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It’s a New Season for TWS — And They’re Ready to ‘play hard’
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What the six members love — and are fully immersed in — is dance and music. Maybe it’s the spirit of “going all out” in the album title, but this time, they didn’t just follow what was given; they actively pursued what they love. From choreography discussions to recording sessions, every member participated more passionately than ever — some even contributing to lyric writing and choreography. The result is a wider musical spectrum and a deeper sense of growth. As Jihoon shares, “Even on days when exhaustion piles up, I hope our songs make people think, ‘So what if I fail?’ and give it another try.”
Six young people giving everything to the dance and music they love — play hard marks the next chapter for TWS, who now grace Billboard Korea’s digital cover. Learn more about all the members below.
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From Left: *Shinyu, Jihoon, Dohoon, Kyungmin, Hanjin, Youngjae Billboard Korea
YOUNGJAE
“Someday, through a world tour, I want TWS to reach another major level of growth. To do that, I want to become a more self-directed person.”
You were selected as Billboard‘s K-Pop Rookie of the Month in January by Billboard Korea and Billboard U.S. What has changed over these nine months?
We successfully wrapped our first tour in Japan and tried a hip-hop concept with the pre-release “Head Shoulders Knees Toes.” It was a meaningful stretch of time in many ways. Through those changes, we became closer not only among ourselves but also with 42 [our fandom]. Personally, I also spent time thinking about how to make myself a more valuable person.
How do you define “a valuable person”?
Simply put, someone who’s self-directed. To be that, I first had to know who I am and what I truly want to do. As TWS’s Youngjae, I’d like to be someone who broadly makes a positive impact on society and the public through music.
“Head Shoulders Knees Toes” is a strong hip-hop track that differs from TWS’s previous image. What was your first reaction on hearing it?
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Because the song itself is so high-energy and different from our earlier image, we needed time to adjust — myself included. If we were going to make a change, I didn’t want that first attempt to fall flat. So we spoke more candidly than ever about our concerns — right down to the tricky parts — to make sure both fans and the general public would receive it well.
Did anything change in your vocal approach?
Up to now, I focused on a clean, pristine feel — a tone people might describe as “pretty.” For “Head Shoulders Knees Toes,” I tried to sing rougher. Since it was unfamiliar, I took breaks when it didn’t work, then tried again — with the mindset of “break the limit.” During recording I kept asking, “Can I try it this way?” and looked for places to add a bit of my own color.
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What about the title track “OVERDRIVE”?
The moment I heard it, I thought, “That’s our song.” [Laughs] The melody felt like home, so recording was enjoyable and relaxed. I could already imagine how we’d look performing it as TWS.
TWS’s music evokes a bright blue for many listeners. What color was added this time?
Through B-sides, we’ve been trying things beyond bright tracks — like “Comma,” “Double Take,” and “Oh Mymy : 7s.” Those attempts piled up and paved the way for a song like “Head Shoulders Knees Toes.” With this album, I think we added a slightly darker tone to the color people associate with TWS.
You talk about teamwork a lot. Anything you want to say to the members?
We’re all still young — our maknae Kyungmin is 19, and I’m 21 — so we’ve all worked really hard since early on. Even if we sometimes miss out on things kids our age get to enjoy, I think it’s amazing how passionately everyone commits to what they love. I’m grateful that we’re building good memories together in the midst of those limited days.
What reaction would make you happiest from listeners of this album?
“If it’s TWS, I’ll listen — no questions.” That one line would make me truly happy.
A vocalist you’d like to collaborate with someday?
Dean. He’s an artist in every sense — fashion, music, vocal. He communicates his own color across different fields in a way that connects with the public. In so many ways, I want to learn from him.
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You mentioned a songwriter’s ambition, too. What are you doing for that despite your busy schedule?
I’ve been taking piano lessons — paused for now — because I think you should be able to handle at least one instrument to compose. Learning an instrument helps in many ways, so I’m trying to keep at it intentionally.
You’re studying Japanese consistently. Your recent Japan tour must’ve given you chances to use it.
The more chances I get to use it, the less satisfied I am — I just want to get better. [Laughs] Whenever we go abroad, I want to keep learning and become more fluent.
