CL Age, Height, Networth, Songs and Wiki/Bio
CL is a famous South Korean rapper, singer, and songwriter. Her real name is Lee Chae-rin. She is best known as the leader of the legendary K-pop girl group 2NE1. Her stage name is simply CL.
In 2026, she is 35 years old. She was born on February 26, 1991. Her birthplace is Seoul, South Korea. CL stands 162 cm (5 ft 4 in) tall. She weighs approximately 48 kg (106 lbs).
She is famous for 2NE1 hits and viral solo songs. Her works include “The Baddest Female,” “Hello Bitches,” and “Lifted.” She released the EP “In the Name of Love” in 2019 and the studio album “Alpha” in 2021. She runs her own label, Very Cherry. Her estimated net worth is $8 million.
CL Wiki/Bio TABLE
| Field | Information |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Lee Chae-rin (이채린) |
| Stage Name | CL (씨엘) |
| Age (2026) | 35 years |
| Birth Date | February 26, 1991 |
| Birthplace | Seoul, South Korea |
| Height | 162 cm (5 ft 4 in) |
| Weight | 48 kg (106 lbs) |
| Profession | Rapper, Singer, Songwriter, Producer |
| Career Start | 2007 (YG trainee), 2009 (2NE1 debut) |
| Viral Songs / Famous Works | “The Baddest Female,” “Hello Bitches,” “Lifted,” “2NE1 hits” |
| Albums / Projects | “In the Name of Love” (EP), “Alpha” (studio album) |
| Record Label | Very Cherry (founder, 2020–present), YG Entertainment (2006–2019), Konnect Entertainment (2021–2023), TaP Music (2021–) |
| Family | Parents: Lee Kie Jin (father, professor), mother (name private, potter). Sibling: Lee Ha-rin (younger sister) |
| Relationship Status | Private (focusing on career) |
| Children | None |
| Achievements | First female K-pop solo artist to enter Billboard Hot 100, Forbes 30 Under 30 Asia (2019), multiple music awards, Time 100 readers’ poll (2015, 2016) |
| Net Worth | $8 million |
| Income Sources | Music royalties, concerts, brand endorsements (Adidas, Alexander Wang, etc.), Very Cherry agency |
| Eye Color | Dark Brown |
| Hair Color | Dark Brown / Black (dyed often) |
| Body Type | Slim, Athletic |
| Shoe Size | 6 US (240mm) |
| Chest Size | 33 inches |
| Waist Size | 24 inches |
| Biceps Size | 11 inches |
| Skin Tone | Fair |
CL Real Name
CL’s full real name is Lee Chae-rin (이채린). Her family name is Lee. Her given name Chae-rin has a beautiful meaning. It translates to “colorful” or “brilliant.” She chose her stage name CL from her real name’s initials. The letters C and L stand for Chae-rin Lee.
Fans often call her by cute nicknames too. Some popular ones include “Cl-roo” and “Pig Rabbit.” She is also known as “Cherry Performer” for her stage energy. Her real identity is the foundation of her brand. She said “Chaerin Lee” is everyone’s alter ego. This connects her personally to fans worldwide.
Her Chinese name is written as 李彩琳. This follows the same Lee family name. She once joked that her real name is “Chae-rin Lee.” But she prefers being called CL. Her real name honors her Korean heritage proudly.
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Real Name | Lee Chae-rin (이채린) |
| Nicknames | Cl-roo, Pig Rabbit, Cherry Performer |
| Chinese Name | 李彩琳 |
| Name Meaning | “Colorful” or “Brilliant” |
CL Early Life and Education
CL was born in Seoul, South Korea on February 26, 1991. She grew up in Jagok-dong, Gangnam-gu. Her family moved often for her father’s physics research. She lived in Paris, France and Tsukuba, Japan. She also spent time in Tokyo, Japan. At just 13 years old, she moved to Paris alone. She studied there for 2 years by herself.
