Some artists need only one name. For millions of fans, that name is Nayeon. She commands the stage as the center, lead vocalist, and lead dancer of the global phenomenon Twice.
Her journey began with a September 22 birthday in 1995. Seoul’s Gangdong District was her first home. The name on her birth certificate, Im Na-yeon, holds deep meaning. It translates to an elegant and beautiful grace, a quality she embodies in performance.
She grew up in a Christian household with her mother and a younger sister. This tight family unit provided the foundation for the star she would become.
Before the bright lights, she was simply a girl from South Korea. Now, she represents the vibrant energy of K-pop on the world stage. Her story is one of talent meeting opportunity, a path that led from a Seoul neighborhood to international acclaim.
Early Life and Training: The Foundations of a Star
The path to the stage began not with a spotlight, but with a secret. For Im Na-yeon, a future star was forged in the quiet, demanding years before fame.
Childhood and Early Ambitions
An early modeling contest first caught the eye of scouts. They saw a spark in the young girl.
Her mother, protective of her daughter, initially said no to the industry. But the dream persisted. Years later, without telling her family, she attended an open audition for JYP Entertainment. She passed.
Overcoming Challenges and Joining JYP Entertainment
Becoming a trainee meant long hours and constant evaluation. This period tested her dedication. In 2014, she was set to debut in a girl group named 6mix. The plan fell apart when a key member left the company.
She balanced this life with school, graduating from Apgujeong High School. During her trainee time, she gained experience as a model for brands like Smart School Uniform. A small role on the show Dream High 2 in 2012 offered a glimpse of her future.
Na-yeon Im: The Rise to Fame with TWICE
In 2015, a reality competition offered the chance to transform from trainee to star. The show Sixteen became the decisive moment that would shape her career path.
Breakthrough on Sixteen and TWICE Debut
JYP Entertainment created Sixteen to select members for a new girl group. Nayeon entered the competition with years of training behind her. She became the first contestant announced for the final lineup.
Nine girls made the final cut after weeks of intense challenges. This selection validated her journey from trainee to official member. The group twice would soon become a household name in K-pop.
The Journey from Trainee to Global Idol
October 2015 marked the official debut with The Story Begins EP. The title proved prophetic as it launched an incredible story. Nayeon secured the center position within the girl group.
Her role placed her at the visual heart of performances. She typically opens the group’s songs, setting the tone for each track. This responsibility demands strong vocal presence and stage confidence.
| Milestone | Date | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Sixteen Competition | April-May 2015 | Selection process for new JYP girl group |
| First Member Announcement | July 2015 | Nayeon confirmed as first Twice member |
| Official Debut | October 2015 | The Story Begins EP release |
| Center Position Established | 2015 | Became focal point of group performances |
Chart-Topping Music and Solo Achievements
The announcement of a solo career arrived in May 2022, signaling a new chapter. This move beyond the group structure allowed for individual artistic expression.
Successful EP Releases and Hit Singles
Her first mini album arrived in June 2022 with seven tracks. The lead single “Pop!” showcased a bright, assertive sound. It climbed to number two on South Korea’s Circle Digital Chart.
June 2024 brought her second EP with another seven songs. The lead single “ABCD” continued her pattern of catchy pop music. Both albums earned Platinum certification from KMCA.
Collaborations and Record-Breaking Milestones
Strategic partnerships enriched both projects. The first album featured Wonstein and Felix of Stray Kids. The second included Sam Kim and Julie of Kiss of Life.
Her solo debut made chart history. She became the first South Korean soloist to crack the US Billboard 200’s top ten. The 2022 MAMA Awards recognized this achievement with Best Female Artist.
| Album | Release Date | Lead Single | Chart Peak |
|---|---|---|---|
| Im Nayeon | June 24, 2022 | Pop! | #7 Billboard 200 |
| Na | June 14, 2024 | ABCD | Top 10 Billboard 200 |
| Certification | Korean Sales | US Sales | Music Show Wins |
| Platinum (KMCA) | 547,102 copies | 52,000 copies | SBS Inkigayo (July 2022) |
| Platinum (KMCA) | 454,723 copies | 43,000 copies | Multiple awards |
Public Image, Endorsements, and Philanthropy
Beyond the music, an idol’s influence is measured by their cultural footprint and the causes they champion. For this artist, public love in South Korea translated into tangible recognition and a portfolio of prestigious partnerships.
