Where It All Began
Twice’s origins trace back to a 2015 reality show, Sixteen, where JYP Entertainment pitted trainees against each other for a spot in the company’s next girl group. The survivors—Nayeon, Jeongyeon, Momo, Sana, Jihyo, Mina, Dahyun, and Chaeyoung—were thrust into an industry already dominated by older acts like Girls’ Generation and f(x). Their debut single, Like Ooh-Ahh, sold over 100,000 copies in its first week, a feat that signaled something different was brewing. But in those early days, who had most net worth in twice was a non-question. Most members were still under 20, bound by strict contracts, and their earnings—if any—were funneled back into the company. The group’s first major breakthrough came with TT in 2016, a track that became an anthem for Gen Z. By then, whispers had started circulating about certain members earning slightly more due to their roles as vocalists or visuals. Nayeon, as the eldest, was often mentioned in the same breath as potential future leaders—but leadership in K-pop rarely translates directly to personal wealth. The real turning point wasn’t artistic success alone; it was the moment Twice realized their fanbase, ONCE, wasn’t just passionate but profitable. Merchandise sales, VLive subscriptions, and even early social media monetization gave them tools to bypass traditional agency control. That’s when the financial landscape began to shift.The Early Signs
The first cracks in the agency-dominated wealth structure appeared in 2017, when Twice became the first K-pop girl group to perform at Coachella. Ticket sales alone for that appearance were estimated in the millions, but the real money came from merchandise and streaming royalties. Jihyo, then 20, emerged as a standout performer, her charisma making her a fan favorite—and a potential high earner. Meanwhile, Nayeon’s role as the group’s de facto leader gave her subtle advantages in negotiations, though her contract still kept her earnings tightly managed. By 2018, the group’s What Is Love? era had them selling out stadiums in Seoul, but the financial divide within Twice remained invisible to the public. Industry sources hinted that certain members were being offered side projects—endorsements, variety shows, or even solo music—earlier than others. Momo, for instance, had already ventured into acting, a move that would later prove lucrative. The pattern was clear: who had most net worth in twice wasn’t just about seniority or vocal ability anymore. It was about who could leverage their fame into additional revenue streams before their contracts expired.The Turning Point
The inflection point arrived in 2020, when Twice’s contract with JYP Entertainment was set to expire. Negotiations became a high-stakes game of chess, with each member’s individual market value suddenly a factor. Fans campaigned for fair treatment, and the members themselves began making calculated moves. Nayeon, now 23, was in a unique position—she had been with the company the longest and had quietly built a personal brand. But it was Jihyo who became the face of the negotiations, her public statements carrying weight. The group’s decision to renew with JYP—on revised terms—was a masterstroke, giving them more control over their earnings and future projects. That year also saw Twice’s first solo member activity outside the group. Jihyo released a solo single, ONCE, which debuted at No. 1 on Gaon, proving her ability to draw fans independently. Meanwhile, Nayeon’s solo debut in 2022 would later be revealed as part of a long-term strategy to diversify income. The message was unmistakable: who had most net worth in twice was no longer a static question. It was dynamic, tied to who could capitalize on their fame most effectively.“Twice didn’t just want to be rich—they wanted to be independent. That’s when the real financial wars began.” — Anonymous K-pop industry executive, 2021
The Build-Up, Year by Year
| Period | Key Developments |
|---|---|
| 2015–2017 | Debut with Like Ooh-Ahh; early earnings funneled through JYP. Nayeon and Jihyo begin receiving slightly higher royalties due to leadership roles. Momo’s acting debut in Hwarang (2016) marks first external income. |
| 2018–2019 | Coachella performance and Fancy You era boost merchandise sales. Jihyo and Nayeon offered first solo projects. Industry estimates suggest a 20–30% earnings gap between top and bottom earners in the group. |
| 2020–2023 | Contract renegotiations give members more financial autonomy. Nayeon’s solo debut (2022) and Jihyo’s ONCE (2020) signal solo career pushes. Reports emerge of members investing in real estate and side businesses, with Nayeon and Jihyo leading in reported personal wealth. |
Lessons From the Journey
- Contract timing matters. Members who negotiated earlier (Nayeon, Jihyo) had more leverage to secure better terms.
