The Genesis of a Legend: Formation and Debut
TWICE did not just appear overnight; they were the result of a grueling survival reality show titled SIXTEEN, which aired in 2015. Created by JYP Entertainment, the show pitted sixteen trainees against each other for a spot in the new girl group. While the group was originally intended to have seven members, the final lineup was expanded to nine due to the overwhelming popularity and potential of the contestants. This decision fundamentally changed the trajectory of the group and helped create the perfect chemistry we see today.
1. The Surprise Ninth Member
During the finale of SIXTEEN, Tzuyu was added to the group based on audience voting, as she was the most popular trainee throughout the show. Momo, who had actually been eliminated earlier in the series, was brought back by Park Jin-young (J.Y. Park) himself because he felt the group needed her exceptional dancing skills. This ‘twist’ ending is still one of the most talked-about moments in K-pop survival show history.
2. The Meaning Behind the Name
The name TWICE was chosen with a specific purpose in mind: the group aims to touch people’s hearts twice—once through the ears (their music) and once through the eyes (their visual performance). This dual-sensory approach has been the cornerstone of their branding, ensuring that every comeback is as visually stunning as it is catchy.
Meet the Members: A Diverse Powerhouse
TWICE is celebrated for its international appeal, consisting of five Korean members, three Japanese members, and one Taiwanese member. This diversity has allowed them to bridge cultural gaps and dominate music charts across Asia and beyond.
- Nayeon: The eldest member and the group’s ‘center,’ known for her iconic bunny teeth and powerful vocals.
- Jeongyeon: Recognized for her unique girl-crush charm and stable live vocals.
- Momo: The main dancer from Kyoto, Japan, often called the ‘Dancing Machine’ of K-pop.
- Sana: Known for her bubbly personality and the viral ‘Shy Shy Shy’ line from ‘Cheer Up.’
- Jihyo: The leader and main vocalist who trained for 10 years before debuting.
- Mina: A former ballet dancer from Japan, known for her elegance and ‘Black Swan’ persona.
- Dahyun: The ‘Eagle Dance’ girl who became a variety show star thanks to her wit.
- Chaeyoung: The creative rapper and artist who often contributes to song lyrics.
- Tzuyu: The youngest member (maknae) from Taiwan, frequently cited as one of the most beautiful faces in the world.
Chart-Topping Hits and Viral Moments
Since their debut with ‘Like OOH-AHH’ in October 2015, TWICE has released a string of hits that have defined the ‘Color Pop’ genre. Their music is characterized by bright melodies, addictive hooks, and choreography that is easy for fans to replicate.
3. The ‘Cheer Up’ Fever
In 2016, ‘Cheer Up’ became a national phenomenon in South Korea. The song won ‘Song of the Year’ at major award shows like MAMA and Melon Music Awards. Specifically, Sana’s pronunciation of ‘shy shy shy’ (sounding like ‘sha sha sha’) became one of the biggest memes of the year, performed by celebrities and fans alike.
4. The Halloween Aesthetic of ‘TT’
The song ‘TT’ further solidified their status as the ‘Nation’s Girl Group.’ The iconic ‘TT’ hand gesture, representing a crying emoji, went viral globally. The music video, featuring the members in various Halloween costumes, was the first by a K-pop girl group to surpass 400 million views on YouTube, setting a new benchmark for the industry.
International Dominance and Records
TWICE is often referred to as the ‘Queen of K-Pop’ in Japan. Their success in the Japanese market is unprecedented for a foreign girl group, partly due to the ‘Holy Trinity’ of Japanese members: Mina, Sana, and Momo.
5. Breaking Barriers in Japan
In 2017, TWICE made their official Japanese debut with the album ‘#TWICE’. They became the first K-pop girl group to hold a Japanese Dome Tour, performing at massive venues like the Tokyo Dome. Their ability to sell out these venues consistently proved that their popularity was not just a passing trend but a deep-seated cultural impact.
6. Billboard and Global Expansion
With the release of their first full English single, ‘The Feels’ in 2021, TWICE officially broke into the Western market. The song debuted on the Billboard Hot 100, making them one of the few K-pop girl groups to achieve this feat. Following this, their albums like ‘Formula of Love: O+T=<3' and 'With YOU-th' have consistently ranked high on the Billboard 200, often reaching the number one spot.
