Who Is Haerin? The Untold Story Behind NewJeans' Rising Star

Haerin NewJeans has quickly become one of K-pop's most captivating stars since her debut in July 2022. Initially street cast in late 2019, Kang Haerin transformed from an ordinary Seoul teenager into a global phenomenon, particularly after becoming the first K-pop artist appointed as Dior's global ambassador across jewelry, fashion, and beauty in April 2023.

Standing at 164.5 cm tall with distinctive "cat-like" visuals, Haerin has captured fans' attention worldwide. Born on May 15, 2006, the 18-year-old vocalist brings a unique charm to NewJeans members with her calm INTP personality. Additionally, her journey includes taking GED exams after dropping out during her second year of middle school, showcasing her determination to pursue her passion. From her first experience attending a BTS concert to participating in writing "New Jeans" for the group's second EP, Haerin's rise in the K-pop industry reveals a multifaceted talent worthy of closer examination.

Haerin’s Basic Profile at a Glance

Behind the captivating persona of NewJeans' beloved member lies a fascinating profile that fans worldwide have come to cherish. Let's take a comprehensive look at the basic details that define Kang Haerin, one of K-pop's fastest-rising stars.

Full name, age, and birthday

Kang Haerin (강해린) is her full Korean name, though she's commonly known to fans simply as Haerin. Born on May 15, 2006, in Seoul, South Korea, she entered her 19th year in Korean age calculation in 2025 (18 internationally). As a Taurus, Haerin often displays traits typically associated with this zodiac sign—reliability, patience, and a practical approach to life.

Her birthplace in South Korea's capital city shaped her early cultural experiences, yet Haerin has managed to maintain a refreshing authenticity despite her rapid rise to fame. Furthermore, as one of the younger members of NewJeans, she brings youthful energy to the group while demonstrating maturity beyond her years in interviews and performances.

The timing of her birth placed her in Generation Z, contributing to her natural understanding of digital media and contemporary trends that resonate with NewJeans' primary audience. Her birthday celebrations have become significant events for fans (known as "Bunnies") who organize special projects and social media events to commemorate the occasion each year.

Height, blood type, and MBTI

Standing at approximately 164.5 cm (about 5'5"), Haerin possesses a physique well-suited for the dynamic choreography that NewJeans has become known for. Her blood type is A, which according to popular Korean culture, is often associated with traits like meticulousness, responsibility, and sensitivity—characteristics that align with her observed persona.

Regarding her personality profile, Haerin identifies as an INTP (Introverted, Intuitive, Thinking, Perceiving) on the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator scale. This personality type, sometimes called "The Logician," typically suggests:

A thoughtful, analytical approach to problems
Independent thinking and creativity
A preference for logic over emotional reasoning
Adaptability and openness to new ideas

Interestingly, her MBTI has evolved over time, as she previously identified as an INFP, suggesting her personality has developed as she's navigated her career in the public eye. This evolution reflects her growth both as an artist and as a young adult discovering herself amid global attention.

Languages she speaks

Communication skills are essential for global K-pop stars, and Haerin has demonstrated linguistic versatility that enhances her international appeal. She is fluent in Korean, her native language, which she uses with natural ease in domestic interviews and content.

Beyond her mother tongue, Haerin has shown considerable proficiency in English, often surprising international fans with her clear pronunciation and expanding vocabulary. This bilingual capability has undoubtedly contributed to NewJeans' accessibility to global audiences and Haerin's personal connection with fans worldwide.

Though not at fluent levels, she has also expressed interest in improving her Japanese language skills, recognizing the importance of connecting with the group's substantial Japanese fanbase. Her language journey reflects a commitment to breaking down communication barriers with fans from diverse backgrounds.

Haerin's multilingual efforts exemplify the modern K-pop idol's dedication to global connectivity, allowing her to directly interact with fans across different countries without necessarily relying on translation services. This linguistic adaptability has become increasingly valuable as NewJeans continues to expand their international presence.

Early Life and Education

Kang Haerin's roots tell a story of both urban upbringing and suburban development, shaping the NewJeans member into the artist audiences recognize today. Her journey through education reveals a young woman willing to make difficult choices in pursuit of her dreams.

