TWICE

TWICE is a South Korean girl group that has achieved global superstardom in the K-pop industry. They are celebrated for their vibrant performances, catchy music that blends pop, dance, and electronic elements, and their signature bright and energetic concepts. Since their debut, TWICE has released numerous hit songs and albums, consistently topping charts in South Korea and achieving significant international success, including multiple entries on the Billboard charts and record-breaking sales figures. They have sold millions of albums worldwide and are known for their extensive discography of chart-topping singles. Currently, the group continues to release music and embark on successful world tours, showcasing their enduring appeal and artistic evolution. TWICE is distinguished by their nine-member dynamic and their ability to connect with a massive global fanbase through relatable themes of love, friendship, and self-discovery, fostering a dedicated following known as ONCE.[edit]

Long before their official debut, the future members of TWICE embarked on rigorous training paths under JYP Entertainment, a leading company in South Korea's vibrant K-pop industry. Their journey reflects years of dedication, with many individual members training extensively. Jihyo, for instance, committed a full decade to her craft, having trained since 2005, while Nayeon honed her skills for over five years after securing second place in a major audition. Other members joined through diverse recruitment methods, such as Momo and Sana, who were scouted after their dance videos garnered attention and through global auditions. This diverse pool of talent converged in 2015 through JYP Entertainment's competitive reality show, SIXTEEN. Airing from May to July of that year, SIXTEEN pitted 16 trainees against each other, all vying for coveted spots in a new girl group. The show was designed to rigorously test and highlight each trainee's skills in singing, dancing, and overall personality, setting the stage for the group's formation.

The intense competition culminated on July 7, 2015, when the initial seven members of TWICE were selected: Nayeon, Jeongyeon, Dahyun, Sana, Jihyo, Mina, and Chaeyoung. However, Park Jin-young, the founder of JYP Entertainment, expanded the group to a fresh nine-member lineup by adding two more trainees. Tzuyu was included based on overwhelming audience votes, while Momo was personally chosen by Park Jin-young, recognizing her unique potential. This finalized the dynamic roster that would soon burst onto the K-pop scene. On October 20, 2015, TWICE officially debuted with their first EP, The Story Begins. Their debut single, "Like OOH-AHH," immediately showcased their infectious energy and harmonious vocals, quickly captivating audiences. This vibrant introduction set the stage for a rapid ascent, as TWICE swiftly garnered major milestones, including multiple number-one singles on Gaon and achieving entries on international music charts, marking their breakthrough into the industry. [edit]

TWICE's sound began with bubblegum pop and dance-pop in their early days, featuring cute concepts in tracks like "Cheer Up" from 2016. They focused on catchy hooks and synchronized dances that appealed to younger audiences. As they progressed, their style shifted to include more mature elements, blending R&B and electropop in albums like Eyes Wide Open from 2020.

Recently, they've incorporated electronica and J-pop influences, as seen in Formula of Love: O+T=<3 from 2021. Their lyrics often touch on themes of love, friendship, and growth, with production that emphasizes vocal harmonies and rhythmic beats. [edit]

TWICE has shaped K-pop by popularizing girl group dynamics and extending the Hallyu wave to Japan and Taiwan. Their fashion choices, from playful schoolgirl looks to elegant styles, have influenced trends among fans. Songs like "The Feels" marked their crossover success, reaching English-speaking markets and showing how K-pop can blend with global pop.

They've also inspired social movements through fan-driven projects and individual ambassadorships, like Tzuyu's roles, highlighting diversity in the industry. [edit]

ONCE, TWICE's dedicated fanbase, rallies around traditions like using the Sugar Wolf lightstick in vibrant colors of signal red. Fans organize birthday celebrations and global projects that show their support.

These efforts create a sense of community, with memorable moments like massive fan meetings at concerts strengthening the bond between the group and their followers. [edit]

Before debuting, Nayeon was part of a planned group called 6MIX that never launched, and Jihyo appeared on tracks by Miss A. All members speak multiple languages, including Korean, Japanese, English, and Chinese, which helps in their international appeal. TWICE was the first K-pop girl group to top Japan's Oricon charts with their album BDZ in 2018. [edit]