Nayeon, the 28-year-old star of global K-pop sensation Twice, is stepping into a new phase of her career, reflecting on nearly nine years as a pivotal member of one of K-pop’s top girl groups. After achieving significant international success in 2021 with Twice’s breakthrough on the Billboard charts, including their first Billboard 200 Top 10 album “Taste of Love” and a Hot 100 hit with “The Feels,” Nayeon embarked on a solo journey.
Launching her solo debut album, “Im Nayeon,” amidst Twice’s packed schedule, Nayeon admits she felt immense pressure. “The first album… was a milestone for me, being Twice’s first solo venture,” Nayeon shares with The Hollywood Reporter via translator. The EP’s lead single, “Pop!,” captured the essence of her and Twice’s signature upbeat pop style, resonating strongly both in Korea and globally by debuting at No. 7 on the Billboard 200.
Now, in a midday Zoom interview from JYP Entertainment in Seoul, Nayeon exudes excitement about her sophomore EP, “Na,” released today. Departing slightly from her debut, “Na” explores a more mature sound, aligning with Twice’s recent musical evolution. While “Pop!” was a sunlit anthem for carefree days, the lead single from “Na,” “ABCD,” leans into a vibe suited for lively gatherings with friends.
“I wanted to showcase a different side of myself that I couldn’t fully express in Twice or on my first album,” Nayeon explains, emphasizing her desire for a stronger and bolder musical persona.
“Na,” a wordplay on her name and the Korean word for “me,” comprises seven tracks blending Korean and English. It features collaborations that enrich the album’s texture, a departure from Twice’s usual approach. Notable partnerships include “Heaven” with Sam Kim, co-written and composed by the Korean-American singer, and “HalliGalli” produced by Lee Chan-hyuk of AkMu. The Y2K-inspired “Magic,” featuring Julie from emerging K-pop group Kiss of Life, stands out as a highlight.
“I enjoyed collaborating with other artists, which is something Twice hasn’t explored much as a group,” Nayeon shares. “It felt both unfamiliar and thrilling.”
Balancing her solo career with Twice’s rigorous schedule, which includes ongoing global tours, Nayeon navigates the dual responsibilities with ease. From wrapping up their fifth world tour with a Las Vegas encore to upcoming shows in Japan, Nayeon finds joy in creating solo music that complements her role in Twice.
“I see my solo work as an extension of my journey with Twice,” she concludes with a smile, noting her group mates’ support and enthusiasm for “Na.”
As Nayeon continues to carve her path in the music industry, her evolution promises to captivate fans old and new, showcasing her versatility and commitment to pushing artistic boundaries.
