Entertainment

The Astonishing Transformation of Korea's Most Famous Filipino Idol: Did She Fool Us All?

2025-09-07

Author: Wei

From Hidden Heritage to K-Pop Stardom

It’s astonishing how some K-Pop idols manage to blur the lines of nationality, and Kriesha Chu is a prime example. At first glance, this captivating performer might easily be mistaken for South Korean rather than her true Filipino heritage.

A Filipino Beauty With Korean Appeal

When renowned Korean host Yoo Hee Yeol casually asked her, "You are Korean, right?" it highlighted how convincingly she embodies the look of a typical Koreaboo idol. Donning traditional Korean attire, Kriesha could effortlessly pass for someone from Seoul.

Her striking features, including distinctive monolid eyes, often lead people to assume she has East Asian roots. In fact, some even speculated she could have Chinese lineage, which isn't a rarity among Filipinos.

Kriesha's Roots: A Blend of Cultures

Born in December 1998 in Makati, Philippines, Kriesha's ethnic background reveals a fascinating mix. Having lived in Cebu for her early years before moving to San Francisco, she grew up steeped in a vibrant Filipino-American culture—what some affectionately call a "Chinoy" blend of Chinese and Filipino.

From Trainee to Competitor: The Road to Fame

Her journey into the K-Pop industry began after being scouted by Urban Works Entertainment. After a year of grueling training, she auditioned for the popular show K-Pop Star 6. Though her initial stint ended prematurely, she was quickly snatched up to form the trio KWINS under YG Entertainment, ultimately finishing as runners-up.

A Silent Period and a Hopeful Resurgence

However, Kriesha's career took a backseat as she faded from the spotlight between 2020 and 2024, with her last notable update being a cover of "Wild Flower" by Park Hyo Shin. The linked YouTube channel even vanished, leaving fans wondering about her fate.

A New Chapter in the Making

2023 brought a wave of hope as news surfaced that she had signed with NEW WAY COMPANY, signaling a comeback. By May 2024, Kriesha resurfaced on social media, launching a new personal Instagram account and reestablishing her connection with fans.

Her recent appearance on the YouTube show NoBakShow hosted by Tak Jae Hoon marks her return to the entertainment industry—a joyful moment for fans eager to see what she has in store next.

Anticipation Builds for Kriesha's Comeback

With her new agency and fresh energy, the wait is on. Could this be the revival of Kriesha Chu? Fans around the globe are ready to cheer her on as she steps back into the limelight, bringing her unique perspective and talent to a wider audience.