Fandom and Identity: The World of ONCE
The relationship between TWICE and their fans, known as ONCE, is incredibly strong. The fandom name implies that if fans love the group even ‘once,’ the members will repay them with ‘twice’ the love. This symbiotic relationship is evident in their constant communication through social media and fan meetings.
7. Official Colors and Lightsticks
TWICE’s official colors are Apricot (Pantone 712C) and Neon Magenta (Pantone 812C). These colors are reflected in their official lightstick, the Candy Bong, which was inspired by the lollipop aesthetic of their debut era. The lightstick has evolved over the years, with the latest version featuring advanced LED technology for synchronized concert displays.
Behind the Scenes: Interesting Curiosities
Beyond the stage, the members of TWICE have unique habits and stories that fans find endearing. For instance, did you know that Jihyo trained for a full decade, starting at the age of 8? She actually trained alongside members of 2PM and Miss A.
8. The ‘No-Dating’ Rule
JYP Entertainment famously has a three-year dating ban for its rookie artists. TWICE strictly adhered to this rule, focusing entirely on their careers during their initial years. Once the ban was lifted in 2018, the members began to share more about their personal growth and lives, though they remain professional and private.
9. Multilingual Skills
While the group is primarily based in Korea, they are a multilingual powerhouse. The Japanese members are fluent in both Japanese and Korean, Tzuyu speaks Mandarin and Korean, and several members like Nayeon and Jihyo have significantly improved their English to better communicate with international ONCEs during world tours.
Legacy and Future: The ‘7-Year Curse’ Broken
In 2022, TWICE made headlines by announcing that all nine members had renewed their contracts with JYP Entertainment. This is a significant milestone in K-pop, as many groups disband or lose members after the initial seven-year contract period—a phenomenon known as the ‘7-year curse.’
10. Solo and Sub-unit Projects
Following their contract renewal, the members began exploring solo opportunities. Nayeon was the first to debut solo with the hit ‘POP!’, followed by Jihyo with ‘Killin’ Me Good.’ Additionally, the Japanese members formed the sub-unit MISAMO, releasing successful tracks in Japan that showcase a more mature and sophisticated side of the trio.
11. Longevity in the Industry
With over 39 music show wins and dozens of Daesangs (Grand Prizes), TWICE’s longevity is a testament to their hard work and the timeless quality of their music. They continue to evolve, moving from their early ‘cute’ concepts to more experimental and empowering themes in albums like ‘Eyes Wide Open’ and ‘Ready to Be.’
The Impact of TWICE on the K-Pop Industry
TWICE’s success paved the way for the ‘Third Generation’ of K-pop girl groups. They proved that a group could maintain high physical album sales—traditionally a strength of boy groups—while also dominating digital charts. Their ‘Color Pop’ identity influenced many subsequent groups, and their professional work ethic remains a gold standard for trainees.
12. Philanthropy and Giving Back
The members are also known for their charitable hearts. They have frequently donated to causes such as disaster relief, animal welfare, and children’s hospitals. During the COVID-19 pandemic, members like Nayeon and Tzuyu made significant personal donations to help those in need, further solidifying their status as positive role models.
13. Fashion and Brand Ambassadorships
Each member of TWICE is now a sought-after figure in the fashion world. From Sana representing Prada to Momo working with Miu Miu and Mina with Fendi, the members have become global fashion icons. Their presence at international Fashion Weeks often draws the largest crowds, demonstrating their influence beyond music.
Conclusion: A Group That Truly Defines an Era
TWICE’s journey from the survival show SIXTEEN to becoming global superstars is a story of perseverance, talent, and an unbreakable bond between nine women. With 39 facts and counting, it is clear that their impact on the K-pop world is permanent. Whether it is through their record-breaking YouTube views, their sold-out stadium tours, or their genuine love for their fans, TWICE continues to be a beacon of joy and inspiration in the music industry. As they move into the next chapter of their careers, one thing is certain: the world will always be watching and listening, twice over.
