Seoul, South Korea – October 21, 2026 – In a significant development for the K-pop landscape, Jihyo, the charismatic leader and powerhouse vocalist of the globally renowned girl group TWICE, has officially announced her departure from long-time agency JYP Entertainment. The decision marks the end of a remarkable 21-year journey with the company, which began in her childhood. However, in a reassuring message to fans, affectionately known as ONCE, Jihyo has unequivocally stated that her commitment to TWICE remains steadfast, and she will continue to perform and create music with the group.
Jihyo’s announcement, made through a heartfelt message shared on her personal Instagram account, sent ripples of emotion through the dedicated fanbase. The post detailed her reflections on her extensive tenure at JYP Entertainment, acknowledging both the triumphs and challenges that have shaped her into the artist she is today. Simultaneously, she unveiled her ambitious next step: the establishment of her own one-person agency, named "EMITHAUS." This move signifies a pivotal moment in her career, allowing her to explore new creative avenues and expand her artistic horizons under her own banner.
A Landmark Decision: Jihyo’s Path Forward
The core of Jihyo’s announcement revolves around her decision to forge a new path independently. "After 21 years, my journey with JYP Entertainment that started when I was just a child has come to an end," she wrote in her Instagram post. This statement underscores the profound and enduring relationship she has cultivated with the agency, a relationship that has spanned the entirety of her formative years and into her professional adulthood.
Jihyo eloquently articulated the significance of her time at JYP, stating, "From my childhood to my teenage years and into adulthood, I’ve spent most of my life at JYP Entertainment. There were good days and hard days, but one thing I know for sure is that every one of those moments has shaped me into who I am today." This candid reflection highlights her deep appreciation for the experiences that have contributed to her growth as an artist and as an individual. She extended her "sincerest gratitude" to everyone at JYP Entertainment who supported her journey.
The establishment of EMITHAUS is not merely a change of management but a deliberate strategic move for artistic freedom. Jihyo explained the ethos behind her new agency: "My first step in this new chapter is establishing my own company, EMITHAUS. Just as ‘EMIT’ means to ‘express or release,’ I hope this will be a place where I can freely explore and bring to life the possibilities within me that I have yet to discover myself." This vision suggests a desire to delve deeper into her creative process, potentially experimenting with different musical styles, production techniques, or even venturing into other artistic disciplines. The name itself, EMITHAUS, encapsulates this ambition to manifest her artistic potential and share it with the world.
Continuity Amidst Change: TWICE Remains the Priority
Crucially, Jihyo’s departure from JYP Entertainment does not signal an end to her participation in TWICE. She took great care to reassure ONCE about her unwavering commitment to the group. "I also want to make it clear that this decision does not mean saying goodbye to the team I’ve been part of for so long. TWICE is an irreplaceable part of my life," she emphasized. This declaration is paramount for fans who have witnessed the powerful synergy and bond between the TWICE members.
Jihyo further elaborated on her continued dedication to the group, stating, "Just as I cherish all the years we’ve shared, I look forward to all the moments still ahead of us. I will continue to stand on stage with TWICE and keep building more memories together for many years to come." This sentiment is likely to resonate deeply with ONCE, who have come to rely on TWICE as a cohesive unit. The promise of continued performances and shared experiences with TWICE solidifies Jihyo’s role as an integral part of the group’s future.
A Shifting Landscape: TWICE Members’ Individual Paths
Jihyo’s move follows a recent trend of TWICE members charting individual career paths, albeit with varying degrees of agency affiliation. While Jihyo has established her own independent agency, other members have also embarked on distinct ventures.
Most recently, Chaeyoung announced her intention to pursue solo activities through her personal project, LIL FANTASY. Details surrounding LIL FANTASY are still emerging, but it is understood to be a platform for her individual artistic expression, distinct from the group’s overarching activities.
