Who is Tzuyu? – TWICE's Silent Power
Chou Tzuyu was born on June 14, 1999, in Tainan, Taiwan. Despite being the youngest member of TWICE, she has become one of the group's most recognizable faces thanks to her charisma and natural beauty on stage. Her role as both a visual member and one of the group’s central figures proves that she is not just a “visual” idol but also stands out for her stage presence.
Tzuyu was discovered by JYP Entertainment at the age of 13 while attending a dance academy in Taiwan. Although her family initially approached the decision to move to Korea with caution, her passion and determination led her to relocate to Seoul. Continuing her education in Korea, Tzuyu quickly learned to speak Korean fluently and became a member of TWICE through public voting in the “Sixteen” competition. Although known as one of the quietest members of TWICE, she has solidified her place in the group with her strong loyalty, hard work, and professionalism.
Taiwan's National Pride
Tzuyu is not just a K-pop idol but also one of Taiwan's faces on the international stage. In 2015, holding the Taiwanese flag on a TV show sparked a major crisis due to political tensions between China and Taiwan. She was forced to release an apology video, but it sparked a huge backlash in Taiwan. Tzuyu's stance on this issue turned her into a national figure in Taiwan and made her a symbol for young people.
Her fans call her “Princess of Taiwan”
Tzuyu is known as a “princess” in both Korea and Taiwan for her physical elegance, modest demeanor, and introverted personality. Her frequent appearances at the top of visual rankings demonstrate her worldwide popularity. Her appearance at the top of TC Candler's “Most Beautiful Faces in the World” list for many years proves that this perception is global.
Tzuyu's Stage Discipline Despite Her Posture
Many fans are unaware that Tzuyu has struggled with scoliosis (spinal curvature) since a young age. Despite experiencing pain during performances that require prolonged standing or dancing, she maintains a professional demeanor on stage, showing no signs of discomfort. She engages in specialized exercises to strengthen her back muscles and has worn a posture-correcting corset during certain periods.
A Passion for Dogs That Extends Beyond the Stage
Tzuyu spends most of her time offstage with her dog, Gucci. She treats him not just as a pet but as a member of her family. She is known to have the strongest bond with animals among the TWICE members. While she prefers to keep the moments she spends with Gucci away from the camera, the occasional videos she shares with fans garner significant attention.
One of the Few Idols Known for Her Picky Eating Habits
Despite being one of the healthiest members of the group, Tzuyu has a very selective palate. Her admission that she doesn’t like kimchi, a staple of Korean cuisine, surprised some Korean fans. Her loyalty to Taiwanese cuisine, however, sets her apart from the other members.
The Only TWICE Member with Firearm Training
Tzuyu is the only member of TWICE with experience in marksmanship. It is known that she received archery and air rifle training in Taiwan as a child. The fact that she can use a rifle in real life, not just for the scene in the “Like OOH-AHH” music video, is an interesting detail for her fans.
Her Education Was Poor in Taiwan, but She Thrived in Korea
Before going to Korea, Tzuyu often complained about the lack of opportunities for children who wanted to become artists at the school she attended in Taiwan. In Korea, she received much more support in terms of both art education and language development. This was one of the factors that accelerated her adaptation to Korea.
A Member Who Chooses to Listen Rather Than Speak
Although Tzuyu is known as one of the least talkative members of TWICE, she is someone who is listened to attentively by everyone in the group. She rarely speaks first in discussions or group decisions, but when she does speak, everyone listens to her seriously. She stands out for her quiet support, especially in her relationships with leader figures such as Jihyo and Nayeon.
Her Posture Influenced Advertising Contracts
Tzuyu’s straight and elegant posture has made her a favorite choice for cosmetic and health brands. In Korea, where posture is as important as facial beauty in the advertising world, Tzuyu's posture has become synonymous with the brand image. This led to her becoming the face of back support products for several years.
Archery Performance Based on Real Training
TWICE's archery performance on the ISAC (Idol Star Athletics Championships) program was not just a stage performance. Tzuyu underwent a rigorous preparation process in terms of posture, breath control, and target focus. Thanks to her discipline in this area, she has established a unique balance between her identities as an idol and an athlete.
Her Taiwanese Accent Gives Her Away
Although Tzuyu speaks Korean almost without an accent, her Taiwanese accent is noticeable when she pronounces certain words. Especially when she speaks quickly or uses hard consonants, fans can tell that she learned Korean later in life. The other members of TWICE sometimes bring this detail up in cute imitations.
