Sana from TWICE is officially stepping into actress era. JYP Entertainment has confirmed that the Japanese member will make her first-ever acting debut as the female lead in the Korea-Japan film Nyangi (working English title Kitty), starring opposite Japanese top star Takeru Satoh.
The casting comes about 11 years after Sana debuted with TWICE, and it pairs one of K-pop’s most beloved idols with one of Japan’s most famous actors. For fans who know her as the bright “Shy Shy Shy” girl from CHEER UP, this project is already raising expectations that she could show a completely different side on the big screen.
TWICE Sana Acting Debut in Film Nyangi
According to JYP, Sana has accepted the lead role in Nyangi, a Korea-Japan joint film that will be staffed by a Korean production team and shot in Japan. The project is being produced by COX, NPIO, and Japanese company JACON, positioning it as a true cross-border collaboration. Nyangi, literally “Kitty,” is still using a working title, and detailed story information has not been revealed.
Sana’s co-star, Takeru Satoh, is widely known to global viewers for the live-action Rurouni Kenshin series and for Kamen Rider Den O. In Korean and Japanese coverage he is often introduced as a top star in romance projects, which immediately raises the profile of Sana’s debut. The film will be directed by Kwon Hyuk-chan, whose past credits include hit K-dramas like Secret Garden, A Gentleman’s Dignity, and Lie to Me.
Born in Osaka, Sana moved to Korea after being scouted by JYP, then debuted with TWICE in October 2015 through the survival show Sixteen. She quickly became a fan favorite thanks to her signature “Shy Shy Shy” line and bright, playful energy on stage and variety shows. Nyangi marks her official shift into scripted acting for the first time.
From “Shy Shy Shy” Idol to Potential Romance Lead
Sana’s public image so far has been built on cuteness, spontaneity, and variety show charm. Sharing top billing in a feature film from a romance-focused director suggests a more grounded, emotionally layered side that fans have not fully seen. Under Kwon Hyuk-chan, whose dramas are known for swoony chemistry and polished visuals, her performance will likely lean on subtle expression rather than idol-stage exaggeration.
Co-leading with a major Japanese film star is also a different path from the small cameos that many idols start with. It signals that producers see Sana as someone who can carry a narrative, not just appear as a musical guest. If she lands this, it could open doors to more Korean films, Japanese dramas, and endorsement deals that highlight her as an actress, not only as a singer.
TWICE’s Acting Wave and What Comes Next
Sana is not the only member testing the waters of scripted work. Dahyun has already drawn attention through her film remake of You Are the Apple of My Eye and follow-up dramas, while Jeongyeon is set for her own big-screen debut in New Recruit: The Movie. Together, these projects suggest a wider strategy for TWICE’s second decade, expanding individual careers while keeping group activities active.
The timeline around Sana’s new role is busy. Casting news broke on July 8 2026, just days before TWICE wrap their THIS IS FOR world tour with three shows at Seoul’s KSPO Dome from July 10 to 12. Filming for Nyangi is scheduled to take place in Japan in the second half of 2026, so ONCEs can expect an intense schedule as she balances movie work with ongoing group commitments.
Story details, Sana’s character type, and the film’s release window have not yet been announced. If production follows a typical film cycle, fans may see first stills or a teaser sometime after shooting begins, but nothing is confirmed. Until then, ONCEs will be watching TWICE and JYP channels closely for behind-the-scenes photos, casting updates, and the moment Sana first appears on screen as a full-fledged actress.