TWICE leader Jihyo has officially ended her 21-year relationship with JYP Entertainment, establishing her own independent agency named EMITHAUS. The 29-year-old singer announced the major career shift on Instagram on Wednesday, October 21, 2026. She explained that her departure will allow her to pursue new solo opportunities while remaining fully committed to the future of the beloved K-pop group.
According to reports from media outlets including Dispatch and Soompi, Jihyo’s newly founded company will initially focus on steering her solo music career. However, EMITHAUS also harbors broader ambitions to expand into content production and recruit additional artists down the line.
Reflecting on a 21-Year Journey with JYP
In a heartfelt handwritten letter shared with her followers, Jihyo reflected on spending the vast majority of her life under the JYP Entertainment banner. She transitioned from a young child trainee through adolescence to adulthood, spending approximately 10 years as a trainee before finally debuting alongside her fellow TWICE members in 2015.
Addressing her decision to move on, Jihyo described independence not as a rejection of her past, but as a deliberate step toward her future. In her statement, she wrote, “To me, becoming independent is less about drawing a conclusion to the time that has passed and more about making a choice about how I want to live the years ahead.” She also expressed deep gratitude to the agency staff who supported her professional development and stood by her side throughout her formative years.
The Meaning Behind EMITHAUS and Future Plans
The name EMITHAUS is derived from the English word “EMIT,” which signifies radiating or shining outward. Through her new label, Jihyo aims to expand her creative individuality and explore uncharted artistic possibilities.
While EMITHAUS will launch as the home for Jihyo’s solo endeavors, business blueprints indicate plans to branch out into general content creation and talent scouting. Specific release dates for solo albums or future roster additions have not yet been disclosed, though Jihyo assured fans she will approach every new responsibility with caution and dedication.
Commitment to TWICE and Message to ONCE
Crucially, Jihyo reassured fans that her departure from JYP Entertainment does not mean a separation from TWICE. She emphasized that the group remains an irreplaceable and precious cornerstone of her life, sharing her strong desire to continue standing on stage alongside her fellow members for years to come.
Jihyo also took a moment to thank the group’s dedicated fandom, ONCE, for their unwavering belief and support over the past 11 years. Acknowledging that watching someone grow over a decade is rare, she promised to continue working hard to become an artist worthy of their enduring love.
Frequently Asked Questions About Jihyo and EMITHAUS
When did Jihyo leave JYP Entertainment?
Jihyo officially announced her departure from JYP Entertainment on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, after spending 21 years with the agency as a trainee and artist.
What is the name of Jihyo’s new agency?
Jihyo launched her own independent agency named EMITHAUS, inspired by the word “EMIT” to signify radiating creativity and exploring new artistic possibilities.
Will Jihyo still participate in TWICE activities?
Yes. Jihyo explicitly confirmed that leaving JYP Entertainment does not mean leaving TWICE. She plans to continue her group activities alongside the members while managing her solo career through EMITHAUS.
What are the future business plans for EMITHAUS?
While the company will begin by managing Jihyo’s solo music activities, EMITHAUS plans to expand its business scope into broader general content production and the recruitment of new artists.
How long was Jihyo with JYP Entertainment?
Jihyo joined JYP Entertainment at the age of eight, spending roughly 10 years as a trainee before debuting with TWICE in 2015, culminating in a 21-year total tenure.
