TWICE's Chaeyoung Opens Up About Her Solo Journey, Creative Freedom, and Love for Performing
TWICE's Chaeyoung reflects on her world tour, solo album, and creative vision while sharing excitement for her next chapter as an artist.
TWICE's Chaeyoung has always stood out as one of K-pop's most thoughtful creative voices. Whether she is commanding a stadium stage with eight fellow members or putting pen to paper for her own music, the singer continues to chase authenticity over comfort. Her latest interview offers another glimpse into the mindset that has shaped both her career with TWICE and her growing identity as a solo artist.
Ahead of the August issue of Elle magazine, Chaeyoung embraced a sleek, modern look that matched the confidence she now brings to every part of her career. The accompanying interview revealed an artist who has grown through years of touring, songwriting, and direct conversations with fans around the world.
The keyword that permeates Chaeyoung's solo album was "self introduction". She explained "It's an introduction to show who I am, what kind of music i'm into, what my inner colour is."
— 🍑 🍓 (@pinkot9) July 22, 2026
She added "It's like offering a personal confession", she continued "by releasing my music to… pic.twitter.com/U40naVO3cf
With TWICE preparing for the Seoul encore concerts that will wrap up the group's sixth world tour, "THIS IS FOR," Chaeyoung admitted that returning home carries special meaning. She shared that rehearsing songs fans have never experienced live quickly fills her with excitement. The prospect of meeting Korean ONCE again after spending so much time on the road is something she eagerly anticipates.
A year of touring also reshaped the way she thinks about performing. Chaeyoung explained that certain rearranged versions of songs truly come alive in a concert setting. More importantly, she discovered how essential eye contact and genuine communication are in creating an unforgettable atmosphere. Those lessons were learned in front of thousands of fans across multiple continents, and they continue to shape her approach to every performance.
One memory still hits differently. Chaeyoung recalled the overwhelming response to "TAKEDOWN," the special unit stage with Jeongyeon and Jihyo that became a global sensation after appearing in Netflix's animated film "K-Pop Demon Hunters." The thunderous cheers from audiences in the United States and Europe remain vivid in her mind, reinforcing just how powerful live music can become when fans fully embrace a performance.
Her creative ambitions extend far beyond the concert stage. Last year, Chaeyoung introduced listeners to her personal musical identity through her first full-length solo album, "LIL FANTASY vol.1." Instead of taking the easier route with a shorter project, she committed to a ten-track record that reflected the complete artistic statement she wanted to make.
Looking back, she has no regrets. Chaeyoung explained that even if given another chance, she would still choose a full-length album because she never wanted to release music simply to meet expectations or satisfy a deadline. Every track represented time, emotion, and careful thought. Seeing fans and fellow TWICE members recognize that effort became one of the most rewarding moments of her solo journey.
She described the album as her first true self-introduction. Through its songs, Chaeyoung wanted listeners to understand who she is, the music she loves, and the emotions that define her creative world. She compared the project to making a private confession, opening a window into her inner thoughts while quietly proving that idols can create deeply personal albums filled with raw honesty and individual expression.
That mindset has guided her since childhood. After beginning dance lessons in the sixth grade, Chaeyoung earned her place in TWICE through the survival program "SIXTEEN." Years later, she still speaks about her career with unmistakable gratitude. Dancing to music she loves while receiving unconditional support from fans remains, in her words, a rare blessing that she never takes for granted.
Her artistic journey is far from over. Hinting at another solo release, Chaeyoung suggested that her next chapter will naturally reflect how her thoughts, emotions, and creative tastes continue to evolve. Rather than holding herself back out of fear over public opinion, she wants to keep moving forward with conviction, trusting her instincts and expressing exactly what she believes.
That philosophy has become the defining thread of Chaeyoung's career. On stage with TWICE, she thrives on connection and shared energy. As a solo musician, she continues to push her own creative boundaries without losing sight of the sincerity that first drew fans to her. In an industry that often rewards safe choices, Chaeyoung appears determined to stay true to herself, trusting that honest artistry will always find its audience.