What’s your current goal for TWS in the global music market?
A world tour. As we toured Japan, I realized how much you can learn from encountering new cultures in different countries. You grow through that process. Through a world tour, I want us to take another big leap.
You’re not afraid of being thrown into new environments, huh?
Nope. I’m not afraid! [Laughs]
KYUNGMIN
“With TWS’s bright, hopeful lyrics, I want to offer comfort and emotion to fans all over the world.”
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You were selected as Billboard’s K-Pop Rookie of the Month in January. What’s changed for you over these nine months?
I’ve been listening to more K-pop. Before debut, I really loved pop and R&B — artists like Justin Bieber. But the music I’m making now is K-pop. I asked myself: within the field I’m in, how can I move people more and create impact on stage? Another change is that I’ve gotten more into fashion!
What did you think when you first heard the pre-release?
I thought it was a good shift that could show TWS’s performance strength. Hard-hitting songs clearly open up choreographic possibilities. But before recording, I wondered whether we could deliver that impact. We shared our concerns frankly among ourselves and decided to reflect the change not only in the melody but also in our voices. Once we actually did it, I think the results turned out well. There’s this explosive move at the end of the song — it’s a genre I’m confident in. It’s extremely energy-consuming, so a full run-through is tough physically, but the joy on stage makes up for it.
You rapped for the first time on the pre-release.
It was my first time, so I worried a lot about how to approach it. Instead of forcing a strong delivery like the hyungs, I decided it’d be more appealing to lean into my lighter tone and press it slightly — without overdoing it. During recording, the director told me I “really understand the song,” which made me very happy.
How about the title track “OVERDRIVE”?
Fans still especially love TWS’s “refreshing” side, even as they also expect a cool look. This song responds to that expectation. It has many point parts and sits high in range — it’s a feel-good song. There are a lot of fun performance ideas in it too, so I think people will enjoy that.
Your favorite track on the mini?
“Here For You,” our song for 42. When I heard the demo I thought, “This is really our story,” so maybe we could pour our hearts into the lyrics — I even told the company I wanted to write. It didn’t get selected, but the attempt itself was meaningful. I listen to it a lot even in my down time.
What new color did this album add to TWS?
Monotone? [Laughs] Our official Instagram logo used to be blue, and now it’s white! Like that, I think calm colors like white, black, and gray have been layered over our blue.
What comment would make you happiest as an artist?
“This song could only be pulled off by TWS.” That would be enough.
What do you hope for in these promotions?
That we all stay healthy. When even one member is missing on stage, the gap feels huge. I hope all six of us finish this round together, healthy. And while we’re always growing, I hope this album becomes another stepping stone for the team.
Anything you want to say to the members you’ve been running with?
The fact that we’re doing what we love together in our lives right now — that alone is a big happiness. Results matter, of course, but I hope we feel a lot of small joys as we share this process. If we do our best and enjoy the process, that’s what matters most.
Your goal with TWS?
To be loved even more overseas with songs that only TWS can deliver — refreshing and wistful — paired with empowering lyrics. BTS moved so many global fans’ hearts with bright, hopeful messages like “Answer : Love Myself.” I hope we can become that kind of singular group, too.
Then maybe that wish will come true sooner.
I hope so.
SHINYU
“I want to remain an artist who’s never forgotten. Until then, I want to keep thanking my members for sincerely making each other shine.”
You were selected as Billboard’s K-Pop Rookie of the Month in January. What changed for TWS — and for you — over these nine months?
We talked a lot as members about the road ahead for TWS. Personally, I’ve become much less shy around 42. [Laughs] I really wanted to show a wider range on stage, so I consciously tried bolder facial expressions. Now I think fans are reacting like, “Oh, Shinyu had that charm too.”
“Head Shoulders Knees Toes” is a strong hip-hop track and different from TWS’s previous image. First reaction?
Because it differs so much from our prior image, I wondered how we could appeal to the public with this concept. At the same time, as the team’s rapper I felt it’s a song I could do well. From the first demo I checked as many tiny elements as possible and tried to reflect them in recording. For example, in the first verse there’s a sudden whisper to build tension — I paid special attention to those details.
A B-side you’re particularly attached to?