She attended Tsukuba International School in Japan. She later studied at Javier International School in France. She dropped out and passed the GED instead. This early travel made her multi-lingual. She learned Korean, Japanese, French, and English.
Her only childhood dream was unique. She wanted to become a nun because she was raised Catholic. But her passion for hip-hop grew stronger. She listened to Lauryn Hill, Madonna, and 1TYM. These artists inspired her musical journey.
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Schools | Tsukuba International School (Japan), Javier International School (France) |
| Moved to Paris at | 13 years old (studied 2 years) |
| Childhood Dream | Nun |
| Musical Influences | Lauryn Hill, Madonna, Queen, 1TYM |
CL Parents and Siblings
CL’s father is Lee Kie Jin. He is a respected physics professor at Seogang University. He also writes children’s books in his free time. Her mother is a talented potter and artist. Her parents are both scholars and creative people. They encouraged CL to explore her artistic side.
CL has a younger sister named Lee Ha-rin. She is the only sibling in the family. Ha-rin stays mostly out of the public eye. The family is very close-knit and supportive. CL’s father often travels for research. That is why CL lived in many countries as a child.
Her biggest supporter is her grandmother. She shot her VOGUE Singapore pictures at her grandma’s house. Her grandmother gives her emotional strength. CL dedicated the song “Wish You Were Here” to her late mother. This song honors anyone who lost a loved one.
| Family Member | Relationship | Occupation / Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Lee Kie Jin | Father | Physics professor, children’s book author |
| Mother | Parent | Potter (name private, deceased) |
| Lee Ha-rin | Younger Sister | Private individual |
| Grandmother | Grandparent | Biggest supporter |
CL Husband or Boyfriend
As of 2026, CL is single and unmarried. She has not confirmed any relationship publicly. She keeps her personal life very private. She previously dated a British model. That relationship was brief and not serious. She once revealed her ideal type in an interview.
She said she likes someone “who is his own world.” She wants a man with strong individuality. She once joked about meeting someone in a grocery store. She imagines meeting a guy while buying apples. She has no children and is not in a rush.
Her only public relationship rumors involved G-Dragon. They were close friends and collaborators. But dating rumors were never confirmed. She focuses entirely on her career now. She said music is her first love.
| Relationship Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Marital Status | Single |
| Public Ex | British model (brief, not confirmed) |
| Rumored Ex | G-Dragon (unconfirmed, close friend) |
| Children | None |
| Ideal Type | Someone with strong individuality |
CL Age, Height, Weight and Physical Appearance
In 2026, CL is 35 years old. She was born on February 26, 1991. Her zodiac sign is Pisces. Her blood type is A. Her MBTI personality type is ESTP or ENFJ. Her height is 162 cm (5 ft 4 in). Her weight is approximately 48 kg (106 lbs).
CL has dark brown eyes and dark brown or black hair. She often changes her hair color for comebacks. Her body type is slim and athletic. Her chest size is 33 inches. Her waist is just 24 inches slim. Her biceps measure 11 inches. Her shoe size is 6 US or 240mm (KR). Her skin tone is fair and glowing.
She maintains her figure through dance practice. She also does strength training regularly. Her fierce stage presence is her trademark. She is known for her powerful charisma and sharp features. Her fashion sense is admired worldwide.
| Physical Attribute | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Age (2026) | 35 years |
| Height | 162 cm (5 ft 4 in) |
| Weight | 48 kg (106 lbs) |
| Eye Color | Dark Brown |
| Hair Color | Dark Brown / Black (dyed often) |
| Body Type | Slim / Athletic |
| Chest Size | 33 inches |
| Waist Size | 24 inches |
| Biceps Size | 11 inches |
| Shoe Size | 6 US (240 mm) |
| Skin Tone | Fair |
CL Before Fame
Before 2NE1, CL was a young trainee in Seoul. She sent a demo to YG Entertainment in 2006. Yang Hyun Suk recruited her just a week later. She was only 15 years old at the time. She trained for 3 years before her debut. She was known as the “YG Princess” among trainees.
