[Junior Idol Gravure] ──> [Miss iD Audition] ──> [LADYBABY (Viral Success)] ──> [BRATS / REIRIE (Rock Agency)] Formative Years with BRATS
Junior idols were child and teenage performers, often between the ages of 8 and 15, who produced photobooks ( shashinshu ) and image DVDs.
She gained global fame as a founding member of LADYBABY alongside Rie Kaneko and Ladybeard. This period defined the "kawaii metal" sound but was also marked by Rei’s growing disillusionment with idol culture , eventually leading to her departure in November 2017. BRATS and Independent Rock (2011–2024): Parallel to her idol work, Rei served as the vocalist for junior idol rei kuromiya work
Rei produced a prolific amount of content as a junior idol. Fan databases list approximately 75 video collections and 70 photo sets attributable to her work in this genre. She participated in the "Weekly Young Jump" gravure idol contest "Sakidol Ace Survival" and appeared in the magazine's March/April 2017 issue.
| Category | Details | | :--- | :--- | | | 25 years old (as of 2025) | | Primary Activity | Vocalist/Guitarist for BRATS; Member of REIRIE (Major debut 2026) | | Fashion | Maintaining "suiciDe" brand | [Junior Idol Gravure] ──> [Miss iD Audition] ──>
Despite her busy schedule, Rei prioritizes her education and is committed to balancing her career and academic life. She has spoken publicly about the importance of education and has used her platform to encourage young people to pursue their passions and work hard towards their goals.
The media typically featured these young models in school uniforms, traditional kimonos, casual wear, and swimwear. BRATS and Independent Rock (2011–2024): Parallel to her
: In interviews, she has addressed the controversy surrounding junior idol work, acknowledging that being an object of attention at such a young age affected her self-perception. However, she has also stated that she acknowledges this past as an essential part of her life and the foundation of her current self. Current Activities (2024–2026)
Rei's early beginnings in the entertainment industry were marked by appearances in various television shows, commercials, and music videos. She quickly gained experience and exposure, which helped her build a loyal fan base. As she grew older, Rei began to take on more substantial roles, showcasing her acting and singing abilities in a range of projects.
Rei Kuromiya’s work cannot be viewed as a single, unified narrative. It is a mosaic of contrasting pieces: the innocent junior idol, the defiant rock vocalist, the viral pop star, and the introspective author. Her journey reflects a larger cultural conversation about the ethics of the junior idol industry, the mental toll of early fame, and the difficult, but possible, transition from a manufactured idol to a genuine, self-defined artist. Today, as one half of REIRIE, Rei Kuromiya continues to create on her own terms, proving that her most compelling work may still lie ahead.