Introduction

Sana (사나), born Minatozaki Sana (湊崎紗夏) on December 29, 1996, in Osaka, Japan, is a Japanese singer and dancer best known as a member of TWICE, a K-pop girl group formed by JYP Entertainment in 2015.

As one of the group's vocalists, she is recognized for her gentle vocal tone, expressive performances and engaging stage personality. Her dancing abilities and natural connection with audiences contribute to her artistic identity. She is also part of MISAMO, a Japanese trio formed within TWICE.

Career

Sana grew up in Osaka, where she began taking singing and dancing lessons during her early teenage years. Discovered by JYP Entertainment representatives while shopping with friends, she successfully auditioned and joined the agency in April 2012. She subsequently moved to South Korea, where she underwent more than three years of artistic training.

In 2015, she participated in the survival show SIXTEEN, which led to the formation of TWICE. She officially debuted with the group on October 20, 2015, with the mini-album The Story Begins. The following year, her memorable delivery of the "Shy Shy Shy" line in Cheer Up became particularly popular, helping establish her public recognition in South Korea.

In July 2023, Sana joined Mina and Momo to form MISAMO, TWICE's first official subunit, which debuted in Japan with the mini-album Masterpiece. The trio continued with HAUTE COUTURE in 2024 before releasing its first Japanese studio album, PLAY, in February 2026. The project includes Ma Cherry, a solo track performed by Sana. She continues her international activities with TWICE alongside these projects.

Did You Know?

  • Background: Sana was born in Tennōji Ward, Osaka, Japan.
  • Discovery: she was scouted by JYP Entertainment representatives at a shopping mall in Osaka.
  • Training: she joined the agency in April 2012, on the same day as Momo.
  • Memorable moment: her "Shy Shy Shy" line in Cheer Up became one of the iconic moments of TWICE's early career.
  • MISAMO: she forms a trio with Mina and Momo, primarily focused on the Japanese music market.
  • Instagram: @m.by__sana.