She grew up as a child of academia. Her father’s work took her around the world. She attended international schools in France and Japan. This shaped her global perspective early. She became fluent in English, French, and Japanese by age 13. She also learned basic Mandarin.
She was heavily influenced by hip-hop culture. She loved artists like Queen and Lauryn Hill. She almost became a nun because of her Catholic upbringing. But music called her louder. She chose to pursue rap instead. Her bold decision changed her life forever.
| Before Fame Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| YG Recruitment Year | 2006 (age 15) |
| Training Period | 3 years (2006-2009) |
| Pre-debut Nickname | “YG Princess” |
| Languages Learned | Korean, English, French, Japanese, Basic Mandarin |
CL Career
CL debuted as the leader and main rapper of 2NE1 in May 2009. The group released their first single “Fire” instantly. They became one of the best-selling girl groups of all time. Their hits include “I Am the Best,” “I Don’t Care,” and “Come Back Home.” 2NE1 was the first K-pop girl group to go on a world tour.
She made her solo debut in May 2013 with “The Baddest Female.” The song peaked within the top five on the Gaon Digital Chart. It won Best Dance Performance at the Mnet Asian Music Awards (MAMA). In 2014, she released the solo track “MTBD” on 2NE1’s final album “Crush.” She signed with Scooter Braun’s SB Projects in 2014. This marked her push into the U.S. market.
Her English single “Lifted” (2016) made history. She became the first female Korean solo artist to enter the Billboard Hot 100. After leaving YG in 2019, she released the acclaimed EP “In the Name of Love.” Her debut studio album “Alpha” came out on October 20, 2021. 2NE1 reformed in July 2024 and resumed group activities. She still runs her own label Very Cherry. Her 2024 single “What’s the Deal” showed she is still evolving.
| Career Milestone | Year |
|---|---|
| 2NE1 Debut | May 2009 |
| Solo Debut (“The Baddest Female”) | May 28, 2013 |
| Signed with SB Projects (Scooter Braun) | 2014 |
| “Lifted” (First on Billboard Hot 100) | 2016 |
| Left YG Entertainment | November 2019 |
| “In the Name of Love” EP | December 17, 2019 |
| “Alpha” Debut Studio Album | October 20, 2021 |
| 2NE1 Reunion | July 2024 |
CL Social Media Presence
CL is active on Instagram under @chaelincl. She has over 4.8 million followers as of 2026. She posts performance clips, fashion shoots, and personal moments. She also uses Twitter (X) under @chaelinCL. Her social media reflects her bold personality. She often shares behind-the-scenes studio work.
She is less active on TikTok but has a presence. Her official YouTube channel features music videos and vlogs. She uses social media to connect with GZBz, her official fandom name. She promotes her music and Very Cherry agency online. She never posts anything overly controversial.
CL’s social media is known for its raw honesty. She shares her struggles as a solo artist. She also celebrates her wins with fans. Her posts feel authentic and unfiltered. She is respected for being real online.
| Platform | Handle | Followers (2026) |
|---|---|---|
| @chaelincl | 4.8+ million | |
| Twitter (X) | @chaelinCL | Active |
| YouTube | CL | Active |
| Fandom Name | GZBz |
CL Net Worth
As of 2026, CL’s net worth is estimated at $8 million. This comes from multiple streams of income. Her years with 2NE1 built her financial foundation. The group’s world tours and album sales were huge. She earns royalties from her solo music. Songs like “Lifted” and “Hello Bitches” still generate streams today.
Her Very Cherry agency adds to her income. She controls her own publishing and label. Brand endorsements are also a major factor. She has worked with Adidas, Alexander Wang, and other big names. She also earned from her Met Gala appearances and fashion deals.
