CL

CL, born Lee Chae-rin on February 26, 1991, in Seoul, South Korea, is a South Korean singer, rapper, and songwriter who rose to international fame as the leader of the iconic K-pop group 2NE1. Growing up in a multicultural environment with stints living in France and Japan due to her father’s work as a professor, CL developed a global perspective that would later define her artistic approach. She was discovered by YG Entertainment and trained for several years before debuting with 2NE1 in 2009.

2NE1 quickly became one of the most successful K-pop groups of all time, known for their bold music, fashion-forward image, and powerful performances. The group released hits including “I Am the Best,” “Fire,” “Lonely,” and “Come Back Home,” selling millions of records and winning numerous awards across Asia. CL’s fierce stage presence and rapping ability made her the standout member, and she became widely recognized as one of the most influential figures in K-pop history. The group officially disbanded in 2016, but their impact on the genre remains immeasurable.

As a solo artist, CL made significant moves toward breaking into the Western music market. She signed with Scooter Braun’s management and released English-language singles including “The Baddest Female” (2013), “Hello Bitches” (2015), and “Lifted” (2016). She performed at major events including the closing ceremony of the 2018 PyeongChang Winter Olympics, representing South Korea on the world stage. In 2021, she released her debut solo album “Alpha” through her own label, Very Cherry, showcasing her artistic independence.

With an estimated net worth of $12 million in 2026, CL’s wealth comes from her music career, lucrative endorsement deals with major brands, modeling work, and her various business ventures. She has been a brand ambassador for luxury fashion houses and beauty companies throughout Asia and globally. Her influence extends beyond music into fashion and culture, where she is recognized as a trendsetter. CL continues to release music and perform, maintaining her status as one of K-pop’s most iconic figures while forging her own path as an independent artist.