Sana

Sana's life changed completely after a chance encounter with a JYP Entertainment talent scout while shopping with friends in Osaka. Instead of finding fashion or souvenirs that day, she found the opportunity that would eventually make her one of the world's biggest K-pop stars. She officially auditioned on April 13, 2012, and successfully earned a trainee contract shortly afterward. Source: Kpop Profiles

Unlike every other member of TWICE, Sana grew up as an only child. While the rest of the group often shares stories about brothers or sisters, Sana's childhood centered around her close relationship with her parents, helping shape the affectionate personality fans know today. Source: kpopping

Long before performing on stadium stages, Sana practiced Japanese calligraphy throughout primary school. The traditional art requires discipline, patience, and precision—qualities that fans believe continue to show through in her graceful performances and elegant handwriting. Source: Kpop Profiles

Sana's dream of becoming an idol began thanks to the success of Girls' Generation and KARA in Japan. Watching Korean artists become household names inspired her to imagine herself standing on the same stage one day, eventually motivating her to audition for JYP Entertainment. Source: kpopping

In February 2021, Sana quietly made TWICE history by becoming the group's first member to release an official solo song. She covered Kobukuro's emotional ballad "Sotsugyou," giving fans a chance to appreciate her warm vocals outside of TWICE's group activities years before solo albums became common within the group. Source: kpopping

Although Sana is famous for smiling through almost everything, she has admitted that thunderstorms genuinely frighten her. Fans have often found it endearing that someone with such a confident stage presence can still have such an ordinary and relatable fear. Source: Kpop Profiles

Sana's popularity reaches well beyond dedicated K-pop fans. In a 2019 survey conducted among South Korean soldiers completing their mandatory military service, she was voted the country's most popular female K-pop idol, highlighting just how widely admired she had become. Source: Nolae

In 2023, Sana reunited with fellow Japanese members Momo and Mina to debut in TWICE's first official sub-unit, MISAMO. Their debut showcased a more mature musical style while celebrating the unique chemistry the three had built over years of performing together. Source: Kpop Profiles

Before officially debuting with TWICE, Sana already had experience in front of the camera. She appeared in GOT7's "A" music video as well as 2PM member Junho's Japanese music video for "Feel," giving observant fans an early glimpse of her future idol career. Source: kpopping

Sana's beauty has received international recognition for years. She ranked No. 21 on TC Candler's "100 Most Beautiful Faces of 2017" before returning to the prestigious list at No. 46 in 2018, reflecting her enduring global popularity. Source: kpopsingers

Animation has always been one of Sana's favorite ways to unwind. She has shared her love for Studio Ghibli films and Disney classics, often mentioning how much she enjoys their heartwarming stories and memorable characters. Source: kpopsingers

One of Sana's favorite hobbies is collecting perfumes and body mists. She enjoys discovering different fragrances and has built a collection over the years, making scent another small way she expresses her personality and style. Source: KProfiles Forum

Fans often credit Sana with helping define TWICE's bright and approachable image during the group's early years. Her naturally expressive facial expressions, cheerful personality, and infectious laugh quickly made her one of the most recognizable members among both Korean and international audiences. Source: JYP Entertainment, TWICE interviews

Moving from Japan to South Korea as a teenager meant Sana had to adapt to a completely new language and culture while enduring the demanding trainee lifestyle. Her successful transition is frequently cited by fans as one of the reasons they admire her perseverance and courage. Source: TWICE interviews, JYP Entertainment

Sana has become known for her exceptional ability to communicate with fans. Whether she's speaking Korean, Japanese, or occasionally English during international promotions, her warm personality consistently shines through, helping her build one of the strongest fan connections in TWICE. Source: TWICE fan meetings & interviews

Despite her elegant image today, Sana is often described by the other members as one of the funniest people in the group. Her spontaneous jokes, playful teasing, and genuine reactions regularly create some of TWICE's most memorable variety show moments, making her a favorite among longtime ONCEs. Source: TWICE TIME TO TWICE, member interviews