Unlike newer K-pop stars, CL’s net worth is modest. But she owns her masters and publishing rights. She also invests in real estate and creative projects. Her net worth may grow with new 2NE1 activities. She is financially independent and smart.
| Income Source | Estimated Earnings |
|---|---|
| 2NE1 Albums & Tours | $5 million |
| Solo Music & Royalties | $1.5 million |
| Very Cherry Agency | $500,000 |
| Brand Endorsements (Adidas, Alexander Wang) | $1 million |
| Total Net Worth | $8 million |
CL Legacy and Impact
CL is considered the “Queen of K-pop” by many fans. She paved the way for female solo rappers in Korea. She broke the mold for female idol behavior. She was fierce, raw, and unapologetically bold. She showed that women can be leaders in hip-hop.
She was the first female K-pop soloist on the Billboard Hot 100. She was voted #2 on Time Magazine’s 100 Most Influential People readers’ poll in 2015. She made the Forbes 30 Under 30 Asia list in 2019. The Guardian named her one of the best girl group members of all time. Her influence extends beyond music into fashion. She is a regular at major fashion weeks.
She inspired a whole generation of global idols. Artists like BLACKPINK’s Lisa look up to her. She proved that K-pop stars can be independent entrepreneurs. Her legacy is one of fearless authenticity. She will never be forgotten.
| Legacy Metric | Stat |
|---|---|
| Years Active | 2007-present |
| First Female K-pop Soloist on Billboard Hot 100 | 2016 (“Lifted”) |
| Time 100 Readers’ Poll Ranking | #2 (2015), #25 (2016) |
| Forbes 30 Under 30 Asia | 2019 |
| Best Girl Group Member of All Time | The Guardian |
CL Nationality and Religion
CL holds South Korean nationality. She was born in Seoul, South Korea. She is ethnically Korean through her parents. However, she has a global mindset from living abroad. She speaks multiple languages fluently. Her cultural identity is uniquely blended.
Her religion is Catholicism. She was raised in a Catholic household. She attends the same church as Kanye West. Her childhood dream of becoming a nun shows her early devotion. However, she rarely discusses faith publicly now. She keeps her beliefs mostly private.
She is also interested in spirituality. She meditates and practices mindfulness. Her song “Done” from her EP speaks to letting go. She focuses on being a good person. Her faith is personal and quiet.
| Field | Information |
|---|---|
| Nationality | South Korean |
| Ethnicity | Korean |
| Religion | Catholic (raised) |
| Current Beliefs | Spiritual, private |
CL Future Plans and Goals
CL plans to continue with 2NE1 after their 2024 reunion. The group is working on new music and performances. She is also writing her second studio album. The follow-up to “Alpha” is in development. She wants to tour globally again.
She will keep growing her label Very Cherry. She aims to sign and mentor new artists. She wants to produce music for other K-pop groups. She also dreams of acting in American films. She had a cameo in the movie “Mile 22” (2018). She wants bigger Hollywood roles.
CL is passionate about philanthropy. She supports mental health awareness nonprofits. She also works with women’s empowerment groups. She wants to teach masterclasses for aspiring rappers. Her future is about creative freedom and giving back.
| Future Plan | Details |
|---|---|
| 2NE1 Activities | New music and tours |
| Second Solo Album | In development |
| Very Cherry | Sign new artists |
| Acting | Hollywood film roles |
| Philanthropy | Mental health, women’s empowerment |
CL Awards and Achievements
CL has won numerous awards as a solo artist. She won Best Dance Performance – Female Solo at the Mnet Asian Music Awards (MAMA) for “The Baddest Female” in 2013. She also won a Golden Disc Award with 2NE1. She has multiple Melon Music Awards and Korean Music Awards.
She was named to Forbes 30 Under 30 Asia in 2019. She was voted #2 on Time Magazine’s 100 Most Influential People readers’ poll in 2015. She was also named one of the best girl group members of all time by The Guardian. Her single “Lifted” was nominated for an MTV Europe Music Award.