Prior to that, Jeongyeon’s departure from JYP Entertainment was confirmed, with her focus shifting towards acting. She has signed with VARO Entertainment, an agency specializing in artist management for actors, signaling her aspiration to build a career in the dramatic arts.
These individual pursuits highlight a natural evolution for seasoned artists who have achieved significant success as a group. The members are now at a stage in their careers where they can explore personal ambitions and diversify their professional portfolios. However, the collective narrative of TWICE continues to be a central thread, with each member finding ways to balance their individual aspirations with their enduring commitment to the group.
A Testament to Longevity and Dedication
Jihyo’s 21-year journey with JYP Entertainment is a remarkable testament to her dedication and the agency’s long-standing belief in her potential. Debuting as part of TWICE in 2015, she had already undergone an extensive trainee period, honing her vocal abilities and stage presence for years. Her role as the leader of TWICE has been instrumental in guiding the group through immense success, characterized by numerous hit songs, sold-out world tours, and a global fanbase.
Her leadership has been often lauded for its stability and her ability to foster a positive and collaborative environment within the group. As a vocalist, Jihyo is renowned for her powerful and emotive singing, often carrying the melodic backbone of TWICE’s diverse discography. Her solo endeavors are anticipated with great excitement by fans eager to witness her individual artistic vision.
The establishment of EMITHAUS is a bold move that reflects a growing trend among K-pop artists to gain more control over their careers and creative output. By creating her own agency, Jihyo positions herself to make independent decisions regarding her music, collaborations, and overall artistic direction. This level of autonomy can lead to more personalized and innovative projects, further enriching her artistic legacy.
Implications for JYP Entertainment and the K-Pop Industry
Jihyo’s departure, while significant, is unlikely to destabilize JYP Entertainment. The company has a robust roster of artists and a well-established infrastructure. However, it does represent the loss of a key talent and a symbolic shift in the agency’s relationship with some of its long-standing artists.
For JYP Entertainment, this situation underscores the importance of adapting to the evolving needs and ambitions of its artists. As artists mature and gain experience, their desire for greater creative control and individual expression often intensifies. Agencies that can foster an environment of mutual respect and provide avenues for artists to pursue their personal goals are more likely to retain their talent and foster long-term, fruitful partnerships.
From a broader industry perspective, Jihyo’s decision to establish her own agency is indicative of a growing trend towards artist empowerment. This move can inspire other artists to consider similar paths, potentially leading to a more diverse and artist-centric K-pop ecosystem. The success of EMITHAUS will undoubtedly be closely watched, serving as a potential blueprint for other artists seeking to navigate the complexities of the music industry on their own terms.
A Message of Gratitude to ONCE
Central to Jihyo’s announcement was her profound gratitude towards ONCE. She acknowledged the unwavering support they have provided throughout her career, recognizing that their belief in her has been a constant source of strength. "Finally, I want to thank ONCE for believing in me and standing by my side for the past 11 years," she expressed.
Her words highlighted the unique nature of fan support in K-pop, where fans often witness and celebrate an artist’s growth through various life stages. "I know that watching someone grow and change through so many stages of life and continuing to support them along the way is never something to be taken for granted," she stated.
Jihyo pledged to continue striving to live up to the trust and love bestowed upon her by ONCE. "I will continue to fill the years ahead with choices and efforts that stay true to who I am and keep growing as an artist who lives up to all the love and support you’ve given me," she promised. This commitment reinforces the strong bond between Jihyo and her fans, assuring them that their dedication has not gone unnoticed and will continue to be reciprocated.
As Jihyo embarks on this new chapter with EMITHAUS, the K-pop world watches with anticipation. Her journey, marked by a deep sense of gratitude, a clear vision for the future, and an unwavering commitment to TWICE, promises to be an exciting and inspiring one for fans and industry observers alike. The establishment of EMITHAUS signifies not just a career change, but a testament to an artist’s evolving ambition and her desire to shape her own destiny.