Childhood in Seoul and Anyang

Kang Haerin entered the world on May 15, 2006, in Dongjak-gu, Seoul, South Korea. Born into a small family consisting of her parents and a younger sister born three years after her, Haerin spent her formative years in a typical Korean household.

Originally from Seoul, her family eventually relocated to Anyang, Gyeonggi Province, a move that would significantly influence her development. This suburban setting in Pyeongchon provided a different environment from the bustling capital city where she was born.

Throughout her childhood, Haerin demonstrated early interest in performance arts. In fact, she participated in her elementary school's broadcasting club, giving her first taste of being in front of an audience. This early experience likely contributed to her natural stage presence that fans admire today.

Schooling and academic choices

Haerin's educational path began at Seoul Boramae Elementary School before she transferred to Kwiin Elementary School (also spelled Gwiin in some sources). This transition marked an early change in her academic journey.

After completing elementary education, she entered Pyeongchon Middle School. It was around this time that Haerin's path began diverging from that of a typical student. Her natural presence caught attention even then, as she was frequently approached for street casting near her school.

In 2018, when Haerin was in sixth grade, she began formal dance training at One Love Dance Studio in Anyang. This decision proved pivotal, as it built the foundation for her performance skills. Meanwhile, her schoolmates and friends became aware of her potential, often discussing her future in entertainment.

Her decision to take the GED

In 2020, during her second year of middle school, Haerin made a life-changing decision. She chose to drop out of traditional schooling to pursue her dream of becoming a K-pop trainee. This coincided with her passing a joint audition by HYBE, BigHit Music, and Min Heejin, leading to her trainee years with Source Music and later ADOR.

Rather than abandoning education entirely, Haerin pursued an alternative path. She took and passed the middle school and high school equivalency exams, effectively obtaining the Korean equivalent of a GED certificate. This accomplishment demonstrates her commitment to maintaining educational foundations even while pursuing her entertainment career.

Recently, in November 2023, ADOR announced that Haerin had decided not to take the 2025 College Scholastic Ability Test. As a 2006-born high school graduate, she was eligible for the exam scheduled for November 14. Instead, she chose to postpone her college entrance efforts to concentrate fully on her musical career with NewJeans.

This decision highlighted her dedication to her professional development as an artist, choosing to focus on her responsibilities as a member of one of K-pop's fastest-rising groups rather than immediately pursuing higher education. Nevertheless, her previous academic achievements remain a testament to her diligence and determination to balance education with her passion for performance.

How Haerin Became a Trainee

The journey from ordinary student to K-pop trainee rarely follows a predictable path. For Kang Haerin, this transformation began with chance encounters that ultimately led to her place in one of the industry's most innovative groups.

Street casting and early interest in K-pop

Long before becoming a NewJeans member, Haerin's exceptional visuals caught attention even during her school days. Classmates recall that entertainment company representatives frequently approached her outside school, a common practice in South Korea known as "street casting." These encounters prompted young Haerin to discuss potential entertainment career paths with her friends.

Her interest in performance wasn't merely superficial. At elementary school, Haerin actively participated in the broadcasting club, developing comfort with public speaking and performance that would serve her well later. This early exposure to entertainment helped nurture her natural stage presence.

Notably, Haerin's visual appeal made her somewhat of a local celebrity. According to former classmates, she became well-known for her striking appearance, which resulted in multiple casting opportunities from entertainment companies. These early recognitions planted seeds for her future career, although at the time, they likely seemed like interesting anecdotes rather than life-changing moments.

Dance training at One Love Studio

In 2018, as a sixth-grade student, Haerin took a definitive step toward her future career by enrolling at One Love Dance Studio in Pyeongchon, Anyang. This decision marked her first formal training in performance arts, specifically focused on dance fundamentals that would become essential to her K-pop career.

The dance studio, located in her neighborhood, provided Haerin with structured training that complemented her natural abilities. Through consistent practice and dedication, she developed the foundation of performance skills that would later impress industry professionals during auditions.

This period represents a crucial transition from casual interest to serious pursuit. While many young people in Korea admire K-pop idols, relatively few take concrete steps toward professional training. Haerin's commitment to dance classes at such a young age demonstrates early determination that set her apart from peers.

Joining Source Music and ADOR

Haerin's breakthrough came in late 2019 when she was successfully street cast. Although she had previously trained briefly at another agency, this new opportunity proved more substantial. By early 2020, she officially joined Source Music as a trainee, a company then under the HYBE Labels umbrella.

