Choi Ye-na

Choi Ye-na, known professionally as Yena, is a South Korean singer and actress. She first gained national attention as a contestant on Mnet's survival show Produce 48, where she finished fourth and earned a spot in the project girl group Iz*One. After Iz*One disbanded in 2021, Yena launched a solo career under YH Entertainment, debuting in January 2022 with the EP Smiley. The title track, a sunny pop anthem, became a viral hit and established her signature "bubbly yet feisty" persona.

Since going solo, Yena has released several EPs, including Smartphone and Hate XX, and has branched into acting with roles in web dramas like The Witch Store. She is also a regular fixture on variety shows, where her sharp wit and comedic timing have made her a fan favorite. As of 2026, Yena continues to perform and record, with a growing international fanbase and millions of monthly listeners on streaming platforms. [edit]

Choi Ye-na was born on September 29, 1999, in Gil-dong, a neighborhood in Seoul's Gangdong District. She grew up in the South Korean capital, though details about her family and childhood remain largely private. What is known is that she developed an early passion for performing, which led her to pursue training as an idol.

Before appearing on Produce 48, Yena trained under YH Entertainment. The survival show, which aired in 2018, brought together 96 trainees from various agencies to compete for a spot in a project girl group. Yena's charisma, dance skills, and distinctive voice helped her stand out, and she ultimately secured a place in the final lineup. Her journey on the show, from a relatively unknown trainee to a debut member, is a story of perseverance and talent that fans still reference today. [edit]

Yena's career took off when she debuted as a member of Iz*One in October 2018. In the group, she served as the main rapper, lead vocalist, and lead dancer, contributing to hits like "La Vie en Rose" and "Fiesta." When Iz*One disbanded in April 2021, Yena quickly pivoted to a solo path, signing with YH Entertainment and releasing her debut EP Smiley on January 17, 2022. The title track, with its infectious chorus and confident lyrics, became a viral sensation, earning her a dedicated fanbase and establishing her as a solo act to watch.

She followed up with the EP Smartphone later that year, which showcased a more synth-heavy sound, and the album Hate XX in 2023, which explored edgier themes. Beyond music, Yena has expanded into acting, starring in the web drama The Witch Store, and has become a sought-after variety show guest, appearing on programs like HyeMiLeeYeChaePa. In 2026, she performed at the 5th Blue Dragon Series Awards and was confirmed for the 2026 The Fact Music Awards, underscoring her continued relevance in the industry. [edit]

Yena's public image is defined by her sharp wit, honesty, and versatility. She is often described as a "four-dimensional" personality, a term used in K-pop to describe someone quirky and unpredictable. Her variety show appearances, where she doesn't hesitate to poke fun at herself and others, have endeared her to audiences. On stage, she exudes confidence, blending a cute image with a feisty edge. Fans appreciate her authenticity, and she is known for being straightforward in interviews, often sharing candid thoughts that other idols might avoid. Her social media presence, particularly on Instagram, reflects this playful yet genuine personality. [edit]

Choi Ye-na stands as the 61st most famous person in South Korea, a position she currently holds after shifting down from 60th place in the previous cycle. Her global footprint extends into the Japanese music scene where she ranks as the 17th most famous person in J-Pop / J-Rock, maintaining her standing steady against fierce competition. These placements within the iFANN Global Fame Rankings reflect a career that has successfully transcended her origins in survival shows to establish a distinct solo identity. The metrics capture her sustained visibility across media coverage, search activity, and consumption signals worldwide.

While her former group IZ*ONE boasted the official fandom WIZ*ONE, Yena's current fanbase operates without a single designated name recognized by management or the industry. Supporters often refer to themselves simply as fans or through various sub-communities on platforms like Twitter and Weverse. Despite the lack of a formal title, this community demonstrates intense dedication, organizing streaming campaigns for her solo tracks and mobilizing social media support during variety show appearances. A defining ritual of their connection is the appreciation of her "Queen of Gestures" persona, where fans eagerly decode the spontaneous hand movements and expressions she adds to her choreography. This unscripted communication style has fostered an intimate bond, turning her performances into a shared language between artist and audience that feels uniquely personal even without a centralized organization.[edit]

Choi Ye-na performs under her given name, shortening it simply to Yena. She shares her life with a pet dog named Mongsil, a frequent star on her social media channels. A self-proclaimed lover of heat, she regularly challenges herself to consume increasingly spicy dishes during variety show segments. Her talent extends beyond singing to include skilled impersonations of various celebrities, often serving as the highlight reel for cast members' laughter. When not working, she immerses herself in mobile video games, capable of playing for hours if given the chance. Fans often recount the legend of her "Produce 48" journey, where her fourth-place finish marked an immediate arrival as a top-tier talent. Stories persist about her role as the main rapper, specifically how her performance in "Secret Story of the Swan" silenced critics regarding female rappers in girl groups. Another enduring tale highlights her reputation as the group's truth-teller, known for blunt answers on air that other idols might dodge. Post-disbandment, the lore surrounding her friendship circle continues to grow, fueled by her habit of paying for group dinners and keeping the IZ*ONE bond alive through regular gatherings.

A deeply personal chapter of her history came to light in August 2026 when she revealed she battled pediatric cancer as a child, a struggle severe enough that her parents sold their gimbap business to cover hospital bills. This disclosure transformed her public image from a talented performer into a symbol of resilience. Her candid nature also shines on screen; during the same month on the SBS variety program "My Remaining Love," she famously expressed frustration over a romantic storyline, stating she would have quit midway due to moral objections. On stage, she remains the "Queen of Gestures," adding unique, improvised hand movements to her routines that have become a signature way for her to connect with audiences without words.[edit]

Details about Yena's family are scarce, as she tends to keep her private life away from the spotlight. She has mentioned in interviews that her parents were supportive of her dream to become a singer, even when she was a trainee. Yena has an older brother, but his name and occupation are not publicly known. She also has a pet dog named Mongsil, who frequently appears in her Instagram posts and has become a beloved figure among her fans. [edit]

Yena is associated with YH Entertainment, her management agency since 2021. She is also connected to her former Iz*One members, including Choi Yu-jin and Jang Won-young, with whom she maintains friendships. In the entertainment industry, she has collaborated with various producers and appeared alongside comedians on variety shows, building a reputation as a versatile entertainer. [edit]

As of 2026, Yena has not publicly confirmed any romantic relationships. Throughout her career, she has been linked to a few fellow idols and celebrities, but these rumors have never been substantiated. She has stated in interviews that she is focused on her career and has little time for dating. Her relationship status remains single, and she has not been reported to be seeing anyone. [edit]

iFANN currently estimates Choi Ye-na's net worth at $10 Million in 2026, a figure that reflects her successful transition from group member to solo artist. Her primary income sources include music sales, streaming revenue, and concert performances. As a soloist, she has released several EPs that have performed well commercially, and her tours have drawn sizable audiences across Asia. In addition to music, Yena earns from brand endorsements and advertising deals. She has partnered with various beauty and fashion brands, capitalizing on her stylish image. Her acting roles, though not yet a major part of her career, also contribute to her income. Yena's net worth has grown steadily since her solo debut, and with ongoing projects in 2026, including variety show appearances and award show performances, it shows no signs of slowing down.[edit]

Choi Ye-na has not yet won any individual awards as of 2026, though she has been part of nominated groups and has received recognition for her solo work. [edit]