TWICE's Jihyo: "I'll Make a Wise Choice" Amid Contract Talks

TWICE leader Jihyo has broken her silence as reports swirl that she is in talks over her exclusive contract with JYP Entertainment. The singer spoke to fans directly through a fan communication platform on July 28, offering her first personal comments on a situation that has drawn intense attention from the group's fandom.

"I could just make small talk, but honestly my heart still feels too heavy to chat like nothing's going on," Jihyo wrote. "I thought a lot and was really careful before sending this message. I'll work things out and get organized so I can share news soon, so ONCEs don't have to wait too long." ONCE is the official name of the group's fandom.

She went on to ask for patience. "As the person in charge of my own life, I'll think it through carefully and make a wise choice. I hope you'll cheer me on and trust me like you always have," she said. "I truly love and care about this team called TWICE. I believe that feeling alone is enough for ONCEs to understand."

Jihyo closed her message on a warmer note. "I'll come back when I can chat and joke around like nothing's wrong. Let's sleep well, eat well, rest well, and get through this well. Thank you always."

Jihyo debuted as the leader of TWICE in 2015. Counting her years as a trainee, she has been with JYP Entertainment for more than two decades. TWICE is currently in a period of contract renewal talks.

One Korean outlet earlier reported that Jihyo is expected to end her exclusive contract with JYP Entertainment and that launching a one-person agency is seen as the most likely path forward. Separately from her personal contract, she is reported to continue group activities with TWICE under JYP Entertainment.