Jihyo Leaves JYP Entertainment, Launches Her Own Agency Emithaus

 

TWICE leader Jihyo is entering a new chapter in her career after ending her long-standing association with JYP Entertainment and establishing her own agency, Emithaus.

The move marks a significant milestone for the K-pop star, who spent 21 years under the label after joining as a child trainee. Jihyo announced the decision through Instagram, sharing a handwritten letter alongside videos from her early years as a performer.

In her message, the singer reflected on the experiences that shaped her career, acknowledging both the challenges and achievements she encountered during her time at the company. She also thanked the people at JYP Entertainment who supported her development as an artist.

Jihyo described independence as a deliberate step toward shaping her future rather than simply ending a long professional relationship. Through Emithaus, she intends to explore creative opportunities and express parts of her artistry that she has yet to fully develop.

The agency's name draws inspiration from the word emit, which means to express or release. The concept reflects Jihyo's ambition to build an environment where she can experiment freely while taking greater responsibility for her professional decisions.

Despite her departure from JYP Entertainment, Jihyo made clear that her solo career plans would not mean leaving TWICE. She reaffirmed her commitment to the group, describing it as an irreplaceable part of her life and expressing her desire to continue creating memories with her fellow members.

She also recognized the continued support of ONCE, TWICE's official fandom, throughout the group's 11 years since its debut. Jihyo credited fans' trust and encouragement with giving her the confidence to embrace change, promising to remain true to herself as she grows as an artist.

Jihyo is the third TWICE member reported to have left JYP Entertainment. Earlier this year, Chaeyoung announced her departure and launched Lil Fantasy, a label whose name references her debut album. Jeongyeon also ended her association with the company and signed with Varo Entertainment, which represents her older sister, actress Gong Seung-yeon, along with actors Byeon Woo-seok, Jin Goo and Lee Chae-min.

Meanwhile, Nayeon, Momo, Sana, Mina, Dahyun and Tzuyu are awaiting further updates regarding their individual arrangements with JYP Entertainment.

The developments point to a changing landscape for TWICE's members as they pursue individual opportunities beyond the group. Jihyo's decision to establish Emithaus gives her greater control over her solo direction, while her commitment to TWICE indicates that personal independence and group activities can continue side by side.

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