‘This had to be done’: Trump claims to have done the world a ‘favor’ with attacks on Iran

As global K-pop sensation TWICE approaches their milestone 10-year anniversary, the nine-member group is showing no signs of slowing down. During an exclusive backstage interview with the Associated Press at the Kia Forum amid their ambitious “THIS IS FOR” World Tour, the members shared reflections on their journey and future aspirations.

“There’s so much more we can do,” explained group leader Jihyo, encapsulating the collective ambition that has helped propel TWICE to the upper echelons of global pop music. Despite nearly a decade in the spotlight, the group maintains a refreshing enthusiasm for creative growth and artistic evolution.

The anniversary celebration comes with a special release titled “TEN: The Story Goes On,” marking a significant moment in the group’s discography. For the first time since their 2015 debut, the album features solo tracks from each member—Nayeon, Jeongyeon, Momo, Sana, Jihyo, Mina, Dahyun, Chaeyoung, and Tzuyu—providing fans with a deeper glimpse into their individual artistry.

During the interview, the members discussed how their definition of success has transformed throughout their career. What began as a focus on chart positions and streaming numbers has evolved into a deeper appreciation for longevity, artistic satisfaction, and meaningful connections with their global fanbase, affectionately known as ONCE.

“We used to get so nervous about rankings and numbers,” revealed Nayeon, who made waves with her solo debut in 2022. “Now we’re more focused on creating music that represents us authentically and resonates with our fans.”

The group offered insights into their creative process, describing how new comebacks often germinate in group chats and informal meetings before developing into full-fledged projects. This collaborative approach has been key to maintaining their distinctive sound while continuously innovating across 14 Korean mini-albums, three full-length albums, and numerous Japanese releases.

TWICE’s continued relevance in a rapidly evolving industry stems partly from their willingness to embrace new challenges. The members spoke about the delicate balance between group activities, subunit projects, and solo endeavors—a juggling act that has become increasingly common among established K-pop acts seeking to expand their artistic horizons.

“We support each other’s individual growth,” Mina explained. “When one member explores something new, it brings fresh energy back to the group.”

The conversation also turned to their contribution to the Netflix animated series “KPop Demon Hunters.” Their track “Takedown” represents another expansion of their global footprint, following successful English-language singles like “The Feels” and “Moonlight Sunrise” that have helped them break into Western markets.

Industry analysts note that TWICE’s longevity is particularly remarkable in the fast-paced K-pop landscape, where many groups struggle to maintain momentum beyond their first few years. Their ability to evolve while preserving their signature bright, energetic sound has earned them a dedicated international following.

As one of the few K-pop girl groups to successfully complete multiple world tours of major arenas, TWICE has demonstrated exceptional staying power. Their current tour includes stops across Asia, North America, and Europe, showcasing their global appeal.

Looking forward, the members expressed determination to continue pushing creative boundaries without repeating past formulas. “We’re always asking ourselves what we haven’t tried yet,” Chaeyoung noted. “That keeps everything fresh, both for us and for our fans.”

As they approach the decade mark since their formation through the survival show “Sixteen” in 2015, TWICE stands as a testament to the potential longevity of K-pop acts that can successfully navigate the industry’s challenges while continuing to reinvent themselves.

“When we debuted, we couldn’t imagine being here ten years later,” Jihyo reflected. “Now we can’t imagine stopping. This is just another beginning.”