The 28-year-old global sensation delves into her latest musical opus, sharing her profound learnings from a near-decade-long career with a top-tier girl group, and imparting invaluable advice to aspiring K-Pop trainees. Nayeon's journey has been a whirlwind of success and growth.
In 2021, her K-Pop ensemble, Twice, soared to new heights of international fame, landing their maiden entries on the Billboard 200 Top 10 and Billboard Hot 100 charts. This nine-member troupe solidified their status as global icons. The following year witnessed the back-to-back releases of their fourth Japanese album, 'Celebrate,' and their 11th Korean EP, 'Between 1&2.' However, it was Nayeon, the group's eldest member, who kicked off that summer with Twice's very first solo album, 'Im Nayeon' (Im being the singer's surname).
"With the first album, I felt immense pressure, as it marked the first solo outing for Twice," Nayeon confessed to The Hollywood Reporter through a translator. The EP and its lead single "Pop!" — a quintessential example of the elevated bubblegum pop that is uniquely Nayeon and Twice — instantly captivated audiences in Korea and beyond, debuting at No. 7 on the Billboard 200 chart.
Now, in a midday Zoom call from her agency, JYP Entertainment, in Seoul, the 28-year-old vocalist radiates with smiles. Amid sold-out world tours and chart-topping albums as a member of Twice, Nayeon has been diligently preparing for her eagerly anticipated sophomore EP, 'Na,' which was released today.
'Na,' a slight deviation from her debut solo work, explores a sound befitting an artist who has transcended her teenage debut persona. While "Pop!" was a summer anthem for fans to groove to with the windows down, 'Na's' lead single, "ABCD," is a perfect soundtrack for pre-gaming a night out with friends.
"I wanted to showcase a facet of myself that I hadn't yet as a member of Twice or in my first album," Nayeon explained, emphasizing her desire to present a more "mature" sound that is "stronger and bolder." 'Na,' a clever play on the singer's name and the Korean word for "me," comprises seven tracks — four in Korean and three in English. This new release also boasts several collaborations, similar to Nayeon's first album.
The album's third track, "Heaven," features Sam Kim, the Korea-based American singer who co-wrote and composed the song. Lee Chan-hyuk, half of the beloved Korean sibling duo AkMu, helmed the production of "HalliGalli." The Y2K-inspired "Magic," featuring Julie from the emerging K-Pop girl group Kiss of Life, stands as a highlight of the album.
"I thoroughly enjoyed collaborating with other artists," said Nayeon, noting that Twice hasn't had many external collaborations as a group. "It was both unusual and incredibly thrilling at the same time."
Since 2022, Nayeon has gracefully embarked on a relentless journey with Twice, traversing the globe with unwavering dedication. Just recently, the group triumphantly encored their fifth world tour at the Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, the vibrant lights of Vegas reflecting in their exuberant spirit. With more shows lined up in Japan for July, Nayeon gracefully balances the rigors of touring with the creative process of crafting new music.
With a beaming smile, Nayeon confesses, "I've grown accustomed to the juggling act of touring and album making, and I find it thoroughly enjoyable." She adds that her bandmates have warmly received and applauded her solo efforts, remarking, "My solo work is an extension of my identity as a member of Twice."
As October marks the auspicious ninth anniversary of Twice, they stand as a rare beacon in the K-Pop landscape, where artists often release multiple albums annually and engage in rigorous promotional schedules. Reflecting on her nearly decade-long journey, Nayeon shares, "I've honed the art of being considerate yet assertive, balancing my opinions with the wisdom of my peers. With a diverse group of members, I've also learned the weight of responsibility."
When prompted to offer advice to budding performers, Nayeon modestly demurs, saying, "Today's landscape is rich with exceptional new talents, and I learn much from them as well. With so many diverse concepts of idols, I'm hesitant to presume a position of mentorship."
However, for those aspiring to carve a path in K-Pop, Nayeon offers heartfelt counsel: "Deliberate deeply on your commitment to this craft, the depth of your love, and the fervor that drives you. These are the pillars that will sustain you."
Looking forward, Nayeon's optimism shines as she outlines her ambitions for the remainder of the year: a successful solo album, the eagerly anticipated Twice tour, and the festive celebrations marking the group's ninth anniversary. Her eyes sparkle with anticipation as she speaks of performing live before their devoted fanbase, affectionately known as Once: "I long to create more cherished memories with our beloved fandom."
