Momo

Lore & Background

Born in Kyoto and raised in a household that valued discipline and performance, Hirai Momo carried a dancer's instincts into her early teens before JYP Entertainment's audition circuit brought her to Seoul. Her path to TWICE was not the shortest; she trained for years alongside the members who would become her sisters in the group, sharpening a technique that blends sharp isolations with a fluid, almost cinematic quality. When TWICE finally debuted in 2015, Momo was already the member choreographers leaned on to make every formation hit with precision and fire.

Within the group's internal hierarchy of roles, Momo is the dancer who turns a song into a physical story. Fans and fellow members alike note that her lines carry a weight and intentionality that elevate even the most playful choreography. Her high-pitched voice, often used for ad-libs and call-and-response moments, adds a bright, almost childlike contrast to the power of her movement. In variety content and behind-the-scenes footage, she is the member who laughs loudest, eats the most, and quietly makes sure everyone else is comfortable—a grounding presence in a group known for its whirlwind energy.

Her sub-unit work deepens this identity. Paired with Sana, Momo explores a softer, more playful musical space; paired with Tzuyu, the duo leans into a sleek, confident pop aesthetic. Each pairing lets a different facet of her artistry surface, reinforcing her place not just as TWICE's engine but as a versatile artist in her own right.

Reader's Guide

TWICE's sub-unit projects let member pairings explore distinct musical and visual identities outside the main group's formula. Momo & Sana (MomoSana) lean into a bright, playful pop aesthetic, often incorporating duet choreography that highlights their contrasting energies—Sana's soft expressiveness against Momo's sharp, percussive lines. Momo & Tzuyu (MomoTzuyu) take a sleeker, more confident tone, with choreography that emphasizes clean lines and a cool, editorial visual style. Both pairings have appeared in special music content and variety segments, giving fans a chance to see the members in more intimate, character-driven settings. Known for organized streaming campaigns, anniversary celebrations, and an almost familial devotion to each member, ONCE culture blends K-pop fandom traditions with a uniquely warm, inclusive identity. Lightstick waves, synchronized fan chants, and elaborate birthday projects are staples. Momo, in particular, is a community favorite—her Thai heritage gives her a special place among international fans, and her reputation for hard work and genuine kindness makes her a frequent subject of fan art, edit videos, and celebratory threads. The community's identity is less about idol worship and more about shared joy: a global family that gathers around music, movement, and the simple pleasure of a well-executed choreography line.

Did You Know?

• Momo's real name is Hirai Momo, a Japanese name that reflects her Kyoto roots—a city known for its traditional culture and serene beauty, much like her graceful yet powerful dance style.
• Despite being the group's main dancer, Momo is also recognized as a sub-vocalist, contributing high-pitched ad-libs and harmonies that add a bright, distinctive layer to TWICE's vocal arrangements.
• Momo is one of the few members of TWICE from outside South Korea, and her Japanese background has made her a cultural bridge, inspiring a large and dedicated community of Japanese and international ONCE fans.