Jihyo Is Learning To Slow Down With Shenseea Collab, ‘Distant Lover’

Jihyo Finds Balance in Collaborative Cross-Cultural Project with Shenseea for “Distant Lover”

Jihyo and Shenseea “Distant Lover”

Jihyo, the TWICE leader known for her relentless work ethic, has embarked on a cross-cultural collaboration that allows her to explore a slower, more intentional creative process.

In May, Jihyo featured on Jenevieve’s R&B track “Hvnly,” followed by a World Cup anthem collaboration with French Montana, LUDMILLA, RedOne, and Adriana C. Now, she pairs with Jamaican star Shenseea on “Distant Lover,” a fusion of K-pop, dancehall, and Afrobeats addressing modern relationships. The track emerged from Jihyo’s preference after hearing the demo during her solo album production meetings.

During a virtual interview, Jihyo described her vocal approach: “I wanted to complement rather than compete with Shenseea’s powerful voice. Using a softer tone made the song dynamic.” Though recorded separately, the duo met during filming, where oceanic visuals created an empowering synergy.

“She was incredibly warm,” Jihyo recalled. “The energy was relaxed yet joyful—initially, I promoted myself to come to others fast, but in the process, I learned to take more time to up the creativity level and let things unfold naturally. Working with Shenseea taught me to let go.” This contrasts with her typical K-pop schedule, where efficiency with TWICE’s nine members leaves little room for spontaneity.

Jihyo reflects on K-pop’s global evolution: “When I debuted, PSY was the only breakout icon. Now, platforms like Instagram and BTS’s influence opened doors.” She expresses excitement for future multicultural collaborations, naming Rihanna and Shakira as aspirational partners, and shares a personal dream of creating a jazzy R&B album.

Jihyo X Sheensea “Distant Lover”

Jihyo, whose vibrant solo career complements TWICE’s group dynamics, credits social media as pivotal in K-pop’s international rise: “Content channels and TikTok challenges amplified reach in ways we never imagined.” Her recent Netflix appearance in KPop Demon Hunters with songs by TWICE and Jeongyeon/Chaeyoung demonstrates growing cross-platform opportunities. However, Jihyo prioritizes rest after a year-and-a-half tour cycle, stating, “Fans deserve our best, not burnout.”

Jihyo x Sheensea “Distant Lover”

As for next steps, Jihyo remains selective but open to partnerships: “Collaborations with pre-developed concepts are efficient, though I prefer to first guide the music, only kept on standby in case some new projects spark up when I get a chance.”

“Distant Lover” is now available on all major streaming platforms, with physical editions at select retailers.

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