TWICE’s Sana Confirmed to Make Acting Debut as Lead in New Korea-Japan Film “Nyangi”

TWICE member Sana is officially adding another title to her already impressive résumé. On July 8, JYP Entertainment confirmed that the Japanese-born K-pop star will make her acting debut as the female lead in the upcoming Korea-Japan co-produced film “Nyangi” (literal title). The announcement marks Sana’s first acting project since debuting with TWICE in 2015, opening an exciting new chapter in her 11-year entertainment career.

The news first emerged through local media reports claiming that Sana had been cast in the film. Shortly afterward, JYP Entertainment confirmed the reports, stating, “Sana will star as a lead in the film ‘Nyangi.'” While additional details about the plot and her character remain under wraps, the confirmation alone has generated enormous excitement among fans eager to see the idol take on a completely new creative challenge.

According to industry reports, Nyangi will be directed by Kwon Hyuk Chan and is being produced as a joint Korean and Japanese project. Sana is expected to star opposite acclaimed Japanese actor Takeru Satoh, one of Japan’s biggest film and television stars, known internationally for performances in the Rurouni Kenshin film series, First Love, and numerous hit romance dramas. Their pairing has already attracted attention, as it brings together two of the most recognizable entertainment figures from Korea and Japan.

For longtime ONCEs, Sana’s acting debut has been years in the making. Since joining TWICE through JYP Entertainment’s survival program SIXTEEN, she has become one of the group’s most beloved members thanks to her cheerful personality, expressive performances, and natural on-screen charisma. Beyond music, Sana has built a successful career as a television personality, luxury fashion ambassador, and host of the popular YouTube talk show “Sana’s Fridge Interview,” where her relaxed interviewing style earned praise from both fans and celebrity guests. Despite frequently appearing in music videos, commercials, and variety programs, she has never previously taken on a scripted acting role, making Nyangi a significant milestone in her career.

The announcement also continues a growing trend of TWICE members expanding into individual activities. In recent years, members have pursued solo music releases, acting, hosting, fashion partnerships, and unit promotions while maintaining the group’s global success. Sana herself remains an active member of TWICE and Japanese subunit MISAMO, both of which continue to enjoy strong international popularity. Earlier this year, TWICE celebrated another successful comeback and is currently meeting fans around the world through its ongoing world tour, while MISAMO continues to strengthen its presence in the Japanese market.

Fans across social media quickly celebrated the casting news, praising Sana’s natural screen presence and expressing excitement about seeing her explore a different side of her talent. Many also noted the significance of her debut coming through a Korea-Japan collaboration, a fitting project for the Osaka-born star who has built her career in South Korea while remaining immensely popular in her home country.

Although production details, filming schedules, and a release date have not yet been announced, anticipation is already building for Nyangi. As Sana prepares to step onto the big screen for the first time, fans can look forward to more casting updates, promotional materials, and behind-the-scenes glimpses as the film moves into production.