We’ve all heard of many Chinese K-Pop idols. But did you know that there’s a Chinoy idol also making waves in Korea?
Meet Kriesha Tiu, known by her stage name Kriesha Chu (크리샤츄), a solo singer who debuted under Urban Works Entertainment in 2017. Known for her outstanding visuals, amazing voice, and sweet personality, this charming 21-year old has stolen hearts from all over the world!
If you don’t already know Kriesha Chu, we’ve written a handy guide for you! Here are seven things to know about this Chinoy idol:
1) She is Filipino-American
Born in Makati City, Chu moved to San Francisco at the age of two. Before this, her parents relocated from Cebu to Manila. This is why Chu can also speak and understand Bisaya, in addition to already being fluent in English and Korean.
2) She was the runner-up to K-Pop Star 6: The Last Chance
Chu joined the popular Korean competition show as a trainee managed by Urban Works Entertainment. Judged by CEOs of the top entertainment agencies in the country (i.e. JYP Entertainment, YG Entertainment, and Antenna Music), K-Pop Star 6 launched Chu into the public spotlight.
Though Chu was initially eliminated on the seventh episode of the series, she was later brought back as a wild card, becoming a member of the in-show girl group KWINs. Chu, praised by the judges and popular among the audiences, then finished as the runner-up of the competition alongside her teammates Kim Sohee and Kim Hyerim.
3) She topped Korea’s real-time search trends more than once
Making her debut as a solo singer in 2017, Chu released her first single album and promoted her track “Trouble” on Inkigayo. There, Chu’s confidence and charm impressed crowds, allowing her to immediately top the real-time search trends of Naver, Korea’s most popular search engine.
Chu also replicated the feat after releasing her comeback track “Like Paradise” in 2018.
4) She is signed to the Philippines’ Star Records
Planning to expand her fanbase outside of Korea, Chu signed a contract with ABS-CBN’s Star Music, which will handle the singer’s activities and careers in the Philippines.
“I’m very excited about this contract and also my future activities here in the Philippines… Looking forward to doing more Filipino covers and Filipino songs,” shared Chu.
5) She is close friends with IZONE’s Kim Minju
Having spent a lot of time together as label mates, Kriesha Chu has gotten close to Kim Minju, a member of the popular girl group IZONE. The two have collaborated on some projects, with Kim guesting in Chu’s song “Falling Star” and appearing in her “Like Paradise” music video.
Photo from Pinterest
6) She became the face of Holika Holika
Chu won herself her first endorsement and commercial film (CF) even before she debuted in 2017! According to a business representative, Korean cosmetics brand Holika Holika chose Chu to represent their brand because of her fresh image and popularity.
Photo from Amino Apps.
7) She is an actress
In addition to her own promotions as an idol, Chu has not only contributed music to Korean TV dramas but has also acted in them. Chu’s OST portfolio includes tracks for Welcome to Waikiki 2, Home for Summer, and My Sweet Melody. Her acting credits feature her roles in the web series Live with a Ghost, where she plays the leading role, and Spunk.
