Kristofer Purnell – Philstar.com
October 21, 2026 | 2:39pm
MANILA, Philippines — Korean singer Park Ji-hyo, better known Twice leader Jihyo, is now the third member of the girl group to depart label JYP Entertainment.
Jihyo confirmed her exit from JYP, where she’s been signed for over two decades since childhood, in an Instagram post featuring a handwritten letter and videos of her young self performing.
The letter was written in Korean as was the post’s caption, though Jihyo provided an English translation for her international followers.
The singer began by reflecting on the 21 years she spent at the label, “There were good days and difficult ones, but one thing I know for certain is that every one of those moments has shaped who I am today.”
She thanked agency personnel for playing a part in her growth, noting she will cherish the memories made with them.
“To me, independence is not so much a conclusion about the time that has passed, but a choice about how I want to live going forward,” Jihyo said as she announced the formation of her own agency Emithaus.
The artist explained the name’s origin is taken from “emit” which is to “express or release,” actions she hopes to display with the company.
“I hope this will be a place where I can freely explore and bring to life even the possibilities within me that I have yet to discover,” she said. “As I step away from a familiar environment and begin working in new ways, I will approach every decision and every endeavor with even greater thoughtfulness and responsibility.”
Jihyo clarified that her departure from JYP does not indicate an exit from Twice, which she called “an irreplaceable part of her life,” vowing to continue group activities and experience more moments with them.
The singer expressed gratitude to fans of Twice called Once for their support over the past 11 years since the K-pop act debuted.
RELATED: Twice member Chaeyoung follows Jeongyeon exit from JYP
“I know that watching someone grow and change through so many stages of life and continuing to support them along the way is never something to be taken for granted,” Jihyo said. “Thank you for giving me the courage to keep moving forward through your unwavering trust, love, and support.”
Jihyo ended her letter reiterating her promise to continue her authenticity and growth as an artist, giving back the love and support she’s received.
Her colleagues Chaeyoung and Jeongyeon both announced their exit from JYP earlier this year, the former also establishing her own label Lil Fantasy, borrowing from her debut album’s name.
Jeongyeon signed with Varo Entertainment which handles her older sister Gong Seung-yeon, Byeon Woo-seok, Jin Goo and Lee Chae-min.
The remaining members of Twice — Nayeon, Momo, Sana, Mina, Dahyun and Tzuyu — are awaiting updates on their solo contracts with JYP.
RELATED: Twice member Jeongyeon affirms commitment after joining sister’s agency