Many K-pop idols lead glamorous and luxurious lives, often sporting high-end products and the latest fashion trends. While some stars end up rich because of their hard work, there are a few idols who were born with a silver spoon.
However, that’s not to say these idols aren’t hard workers because, despite their background, they still show dedication to their careers on and off the stage. Here are 10 K-pop idols who came from a wealthy background:
Siwon (Super Junior)
Super Junior’s (슈퍼주니어) Siwon (시원) has long been rumoured to come from a rich family. The idol’s father was reportedly the former CEO of a well-known pharmaceutical company in South Korea. His family also allegedly owns the Hyundai Department Store, one of South Korea’s major department store chains. Despite the inside jokes about his affluent background, Siwon is known for his philanthropic endeavours, having joined many UNICEF campaigns since 2010.
Nichkhun (2PM)
Long-time fans of K-pop would know about the rumours of 2PM (투피엠) Nichkhun’s (닉쿤) wealth. During his childhood, the Thai idol attended the Whanganui Collegiate School in New Zealand, recognised as one of the most prestigious schools in the country. One of the school’s famous alumni was Prince Edward, the Duke of Edinburgh. As for his family, his mother, Yenjit Horvejkul, is the CEO of Union Medical, Thailand’s leading pharmaceutical distributor.
Sooyoung (Girls’ Generation)
Girls’ Generation’s (소녀시대) Sooyoung’s (최수영) wealth may surprise even fans of the idol, given her humble personality. However, it was reported that her grandfather is the CEO of a South Korean architectural firm that helped construct the iconic Seoul Arts Centre. Meanwhile, her father is allegedly the chairman of a production and construction company. Sooyoung’s family also reportedly owns many luxurious properties in Cheongdam-dong, an affluent neighbourhood in Seoul.
Mark Tuan (GOT7)
The GOT7 (갓세븐) members once said that Mark (마크) would still be rich even if he wasn’t an idol, indicating his family’s wealth. It’s known that Mark’s father is a retired businessman and that the Tuan family also own several properties in the upscale neighbourhood of Beverly Hills, Los Angeles. As an example of his rich upbringing, Mark once reportedly flew from Thailand to Switzerland just to go snowboarding.
Sungjae (BTOB)
BTOB (비투비) member Sungjae (성재) may be known for his goofy and down-to-earth personality, but the idol-singer comes from a well-off family. His father is the CEO of an IT company that supplies semiconductors, with a reported KRW10 billion revenue (approximately RM31 million) in 2019. His maternal grandmother was a pioneer in importing silk red carp to South Korea, while his grandmother runs a fishing farm in Paju.
Jennie (BLACKPINK)
Throughout her career, Jennie (제니) from BLACKPINK (블랙핑크) has sparked many rumours about her family’s wealth. It was reported that her mother is a shareholder and significant stakeholder in CJ E&M, one of South Korea’s most prominent entertainment content companies. On the other hand, her father is reportedly the wonder of a hospital in the affluent Gangnam district of Seoul. Jennie also spent her childhood in New Zealand, which many consider a privilege only for wealthy individuals.
Umji (GFRIEND/VIVIZ)
Early into her debut with GFRIEND (여자친구), Umji (엄지) gained attention after netizens discovered her father’s identity. The VIVIZ (비비지) member’s father is reportedly one of South Korea’s most sought-after dental surgeons. He is also the director of a chain of dental offices in the country, managing over 45 clinics nationwide. An example of her wealth was when Umji used her parents’ credit card, with their permission, to buy food for her and her fellow G-FRIEND members.
Tzuyu (TWICE)
There have been many rumours that TWICE (트와이스) member Tzuyu (쯔위) was born into a rich Taiwanese family. According to reports, the idol’s parents were self-made entrepreneurs in Taiwan, managing a night market business and investing in hospitals. Tzuyu’s mother also reportedly manages medical aesthetic clinics and cafes, one of which became a popular attraction for TWICE fans until it closed down.
Chenle (NCT)
NCT (엔시티) member Chenle (천러) is another young idol supposedly born with a silver spoon. It was alleged that his grandfather was one of China’s Top 20 entrepreneurs, but not much is known about his family’s business. However, Chenle has shown off his family home on many occasions, garnering attention for its luxurious interior. It’s also worth mentioning that Chenle himself started as a child singer and even held his solo concert at the age of 13.
Jay (ENHYPHEN)
ENHYPHEN’s (엔하이픈) Jay (제이) is also rumoured to come from a rich background, thanks to his father. The idol’s dad is reportedly the co-owner and president of a notable South Korean travel agency named Sinar Tours. The company also invested in tour agencies in the United States and Canada. However, the biggest hint to Jay’s wealth is when his group members revealed that the 22-year-old paid for one of their group trips, including accommodations at a 7-star hotel.
Source: Koreaboo
