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K-pop sensation TWICE opened up about their remarkable journey as they approach their tenth anniversary, revealing new creative directions and reflections on their evolution during a candid backstage interview at Los Angeles’ Kia Forum.

The nine-member group—Nayeon, Jeongyeon, Momo, Sana, Jihyo, Mina, Dahyun, Chaeyoung, and Tzuyu—spoke with Associated Press entertainment journalist Liam McEwan during their “THIS IS FOR” World Tour, discussing their milestone anniversary project and future aspirations.

“There’s so much more we can do,” one member emphasized, highlighting the group’s determination to continue pushing boundaries after nearly a decade in the spotlight. This sentiment comes as TWICE prepares to release their anniversary album “TEN: The Story Goes On,” which marks a significant evolution in their artistic approach.

For the first time in the group’s history, the anniversary release will feature solo tracks from each member, allowing individual artistic voices to shine while maintaining their collective identity. This strategy represents a growing trend among established K-pop groups to showcase individual talents while preserving group cohesion.

During the interview, the members revealed insights into their creative process, describing how new projects often begin through casual group chats before evolving into formal meetings. This collaborative approach has been central to TWICE’s longevity in an industry known for its constant turnover and intense competition.

The group also reflected on how their definition of success has transformed over the years. What began as a focus on chart achievements and streaming numbers has expanded to include artistic fulfillment, global recognition, and meaningful connections with their fanbase, known as ONCE.

TWICE’s evolution mirrors broader shifts in the K-pop industry, which has increasingly embraced global audiences while maintaining core elements that attracted fans initially. The group’s world tour demonstrates their international appeal, selling out major venues across multiple continents.

Balancing solo ambitions with group activities presents both challenges and opportunities, the members acknowledged. As K-pop artists increasingly pursue individual projects—from solo music releases to acting and fashion endeavors—TWICE has begun exploring this territory while maintaining their group identity.

“We’re finding ways to express our individual colors while staying true to what makes TWICE special,” one member explained, addressing the delicate balance many long-running groups navigate as they mature.

The interview also highlighted TWICE’s contribution to popular culture beyond traditional music releases. The group discussed their song “Takedown,” which features in the Netflix hit “KPop Demon Hunters,” showing how K-pop continues to permeate global entertainment across various platforms and mediums.

Industry analysts note that TWICE’s longevity is particularly remarkable in a field where many groups disband or lose momentum after their initial contract period. Having debuted in 2015 under JYP Entertainment, TWICE has maintained consistent popularity while evolving their sound from bright, catchy hits to more mature musical directions.

Their ongoing world tour showcases this evolution, featuring both nostalgic hits and newer material that demonstrates their artistic growth. The concert production values have also scaled up considerably, reflecting their elevated status in the global music landscape.

As they approach their tenth anniversary, TWICE appears focused on creative reinvention while honoring their legacy. The members expressed a shared commitment to avoiding repetition in their work, continually seeking fresh concepts and sounds that challenge themselves and surprise their audience.

This forward-looking perspective has helped TWICE remain relevant in an increasingly competitive global music market where K-pop groups must constantly innovate to maintain prominence. Their approach combines strategic planning with genuine artistic exploration, creating a sustainable model for long-term success in the industry.

With “TEN: The Story Goes On” and their continued global activities, TWICE seems poised to define what the second decade of a successful K-pop group’s career can look like—balancing individual growth with collective achievement, and expanding their artistic horizons while maintaining the distinctive charm that first captured fans’ hearts.