TWICE's Chaeyoung Embarks on Solo Journey with "Lil Fantasy" While Continuing Group Activities

TWICE member Chaeyoung has announced her departure from JYP Entertainment after 14 years to pursue independent music activities. This move has generated significant buzz as she explicitly stated that she will continue her activities with TWICE, marking a new phase where she balances her group commitments with her personal artistic endeavors under the "Lil Fantasy" concept.

Chaeyoung shared the news on August 13, 2026, through a heartfelt handwritten letter to her fans, ONCE, on her social media, rather than a traditional press release. Her independent musical world, "Lil Fantasy," was first introduced with her solo album "Lil Fantasy Vol.1" in September 2025. This album garnered international acclaim, securing the 86th spot on Rolling Stone's 2025 Best Albums 100 and ranking 7th on Forbes' and Billboard's lists of 2025's Best K-Pop Albums. She conveyed her gratitude to JYP staff and TWICE members, clarifying that this decision is not a group disbandment or her withdrawal from TWICE.

Local bloggers highlight this development as a mature evolution for K-pop, allowing TWICE members to cultivate individual artistic identities while maintaining group integrity. This approach empowers Chaeyoung to fully express her unique musical vision through "Lil Fantasy" without compromising her role within TWICE. Fans are advised to monitor official channels for further details regarding her upcoming activities.