencies.
Now striking out on her own, Kato expressed optimism about her post-idol career.
“Now that I’m in my late 20s, I hope to become a cool, mature woman,” she said with a smile.
