Do the Korean Members of TWICE Have Much of an Accent When Singing in Japanese?

Recently, there has been a lot of discussion on the proficiency of TWICE's Korean members, particularly Nayeon, Jeongyeon, and Jihyo, in singing in Japanese. While they have shown remarkable skill and proficiency in their Japanese performances, some listeners might notice a slight accent. This article will explore the reasons behind their accents, their vocal training, and how their performances resonate with Japanese audiences. Additionally, we will delve into the unique phenomenon of non-native singers singing in a new language and the expectations of the audience.

Native Korean Phonetic Influences

It is common for non-native speakers to have a slight accent when singing in a language that is not their native tongue. This is especially true for TWICE's members, such as Nayeon, Jeongyeon, and Jihyo, who are native Korean speakers. Their accents can be attributed to the inherent phonetic influences of the Korean language, which can differ significantly from Japanese. Despite this, their vocal training and dedication to mastering the Japanese language have allowed them to deliver performances that resonate well with their Japanese audiences.

Subtle Accents and Performance Emotion

While their accents might be noticeable to some listeners, they are generally quite subtle. Furthermore, their ability to convey emotion and energy through their performances often overshadows any significant accent. Their performances are marked by a high level of authenticity and emotional depth, making their accents more of a characteristic flavor rather than a hindrance.

Comparison with Other Non-Native Singers

The phenomenon of non-native singers singing in a new language is not unique to TWICE. Many artists from different parts of the world have faced similar challenges. For example, it is not uncommon for American singers to have some accent when singing in English, as English has several regions with distinct accents. Notable exceptions to this rule include English singers like Morrissey, whose unique vocal style and delivery stand out.

Unique Collaboration with Morrissey

The thought of a collaboration between Morrissey, known for his distinctive and powerful vocals, and TWICE is intriguing. Morrissey is famous for his English and Welsh roots, and his performances often carry a distinct accent. In contrast, TWICE's members bring their Korean accents to the table, which could create an interesting mix. Morrissey himself has the line, "Everything is terrible!" which, when sung by Dahyun, would translate to something like "BIIIII-BIMMMM-BAPPPPPPP!" with a Korean accent.

Japanese Listener Perspective

Considering the perspective of the Japanese listener, the overall experience is a mix of familiarity and novelty. While a majority of their songs are in English, which might be expected for global artists, the Japanese listener still enjoys the unique flavor of the Korean accents. The use of English in their performances adds a global touch, while the Korean accents add a personal touch, making their music more relatable and engaging for both Japanese and international audiences.