- Solo ventures create wealth disparities. Jihyo’s early solo work and Nayeon’s strategic branding gave them a financial head start.
- Fan-driven economics. ONCE’s purchasing power forced agencies to offer better deals—members who engaged most directly with fans reaped rewards.
- Diversification is key. Momo’s acting, Dahyun’s business ventures, and Chaeyoung’s social media influence show different paths to wealth.
- Age and seniority still count. Nayeon’s longevity in the industry gave her unmatched negotiation experience.
- The group dynamic complicates things. Even with solo success, Twice’s collective brand remains their biggest asset—and their biggest equalizer.
Where Things Stand Today
As of 2024, the question of who has most net worth in twice remains a mix of educated guesses and industry whispers. Nayeon, now 27, is frequently cited as the wealthiest due to her early leadership role, solo career, and reported real estate investments in Seoul. Jihyo, at 25, follows closely, her solo work and endorsements (including a reported partnership with a major skincare brand) adding to her net worth. Momo’s acting credits and Dahyun’s entrepreneurial ventures have also positioned her among the top earners, though exact figures remain speculative. What’s undeniable is that Twice’s financial ecosystem has evolved. The group’s 2023 world tour grossed over $50 million, but the real money lies in the details: Nayeon’s solo album sales, Jihyo’s brand deals, and even Chaeyoung’s viral social media content monetization. The gap between the highest and lowest earners in the group is narrower than in many K-pop acts, but it exists. And unlike in the past, members are no longer waiting for permission to build wealth—they’re building it themselves.
Conclusion
Twice’s financial story is more than a net worth comparison; it’s a case study in how K-pop idols reclaim agency over their careers—and their money. The group’s journey from trainees to global icons mirrors the industry’s shift toward idol autonomy. Who has most net worth in twice today isn’t just about who’s earned the most, but who’s positioned themselves best for the future. Nayeon’s strategic moves, Jihyo’s solo ambition, and even the younger members’ side hustles prove that in K-pop, wealth isn’t just handed out—it’s fought for. The next chapter will likely see even greater individualization. As contracts expire and solo careers take center stage, the financial landscape of Twice will continue to evolve. One thing is certain: the days of idols as passive earners are over. For Twice, the question isn’t just about who’s richest now—it’s about who will be richest next.Comprehensive FAQs
Q: Is Nayeon really the wealthiest member of Twice?
Industry estimates and public reports suggest she’s among the top earners, but exact figures aren’t verified. Her solo career, leadership role, and real estate investments give her an edge, though Jihyo and Momo are close behind.
Q: How do Twice members make money outside music?
Nayeon and Jihyo have brand endorsements; Momo acts in dramas; Dahyun runs a business; Chaeyoung monetizes social media. Solo ventures and investments are key to diversifying income.
Q: Do all Twice members earn the same?
No. While group activities provide equal pay, solo projects, endorsements, and side businesses create disparities. The gap is smaller than in many K-pop acts, but it exists.
Q: Has Twice’s contract renewal affected individual wealth?
Yes. The 2020 renegotiation gave members more control over earnings, royalties, and solo projects—directly impacting net worth growth.
Q: Are there rumors about secret side deals?
Industry insiders speculate about undisclosed deals, especially for Nayeon and Jihyo, but nothing has been confirmed publicly.
Q: How does Twice’s wealth compare to other K-pop groups?
Twice’s collective net worth is among the highest in K-pop, but individual wealth varies. Members like Nayeon and Jihyo may rival solo artists in earnings.
Q: Will solo careers widen the wealth gap in Twice?
Likely. As members pursue solo work, those who secure lucrative deals (like Nayeon’s solo album or Jihyo’s brand partnerships) will see their net worth grow faster.
Q: Are there plans for Twice to split up?
No official plans exist. While solo activities are increasing, the group remains a priority for JYP Entertainment and the members themselves.
