Former idol contestant Chae Ryu Jin is drawing attention after sharing updates on her life following gender transition and a complete career shift. Chae Ryu Jin first gained public recognition under her birth name Chae Ho Cheol through the 2016 Mnet survival program Boys24. Although she did not make the final debut lineup, she was selected as part of the 28-member performance team and promoted for about a year in a dedicated theater.
After the show, she re-debuted under the name Ryujei as a member of the multinational boy group JWiiver, where she served as a lead vocalist and rapper. However, the group’s activities were short-lived, effectively disbanding after their debut promotions. Following the group’s inactivity, Chae Ryu Jin stepped away from the idol scene and reintroduced herself under a new identity.
In July last year, she publicly came out as a transgender woman through a live broadcast. She later shared that she had completed her legal name change and updated official documents, including her resident registration and passport, to reflect her gender identity. Her openness about the process has resonated with many, marking a significant personal milestone after years in the public eye.
Chae Ryu Jin is now active as an influencer, sharing travel vlogs and lifestyle content across platforms. She has posted videos filmed in Japan, China, and Hong Kong, as well as dance covers and personal updates. A recently circulated video shows her promoting in a maid outfit on the streets of Japan, highlighting her shift toward content creation and global engagement with fans.
She has also candidly acknowledged her past, telling fans that she was once a male idol and reflecting on her journey with honesty. Reflecting on her past, Chae Ryu Jin shared: “Debuting was my dream, and although it was a difficult journey, I don’t regret my 20s filled with great people and supportive fans.”
Her story represents a rare and personal narrative within the K-pop industry, one of transformation, resilience, and self-acceptance. As she continues to build her new identity and career, Chae Ryu Jin’s journey is gaining attention not only for its uniqueness but also for its courage.
Sources: 위키트리