Akito Kiriyama faces scrutiny over cafe business following WEST. disbandment

Following the disbandment of the J-pop group WEST., member Akito Kiriyama has faced scrutiny regarding his side business, F BULL’S Cafe, located in Nakameguro, Tokyo. The cafe, which Kiriyama opened in April 2026, recently suspended the sale of high-end champagne—ranging from 12,000 to 60,000 yen—following social media criticism comparing the service to host clubs.

Reports indicate that the sale of expensive champagne was intended to generate revenue, as Kiriyama reportedly pays a portion of the cafe's profits to his agency, STARTO ENTERTAINMENT. While the group officially ended its activities on September 24, 2026, after the prior departure of members Ryusei Fujii and Nozomu Kotaki, all seven members are expected to continue working under the agency.

Speculation regarding the group's dissolution has also been linked to internal dynamics. Reports suggest that Kiriyama’s private wedding to former volleyball player Maiko Kano in July 2025 was attended by few industry figures and notably no other members of WEST., fueling rumors of discord within the group prior to the disbandment announcement.