I think the others will pick this too [Laughs], but “Here for You.” Because it’s a fan song, I found myself immersed in it more than any other track. I also thought of several ideas related to it. I can’t share them yet, but we’ve prepared things as gifts for 42, so please look forward to it.
You’re known for jotting things down. What have you been noting lately?
I record whenever inspiration hits, so I’ve filled a ton of memo pads. While preparing the album — a time with many worries — I wrote letters to myself. So that someday, when I reopen the notebook, future me can write back to past me.
A moment in preparation when you truly “went all out”?
There was a moment when I felt complacent — as if I already knew the members well because we’d debuted. But I realized: I don’t fully know myself yet. If I slack on studying my members, I’ll be lacking as a leader later on. So more than dance or rap, I devoted myself to understanding each member better. Now I understand their tendencies, what they like, and what makes each of them feel proud.
What kind of person is Shinyu?
Someone in the process of finding out. [Laughs]
How do you hope this album will be remembered?
I hope it helps people recall what they love — and dive back into it.
What color did this album add to TWS?
Red — the color of passion. We threw ourselves into making this album and exchanged opinions more than ever, which brought us closer. In that sense.
You once said, “Happiness isn’t far away; it’s around you.” A recent moment that made you feel that anew?
When we went to Jeju to film our own content. [Laughs] Nothing grand — just eating together, talking, laughing by the sea. Those moments felt truly happy. As they stack up, I find a me who’s a little happier than yesterday.
Anything you want to say to the members?
I want to say thank you for sincerely making one another shine. I even told them that on our music-video set recently — but they always take it as a joke. [Laughs] Watching the monitor, when I see them dancing their hearts out in moments that aren’t even their parts, I feel it again: this isn’t mine alone — it’s something we all create with our combined strength.
You made your festival debut at ROCK IN JAPAN FESTIVAL 2025. How was it?
The energy was incredible. In practice I wondered if I could handle the physical load, but on stage, that energy made me forget the strain. As we met eyes, I realized we were all feeling the same thing.
Your goal with TWS?
There are so many. [Laughs] If I pick one: to become an artist remembered forever, at home and abroad.
DOHOON
“Like the seniors who set new milestones on Billboard as K-pop artists, I want to stand at the Billboard Music Awards someday.”
Selected as Billboard’s K-Pop Rookie of the Month in January — what’s changed for TWS over these nine months?
A lot changed musically and visually. Graduating from the school-uniform concept is the biggest. We changed even more noticeably around an awards show in September ahead of our October comeback. My hair used to be cut short above the brows; now both the bangs and back are longer. Internally, my mindset has become much more positive than last year.
Fitting for the member who loves fashion. [Laughs] First impression of “Head Shoulders Knees Toes”?
I felt confidence we could pull it off, but also some anxiety. The public loved TWS for refreshing concepts and bright melodies — would a powerful hip-hop track feel awkward? But everyone pushed themselves — vocals, expressions, choreography — and I think we achieved another step forward.
Anything you focused on performance-wise for the pre-release?
I used to try to dance at 100% power in every part. This time I focused on dynamics — knowing when to push and when to pull. Relaxing at the right time was actually harder, so I asked our choreographer more questions and increased practice to really capture the feel.
What did you feel hearing “OVERDRIVE” for the first time?
The intro felt great — you can sense how much thought went into it. The topline felt unlike anything I’d heard, which made me excited for the performance.
Your favorite B-side?
“Here For You.” I love songs that feel like encore tracks at concerts. I also participated in the lyrics, which makes it more special. The members suggested I try writing, and fortunately a portion of my words made it into the opening — so I’m even more attached to it.
A “play hard” moment for you?
Recording. Especially for the pre-release, since it’s a style TWS hadn’t done often, I worked hard to capture a rougher texture. The audio is the first way people perceive TWS before stage videos, and it shows our musical quality.
What does “play hard” mean to you?
Early on, I focused on executing what was given. This album let me add more of my opinions in dance and vocals — and in lyrics, too. Being able to add my own color bit by bit feels meaningful — not awkward, but welcome.
Outside album prep, what are you currently immersed in?