Her group 2NE1 won Album of the Year and Artist of the Year at the MAMAs. They were the first K-pop girl group to have a world tour. CL’s individual achievements are equally impressive. She is a true record-breaker.
| Award / Achievement | Year / Count |
|---|---|
| MAMA Best Dance Performance – Female Solo | 2013 |
| Forbes 30 Under 30 Asia | 2019 |
| Time 100 Readers’ Poll | #2 (2015), #25 (2016) |
| First Female K-pop Soloist on Billboard Hot 100 | 2016 |
| MTV Europe Music Award Nomination | 2016 |
CL Business Ventures
CL founded her own agency Very Cherry in 2020. She established it after leaving YG Entertainment. The agency manages her solo career entirely. However, it operated without proper registration for 5 years. In 2026, she was referred to prosecutors for this violation. She is working to resolve the issue now.
She also signed a management deal with TaP Music for global promotions. She was previously under Scooter Braun’s SB Projects. She owns her master recordings for her solo work. This gives her creative and financial control. She also earns from real estate investments.
CL has lucrative endorsement deals with major brands. She has worked with Adidas and Alexander Wang. She is a fashion icon who collaborates with luxury houses. She also invests in art and creative projects. Her business sense is growing.
| Business | Role / Ownership |
|---|---|
| Very Cherry | Founder & Owner (under legal review) |
| TaP Music | Management contract |
| Real Estate | Investor |
| Brand Endorsements | Adidas, Alexander Wang |
CL Fashion and Brand
CL is a true fashion icon recognized worldwide. She has been a regular at the Met Gala. She is known for her bold, streetwear-inspired style. She mixes high-end luxury with edgy pieces. She has worked with Alexander Wang and Jeremy Scott.
She is the former face of Adidas Originals. She has collaborated with the brand multiple times. Her “CL for Alexander Wang” collection was a huge success. She often wears cut-out outfits and statement pieces. Her fashion is fearless and unique.
She was featured on the cover of Vogue Singapore. She shot the pictures at her grandma’s house. Her style has influenced K-pop fashion for years. She is called the “Baddest Female” for a reason. Her brand is all about confidence.
| Fashion Item | Signature |
|---|---|
| Preferred Brands | Alexander Wang, Jeremy Scott, Adidas |
| Signature Look | Bold prints, cut-out tops, statement pants |
| Nickname | “Human Alexander Wang” |
| Met Gala Appearances | Multiple |
CL Public Image
CL is seen as fierce, independent, and authentic. She is respected for her uncompromising artistry. Fans call her the “Queen of K-pop.” She is known for her strong leadership in 2NE1. She never shies away from being herself.
She faced criticism after leaving YG. Some said her solo career stalled. She was open about her struggles in the U.S. music industry. She spoke about feeling like an “alien” in America. But she never gave up. She earned respect for her resilience.
Her 2024 single “What’s the Deal” proved she is still powerful. She is admired for staying true to her hip-hop roots. Her public image is one of authenticity. She is a role model for being unapologetically unique.
| Public Perception | Rating (out of 10) |
|---|---|
| Stage Presence | 10 |
| Authenticity | 10 |
| Resilience | 9.5 |
| Controversy Level | 2 |
| Fan Respect | 10 |
CL Category Section
CL is primarily a K-pop rapper and singer. She is a member of 2NE1. She also has a successful solo career. According to the rules, she falls under Singer / Music Artist. Therefore, we present her solo discography.
CL Songs List (Solo)
Here are 20 songs from CL’s solo discography (in bullet points):
- “The Baddest Female” (2013) – Debut solo single, iconic empowerment anthem.
- “MTBD (Mentally Broken)” (2014) – Powerful track from 2NE1’s “Crush” album.
- “Doctor Pepper” (with Diplo, Riff Raff, OG Maco, 2015)
- “Hello Bitches” (2015) – Viral pre-release track with a fierce dance.
- “Lifted” (2016) – First solo single on Billboard Hot 100 (No. 94).
- “Baddest Female (JP Version)” (2013)
- “Rewind” (from “In the Name of Love,” 2019) – Nostalgic R&B track.