Her entrance into the trainee system coincided with a significant decision—dropping out during her second year of middle school to fully commit to idol training. When Haerin suddenly stopped attending classes, her classmates initially assumed she had simply moved. They later discovered she had chosen to pursue her dream of becoming an idol.

The audition process itself was notable. Haerin passed a joint audition conducted by HYBE, BigHit Music, and Min Heejin, showcasing her potential to multiple influential industry figures. This validation launched her into approximately two and a half years of rigorous training between Source Music and eventually ADOR.

Along with fellow members Danielle, Minji, Hanni, and later Hyein, Haerin was reportedly discovered by Source Music CEO So Sung Jin, a close associate of Bang Si Hyuk. The trainees remained with Source until the latter half of 2021, when they transitioned to ADOR under Min Heejin's creative direction, ultimately debuting as NewJeans in July 2022.

Debut and Rise with NewJeans

July 2022 marked a revolutionary moment in K-pop history as Haerin and her fellow NewJeans members entered the music scene through an unprecedented debut strategy. Unlike traditional K-pop rollouts, their emergence captivated audiences worldwide without prior introduction.

Debut date and first music video

On July 22, 2022, NewJeans surprised the industry by releasing their debut single "Attention" without any prior promotion or information about the group's lineup. This unconventional approach completely subverted the typical K-pop debut formula, where companies usually reveal members individually before releasing music.

The unexpected debut continued as NewJeans released their second single, "Hype Boy," on July 23, 2022, along with four different music videos that told connecting stories. It was only then that fans learned the names of the five members, including Haerin.

The group's self-titled debut extended play was officially released on August 1, 2022. Their bold strategy proved successful—NewJeans sold over 440,000 copies in preorders, likely recording the most first-week sales of any debut album by girl groups in South Korea at that time.

Following the release, NewJeans made their broadcast debut on Mnet's M Countdown on August 4, performing all three singles from their debut EP.

Role in the group and performance style

Within NewJeans, Haerin quickly distinguished herself through her calm yet powerful stage presence. Her vocals became recognized for creating an atmosphere where listeners "would feel at ease but still find the songs catchy".

Consequently, Haerin's approach to recording demonstrates thoughtful consideration of how to best interpret each song. As she explained:

"There were four tracks to record, and while recording them, I thought a lot about how to sing so that the listener would feel at ease but still find the songs catchy. We all learned a lot watching each other record and hearing all those details made me think about how best to approach each song."

In addition to her vocal contributions, Haerin participates in the group's signature performance style featuring meaningful onstage interactions between members. This element, which initially happened naturally, became encouraged by the group's performance director.

Their performances often incorporate distinctive fashion elements, with outfits that subtly reflect each member's personality while maintaining a cohesive group aesthetic. As fellow member Hanni noted: "Our stylist always puts a lot of effort into having subtle variations in detail that, depending on the member, represent their personality and image on stage."

First songwriting credit

Beyond performing, Haerin has begun establishing herself as a creative contributor to NewJeans' music. Her first official songwriting credit came with "New Jeans" from the group's second EP. This accomplishment made her the fourth member (alongside Minji, Hanni, and Danielle) to secure songwriting credits.

Prior to this achievement, Haerin had already shown interest in the creative process. As revealed in interviews, all NewJeans members were tasked with trying to write lyrics as an assignment from CEO Min Heejin, who "wanted to see how [they] would interpret the songs".

Subsequently, Haerin has continued developing her creative voice alongside her performing abilities, contributing to NewJeans' reputation as a K-pop girl group with members who are actively "holding the pen" since their debut.

Haerin’s Personality and Daily Life

Beyond the polished public image of a NewJeans member lies the authentic persona of Kang Haerin, whose daily habits and personal preferences reveal a multifaceted individual with depth beyond her years.

MBTI evolution and personality traits

Throughout her time in the spotlight, Haerin's personality classification has evolved notably. Originally identifying as an INFP (Introverted, Intuitive, Feeling, Perceiving), she later reclassified herself as an INTP (Introverted, Intuitive, Thinking, Perceiving). This shift from feeling-oriented to thinking-oriented decision-making suggests personal growth and adaptation to her professional environment.

