Lately, K-pop fans around the world have been raving about TWICE Mina and her stunning transformation.
Once known for her graceful, princess-like image, Mina now commands the stage with bold outfits and a more dynamic, expressive performance style. Widely regarded as one of the most refined and charismatic idols in the industry, Mina’s artistic evolution has taken her career to powerful new heights.
From TWICE’s Sweet Muse to a Bold Transformation
Mina debuted in 2015 through JYP Entertainment’s survival show Sixteen, launching TWICE with the EP The Story Begins. By 2016, the group became a national sensation with the hit Cheer Up, setting the stage for a blockbuster Japan debut in 2017. Between 2017 and 2019, TWICE dominated charts like Billboard World Albums and the UK Singles Chart with viral songs including TT, Signal, and What Is Love?. Mina and the group embodied a cheerful, youthful aesthetic with vibrant “color pop” music and pastel-hued costumes.
As a Japanese idol thriving in the Korean industry, Mina’s elegance, refined ballet background, and gentle smile perfectly fit the “princess” image. She gained acclaim as a “goddess of expressive performance,” with fans adoring her graceful stage presence and subtle emotional expressions. Her vulnerability became iconic during her mental health hiatus in 2019, especially the viral tearful moment at the TWICELIGHTS concert, sparking global trends like #MinaCryingIsArt.
A Stunning Comeback and Fierce Public Presence
In 2019, Mina’s hiatus due to anxiety disorder became a turning point. Rather than slowing her career, it marked the start of a new, empowered era. As TWICE evolved into a more global act—partnering with League of Legends’ K/DA and shifting toward mature electropop—Mina’s stage presence transformed.
From 2023’s Moonlight Sunrise to 2024’s I Got You, Mina exudes confident sensuality and fierce charisma. Her performance in One Spark blended ballet with modern choreography in a mesmerizing “Swan Wings” routine, showcasing both elegance and boldness. Her versatility has captivated fans anew, solidifying her place as a performance icon.
In 2022, Dispatch named Mina the “third-generation K-pop goddess with the most beautiful tears” for her emotional performance in the Japanese MV Doughnut. This scene, along with her tear-filled gaze at the 2017 Golden Disc Awards, continues to enchant fans—proving her timeless emotive appeal.
Beyond music, Mina has redefined her image through fashion. Collaborations with Dior, Tiffany & Co., and editorial features in Elle Japan and Harper’s Bazaar reflect her shift toward an aristocratic, high-fashion persona. Her red carpet looks now include sleek, form-fitting gowns that contrast her early soft-girl style.
Mina’s Artistic Growth Marks a New Chapter for TWICE
While TWICE’s recent releases have sparked mixed reactions, the growth of individual members—particularly Mina—is undeniable. She continues to shine in solo projects and the MISAMO subunit with Momo and Sana, attracting millions of views and strong fan engagement.
Mina’s decade-long journey from soft-spoken princess to commanding performer exemplifies resilience, reinvention, and artistic growth. As she continues to push boundaries and embrace new concepts, Mina cements her legacy as one of K-pop’s most captivating and evolving stars.
