ITZY is a rising girl group that debuted in South Korea in February 2019 under JYP Entertainment. Known for producing successful acts such as 2PM, TWICE, Stray Kids, and NiziU, JYP has placed high expectations on ITZY.
Even before their debut, the members gained attention through survival shows and appearances in other artists’ music videos, showcasing their vocal and performance skills.
They have received overwhelming support from teens and young adults for their charismatic presence and visuals. Their empowering songs and top-tier performances continue to captivate global audiences.
Upon debut, ITZY swept rookie awards in 2019, and the views on their title tracks’ music videos exceeded hundreds of millions. Their second mini-album, “IT’z ME,” is also approaching 400 million streams on Spotify.
In this article, we will introduce and explain each ITZY member in detail.
1. Yeji
- Full Name: Hwang Yeji
- Birthdate: May 26, 2000
- Nationality: South Korean
- Position: Leader, Main Dancer, Lead Vocalist
- Profile:
As ITZY’s leader, Yeji has over seven years of dance experience and was already considered a veteran before debut. She appeared in Korean dramas and variety shows, gaining early recognition through various survival programs. She was even recommended by 2PM’s Junho to appear on a survival show, where she showcased her presence despite not making it to the final.
Starting dance in 5th grade, she became a JYP trainee at 15 and actively participated in showcases during her trainee days. She is highly praised by JYP’s founder, Park Jin-young.
2. Lia
- Full Name: Choi Jisu
- Birthdate: July 21, 2000
- Nationality: South Korean
- Position: Main Vocalist
- Profile:
Lia studied abroad in Canada during elementary school and passed SM Entertainment’s global audition while there. However, due to her parents’ preference for JYP, she trained briefly under SM before switching to JYP. She trained at JYP for around four years before debuting with ITZY after graduating from a prestigious high school known for producing many celebrities.
She’s known for loving sleep—so much that she doesn’t wake even when moved—and has the worst wake-up skills among members. She’s fluent in English, making her a valuable asset for ITZY’s global promotions.
3. Chaeryeong
- Full Name: Lee Chaeryeong
- Birthdate: June 5, 2001
- Nationality: South Korean
- Position: Lead Dancer, Sub Vocalist
- Profile:
Chaeryeong is the younger sister of former IZ*ONE member Lee Chaeyeon. They appeared together on “K-POP STAR Season 3”, where Chaeryeong’s dance talent caught JYP’s attention and led to her becoming a trainee.
She appeared on several audition programs, including “SIXTEEN”, making it to the final round but missing the chance to debut with TWICE. Had things gone differently, she might’ve become a TWICE member. While her sister moved to a different company, Chaeryeong remained with JYP and continued working hard, eventually debuting with ITZY.
4. Ryujin
- Full Name: Shin Ryujin
- Birthdate: April 17, 2001
- Nationality: South Korean
- Position: Main Rapper, Sub Vocalist, Lead Dancer
- Profile:
Ryujin has a unique scouting story—she was discovered by a JYP staff member in front of a restroom while attending a GOT7 concert. Initially confused, she gave her number because the scout was pretty!
Known for her sharp dance skills, she competed in the survival show “MIXNINE” and ranked first overall among both male and female contestants, though the debut plan fell through. Her undeniable talent eventually led to her debut with ITZY.
There are rumors that many ITZY members come from affluent families—Ryujin’s father is reportedly the director of a hospital. She also grew up in a Christian home and sang in a church choir.
5. Yuna
- Full Name: Shin Yuna
- Birthdate: December 9, 2003
- Nationality: South Korean
- Position: Lead Dancer, Visual, Sub Vocalist
- Profile:
As the visual and youngest member of ITZY, Yuna debuted at just 15 years old. She was scouted in elementary school and trained extensively before debut.
Her visuals garnered major attention online right after debut. With red hair, fans called her “Ariel,” and with blonde hair, “Barbie.” Her striking looks make her one of the group’s standout members.