As an INTP, Haerin typically exhibits:

Analytical thinking and logical reasoning
Independent problem-solving approaches
Curiosity about complex concepts
Preference for quiet introspection

Fellow NewJeans members often describe her as calm and level-headed. Moreover, she demonstrates remarkable emotional maturity, especially considering her age. Haerin's thoughtful demeanor translates into measured responses during interviews, where she carefully considers questions before answering—a characteristic trait of her INTP personality.

Hobbies and favorite activities

Outside her demanding schedule with NewJeans, Haerin enjoys several pursuits that offer balance to her public life. Among her favorite activities, she particularly enjoys long walks, which provide both physical exercise and mental decompression—essential for an idol's wellbeing.

Film appreciation ranks high among her interests. Indeed, Haerin frequently mentions enjoying various movie genres during interviews and fan interactions. This hobby likely contributes to her artistic sensibilities and performance style.

Creative expression extends beyond her professional work, as she enjoys drawing during her free time. This artistic outlet allows her to express herself outside the structured environment of idol performances and appearances.

Interestingly, Haerin has mentioned an appreciation for ASMR content, which aligns with her generally calm disposition. This relaxation technique fits perfectly with her seemingly tranquil approach to life's challenges.

Unique habits and routines

Even within the carefully coordinated world of K-pop, Haerin maintains distinctive personal habits. Her members have noted her methodical approach to daily activities, from organizing her belongings to preparing for performances.

Her approach to learning new choreography reveals her analytical nature—she typically breaks down dance sequences into smaller components before mastering the complete routine. This systematic method reflects her INTP tendency toward logical deconstruction.

Sleep patterns form another notable aspect of her routine. Generally, Haerin values proper rest, recognizing its importance for maintaining the energy required for NewJeans' demanding schedule. Nonetheless, she occasionally mentions enjoying quiet late-night moments for personal reflection.

Food preferences reveal additional insights into her daily life. Unlike some idols who maintain strict dietary regimens, Haerin appears to enjoy a balanced approach to nutrition, occasionally sharing her enjoyment of simple comfort foods during variety content and behind-the-scenes footage.

Collectively, these elements paint a picture of a young artist who maintains authentic personal habits while navigating the demanding world of K-pop stardom.

Her Visual Appeal and Public Image

One glance at Kang Haerin often leaves a lasting impression, as her distinctive features have become a central element of her appeal within NewJeans and the broader K-pop landscape. Her visual identity has rapidly evolved into one of the group's most recognizable assets.

Cat-like visuals and nicknames

Haerin's eyes stand as her most captivating feature, frequently described as her "special charm" by both fans and media outlets. She personally acknowledges that the animal she most resembles is a cat, embracing this comparison wholeheartedly. This feline resemblance has earned her the affectionate nickname "Kitty Kang," which she considers her favorite among her many monikers.

Other popular nicknames include "Choco Bread," "Baby Cat," and interestingly, "Frog." The frog nickname originated from her tendency to wear green clothing and her collection of frog dolls. Essentially, despite the amphibian association, Haerin actually prefers being compared to felines, often using the frog emoji to represent herself in communications with fans.

Fan perception and media praise

A recent viral post highlighting Haerin's beauty garnered over 75,000 views, demonstrating her growing influence. The original poster emphasized how "each of her features stands out for their prettiness and uniqueness," adding that her appearance is "not only beautiful but also distinctive." Fans consistently praise her as a "real natural beauty" in comments, with many expressing admiration for her "unique vibe."

These sentiments extend beyond superficial appreciation, as commenters note her perfect proportions and kind personality as enhancing her visual appeal. Comparisons to beloved characters appear frequently in fan discussions, with some likening her to a "Puppy Red character" or describing her simply as "a baby cat."

Signature looks and styling

In terms of personal style, Haerin has expressed a preference for straight hair with bangs as her favorite hairstyle. Her fashion choices often incorporate bright colors, particularly green, which connects to her frog-associated nickname.

Her distinctive style combines playful elements with sophisticated touches, creating a signature look that has influenced trends among fans. Additionally, Haerin's preference for flowery scents completes her sensory aesthetic, adding another dimension to her public image.

As Haerin continues to gain prominence, her visual identity remains a powerful aspect of her appeal, complementing her talents and contributing significantly to NewJeans' distinctive image in the competitive K-pop industry.

