Like Ooh-Ahh Debut

Lore & Background

In the Twice universe, the 'Like Ooh-Ahh' debut is a legendary origin story, often retold by fans as the moment nine distinct talents—Nayeon, Jeongyeon, Momo, Sana, Jihyo, Mina, Dahyun, Chaeyoung, and Tzuyu—first united under the banner of JYP Entertainment. The music video's zombie apocalypse setting is not merely a gimmick but a metaphor for the undying energy and resilience of the group, as they dance through chaos with infectious smiles. This arc establishes the core themes of Twice's identity: bright, energetic performances that subvert darker genres, and a focus on the chemistry between members as their greatest strength.

In Their Own Story

The night air in Seoul was thick with the scent of rain and rust. Nine figures stood in an abandoned amusement park, their breath misting in the cold. A zombie, its skin pale and eyes hollow, lurched toward them, but the girls didn't flinch. Instead, they began to move—a synchronized wave of pink and white, their laughter cutting through the eerie silence. The zombie paused, tilting its head as if confused by the joy. Then, as the beat dropped, they all danced together, the undead and the living, in a strange, beautiful harmony. This was their debut, a promise that even in a world of decay, love and music could still thrive—and that Twice would never be afraid to turn a nightmare into a party.

Reader's Guide

The 'Like Ooh-Ahh Debut' arc is a single-episode introduction that serves as the catalyst for Twice's entire narrative. It begins with the release of the 'Like Ooh-Ahh' music video, which immediately distinguishes Twice from other rookie groups by its high-production zombie theme. The arc's turning point is the song's viral success, propelling them into the public eye and setting the stage for their 'Cheer Up' era. This debut matters because it establishes Twice's core identity: a group that embraces fun, chaos, and emotional depth, often using horror or fantasy as a backdrop for heartwarming stories. It connects to later arcs by introducing the members' individual personalities—like Nayeon's rabbit-like energy or Tzuyu's stoic charm—which are expanded in subsequent releases. For early viewers, this arc is a spoiler-free foundation, but later seasons reveal that the zombie motif foreshadows darker themes in 'Fancy' and 'Feel Special'—a hint that even the brightest smiles can hide deeper stories.

Did You Know?

• The music video for 'Like Ooh-Ahh' was filmed in an abandoned amusement park in South Korea, adding to its eerie yet playful atmosphere.
• The song was originally offered to another group before being given to Twice, making their debut a last-minute triumph.
• The zombie makeup in the video was designed to be cute rather than scary, reflecting Twice's signature blend of charm and edge.
• The debut stage for 'Like Ooh-Ahh' was performed just days after the video's release, marking the first live appearance of the full nine-member lineup.
• The choreography includes a zombie-like 'shambling' step during the chorus, a subtle nod to the undead theme that fans love to point out.