Taking my supplements regularly. [Laughs] It doesn’t always go as planned… During our Japan tour, I got sick and had to miss a show. I realized my immunity was weak, so I’m trying not to forget my vitamins.
You once said debut brought emotional lows. Any recent moments like that?
At debut, there were many dips. This year I’ve been consciously steering away from that direction — learning how to control my emotions rather than be swallowed by them. It’s all thanks to the members by my side.
How do you hope the public will take this mini?
I hope they see it as a stepping stone: “TWS can do this kind of music well, too.”
Festival debut at ROCK IN JAPAN FESTIVAL 2025 — how was it?
We rearranged songs for the festival and it was so fun! We played a sub-stage, and the experience lit a fire: I want TWS to work hard and stand on the main stage next time. [Laughs]
Your goal for TWS in the global music scene?
To go to the Billboard Music Awards. Like BTS, SEVENTEEN, and other seniors who wrote history and left new marks on Billboard — I want to follow in those footsteps.
HANJIN
“I want TWS to be a team that delivers good energy to people who love music all around the world. Until then — Hanjin, keep working harder!”
Since being named Billboard K-POP Rookie of the Month in January, what has changed the most for TWS over the past nine months?
We’ve grown not only in skill but in confidence. Back then, we were still wearing school uniforms — bright and fresh — but now we’ve naturally shifted toward a more mature look and mindset. What’s interesting is that the more we focused on doing the performance well rather than trying to look cool, the more our presence on stage started to shine. I think that’s the real sign of growth.
How does that transformation feel personally?
It feels like discovering a new side of myself. Before, we mostly showed the “boyish” version of TWS. But I’ve come to think that at some point, we need to show the audience a more masculine and composed image too — and it feels right that this change is happening naturally through our music, not as a forced concept.
You mentioned you’ve started talking less recently. Why?
(Laughs) I used to talk a lot. But over time, I realized that sometimes fewer words convey more. Being concise and clear helps people understand me better — whether it’s in team discussions or on set. I’m still learning, though. It’s harder than I thought!
How did you react when you first heard that the pre-release would be a hard-hitting hip-hop track?
At first, it was unfamiliar. I’ve always been drawn to soft, melodic lines — the kind of “refreshing” sound people associate with TWS. But trying something completely new actually made me feel alive. As we practiced, I learned to adjust my expressions, breathing, and rhythm to match the song’s intensity. In the end, I adapted faster than I expected, and now I really love the result.
This comeback included a stage with large groups of dancers — how did that change the experience?
It was incredible. The MV only shows a glimpse of it, but when we perform live, you can feel the full scale. Moving as one with so many dancers amplifies the impact — like a wave of energy sweeping across the stage. I hope people can feel that same rush when they see it in person.
Tell us about the title track “OVERDRIVE.” What does it mean to you?
To me, “OVERDRIVE” feels like a continuation of our debut song “First Encounter Doesn’t Go as Planned,” but told from a more mature perspective. It has the same refreshing brightness but carries more depth — like there’s momentum and confidence beneath the lightness. During recording, I tried not to make the vocals too clean, leaving a bit of natural texture to bring out emotion.
Was there a particular moment during the preparation of ‘play hard’ when you truly gave it your all?
Definitely during choreography practice for the title track. I’d stay in the studio after everyone left — repeating transitions and angle work over and over. I wanted every move, every shift of gaze, to feel intentional. It made me realize how even the smallest adjustments can completely change how convincing a stage feels.
You’re known to love photography. What have you captured recently?
I like photographing real, unfiltered moments — the kind that carry a bit of silence. After intense rehearsals, when we’re all catching our breath without saying a word — I find those moments beautiful. I always shoot with the iPhone’s Live Photo feature on, because it preserves a few seconds of sound and air. It feels like I’m recording not just the image, but the temperature of that moment.
If you could travel anywhere with your members after promotions, where would it be?
My hometown. We’ve gone to China for schedules, but never to simply rest or play. I’d love to show the members where I grew up — no cameras, no agenda, just us being together. That alone would mean a lot.
What have you been thinking about teamwork lately?
I’ve realized that teamwork is about the speed of trust. It’s not about one person leading and others following, but all of us moving at the same rhythm of belief in one another. Before every stage, I make sure to look each member in the eye — it’s like a silent way of syncing that rhythm.