Tzuyu's Fashion Sense Differs from TWICE
When looking at the group's off-stage fashion, Tzuyu usually prefers simple, classic, and elegant outfits. While most TWICE members often go for trendy pieces, Tzuyu sticks to minimalist lines. Plain-colored dresses, long coats, and high heels are among her everyday choices.
Her Family Didn't Move to Korea, She Lives Separately
While most TWICE members live in the same country as their families, Tzuyu's family still resides in Taiwan. Tzuyu has spoken about the emotional challenges of being the only TWICE member living away from her family. She can only return to Taiwan when her busy schedule allows, which can sometimes make her feel more isolated than the other members.
What They Sacrificed for TWICE
Tzuyu is an idol who has sacrificed her education, youth, and time with her family for her TWICE career. Her inability to participate in traditional Taiwanese holidays, her limited time with her sibling, and her expressions of homesickness in interviews show that she is not just an “idol,” but someone who leads a life built on personal sacrifices.
Tzuyu's Favorite Animal: Penguin
Although not widely known among fans, Tzuyu's favorite animal is the penguin. According to her, penguins are both cute and have a unique elegance. The fact that plush penguins were among the many gifts she received on her birthday also reflects this.
TWICE Member Who Attracts the Most Attention Without Makeup
In behind-the-scenes footage of TWICE members, Tzuyu's makeup-free appearance was so clear and flawless that it was almost indistinguishable from her made-up look. This is a rare occurrence in the K-pop industry, continuing to attract the attention of beauty magazines and brands.
Her Stage Preparation Routine Differs from Other Members
Tzuyu's pre-performance ritual is centered on focusing on silence. While other members prepare by listening to music or practicing dance routines as a group, Tzuyu often stands alone in a corner, closing her eyes and balancing her posture and breathing. She also has a superstition of looking in the mirror before taking the stage; she does this to “mentally prepare” herself by controlling her facial expressions.
The Member Who Poses the Least in Photo Shoots
In fashion shoots, Tzuyu's tendency to change poses less frequently than other idols has been closely examined by professional teams. This is interpreted as her ability to convey emotion without using excessive facial expressions. This trait is considered ideal for the minimal, cool yet powerful looks sought after by luxury brands.
A Camera Character Who Avoids Eye Contact on Stage
Tzuyu avoids direct eye contact with cameras, especially during live broadcasts. She prefers to keep her eyes on her stage partners or a distant point. This habit is related to her desire not to lose her naturalness. This also gives her the advantage of creating a mysterious distance between herself and the audience.
Fan Events in Taiwan Require Special Security
Tzuyu's fan events in Taiwan are among the most heavily prepared events for TWICE in terms of security. Some events have been canceled or held in secret, especially after tensions between China and Taiwan. Tzuyu's status as a national symbol has led her to be perceived not only as a musician but also as a diplomatic figure.
Tzuyu's Handwriting Is One of the Most Imitated
Tzuyu's handwriting is the most imitated among TWICE fans. Described as both simple and “childlike,” her handwriting is copied exactly in fan projects, banners, and autograph events. Some fans even design stickers and T-shirts with Tzuyu's handwriting and share them among themselves.
The Way She Responds to Fans Sets Her Apart
At fan meetings, Tzuyu's responses to questions are usually short, concise, but direct. Instead of replying with the typical “I love you” fan phrases, she responds with a personalized observation. For example, she might say, “You look so bright today; I might need to wear sunglasses,” in a playful yet individual way.
The Language She Feels Most Comfortable Speaking Outside of Korean: Japanese
Tzuyu feels most comfortable speaking Japanese outside of Korean. Thanks to TWICE's intense promotions in Japan, she actively used the language and reached a level where she could make jokes in Japanese during interviews and fan meetings. Although her English is basic, she easily expresses herself with gestures and facial expressions when communicating.
Tzuyu's first TWICE song was not “Like OOH-AHH”
Although TWICE's official debut was with the song “Like OOH-AHH,” Tzuyu first caught attention during her group performances on the competition program “Sixteen.” Despite staying in the background during the “Do It Again” performance, she drew the audience's attention with her eye contact and dance transitions, ultimately being selected for TWICE through a public vote.
TWICE's Long-Time Sleeper
Tzuyu is one of the members who sleeps the longest after intense schedules. While other members are heading to breakfast, she might still be asleep. Especially during their dorm days, members shared that it was difficult to wake her up and often ended up letting her sleep. This aspect of her has earned her the nickname “sleeping beauty” among fans.
