Ahead of their 7th debut anniversary in October, TWICE is set to open their "second act" of activities by starting with Nayeon's solo.
But is it actually too late to do this now? K-media discussed this topic.
TWICE Nayeon to Release Solo: Why Do Idol Group Members Debut as Soloists?
On June 9, the Korean media outlet YTN Star released an article featuring TWICE Nayeon's upcoming solo debut on June 24.
ALSO READ: TWICE Nayeon Becomes Hot Topic for THIS Look Following Solo Debut Album Trailer
TWICE is a group known for extremely refraining from individual activities of members. But this time, JYP Entertainment hinted at the start of the group's solo and unit activities following Nayeon's solo album.
Due to this, attention is being paid to how Nayeon's solo activities will affect the group.
However, following the announcement, the main opinion of K-pop enthusiasts and some fans including ONCEs (TWICE fandom) is that
"(Solo debut) is too late."
People explained that compared to TWICE who just went on with group activities for the past seven years, there are actually a lot of girl group members who have expanded their base either as soloists or actresses, on top of group activities.
Then, why have other girl groups been doing their members' solo activities and acting activities?
In response, an official from the music industry told YTN Star:
"First of all, the purpose (of solo debut) is to promote the group. It is a strategy to raise awareness of the entire group by building awareness of individual members through individual activities."
"In addition, when each member has a strong will to develop his or her own capabilities to survive in the entertainment industry, he or she is asked to do solo or acting activities.
Also, most fans want to meet more artists in some way. We do individual activities when the artist's will (to debut) matches the fans' demand."
Is It Too Late for TWICE Members' Solo? Outlet Explains Why This Is Not Case for Group
When asked about the point that it is too late for TWICE to only start their individual activities in their 7th year, the music official implied that this is not the case for the group.
"It was possible because TWICE was on a roll from the beginning as a group."
In particular, the official acknowledged that individual activities such as solo debut are not needed by TWICE before since they are already popular from the start.
"If the entire group has not grown then if one member appears through individual activities, the member's recognition does not necessarily have a positive effect on the group. It could have a negative impact.
Fortunately, TWICE has achieved results as a group since its debut. It was analyzed that there was no need to take the risks from individual member activities."
Understanding this point, TWICE solo doesn't aim for more popularity, but rather to confirm their appearance as an artist and showcase their individual artistry outside the group.
Starting with Nayeon, the female idol will drop her first mini-album, "IM NAYEON" on June 24. The expectation is high that she will be able to successfully open the second act of TWICE's activities.
READ MORE: TWICE Nayeon Debut Teaser Draws Comparisons to BLACKPINK Jennie
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Written by Eunice Dawson
