Sana (singer)
A Japanese singer whose radiant energy and signature charm became a global pillar of K-pop phenomenon TWICE, bridging cultures with a single smile.
Born 1996 (age 30)·Japanese singer·Birthday: December 29·Millennials
Biography
Sana Minatozaki left her home in Osaka, Japan, as a teenager, embarking on a journey that would place her at the heart of K-pop's global expansion. She joined JYP Entertainment as a trainee, enduring years of rigorous preparation before her destiny was sealed in 2015 on the survival show 'Sixteen.' Emerging as a member of the newly formed girl group TWICE, Sana's unique appeal—a blend of infectious optimism, sharp wit, and a famously cute 'chewy' speaking style—quickly made her a standout. Her ability to connect with fans, often through heartfelt and playful communication, turned her into a beloved international icon. Beyond the group's chart-topping hits, she helped form the first official TWICE subunit, MiSaMo, with fellow Japanese members Mina and Momo, further solidifying her role as a cultural ambassador who seamlessly blends her Japanese heritage with her life as a Korean pop star.
Millennials
1981–1996
The first digital natives. Grew up with the internet, came of age during 9/11 and the 2008 crash. Highly educated, deeply indebted, slower to marry and buy houses. Redefined work, identity, and what it means to be an adult.
Sana was born in 1996, placing them squarely in the Millennials. The events that shaped this generation — the internet revolution, 9/11, and the 2008 financial crisis — shaped the world they entered and the choices available to them.
#1 When Sana Was Born
The biggest hits of 1996
#1 Movie
Independence Day
Best Picture
The English Patient
#1 TV Show
ER
Sana's Life & Times
The world at every milestone
1996Born
Dolly the sheep cloned
Gas: $1.23/galHome: $99,700Min wage: $4.75/hrPresident: Bill Clinton"Macarena" — Los del RioBest Picture: The English Patient
2001Started school
September 11 attacks transform the world
Gas: $1.46/galHome: $126,400Min wage: $5.15/hrPresident: George W. Bush"Hanging by a Moment" — LifehouseBest Picture: A Beautiful Mind
2009Became a teenager
Michael Jackson dies; Bitcoin created
Gas: $2.35/galHome: $148,500Min wage: $7.25/hrPresident: Barack Obama"Boom Boom Pow" — The Black Eyed PeasBest Picture: The Hurt Locker
2012Could drive
Curiosity rover lands on Mars; Sandy Hook shooting
Gas: $3.64/galHome: $143,200Min wage: $7.25/hrPresident: Barack Obama"Somebody That I Used to Know" — GotyeBest Picture: Argo
2014Could vote
Russia annexes Crimea; Ebola outbreak in West Africa
Gas: $3.37/galHome: $160,700Min wage: $7.25/hrPresident: Barack Obama"Happy" — Pharrell WilliamsBest Picture: Birdman
2017Turned 21
#MeToo movement; solar eclipse crosses the US
Gas: $2.42/galHome: $195,000Min wage: $7.25/hrPresident: Donald Trump"Shape of You" — Ed SheeranBest Picture: The Shape of Water
2026Turned 30
Gas: $3.91/galPresident: Donald Trump
Key Achievements
- Debuted as a member of TWICE, one of the best-selling K-pop girl groups of all time.
- Is a founding member of TWICE's first official subunit, MiSaMo, formed in 2023.
- Has co-written lyrics for several TWICE songs, including 'Turn It Up' and 'Sweet Talker.'
Did You Know?
Her famous catchphrase "Shy shy shy" from the 'TT' music video was largely improvised.
She is known for being a dedicated 'foodie' and often shares her culinary adventures.
Sana has a pet dog named Coco, who frequently appears on her social media.
“Even if I'm having a hard time, if I see ONCE (TWICE's fans) smiling, I can smile too.”