Tzuyu's Most Followed Fashion Item: Oversized Shirts
Tzuyu's oversized shirts in light or white tones, which she often wears at the airport, are known among fans as “Tzuyu Shirts.” Many K-pop fans are inspired by her fashion choices and search for similar pieces, with some brands even using her images in their promotions.
Painting Is Her Escape
Tzuyu is one of the few K-pop idols who enjoys painting in her free time. She particularly loves drawing animal portraits and nature landscapes. In some behind-the-scenes videos of TWICE, Tzuyu was seen sharing her own dog portraits with the members. Some of these drawings have been printed on t-shirts and notebook covers by fans.
The Least Controversial Member of TWICE
Within the group dynamics, Tzuyu is the member who stays away from arguments the most and tends to soften the atmosphere. When other members experience emotional or tense moments, she usually listens quietly and then balances the situation with a gentle expression. For this reason, she is referred to as the “balancing point” among the members.
Known for Her Composure During Stage Accidents
Tzuyu is one of the rare members who continues the performance without panicking when her shoe comes off or the microphone malfunctions on stage. During a live performance in 2018, when the stage lights hit Tzuyu's eyes directly, she lost her balance for a moment but completed the performance without changing her facial expression. This professional attitude was particularly praised by the stage directors.
Tzuyu's Favorite: Ukulele
While some TWICE members play guitar or piano, Tzuyu has turned to a more unusual instrument: the ukulele. She has been seen playing the ukulele since she was a child. She prefers to play the instrument rather than sing when she is alone and is known to have taught herself some melodies.
Obsessed with Composition in Photography
Another lesser-known aspect of Tzuyu is her meticulous eye for photography. She is known to carefully adjust the angle of light and shadow when taking nature photos, especially during group trips. It is claimed that some of the nature photos in TWICE's special album booklets were inspired by her original shots.
Tzuyu's Slow Power Balance in Dance Style
Even in TWICE's fast-paced choreography, Tzuyu's movements are always distinct and controlled. She stands out for her muscle control, especially in sections that require body isolation. Her trainers note that her “slow but precise” dance style naturally draws the audience's focus.
One of the Rare Idols Who Doesn't Like False Eyelashes
In the K-pop scene, where beauty obsession is widespread, Tzuyu generally avoids using false eyelashes. She says her eyelids are sensitive and the combination of lenses and eyelashes makes her uncomfortable. Makeup artists also note that her natural eyelashes are long and curly enough.
Tzuyu’s Sense of Humor Is Calm but Effective
Although Tzuyu is generally known as a quiet person, she occasionally cracks dry jokes and gives unexpected reactions that leave TWICE members in stitches. For example, when Momo was making a serious statement, Tzuyu interrupted with an unrelated but perfectly timed comment like, “But you didn’t forget the pizza, did you?” This moment has become one of the group’s favorite behind-the-scenes memories.
Her Reserved Attitude Toward the Korean Media
Tzuyu usually speaks in short, careful sentences during interviews. This stems from both her status as a second-language speaker of Korean and her awareness that every word can be misinterpreted. Her distant and controlled attitude toward the media reinforces her image as “silent but powerful” in public relations.
TWICE's Tallest Member
At 172 cm tall, Tzuyu is the tallest member of TWICE. This height difference leads to special positioning in group choreographies for balance. For example, standing at the front or side of the stage helps visually balance the height differences. Additionally, clothing designs often feature longer hems or higher waists tailored specifically for Tzuyu.
Items She Never Leaves Behind When Traveling
There are two special items that Tzuyu almost always carries in her travel bag: a small evil eye necklace given to her by her family in Taiwan and a keychain with a photo of her dog, Gucci. These two items go with her wherever she goes because they give her peace of mind and remind her of home. She also cannot sleep without an eye mask on long flights, so she carries a special lavender-scented mask with her.
The Member Who Posts the Least but Has the Most Impact on Social Media
Despite being one of the members who posts the least on TWICE’s social media accounts, every post Tzuyu makes receives extraordinary engagement. Especially due to her quiet and mysterious demeanor, fans view every update from her as a major event. For example, an Instagram post containing only an emoji and a selfie can become the group’s most engaged post of the week.
Lemon and Cucumber Skincare Routine
When asked about the secret to her flawless skin, one of Tzuyu’s simplest yet most effective answers is: “Cucumber and lemon water.” Drinking detox water with lemon slices in the morning and applying a cucumber mask in the evening is a natural routine she has been following since childhood. She is known to be cautious about products containing chemicals and usually prefers Korean brands with herbal ingredients.
