[talk] Are the Japanese members of TWICE really popular in Korea? We investigate the "real opinions" of Sana, Momo, and Mina on the spot!

Just how popular are the Japanese members of TWICE (Sana, Momo, and Mina) in Korea? We'll take a closer look at how the girls, who were once said to have "thrown away success in Korea," have now become known as "legends," along with local reactions.

 

 

table of contents 1. The "Obstacles" and challenges faced by TWICE's Japanese members 2. Sana - The reason she's a "national favorite" in Korea 3. Momo - Trusted by her overwhelming dancing skills 4. Mina - A beloved "quiet favorite" 5. Popularity Ranking in Korea (Latest as of 2025) 6. The "real view" of Korean fans 7. Q&A: Frequently asked questions about popularity in Korea 8. Summary: TWICE has changed the common sense of "Japanese idols in Korea"

 

1. The "Obstacles" and challenges faced by TWICE's Japanese members

 

TWICE is a multinational girl group that debuted under JYP Entertainment in 2015.
The group's composition of five Koreans, three Japanese (Sana, Momo, Mina), and one Taiwanese (Tzuyu) was unusual at the time.

 

In Korea, there is a deep-rooted prejudice against foreigners, especially Japanese members, and when JYP debuted a group with three Japanese members, it was even said that they had "given up on success in the Korean market."

However, TWICE broke through that barrier and rose to the top of the third generation girl group, alongside BLACKPINK and Red Velvet.

 

 

 

 

 

2. Sana - The reason she's a "national favorite" in Korea

 

Sana (Minatozaki Sana), who rose to fame with "Shy Shy Shy," has gained mass popularity due to her fluent Korean and cheerful personality.
She has transcended her fan base and has become known as a "national idol."

 

In particular, his first pitch at Jamsil Baseball Stadium in 2024 was dubbed the "legendary first pitch" and dominated the online conversation.
Although she threw the opening pitch at the same time as aespa's Karina, Sana attracted more attention.

 

 

 

 

3. Momo - Trusted by her overwhelming dancing skills

 

Momo (Hirai Momo) has been learning dance since she was a child and is the main dancer of TWICE.
Her performances have been praised as "the best in the K-Pop world," and her talent and hard work are recognized in Korea.

 

In addition, his gentle and honest personality, as well as his attentive fan service, have captured the hearts of many Korean fans.

 

 

 

 

4. Mina - A beloved "quiet favorite"

 

Mina (Minami Naito), who was born in America and hails from Hyogo Prefecture, is known as "TWICE's Swan" for her elegant expressiveness and calm charm that come from her background in classical ballet.

Her sensitive and hardworking personality has resonated with Korean fans, and she has ranked highly in magazine sales and YouTube comments.

 

 

 

 

5. Popularity Ranking in Korea (Latest as of 2025)

Ranking	Member Name	nationality
1st place	Sana	Japan
2nd place	Nayeon	South Korea
3rd place	Jeongyeon	South Korea
4th place	Tzuyu	Taiwan
5th place	Momo	Japan
6th place	Jihyo	South Korea
7th place	Mina	Japan
8th place	Dahyun	South Korea
9th place	Chaeyoung	South Korea

 

Three Japanese members are ranked highly, demonstrating their popularity in Korea.
Sana, in particular, is known as "the most successful Japanese idol in Korea."

 

 

 

 

6. The "real view" of Korean fans

 

Korean media has praised Sana as "the most popular Japanese person in Korea."
Her natural Korean accent and charming personality have led some to say she is "more Korean than Koreans."

 

Momo's hardworking attitude and Mina's honest image are also respected.
He is praised as "a member who has earned trust despite being a foreigner."

 

 

 

 

7. Q&A: Frequently asked questions about popularity in Korea

Q1. Who is the most popular Japanese member in Korea?
A. It's definitely Sana. She has been creating a lot of buzz as a solo artist, throwing the opening pitch and appearing on TV.

 

 

Q2. What is the opinion of Momo and Mina in Korea?
A. Momo is known as the "strongest dancer" and Mina is known for her "dignified beauty."
Both are highly praised by Korean fans as "hardworking" and "sincere."

 

 

Q3. Is there still prejudice against Japanese members in Korea?
A. It has decreased significantly compared to before. The success of TWICE has established an image of an idol that is loved by Japanese people,
Nowadays, it tends to be viewed more favorably.

 

 

Q4. Why are the popularity rankings different in Korea and Japan?
A. In Japan, people's affinity with one's hometown is likely to have an impact, while in Korea, "ability, character, and media exposure" are emphasized. Therefore, in Korea, "leader types" such as Nayeon and Jihyo tend to rank highly.

 

 

Q5. What do Korean fans find attractive about the Japanese members?
A. "Effort," "politeness," and "natural cuteness."
Many fans are particularly impressed by his dedication to learning Korean and his respect for the culture.

 

 

 

 

8. Summary: TWICE has changed the common sense of "Japanese idols in Korea"

 

The Japanese members of TWICE have become beloved in Korea, transcending prejudice and borders.
Their efforts, talents, and sincerity have touched the hearts of the Korean public.
Now, they are building a new era as a "bridge between Japanese and Korean idols."

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