Jeongyeon (정연)

Jeongyeon — born Yoo Jeong-yeon and a member of JYP Entertainment's TWICE since the group's formation in 2015 — has navigated one of the more publicly documented health recoveries in recent K-pop, returning to TWICE's touring schedule after a multi-year struggle with the side effects of Cushing's syndrome and earlier treatment for a neck disc condition.

Formation & Background

Before TWICE, Jeongyeon was a member of 6MIX, a pre-debut project group under JYP Entertainment that preceded the survival program through which TWICE was ultimately assembled. She made the final lineup and has remained a member of the group continuously since its debut.

Her older sister is actress Gong Seung-yeon, and the family resemblance between the two has been a recurring point of public interest — most recently in early 2026, when Gong Seung-yeon responded to fan comparisons with a playful remark on social media.

Health & Return

Jeongyeon's profile in recent years has been shaped substantially by her health history. In 2020, she experienced significant physical changes as a result of steroid side effects stemming from treatment for a neck disc condition, which led to a period of reduced activity. She later disclosed a diagnosis of Cushing's syndrome, a condition associated with elevated cortisol that can cause weight gain and a range of other physical effects.

By 2026, Jeongyeon had rejoined TWICE on their European tour, with behind-the-scenes footage and social media posts documenting her recovery. Performing choreography for her solo track "FIX A DRINK" at dates including Barcelona, her return to the stage drew considerable attention from the group's fanbase as a visible marker of her restored health.