Brand Endorsements and Fashion Influence

In April 2023, Kang Haerin achieved a milestone that solidified her position in the fashion world, marking a significant expansion of her influence beyond music.

Becoming Dior's global ambassador

Haerin made fashion history in April 2023 when Dior named her their newest brand ambassador. This appointment was particularly noteworthy as she became the first K-pop idol to simultaneously secure all three ambassador categories—jewelry, fashion, and beauty. The luxury house announced the partnership with elegant phrasing: "This is an opportunity to celebrate the privileged ties binding more than ever the NewJeans singer and Dior. Between elegance and audacity, a unique friendship in the name of creativity".

Interestingly, Haerin was the last NewJeans member to secure a luxury brand partnership. By this point, her bandmates had already established relationships with prestigious houses—Minji with Chanel, Hanni with Gucci and Armani Beauty, Danielle representing Burberry and YSL Beauty, and Hyein as Louis Vuitton's ambassador.

Magazine covers and fashion events

Following her Dior appointment, Haerin graced several high-profile magazine covers showcasing the brand's creations. In December 2023, she appeared on the cover of Vogue Hong Kong, styled in select pieces from Dior fashion and jewelry. The publication praised her distinctive presence, noting: "In an industry saturated with bold personalities, she commands attention with her quiet demeanour, carrying herself with grace and composure".

Haerin further demonstrated her fashion versatility in Elle Korea's D Edition, photographed by Kim Hee June while wearing Dior Joaillerie. Her fashion journey continued with a November 2024 appearance in Marie Claire Korea, again representing Dior.

Beyond print media, Haerin made her debut at major fashion events in 2024, most notably attending her first Dior show in New York. Her presence generated significant social media buzz, with fans eagerly anticipating her outfit choices.

Impact on luxury branding

Haerin joins an impressive roster of K-pop ambassadors at Dior, including BLACKPINK's Jisoo, BTS' Jimin, EXO's Sehun, and ASTRO's Cha Eunwoo. This strategic alignment highlights the continued power of the K-pop and luxury brand partnership model.

In May 2024, Haerin made her official campaign debut for Dior, showcasing the Denim Dior Oblique Jacquard—a signature treatment by Maria Grazia Chiuri seen across Saddle Bags, Book Totes, and other accessories. This campaign further cemented her position as a rising fashion influence, capable of connecting with younger consumers while maintaining the brand's luxury positioning.

Creative Contributions and Talents

Beneath Haerin's understated demeanor lies a multifaceted artist whose creative abilities continue to evolve since her debut with NewJeans.

Songwriting and music taste

Haerin secured her first official songwriting credit with "New Jeans" on the group's second extended play, "Get Up," released in July 2023. This achievement made her the fourth NewJeans member to contribute lyrically to their discography, joining Minji, Hanni, and Danielle in this creative capacity.

Her approach to songwriting reflects her thoughtful personality. In interviews, Haerin has expressed: "We have been challenging ourselves and putting a lot of effort into trying new things since our debut... As they are our songs and albums, each one of us contribute different ideas". Remarkably, she continues honing this skill, noting that she's "been practicing songwriting ever since our debut" because she finds it "very meaningful" that her message "could inspire people and evoke emotions".

Dance style and stage presence

Fans and critics alike recognize Haerin for her distinctive dance abilities. Her movements are characterized as clean, crisp, and rooted in strong fundamentals. With a low center of gravity and excellent footwork, she particularly excels in hip-hop-based choreography.

What makes her performances compelling is the contrast between her reserved personality and explosive stage energy. As one fan observed: "She's shy, introverted, doesn't talk much, but boy when it's time to dance. She's a machine". At times, dance practice videos showcase this duality, with observers noting that "every time there's a dance practice, Haerin shows up. Period. She MURDERS every. Single. Time".

Broadcasting and hosting roles

Haerin's communication skills recently expanded into broadcasting. On June 2, 2024, she debuted as a special MC for SBS' K-Wave Concert Inkigayo held at Inspire Arena in Incheon, alongside Yunho from Ateez and Han Yu-jin from Zerobaseone.

This hosting opportunity connects back to her childhood interests—she participated in her elementary school's broadcasting club, demonstrating an early affinity for communication that has come full circle in her professional career.