Japanese dancer Yamada Ria (山田 リア), who gained recognition after appearing on the popular Korean dance program “Street Dance Girls Fighter 2” (스트릿댄스 걸스 파이터 2), has passed away at the age of 16. Her family confirmed the news on her Instagram account on Jan. 18, revealing that she had fought an illness for over a year but ultimately succumbed to it.
Ria’s family shared the news with her fans on Instagram, stating, “It is with immense sadness that we inform you Ria passed away on Sept. 18, 2026.”
The family revealed that throughout her more than year-long illness, Ria faced each day with unwavering strength. They expressed gratitude to everyone who supported her, offered encouragement, and showed love. “Ria loved dancing and cherished the friends she made through dance, as well as everyone who followed and supported her dance journey,” the family added, thanking fans and hoping they would always remember her dancing and her smile.
Ria had previously disclosed that she suffered from an autoimmune disease, which required her to undergo bone marrow transplantation and chemotherapy. In July 2025, she shared news of her hospitalization on social media, after which she did not post updates for over a year. Her next post was the family’s announcement of her passing.
Ria began her dance training at age 6 and officially signed as a dancer at 13. She later competed as a solo dancer on Mnet’s dance competition show “Street Dance Girls Fighter 2,” where she was selected by the Jam Republic mentor team. She ultimately won the competition, bringing her widespread attention.
After her victory, Ria was active as a solo dancer and also performed with Baby Jam, continuing her dance activities until her hospitalization for treatment.
Her passing at just 16 years old deeply saddened fans upon the news’ release. The family concluded by once again thanking everyone who accompanied Ria on her dance journey, expressing their hope that “her dancing and her smile will forever remain in everyone’s hearts.”
