Jihyo

박지효

K-pop singer, TWICE member (Leader) (born 1997)

Net Worth

$9.0M USD

Quick Facts
  • Birth Place:Guri
  • Birth Country:South Korea
  • Nationality:South Korean
  • Occupation:K-pop singer, TWICE member (Leader)
Story

The narrative of Park Ji-hyo, known globally simply as Jihyo, is not merely a tale of K-pop stardom; it is a masterclass in endurance and the colossal financial rewards that accompany unwavering dedication. With an estimated net worth hovering around the $9 million mark, the South Korean powerhouse and leader of the global sensation TWICE has built her fortune brick by painstaking brick, starting long before she ever graced a stage. Jihyo’s journey began in Guri, Gyeonggi Province, South Korea. Unlike many idols who train for a few years, Jihyo’s apprenticeship was legendary. Scouted by JYP Entertainment after winning a Junior Naver contest at the tender age of eight, she spent a decade—a full ten years—in the rigorous, often brutal, training system. This period, from 2005 to 2015, saw her train alongside future stars like the members of Wonder Girls and Miss A, honing not just her vocal prowess but developing the leadership skills that would become essential. Her early life was defined by the practice room, a sacrifice that laid the groundwork for her current financial success. The true career breakthrough, the moment that catapulted her from highly-trained trainee to international celebrity, arrived in 2015 with the survival reality show Sixteen. The show pitted aspiring idols against each other, and Jihyo’s powerful stage presence and seasoned professionalism secured her spot as the final member and eventual leader of TWICE. Their debut single, "Like Ooh-Ahh," was an instant hit, but it was the subsequent releases like "Cheer Up" and "TT" that cemented TWICE’s status as a ‘Nation’s Girl Group,’ generating astronomical revenue streams for JYP Entertainment and, consequently, its top earners. Jihyo’s earnings are derived primarily from TWICE’s massive global touring schedule, album sales—which routinely break records—and lucrative endorsement deals. TWICE’s contracts are among the most valuable in the industry. For example, their monumental 2022-2023 "Ready to Be" world tour grossed tens of millions of dollars, with the group playing stadium venues across North America and Asia. While individual salary specifics are closely guarded, it is estimated that TWICE members earn a significant percentage of their group activities, likely placing Jihyo’s annual income in the high six to low seven figures range, excluding personal ventures. Her solo career, launched with the 2023 EP Zone, further diversified her income, proving her viability as an independent commercial force. She has also secured high-profile individual endorsements, notably in the beauty and fashion sectors, where her clean, powerful image commands premium fees, often exceeding $500,000 per major campaign. In terms of business ventures, TWICE operates under a profit-sharing model with JYP, but Jihyo, like many top idols, is increasingly focused on intellectual property and brand partnerships. While she hasn't publicly launched a major company, her careful curation of her image—emphasizing health, fitness, and reliability—is a business strategy in itself. Her lifestyle reflects her success, though she is known for being relatively grounded compared to some of her peers. She reportedly resides in a high-end apartment complex in Seoul's affluent Gangnam district, a common investment for successful idols. Her spending habits lean toward quality and comfort, though she is often seen sporting luxury designer goods gifted by brands hoping to capitalize on her influence. The world of K-pop is never without its whispers. One persistent rumor that captivated fans for years involved her highly publicized relationship with singer Kang Daniel. While the relationship was confirmed and later ended, the intense scrutiny and public interest surrounding their dating life highlighted the immense pressure and the financial impact that personal relationships can have on an idol's career trajectory. Fans often speculate about the internal dynamics of TWICE, but Jihyo, as the steadfast leader, has successfully navigated the group through seven years without any major public scandals or controversies, a remarkable feat in the often volatile K-pop landscape. Looking ahead, Jihyo’s future outlook is exceptionally bright. TWICE renewed their contract with JYP Entertainment in 2022, ensuring several more years of high-grossing group activities. Her successful solo debut demonstrates her long-term career resilience, positioning her not just as a group member, but as a potential mainstay in the Korean entertainment industry, capable of commanding substantial fees for acting roles, variety shows, and continued musical output. Her decade-long investment in her craft has paid off handsomely, securing her position as one of the wealthiest and most influential figures in the third generation of K-pop.

Sources

    Estimates may vary. Always verify from official sources. Unverified rumors should be treated as speculation.