The Quietest Project She Participated in Outside of TWICE: “Idol Room”
Tzuyu participated in the “Idol Room” program with all TWICE members in 2019, but she only spoke three times throughout the entire show. This caught the hosts' attention, and Tzuyu's silence was turned into a special segment. At the end of the program, it was humorously emphasized that she was someone who “filled the screen just by being there.”
Using a Camera Instead of a Mirror During Dance Rehearsals
While most K-pop idols practice choreography using a mirror, Tzuyu prefers to record her dances on her phone camera and watch them repeatedly. She tries to analyze her movements from the audience's perspective, not just from eye level, to understand how they look from the outside. This habit is her secret weapon that enhances her stage awareness during performances.
.jpg "Tzuyu (Chou Tzuyu) Facts – TWICE’s Silent Visual, Secrets, and Global Influence")
Her Biggest Stage Outside of TWICE
.jpg "Tzuyu (Chou Tzuyu) Facts – TWICE’s Silent Visual, Secrets, and Global Influence")
Tzuyu's biggest stage outside of TWICE was during the special celebration held for Taiwan Independence Day in 2016. Although she didn't participate directly in the event, a special promotional video made for her was aired on national television. During those scenes, millions of people in Taiwan watched the live broadcast, and she trended on social media with the hashtag “Pride of the Nation.”
An Image That Hides Her Glasses
Another detail about Tzuyu that is rarely seen on camera is that she wears glasses. She prefers glasses over contact lenses to see fans sitting far away or to adjust to stage lights. However, she only wears these glasses backstage and stays away from the media most of the time. Although rarely seen, the brands of these glasses are researched and copied by fans.
TWICE's Behind-the-Scenes Person
Within the group, Tzuyu is one of the people responsible for taking photos and videos behind the scenes. While the other members are getting their makeup done or trying on clothes, Tzuyu usually picks up her phone and captures short moments. Some of TWICE's official YouTube content is known to have been uploaded with the tag “Tzuyu Cam.” This content shows fans the group's interactions in a more intimate way.
A Jacket Worn by Tzuyu Sold Out in 4 Hours
The blue-beige short jacket she wore at a fan event was chosen by her own preference without any sponsorship. After the event, thousands of posts were shared on social media just to find out what the jacket was. The brand later revealed that only 500 pieces of that jacket model were produced, and all stock sold out within 4 hours.
Tzuyu's Nickname in Japan: “Shizukana Bijin”
The most common nickname used for Tzuyu among Japanese fans is “Shizukana Bijin,” meaning “quiet beauty.” Her tendency to speak little on Japanese programs but always appear elegant has cemented this description. Japanese fans, in particular, describe Tzuyu as “quietly impressive” and find her to be close to classic Japanese beauty standards.
Handwritten Fan Letters Put Up for Auction
A letter written by Tzuyu at a special fan event quickly became the subject of an international auction. A Taiwanese fan offered $2,800 for the letter. When JYP noticed this, they prevented the original letter from being sold and instead distributed a limited number of digital copies. However, this incident clearly showed that Tzuyu's handwriting and signature have collector's value.
The Most Imitated Member of TWICE
Among other TWICE members, Tzuyu is the most imitated person, especially in group games and behind-the-scenes jokes. Momo and Dahyun frequently imitate her quiet demeanor, eye rolls, or shy smile. These imitations always make the members laugh, while Tzuyu responds with a genuine smile. This makes her passive sense of humor even more iconic.
Tzuyu's Weakest Point When Shopping: Sweatsuits
Tzuyu often prefers comfortable clothes due to her busy schedule, and sweatsuits are her weak point. She is even known to have bought the same model from the same brand in different colors several times. Seeing her wearing these pieces in airport photos or dance practice videos has led brands to turn her preferences into a marketing strategy.
Favorite Book: “The Little Prince” – A Different Approach to Reading
Tzuyu's favorite book is Antoine de Saint-Exupéry's The Little Prince. But here's the interesting part: she read this book three times, first in Taiwanese when she was a child, then in Korean, and most recently in English. She said that she was impressed by different parts of the story in each language and that the same story evoked different emotions in different translations. This multilingual approach to reading offers a unique insight into her mental depth.
Her family is active in the medical field in Taiwan
Tzuyu's family runs a small aesthetic clinic in Taiwan. Her mother is particularly involved in the beauty industry and was one of the first to support Tzuyu's career in K-pop. Some fans attribute Tzuyu's interest in skincare and visual presentation at a young age to her family background.
