One of the ~best things we ever did~ was to discover the K-pop girl group TWICE. The nine-member group debuted in 2015. They were formed in an idol survival show Sixteen, where their skills and personalities were put to the test to create a new name that will create waves in the industry. TWICE is under JYP, the same agency as the Wonder Girls and miss A. The moment we saw their first music video “Like Ooh Ahh” five years ago, we already knew that they were going to be big.
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A year after, TWICE bagged the Song of the Year (SOTY) award for the track “Cheer Up” at the Mnet Asian Music Awards. That song actually started a dance craze in South Korea, and mind you, they were still rookies at that time! In 2017, they bagged the same SOTY award for their song "Signal." Yup, they did it not just once, but twice. *winks*
In the same year, TWICE ranked third in Forbes Korea’s list of “Top 40 Power Celebrities”, just casually following big names like Park Bo Gum and Song Joong Ki. They’re also *super* popular in Japan, with their album &TWICE reaching platinum status in the said country. In Korean variety shows, most of their title tracks are performed by other K-pop idols. This just goes to show that everyone can't get enough of their music! While they started out with a youthful vibe, TWICE has recently entered an edgier side and went from cute to mature, which clearly shows how versatile they are as artists.
What’s the meaning of the group name “TWICE”?
If you’re wondering how the group got the name "Twice", JYP Entertainment’s CEO Park Jin Young explained in a presscon: “It means that they will be able to move people twice. Once through the ears and once through the eyes.” Indeed, the group has been consistent not just in producing new and exciting music, but also in carrying their branding. Their songs are addictive ear candies, and their choreographies are always a hit.
After you listen to their songs, you could find yourself already humming their singles in the shower, or watching Pinoy ONCEs (aka their fandom who makes them ~feel special~) doing a cover of their dance videos. Sometimes, it’s both.
Now that you know the group, allow us to introduce you to the members that form TWICE:
1. Nayeon - TWICE Lead vocalist, lead dancer, center
Would you believe that this TWICE member is the oldest in the group? 25-year-old Im Nayeon is the *fake* maknae for her youthful charm and features. You will remember her adorably unique bunny smile (she once mentioned that she’s similar to Squirtle!), and fall in love once you witness how strong her vocals are. She's so passionate about singing, and her fellow members revealed how she once sang BTS’ “Fire” in her sleep. LOL!
2. Jeongyeon - TWICE Lead vocalist
If you’ve been seeing memes on the internet of a Korean version of Angel Locsin, it’s Yoo Jeongyeon from TWICE! In their early days, the 23-year-old sported a short haircut which made us want to chop our locks, too. Just watch their “TT” and “Knock Knock” music videos and we bet you’ll also want to change your hairstyle ASAP. Jeongyeon is not the only celeb in her family—she has an older sister who is an actress.
3. Momo - TWICE Main dancer, sub vocalist, sub rapper
For the 23-year-old Japanese member, dancing is life and so is jokbal (pig’s feet)! Hirai Momo would always mention her love for that Korean dish in variety shows, saying that it’s her ultimate fave. Watch out for her dance breaks in TWICE’s music videos because people weren’t kidding when they said that she’s one of the best dancers of her generation. Currently, she’s dating Super Junior’s Kim Heechul and tbh, it was indeed a happy new year for us fans when it was confirmed last January 1!
4. Sana - TWICE Sub Vocalist
Sorry, ladies, uwian na—someone didn’t have to wait in line for our favorite oppa Park Seo Joon because the actor himself revealed that he wishes TWICE’s Minatozaki Sana is his “morning angel.” 23-year-old Sana’s claim to fame was her *super* cute dance step in “Cheer Up” while she was singing her line “Shy shy shy”, which made her the aegyo queen. Let Sana melt your sadness away in this video where she freaked out after reading a comment that says “Sana Potter looks like Harry Potter.” You’re welcome.
5. Jihyo - TWICE Leader, main vocalist
The mom of the group is also called the god of TWICE for her powerful stage presence! 23-year-old Park Jihyo trained for 10 years before debuting. She’s recognized for her bubbly character, and would always look after her members. Her vocals are superb, her dance skills are on point, and did we mention her stunning visuals? If she’s a religion, we’re all ready to be converted.
In August 2019, Jihyo and Kang Daniel have confirmed their relationship. After one year and three months of dating, the two K-pop idols have broken up, as stated by JYP Entertainment.
6. Mina - TWICE Main Dancer, sub vocalist
If elegance is given a new name, it would be Myoui Mina. Born in the US, her English name is Sharon, and she moved to Japan during her childhood. 23-year-old Mina is a pro ballerina, and if that rhyme isn’t enough proof of how refined and graceful she is, we don’t know what is. Maybe this clip? Because of her ballet training, she earned the nickname “Penguin'' because she walks like one and she embraces it! This TWICE member is also a pro gamer, and she just recently bought a gaming PC so she can “play properly.” Guys, we must proteccc this girl!
7. Dahyun - TWICE Lead rapper, sub vocalist
22-year-old Kim Dahyun or Dahyunie is adorably called dubu (tofu) by ONCEs because of her pale skin. Her comical character really stands out, and this short live broadcast where she thought the cheese filter was a banana will explain why. She's blessed with so much talent, but our favorite has to be her knack for spotting every camera! Yes, she can spot cameras during an interview, an awards show, or when she's at the airport. Literally, ALL. THE. TIME. Lol!
8. Chaeyoung - TWICE Main rapper, sub vocalist
The “strawberry princess” of TWICE loves the fruit so much that even before she debuted, her family and friends already call her by that name! 21-year-old Son Chaeyoung is also into arts, can draw really well (she once illustrated an album of the group), dabbles as a songwriter and poet, and is a fierce yet cute rapper. Did you know that Disney Korea once invited her to the Lion King premiere because she resembles baby Simba? So cute!
9. Tzuyu - TWICE Lead dancer, sub vocalist, visual
Real maknae coming through! Chou Tzuyu is 21 years old and is considered as the"evil" member because when she roasts her members, she goes hard. She’s a savage queen! Born in Taiwan, Tzuyu joined TWICE at an early age—she literally grew up with her unnies (older sisters). She’s extremely tall, standing at 5'8", and is recognized for her perfect physique and face. She was hailed as The Most Beautiful Face by TC Candler, and we couldn’t agree more!
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