TWICE’s Jihyo Leaves JYP After 21 Years and Launches Her Own Agency, EMITHAUS
TWICE leader Jihyo has announced a new chapter in her career, leaving JYP Entertainment after 21 years and establishing her own agency, EMITHAUS. The singer shared the news in a handwritten letter posted on social media on October 21, 2026.
Although Jihyo is moving forward independently, she has made it clear that her decision does not mean leaving TWICE. She plans to continue performing with the group while pursuing her solo music career through her newly established company.
1. Jihyo Establishes Her Own Agency, EMITHAUS
After spending most of her life with JYP Entertainment, Jihyo has decided to take a new direction in her career by founding EMITHAUS.
In her handwritten letter, she reflected on her 21 years with the company, expressing gratitude to the staff who supported her development from childhood into adulthood. She acknowledged that her time at JYP included both good and difficult experiences, all of which helped shape the artist she is today.
Jihyo described independence as a choice about how she wants to live and work in the future, rather than simply an end to her previous chapter.
The name EMITHAUS draws inspiration from the English word “emit,” meaning to release or give off. The company aims to provide a space where Jihyo can explore her creative potential and develop new opportunities as an artist.
According to reports on the company's launch, EMITHAUS also plans to expand into music and other content, with the possibility of discovering and working with additional artists in the future.
2. Her Departure Does Not Mean the End of TWICE
One of the most important points in Jihyo’s announcement is her commitment to TWICE.
Jihyo explicitly stated that leaving JYP Entertainment does not mean saying goodbye to the group. She described TWICE as an irreplaceable part of her life and expressed her desire to continue sharing the stage with the other members for years to come.
TWICE debuted in October 2015 under JYP Entertainment, with Jihyo serving as the group's leader and one of its main vocalists. Over the years, the group has established an international fanbase through releases such as “CHEER UP,” “TT,” “What Is Love?” and “The Feels.”
Jihyo’s announcement therefore concerns her management arrangements and future solo career, rather than a departure from the group. She has confirmed her intention to continue TWICE activities, although specific future schedules and contractual arrangements have not been detailed in the announcement.
3. A New Chapter for Jihyo’s Solo Career
Jihyo’s move also creates a new framework for her individual music activities.
She made her solo debut in August 2023 with the mini album ZONE, led by the title track “Killin’ Me Good.” The release showcased a different side of her artistry outside TWICE’s group performances.
With EMITHAUS, Jihyo will have a new company through which to pursue her solo career. She has said she intends to approach future decisions and activities with greater care and responsibility as she adapts to working independently.
The establishment of her own agency may provide a different structure for developing her music and creative projects. However, specific plans for a new solo album, release dates, or upcoming projects have not yet been announced.
4. Jihyo’s 21-Year Journey With JYP Entertainment
Jihyo joined JYP Entertainment as a trainee in 2005, when she was a child. She trained for approximately a decade before debuting with TWICE in 2015.
During her time at the company, she grew from a trainee into the leader of one of K-pop’s internationally recognized girl groups. Her departure marks the end of a long professional relationship, but her message also expressed appreciation for the people and experiences that shaped her career.
By establishing EMITHAUS, Jihyo is taking greater responsibility for her future activities while emphasizing that her connection with TWICE remains unchanged.
Final Thoughts
Jihyo’s departure from JYP Entertainment after 21 years marks a significant transition in her career. Through EMITHAUS, she plans to explore new creative possibilities and continue developing as a solo artist.
At the same time, her commitment to TWICE remains clear. Rather than announcing a departure from the group, Jihyo has emphasized her intention to continue performing with her members while pursuing individual projects independently.
As she begins this new chapter, fans can look forward to following both her solo journey and her continued activities with TWICE. Details about future releases and projects under EMITHAUS are still to be announced.