Lia
최지수- Korean Name:최지수
- Nickname:Jisu, Lia
- Birthday:July 21, 2000
- Nationality:South Korean
- Zodiac Sign:Cancer
- Height:162
- MBTI Type:INFP
- Blood Type:AB
- Occupation:Singer
- Years Active:2019–present
- Agency:JYP Entertainment
Biography
Biography
Lia (Korean: 리아), born Choi Jisu (최지수) on July 21, 2000, in Seoul, South Korea, is a renowned South Korean singer and member of the global K-pop sensation ITZY under JYP Entertainment.
Early Life & Education
- Born and raised in Seoul, South Korea
- Studied abroad in Canada during her teenage years, becoming fluent in English
- Attended Hanlim Multi Art School, a prestigious institution for aspiring entertainers
- Discovered by JYP Entertainment and trained as a trainee before ITZY’s formation
Unique Fact: Lia’s international education experience gave her exceptional English skills, making her a key communicator for ITZY’s global fanbase, MIDZY.
Lia’s Career: From Debut to Stardom
Breakthrough Era (2019)
- Debuted as an ITZY member on February 11, 2019 with the hit single “Dalla Dalla”
- Positioned as the group’s main vocalist
- “Dalla Dalla” became the fastest K-pop debut MV to reach 100 million views at the time
Rise to Global Success (2020–2023)
- Released consecutive hits: “Wannabe,” “Not Shy,” “LOCO,” and “Sneakers”
- ITZY’s first world tour “CHECKMATE” (2022–2023)
- Gained recognition for her smooth, honey-like vocals and elegant stage presence
Current Status & Lia News 2025
- Returned to full group activities after a health-related hiatus in 2023
- ITZY’s continued promotions and potential new album releases in 2025
- Actively engaging with fans through social media and variety show appearances
Personal Life & Relationships
Lia maintains a private personal life. Key known details include:
- Close bond with her ITZY members, often described as the group’s “mood maker”
- Known for her love of reading, fashion, and her pet dog
- No publicly confirmed romantic relationships
Controversies & Challenges
Health Hiatus (2023)
Lia took a temporary break from activities in 2023 due to anxiety symptoms. JYP Entertainment prioritized her mental health recovery.
How She Overcame It:
- Received professional treatment and support
- Gradually returned to activities with overwhelming fan support
- Her resilience inspired conversations about mental health awareness in K-pop
Lia Discography: ITZY Songs & Solo Work
| Year | Title | Role/Song | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 | Dalla Dalla | Main Vocalist | Single |
| 2019 | ICY | Main Vocalist | Single |
| 2020 | Wannabe | Main Vocalist | Single |
| 2020 | Not Shy | Main Vocalist | Mini Album |
| 2021 | In the Morning | Main Vocalist | Mini Album |
| 2021 | LOCO | Main Vocalist | Album |
| 2022 | Sneakers | Main Vocalist | Mini Album |
| 2023 | KILL MY DOUBT | Main Vocalist | Album |
| 2024 | BORN TO BE | Main Vocalist | Album |
| 2024 | Gold | Main Vocalist | Single |
| 2025 | TBA Projects | Main Vocalist | Upcoming |
Lia Drama & Entertainment Appearances
| Year | Show/Project | Role | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | Knowing Bros | Guest | Variety |
| 2021 | Weekly Idol | Guest | Variety |
| 2022 | Studio Choom | Performer | Performance |
| 2023–2024 | Various V-Lives | Host | Fan Content |
Fun Facts
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Before joining JYP Entertainment, Lia trained in classical music and is skilled at playing the piano, showcasing a more refined musical background than many K-pop trainees.
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Lia lived in Canada for several years during her childhood, making her fluent in English and often the group's translator during international interviews and events.
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"Lia" is actually derived from her real name, Choi Ji-su (지수). The name was chosen for its soft, international appeal while still connecting to her identity.
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Despite ITZY's intense choreography and stage performances, Lia has openly admitted to having a fear of heights, which made certain music video stunts particularly challenging.
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Lia enjoys cooking and baking in her free time, often sharing her culinary creations with members—a surprising domestic side fans love seeing on variety content.
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She's frequently praised as ITZY's main vocalist, but fans may not realize she was specifically recruited by JYP for her unique vocal color, which stands out in K-pop's competitive landscape.
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Lia has participated in various charitable initiatives with ITZY, including UNICEF campaigns, using her platform to advocate for children's welfare and education.