The Last Song She Listens to Before Going on Stage Never Changes
Tzuyu has made it a habit to listen to the same song before going on stage: John Legend's “All of Me.” She says the song's rhythm slows her heartbeat and that his voice makes her feel “at home.” The other members have said that they have heard this song countless times through her headphones and now know it by heart.
The First Member to Decline Solo Activities with TWICE
In 2020, Tzuyu was the only member to decline a solo advertising contract, saying, “I want to be with my group.” This not only earned her respect among fans, but also highlighted her commitment to the group. JYP responded positively to her approach and suggested group projects that would accommodate her wishes.
Tzuyu's Criteria for Fan Gifts: Handmade
Among the gifts she receives from fans, Tzuyu values handmade items the most. Small accessories made with knitting, drawings, and photo collages hold special meaning for her. Although she doesn't use jewelry or luxury items as gifts, she mentioned in an interview that she keeps fan letters in a special box.
The Moment She Hid Her Tears in the Spotlight
During a TWICE concert held in late 2019, Tzuyu tried to wipe away her tears under the stage lights while performing the song “After Moon.” At that moment, she turned her face to the side and closed her eyes behind her hair, which was captured by the camera. When asked about that moment later, she said, “That song reminded me of my home in Taiwan.” That moment revealed the emotional side behind her strong stage presence.
The Sisterly Bond Between Nayeon and Tzuyu
The relationship between Nayeon, the oldest member of the group, and Tzuyu, the youngest, is like that of real sisters. Nayeon speaks up for Tzuyu when she is shy and even takes credit for her jokes when necessary. Tzuyu, on the other hand, makes no secret of her emotional attachment to Nayeon. In birthday videos, the handwritten notes she wrote for her have been described by fans as “the most sincere messages.”
Jihyo Calling Tzuyu the “Silent Center”
Leader Jihyo described Tzuyu as “TWICE's quietest but strongest pillar.” She noted that Tzuyu is usually the one who speaks the least but provides the most accurate guidance in group decisions. Especially during tense moments, she mentioned that Tzuyu's few words can change the atmosphere and act as an invisible balancing point that prevents the group from falling apart.
TWICE's Underexplored Sides in External Projects
Tzuyu is highly selective about individual television projects. Despite receiving an offer for a digital fashion project in 2021, she declined, stating, “I wouldn't want to do it if other TWICE members aren't involved.” This decision was seen by fans as one of the most concrete examples of her commitment to the group's unity.
Redefined Visual Standards in the K-pop Industry
When Tzuyu entered the K-pop industry, she significantly changed perceptions of the “visual idol” concept. Her pure and simple appearance started a new trend that contrasted with the “heavily made-up and attention-grabbing” beauty standards. The prominence of members with “Tzuyu-type” facial features in many new girl groups after 2016 directly demonstrates her influence in the industry.
What Fans Couldn't Believe: The Period When She Felt Ugly
During a broadcast, Tzuyu said that she thought she looked “very ordinary and dull” during puberty and that this caused her to have self-confidence issues. This statement surprised both TWICE members and fans. The fact that someone who is now considered by millions to be the “most beautiful idol” has such a past reveals her humility and transformation.
Fans launched a tree planting campaign for her in Taiwan
For Tzuyu's birthday, her fans created a special forest in Taiwan. The campaign, which began in 2022, saw over 1,200 saplings planted, and the forest was registered as “Tzuyu Grove.” This nature project stands out as the first campaign in K-pop history to directly create an ecological impact for an idol.
Celebrity Who Inspired Her: Audrey Hepburn
One of the names that has had a significant influence on Tzuyu's sense of style and elegance is Audrey Hepburn. In an interview, she said, “I look up to both her beauty and her charitable work.” This influence is clearly evident in Tzuyu's off-stage demeanor and fashion choices.
Rumored to Have a Secret Account to Get to Know Her Fans
According to a long-standing rumor among fans, Tzuyu has an anonymous social media profile that she uses to follow her fan accounts. It is claimed that she uses this account to review fan content and even reads criticism directed at herself. While JYP has not made an official statement on the matter, some fans claim that she has occasionally responded to fan content with “very special” reactions.
Tzuyu's Future Goal: Opening a Clinic to Help Animals
Tzuyu wants to establish a center in Taiwan to help stray animals when she retires from her music career. During a live stream, she mentioned that she plans to create a facility that provides treatment and shelter for injured dogs and cats, saying, “This dream might not be taken seriously, but it's real to me.”