Haruka Kodama Turns 30 and Goes Nude for New Photo Book

Former HKT48 member Haruka Kodama stands out for a couple of notable reasons; neither of which are the obvious ones.

First, she has been refreshingly open about her plastic surgery, something many Japanese celebrities undergo but rarely discuss publicly. She has also been candid about living with bipolar disorder.

Second, she illustrates how ex-idols often need to take a more daring approach once they leave a major group. After departing HKT48 in 2019, Kodama (affectionately known as Haruppi) has built a post-idol career through regular gravure work and photo books. This included a 2022 nude collection that featured her bare backside and nipples partially veiled by sheer fabric.

Her newest photo book, titled You will see, marks her first major release since turning 30 in September. It is her third printed photobook and will be published by Kobunsha on November 26. The images were captured on location in Sri Lanka, and Kodama plans promotional activities through the fall and into December.

Although she has expanded into acting roles in television and film in recent years, her core fanbase remains primarily interested in seeing her nude. She continues to deliver on that front.

Early preview shots show Kodama completely naked, kneeling on a bed in a side profile with the bedding strategically covering her nipples. Other released images appear more restrained, so it is unclear whether the full book contains additional explicit content. That will become clear on November 26, when fan scans are expected to circulate widely online.