(Photo screengrabbed from TWICE Youtube channel)
After nearly a decade at the top of the K-pop world, TWICE has reemerged with a fresh identity, a bold concept, and a heartfelt message for their fans. Their new album This Is For, released on July 11, isn’t just a celebration of the group’s milestones—it’s a personal declaration of renewal, gratitude, and ambition.
For TWICE, this era marks more than just a musical comeback. It’s a reflection on their journey, a statement of unity, and a promise of evolution. From the album visuals to the staging of their upcoming world tour, everything about This Is For signals that TWICE is no longer content with staying in their comfort zone—they’re here to transform.
Symbolism in style: Blue as the bond
In the album’s teaser, the nine members—Nayeon, Jeongyeon, Jihyo, Momo, Sana, Mina, Dahyun, Chaeyoung, and Tzuyu—are dressed in matching blue ensembles, sleek black hair cascading uniformly down their shoulders. The number “FOUR” on their skirts hints at their fourth studio album, but leader Jihyo says it goes deeper than that.
“We wanted to present ourselves as one being,” Jihyo shares. “This unified look represents the strength we find in each other, and the strength we hope to pass on to those who listen to us.”
TWICE’s visual cohesiveness is no accident. From their early days, the group has been known for their synergy and polished performances. But this new album isn’t just about being in sync—it’s about pushing boundaries.
An album built on risks and range
Unlike their previous releases, This Is For ventures into more experimental territory. From powerful EDM to retro hip-hop and stripped-down ballads, the record traverses a variety of sonic landscapes. It’s a project filled with surprises—and challenges.
Jeongyeon admits this was her most demanding album to record. “There was so much variation in the songs. Each one felt like a new mountain to climb. I really struggled, but I’m proud of how far I’ve come.”
The tracklist includes uplifting anthems like “This Is For” and “Right Hand Girl,” which embody the group’s message of empowerment. Nayeon describes them as songs that “remind us of the strength we gain from each other.”
Other standout tracks include “Peach Gelato,” which leans into old-school hip-hop with a playful twist, and “G.O.A.T.,” a punchy unit track by Mina, Dahyun, and Chaeyoung that showcases their versatility.
While solo and unit projects have always been a part of TWICE’s dynamic, this album was designed to explore deeper layers of individual artistry. The group worked in new pairings and tried unconventional sounds—further proof that they aren’t just repeating what’s worked in the past.
A thank you to ONCE—and themselves
The title This Is For clearly references ONCE, TWICE’s devoted global fandom. But it also speaks to the members themselves.
“This album is for everyone who’s believed in us. But it’s also for us—as a reminder of why we do this,” says Jihyo.
From the moment they debuted in 2015, TWICE has continuously broken records and redefined what it means to be a global girl group. They’ve topped charts, played to sold-out stadiums, and become cultural icons. And yet, they remain grounded in the connection they share with each other—and with ONCE.
Tzuyu adds, “There are so many people who built K-pop into what it is today, and we’re honored to be part of that. Artists like BTS have paved the way, and we’re continuing to walk that path.”
A tour with a twist: TWICE in 360
In another bold move, TWICE is embarking on the This Is For World Tour Part 1, which begins with two back-to-back nights in Incheon on July 19 and 20. What makes this tour unique is its use of a 360-degree stage, allowing fans to experience the show from every angle.
“Choreographing for this kind of setup is tough,” Momo says. “We’re basically rebuilding the performances we’ve done for years. But it’s worth it. We want to give ONCE something unforgettable.”
“We could have done something easier,” Nayeon adds. “But we chose to challenge ourselves. This era is about pushing limits.”
Following their Incheon kickoff, the group will travel across Japan, Macao, the Philippines, Singapore, Australia, Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Thailand. A Japanese album, Enemy, is also slated for release next month.
A new chapter, not a final one
This Is For doesn’t feel like a goodbye or even a retrospective—it’s the beginning of something new. It’s a group that’s matured, evolved, and found strength not just in numbers, but in courage.
As Jeongyeon shouts with pride, “TWICE is my G.O.A.T.!” And for their fans and perhaps even for the industry itself—that sentiment rings truer than ever.