TZUYU

TZUYU is a Taiwanese singer and dancer. A member of the globally successful K-pop group TWICE, she is known for her graceful dancing, striking presence, and significant contributions to the group's many hit songs and lively performances. As the group's lead dancer and maknae, Tzuyu has been instrumental in TWICE's rise to international fame. She embarked on a solo career with the release of her EP abouTZU, showcasing her individual artistry. Tzuyu's distinctive style blends her Taiwanese heritage with her K-pop career, and fans appreciate her dedication and ability to connect with diverse audiences. She continues to expand her artistic endeavors, notably taking on more prominent solo spots during TWICE's tours, such as her performance of 'Dive In,' which adds a personal dimension to their concerts.[edit]

Chou Tzu-yu, known by her stage name Tzuyu, was born on June 14, 1999, in the East District of Tainan, Taiwan. Growing up in her hometown of Tainan, she began her journey in dance early, training at a local academy where she honed her natural talent and developed the skills that would shape her future career. Her dedication to dance became evident as she built a strong foundation in her formative years.

In 2012, at the age of just 13, Tzuyu's exceptional talent caught the attention of JYP Entertainment scouts during a workshop held in Tainan. This pivotal discovery led to her relocation to South Korea later that same year to pursue her dreams. She embarked on a rigorous three-year trainee period, dedicating herself to intensive practice in dance, vocals, and performance. During this demanding time, she also attended Hanlim Multi Arts School in South Korea, balancing her academic pursuits with her demanding training schedule.

Her perseverance culminated in a major breakthrough in 2015. Tzuyu participated in the competitive reality television show Sixteen, where she captivated audiences and ultimately earned the highest number of votes. This crucial achievement secured her a coveted spot in the new girl group TWICE, marking the transformation of her early efforts and unwavering commitment into a significant opportunity and the start of her professional career. [edit]

Tzuyu's career with TWICE kicked off in 2015 with their debut EP The Story Begins and the hit single 'Like Ooh-Ahh,' which set records as the first K-pop debut to reach 100 million YouTube views. She quickly became known as the group's visual and lead dancer, adding her flair to songs like 'Cheer Up' in 2016 and their ongoing tours.

By 2024, Tzuyu stepped into the spotlight with her solo EP abouTZU, including the lead track 'Run Away' that topped charts in Taiwan. Her 2025 collaboration 'Blink' with Corbyn Besson expanded her reach, and in 2026, she features solo segments like 'Dive In' on TWICE's tours, building on the group's success as the first major K-pop act with a Taiwanese member. [edit]

Tzuyu is widely regarded as TWICE's visual center, celebrated for her elegant, doll-like features and graceful stage presence. Media and fans often describe her as a 'visual queen,' with a refined aesthetic that blends sophistication and approachability. Her signature style leans toward polished, feminine fashion, frequently featuring soft colors and classic silhouettes. On stage, she exudes powerful charisma, contrasting with her quiet, reserved off-stage personality. TWICE's official fandom name is ONCE, and Tzuyu's personal supporters are sometimes called 'Tzuniverse.' Fan culture includes blue-themed events for her birthday and support trucks during solo promotions. Her social media voice is warm yet restrained, sharing mostly professional photos and occasional personal updates. She maintains a grounded image, known for enjoying simple Taiwanese foods and staying close to her family.[edit]

The bond between Tzuyu and her supporters is defined by a collective identity rather than individual separation. As the visual center and maknae of TWICE, she is championed by ONCE, a global organization known for its disciplined mobilization during major career milestones. This unity was on full display during the September 2024 release of her debut solo EP, abouTZU, where fans coordinated efforts to drive chart performance immediately upon launch. The fandom's devotion extends beyond music sales to emotional investment in her longevity; when news surfaced in July 2026 regarding potential agency departures for several members, including Tzuyu after eleven years at JYP Entertainment, the community reacted with intense engagement, turning contract renewal talks into a defining narrative of loyalty and uncertainty. Her birthday on July 14 serves as an annual focal point, flooding social media with digital tributes that highlight her status as a cultural icon. While she maintains a reserved off-stage persona, her on-stage charisma and technical dance prowess have cemented a legacy of growth from a teenage trainee to a mature solo artist. This enduring popularity places her firmly within the upper echelons of global entertainment visibility. According to the iFANN Global Fame Rankings, TZUYU is currently the 8th most famous person in J-Pop / J-Rock, a position holding steady through the latest cycle.[edit]

Before securing her spot in TWICE via the 2015 survival show Sixteen, Tzuyu garnered early exposure by appearing on tracks by GOT7 and Miss A. She earned the highest number of votes on Sixteen, guaranteeing her debut. Her family owns dermatology clinics and coffee shops in southern Taiwan, reflecting a comfortable upbringing that supported her rigorous training. She became the third member of TWICE to release a solo project with the EP abouTZU in 2024. A defining chapter in her recent history involves the 2026 contract renewal discussions, which created a narrative of transition following Jeongyeon's departure from the agency earlier that month. Fans often recount the story of her "Great Departure Talks" as a moment that tested the group's future while highlighting her decade-long commitment to the industry. Her journey from a 13-year-old trainee in Tainan to a master's degree holder in applied psychology is a core piece of K-pop mythology, illustrating a rare arc of personal and professional evolution under public scrutiny.[edit]

Tzuyu shares a close bond with her family in Taiwan, including her parents who run dermatology clinics and coffee shops, and her older brother. They keep things private despite her fame, offering her a sense of stability amid her busy career. [edit]

Tzuyu works closely with her TWICE bandmates, such as Nayeon and Jihyo, on group projects and performances. She's collaborated with artists like Peniel from BtoB and Corbyn Besson, and her ties to her Taiwanese family remain a key part of her life. [edit]

Tzuyu has kept her romantic life extremely private throughout her career. As of 2026, no confirmed public romantic relationships, engagements, marriages, or children have been reported by credible sources. She has been the subject of occasional baseless online rumors common for high-profile idols, but none have been substantiated by multiple reputable outlets or acknowledged by Tzuyu or her agency. Her latest reported status as of 2026 is single, with no current partner or children.[edit]

As of 2026, research by the iFANN Editorial Team estimates Tzuyu's net worth at $10 Million. This figure accumulates primarily from her extensive work with TWICE and her individual solo ventures. Revenue streams include album sales, global tour revenues, and lucrative endorsement deals with fashion and beauty brands that leverage her elegant image. The 2024 release of abouTZU significantly boosted earnings through streaming numbers and merchandise sales. Ongoing activities in 2026, such as world tours and collaborations like 'Blink' in 2025, continue to expand her financial portfolio. Her family's background in business may also facilitate strategic investments, contributing to her overall wealth. Since her debut in 2015, her income has grown steadily alongside the group's international success.[edit]

Tzuyu has celebrated wins like the Best New Performer Award with TWICE in 2016. She shares a perfect score record in ISAC Archery and ranked in TC Candler's Most Beautiful Faces, hitting 13th in 2015, 8th in 2016, 3rd in 2017, and 1st in 2019. [edit]