Honda Hitomi Pleads for SAY MY NAME Comeback; Fans Criticize Kim Jae-joong

A recent video of SAY MY NAME member Honda Hitomi (本田仁美) pleading with her agency for the group's comeback has gone viral, drawing sympathy from fans. The former IZ*ONE member's current group has not had a comeback in approximately eight months, and her direct appeal, "Please let us have a comeback!" has ignited widespread discussion online.

The video, showing Honda Hitomi appealing to her agency, iNKODE, for SAY MY NAME to release new music, quickly spread across social media platforms like TikTok. The original poster noted that SAY MY NAME's activities have been delayed due to iNKODE's consecutive launches of two new boy groups, leaving fans waiting for an extended period.

In the video, Honda Hitomi repeatedly expressed her desire for a comeback, stating, "We want to promote again soon," "Please let us promote," and "I really want to have a comeback again."

Following the video's release, many fans expressed their sympathy, believing SAY MY NAME has waited too long. While reports indicate the group is confirmed for a comeback this year, no specific date has been announced. Speculation suggests it could be as early as autumn, but if further delays occur, it might be pushed to winter.

The video also sparked heated discussions on TikTok, with many netizens commenting on their sadness for Honda Hitomi. Fans found it particularly regrettable given her past experience as an IZ*ONE member, now facing another prolonged wait for her group's return.

Some netizens have directed their criticism towards iNKODE CEO Kim Jae-joong (김재중), arguing that as a former idol himself, he should be more aware of the impact that long periods of inactivity have on members and fans. They expressed confusion over the company's current arrangements.

Netizens commented, "It's really sad to see Hitomi like this," "I didn't expect Kim Jae-joong to let this happen," and "Doesn't Kim Jae-joong own iNKODE? Or am I mistaken?" Some lamented, "Why do female idols always have to suffer to give boy groups a chance to succeed?" Other fans directly stated they wished Honda Hitomi had chosen a different agency.

While SAY MY NAME's comeback this year has been confirmed by related sources, the official date remains unannounced. Fans continue to monitor when the group will finally return to the stage.

SAY MY NAME is iNKODE's first idol group and a girl group personally produced and created by Kim Jae-joong. As the company has expanded its artist roster in recent years, launching boy groups KEYVITUP and VAYONN in 2026, some fans believe SAY MY NAME's comeback and activity schedule have been affected by the company's focus on its new male acts.