- “Done” (from “In the Name of Love,” 2019)
- “Paradox” (from “In the Name of Love,” 2019)
- “One and Only” (from “In the Name of Love,” 2019)
- “I Quit” (from “In the Name of Love,” 2019)
- “Thnx” (from “In the Name of Love,” 2019)
- “Spicy” (from “Alpha,” 2021) – Lead single from her debut album.
- “Lover Like Me” (from “Alpha,” 2021) – Collaboration with Anne-Marie.
- “Chuck” (from “Alpha,” 2021)
- “Xai” (from “Alpha,” 2021)
- “Tie a Cherry” (from “Alpha,” 2021) – Album track.
- “Let It” (from “Alpha,” 2021)
- “5 Star” (from “Alpha,” 2021)
- “What’s the Deal” (2024) – Comeback single showcasing her evolution.
CL Hobbies
- Writing lyrics and poetry
- Sketching and drawing
- Reading philosophy books
- Playing with her three cats (Showball Whitey, Pudding, Doughnut)
- Meditating and practicing mindfulness
- Cooking Italian food (learned in Paris)
- Collecting vintage sneakers
- Listening to old-school hip-hop vinyl
- Photography (especially street photography)
- Traveling to quiet, remote beaches
CL Favorite Things
- Food: Kimchi jjigae (stew), Italian pasta
- Color: Black and white
- Movie: Sister Act 2 (childhood favorite)
- Music Artists: Lauryn Hill, Queen, Missy Elliott
- Holiday Destination: Paris, France (childhood home)
- Drink: Red wine and coffee
- Fashion Brand: Alexander Wang (former collaborator)
- Animal: Cats (owns three)
- Book: Philosophical texts (Marcus Aurelius)
- Beauty Product: Eyeliner (must-have)
CL Interesting Facts
- CL’s name is simply the initials of her real name, Chae-rin Lee.
- She moved to Paris alone at just 13 years old to study.
- Her childhood dream was to become a nun because of her Catholic upbringing.
- She speaks four languages: Korean, English, French, and Japanese.
- She inspired the character design of Jett in the video game “Valorant.”
- She attended the same church as Kanye West in the U.S.
- She has three tattoos, including a cross on her chest and the words “Son of a King.”
- Her stage presence was influenced by Queen and Lauryn Hill.
- She was the first female K-pop solo artist on the Billboard Hot 100.
- CL once said she wants to be someone who lives in a house with a “huge garden” at 60.
FAQs
1. What is CL’s real name?
Her real name is Lee Chae-rin. Her stage name CL comes from the initials of Chae-rin Lee.
2. How old is CL in 2026?
She is 35 years old in 2026. She was born on February 26, 1991.
3. Is CL married or has a boyfriend?
She is single as of 2026 and has never been married. She keeps her personal life very private.
4. What is CL’s net worth?
CL’s estimated net worth is $8 million as of 2026.
5. Does CL have any solo albums?
Yes, she released the EP “In the Name of Love” (2019) and her debut studio album “Alpha” (2021).
6. What is CL’s most famous song?
Her most famous solo songs are “The Baddest Female,” “Hello Bitches,” and her Billboard hit “Lifted.”
7. Is 2NE1 still active?
Yes, 2NE1 reformed in July 2024 and is currently active under YG Entertainment.
Conclusion
CL, whose real name is Lee Chae-rin, is a K-pop pioneer in 2026. Her stage name is CL. At 35 years old, she has achieved legendary status. She was born on February 26, 1991 in Seoul, South Korea. Her height is 162 cm and her weight is 48 kg. Her career started in 2007 as a YG trainee.
She released her debut EP “In the Name of Love” in 2019 under her own label, Very Cherry. Her first studio album “Alpha” followed in 2021. Her estimated net worth is $8 million. She is the first female K-pop solo artist on the Billboard Hot 100.
CL will be remembered as the “Queen of K-pop” who broke countless barriers. She proved that female rappers could lead the industry. Her boldness, talent, and authenticity inspire millions. She is truly a legendary artist and cultural icon.