Impact on K-pop and Global Popularity
Gallup Korea’s annual music polls tracked her steady climb. She ranked as the sixth most popular idol in 2017 and 2018. Her standing rose to fifth place in 2019.
This broad appeal was confirmed by a 2019 survey of soldiers. They ranked her eighth among female K-pop idols. This demographic offers a unique view of genuine popularity beyond fandom metrics.
Fashion Endorsements and Charitable Acts
Luxury brands took note of her style and reach. She became a model for Chaumet’s Joséphine collection in 2021. Partnerships with Biotherm Korea and Olive Des Olive followed.
Her status grew with appointments as the muse for Givenchy Beauty and Swarovski. She also became the Asia ambassador for Tommy Jeans. These roles cemented her as a fashion icon.
Her philanthropy mirrors her commercial success. She donated significant sums to COVID-19 relief and Turkey-Syria earthquake aid through Save the Children.
Membership in the Community Chest of Korea’s Honor Society in 2024 recognized her consistent giving. A further donation for wildfire victims in 2025 solidified her commitment to helping others. This pattern shows a deep sense of responsibility.
Exploring Filmography and Television Appearances
Long before commanding the stage with Twice, she was building a presence on screen. These early roles provided crucial camera experience.
They kept her face familiar to audiences even during her trainee years.
Cameos, Music Video Features, and TV Dramas
Her first scripted appearance was a small role in the 2012 show Dream High 2. This cameo offered a glimpse into acting.
Music videos became a consistent training ground. She started as a backup dancer in Miss A’s 2010 video.
Subsequent features in San E’s “Please Don’t Go” and GOT7’s “Girls Girls Girls” followed. Each music video added to her portfolio.
Appearances in Jun. K’s “No Love” and miss A’s “Only You” continued this pattern. Even after the twice nayeon debut, she appeared in Park Jin Young’s “Fire.”
Her most notable video role came in Jun. K’s 2017 “music video” “Your Wedding,” a narrative piece with Nichkhun.
Hosting and Special Projects
Television hosting showcased a different side of her talent. In 2018, she presented for the popular show Idol Star Athletics Championships.
This role highlighted her comfort in a live, variety format. It tested her quick thinking and charm.
From 2024 to 2025, she hosted the YouTube game show Trick Kode. This project emphasized her wit and ability to engage in unscripted content.
While not a full acting career, these projects demonstrate remarkable versatility. They have helped solidify her name across multiple media channels beyond music.
Artistic Style, Dance, and Fashion Influence
Sky blue light often frames her on stage, a visual signature that complements her dual role as lead dancer and vocalist. This artist brings both physical precision and vocal power to every performance.
Signature Dance Moves and Stage Presence
As the center of her group, Nayeon anchors complex formations. Other members arrange around her body in space. This responsibility demands exceptional spatial awareness.
Her voice typically opens the group’s songs, creating instant recognition. This pattern establishes her as the entry point into their musical world. The bright melodies of bubblegum pop suit her energetic style.
Beyond performing, she contributes to the music itself. Songwriting credits include “Love Countdown” and “Rainbow.” These works demonstrate creative input beyond her role as a performer.
She admires strong female artists like IU and SNSD’s Taeyeon. These influences reveal her musical taste runs toward respected vocalists. Her own pop songs carry this legacy forward.
The combination of dance moves, vocal tone, and visual presentation creates a distinct identity. Each element serves the larger group while maintaining her individual artistry. This balance defines her contribution to K-pop.
Reflections and Future Outlook for a K-pop Icon
Recent years have solidified her position not just as a group’s center, but as a formidable solo artist in her own right. Landmark solo performances in Japan and Taiwan in 2025 proved her ability to command a stage alone.
Her influence was clear when a cover of “Kimagure Romantic” went viral, even re-charting the original song. This led to an official digital single release at the original artists’ request.
Collaborations like the “Era (Remix)” with Tayla Parx signal a strategic reach into Western pop markets. These moves build on early skills honed in projects like JYP Nation’s “Encore” and “Two Yoo Project – Sugar Man.”
The release of her “Yes, I am Nayeon” photobook further cements her personal brand. The path from trainee to global idol is well-trodden, but her solo success stands out for its speed and scale.
Her future hinges on balancing group commitments with individual creative growth. For this artist, the next chapter promises to be as dynamic as her first.
