“I’m here with four members of one of the top K-pop girl groups of our time… the voices behind the hit song ‘Take Down’ from Kpop Demons Hunter—please welcome TWICE!”
This seemingly enthusiastic intro at the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show 2025 became the unexpected trigger for a wave of debate online. While fans were thrilled to see TWICE —Nayeon, Jihyo, Momo, and Tzuyu—stand alongside global fashion icons, many questioned why the MC had to refer to an animated film project to identify the group.
The mention of Kpop Demons Hunter, a niche animation where TWICE lent their vocals, was viewed by some as a subtle indication of their limited brand recognition in the U.S. For netizens, it was a mixed bag: some praised their international visibility, while others argued the introduction “exposed their limited mainstream awareness.”
“If this was BLACKPINK, would they need an extra introduction?” — a fan on X questioned.
In contrast, longtime fans defended the group’s presence, emphasizing TWICE’s sold-out concerts and dedicated global fandom. Yet, critics pointed out that despite commercial success, TWICE‘s “household name” status in the West lags behind their contemporaries.
Stylistically, TWICE dazzled on the pink carpet with a refined black-and-white aesthetic. Nayeon stunned in a cut-out dress, Jihyo exuded mystery in lace, Momo embraced bold masculinity with a tailored suit, and Tzuyu turned heads in a white cut-out gown that balanced grace and allure.
Their on-stage performance was youthful and energetic, staying true to Victoria’s Secret’s revamped image of “bold femininity.” Despite impressive visuals, live vocals drew criticism—particularly Tzuyu’s—for lacking power and stability.
Still, many acknowledged the group’s effort to bridge the East-West gap. As K-pop continues its global push, TWICE’s participation in the show marks a symbolic step—albeit not without scrutiny.
“They’re not fading, they’re evolving,” one comment summarized—perhaps a fair reflection of TWICE’s current chapter.
While their golden era in Korea may have peaked, TWICE‘s journey into global markets like the U.S. shows a group unafraid to redefine success on their own terms.
Sources: Victoria’s Secret 2025 event footage
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