And your long-term goal as TWS?
It hasn’t changed since debut: I want us to be a team that delivers hope and good energy to music fans all over the world. It’s a big dream, and maybe that’s why it takes time — but that just means we’ll keep working harder and longer to make it real.
Lastly, any message for your members — and for yourself?
To my members: You’re all amazing. Thank you for working so hard and staying by my side through everything. And to myself — keep going, keep growing, keep playing hard.
JIHOON
“I hope our music can give strength to someone’s life — even a little. I believe TWS can do that.”
We’re meeting again about nine months after our last encounter for Billboard’s K-Pop Rookie of the Month feature in January.
Being mentioned by Billboard has long been a dream of mine. [Laughs] I remember staring at that post for a long time. Since then, we’ve talked a lot about what we do best and the messages we want to share. I think, as a team, TWS can now cover a broader range.
A personal change over that time?
“I’ve become a little braver. I used to get scared whenever I tried something new, wondering, ‘Can I really do this well?’ But as we promoted, 42 kept telling me, ‘Jihoon, you’re doing well. You can trust yourself. If you can’t, trust us.’ Because of that support, that change took root inside me.”
As someone confident in dance, how did you feel when you first heard the pre-release track?
“My first thought was, ‘This is going to be fun.’ Since trainee days, I’ve always valued being an artist with a wide spectrum — in both vocals and dance. But a vague change can end up gaining nothing, so I wanted to treat the song with respect and prepare even more diligently.”
You also took part in creating the title-track choreography.
“I had suggested partial ideas before, but this was my first time preparing a full-song draft as a video and submitting it. It wasn’t easy — I was on tour at the time — but I really wanted to be involved. When a few parts of my ideas made it in, I felt truly proud.”
Where do your choreography ideas usually begin?
“I often organize the song’s feel in terms of color and saturation before I start. Laying out what a song ‘looks like’ in color and tone actually helps a lot when turning it into movement.”
Choreographing for all six members for the first time — what did you focus on most?
“We talked a lot about, ‘Why not?’ We’re shining, cool people — let’s not settle or set limits. We didn’t want to repeat what’s familiar. We also checked, ‘Is this the music and performance we can do best right now? Are our hearts ready?’ If a member felt something was lacking, I saw that as my own lack too, so I asked for lots of opinions and tried to reflect as many as possible.”
You must be proud — the choreo is excellent.
“I’m not someone who finds choreographing easy, and making choreography for ‘TWS’ felt like more than I deserved. Even so, parts I was confident would stick — the ‘this is definitely mine’ bits — and parts I kept revising right up to the day I filmed the draft both ended up being chosen. That made me really happy and proud.”
If this mini added a new color to TWS, what would it be?
“If our identity used to be sky blue and blue, I’d say we mixed in the opposite — red — and the other hues that follow with it. Like a palette where many colors blend. It might look a bit unfinished or imperfect, but that’s exactly why it feels even more beautiful to me.”
What reaction do you hope people have after listening to the 4th mini?
“I’d be happy if people simply recognize that we prepared this album with everything we’ve got. We worked with a deep longing, and I’m sure that will reach anyone watching our stages. And for 42 — on days when exhaustion piles up — I hope our songs give you the energy to say, ‘So what if I fail?’ and stand up again.”
Your trainee period was quite long. Even so, why are you glad you chose this path?
“Even 30 years from now, my answer will be the same: the members. With such a long trainee period, I met and parted with so many people. That’s why I know better than anyone how rare it is to have people like this by your side as members.”
A message to them?
“You’re the ones who are my strengths and my starting point. If I’ve managed to contribute even a little to the team — more than I deserve — the starting point of that is all of you. Thank you for staying by my side. I chose a future I knew nothing about, and now that future is my present — and because of you, I’m truly happy.”
Lastly, a goal you want to achieve with TWS?
“To be loved by even more people. TWS is truly a team overflowing with love, and I believe we can do that. I hope our music forms small points of connection and gives someone’s life even a little strength. And one specific dream… I want us to stand on the Coachella stage someday!” [Laughs]
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