In the dynamic world of K-pop, few stars shine as brightly or with as much multifaceted talent as Jang Wonyoung. From her early days as the youngest contestant on a survival show to her current status as a top idol, model, and lyricist, Wonyoung has seamlessly evolved from a promising rookie into a powerhouse artist and a dominant force in the fashion and advertising industries. Her journey encapsulates more than just fame; it represents a masterclass in building a lasting and influential brand in the competitive landscape of modern pop culture.
Meteoric Rise: From Trainee to Center
Wonyoung’s path to stardom began at a remarkably young age. She was street-cast by Starship Entertainment in 2019 while shopping with her parents and trained for about a year. Her big break came in 2018 when, at just 13 years old, she became the youngest trainee on Mnet’s survival show Produce 48. Her visuals and unique charm captivated audiences, and in a stunning victory, she earned the most votes, finishing in first place. This achievement meant she debuted as the center of the project group IZ*ONE on October 29, 2018—which also happened to be her birthday.
After IZ*ONE’s disbandment in April 2021, Wonyoung returned to Starship Entertainment. She quickly re-established her presence in the public eye, taking on the role of MC for the popular music show Music Bank alongside ENHYPEN’s Sunghoon. In December 2021, she re-debuted as a member of the girl group IVE under Starship Entertainment. The group achieved immediate and record-breaking success, securing their first music show win just seven days after debut.
A Multifaceted Career: Singer, Host, and Lyricist
While IVE’s success is a central part of her story, Wonyoung has skillfully carved out a prolific identity beyond the group.
- Solo Projects and OSTs: Wonyoung has contributed to several collaborative singles, such as “Blue & Black” for a Pepsi campaign in 2022. More recently, in 2025, she released her first self-composed solo digital single, “Eight,” showcasing her growing involvement in music creation.
- Accomplished Host: Wonyoung is one of K-pop’s most sought-after hosts. She served as an MC for Music Bank from 2021 to 2023. Since 2021, she has been the permanent host for the Asia Artist Awards (AAA), a role she will reprise for the fifth consecutive year in 2025.
- Lyricist: Wonyoung has steadily built her credentials as a songwriter. She began by co-writing “Dreamlike” for IZ*ONE in 2020 and has since penned several tracks for IVE, including “Mine,” “Shine with Me,” “OTT,” and “Blue Heart.”
The “Queen of Brand Deals” and Cultural Icon
Wonyoung’s influence extends far beyond the music stage, making her a true blue chip in the advertising world. As of 2025, she holds the record for the most brand deals of any 4th-generation female idol, with ambassadorships for major global names like Miu Miu, Innisfree, Dyson, Tommy Hilfiger, and Kerastase. Her status in the fashion industry is underscored by her regular attendance at premier events like Paris Fashion Week, where her appearance for Miu Miu in 2023 generated an estimated media value of $3 million.
Her impact is also recognized through prestigious accolades. In 2025, she won the Female Solo Popularity Award at the K-World Dream Awards, a testament to her immense public appeal.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Stage Name | Wonyoung (원영) |
| Birth Name | Jang Won-young (장원영) |
| Birthday | August 31, 2004 |
| Nationality | South Korean |
| Group | IVE (also former member of IZ*ONE) |
| Agency | Starship Entertainment |
| Position | Vocalist, Dancer, Visual |
| MBTI | ENTJ |
Personal Glimpses and Enduring Appeal
Despite her immense fame, glimpses into Wonyoung’s personality reveal a dedicated and multifaceted individual. She is a graduate of the School of Performing Arts Seoul and is known to be skilled in playing the piano, violin, and flute. She has an older sister, actress Jang Da-ah. In group content, while often poised, she has shown a surprisingly competitive spirit, charming fans with her determination to win games. Her favorite seasons are summer and winter, she loves mint chocolate ice cream, and her representative color is red.
Wonyoung’s story is one of continuous evolution. She has successfully leveraged early success into a sustainable and diverse career, breaking records and setting new standards for what a K-pop idol can achieve. As she continues to excel as a performer, a creative force in music, and a leading fashion icon, Wonyoung is not just participating in the K-pop wave—she is helping to steer its course, solidifying her status as a defining artist of her generation.
Read On Other Members:
- From Produce 48 to IVE’s Leader: The Remarkable Journey of Ahn Yujin
- From Vocal Prodigy to IVE’s Golden Voice: The Rise of Liz
- From Tokyo to Seoul: Rei’s Journey as IVE’s International Star
- The Silent Anchor: How Gaeul Became IVE’s Steady Foundation
- From Rookie to Star: How IVE’s Leeseo Is Carving Her Own Path in K-Pop