[Edaily Reporter Son Eui-Yeon ] Ria Yamada, a Japanese teenage dancer who appeared on Mnet’s “Street Dance Girls Fighter (SDGF) 2,” has passed away after a battle with illness lasting more than a year.

On the 24th, Ria’s family announced her passing on her official social media account, stating, “Ria passed away on the 18th.” Her family added, “Ria fought her illness for over a year and did her best until the very end.”

Last July, Ria publicly revealed her battle with illness. She explained that she had been hospitalized for treatment and was scheduled to undergo chemotherapy and a bone marrow transplant. Even as she shared the news that she had cut her trademark long hair short while undergoing medical tests, she maintained a cheerful demeanor.

Born in 2009, Ria appeared as a Japanese individual contestant on “Girl’s Group Battle 2,” which premiered on November 21, 2023, and delivered a standout performance. After making a strong impression on her first stage, she was selected by all the masters and joined Team Jam Republic, which went on to win the competition.

Her family posted on social media, “Ria loved dancing more than anything else and cherished the bonds she formed with the colleagues she met through dance and those who cheered her on,” adding, “Please remember the dance she loved most and her smile.”

Teammates from *Girls’ Girl Group 2* also mourned the news of Ria’s passing. Team leader Park Eun-woo wrote on social media, “I always wanted to be a leader who could protect you and respect you, but above all, I loved being your older sister,” adding, “I felt so lucky that Ria became my little sister. I will love you forever.”

Miyabi, who also participated as a Japanese dancer, expressed her grief, saying, “Ria loved dancing more than anyone else and worked harder than anyone else. I truly respected you from the bottom of my heart.” She added, “From now on, I will continue to dance for Ria.”