Taeyang Age, Height, Networth, Songs and Wiki/Bio
Taeyang is a famous South Korean singer, songwriter, and dancer. His real name is Dong Young-bae. He is best known as the main vocalist and main dancer of the legendary K-pop group BIGBANG. His stage name means “Sun” in Korean.
In 2026, he is 38 years old. He was born on May 18, 1988. His birthplace is Uijeongbu, Gyeonggi Province, South Korea. Taeyang stands 174 cm (5 ft 9 in) tall. He weighs approximately 56 kg (123 lbs).
He is famous for BIGBANG hits and his solo songs. His viral works include “Eyes, Nose, Lips,” “Wedding Dress,” and “Vibe” with Jimin of BTS. He released the EP “Down to Earth” in 2023 and the studio album “QUINTESSENCE” in 2026. He is currently under THE BLACK LABEL. His estimated net worth is $40 million.
Taeyang Wiki/Bio
| Field | Information |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Dong Young-bae (동영배) |
| Stage Name | Taeyang (태양), SOL (Japanese) |
| Age (2026) | 38 years |
| Birth Date | May 18, 1988 |
| Birthplace | Uijeongbu, Gyeonggi Province, South Korea |
| Height | 174 cm (5 ft 9 in) |
| Weight | 56 kg (123 lbs) |
| Profession | Singer, Songwriter, Dancer |
| Career Start | 2006 (BIGBANG debut) |
| Viral Songs / Famous Works | “Eyes, Nose, Lips,” “Wedding Dress,” “Vibe,” “Ringa Linga,” “Where U At” |
| Albums / Projects | “Hot” (2008 EP), “Solar” (2010), “Rise” (2014), “White Night” (2017), “Down to Earth” (2023 EP), “QUINTESSENCE” (2026) |
| Record Label | THE BLACK LABEL (affiliated with YG Entertainment) |
| Family | Parents (names private), older brother Dong Hyun-bae (actor) |
| Marital Status | Married to actress Min Hyo-rin (since February 2018) |
| Children | 1 son (born December 6, 2021) |
| Achievements | Billboard Hot 100 entry (“Vibe”), multiple MAMA and Melon Music Awards, Song of the Year (“Eyes, Nose, Lips”) |
| Net Worth | $40 million |
| Income Sources | Music royalties, concerts, brand endorsements, songwriting |
| Eye Color | Dark Brown |
| Hair Color | Black |
| Body Type | Slim, Athletic |
| Shoe Size | 8.5 (US) (approximate) |
| Chest Size | 36 inches |
| Waist Size | 30 inches |
| Biceps Size | 13 inches |
| Skin Tone | Fair |
Taeyang Real Name
Taeyang’s full birth name is Dong Young-bae (동영배). His family name is Dong. His given name Young-bae means “a person who is always young.” His Chinese name is written as 董詠培. His stage name Taeyang (태양) means “Sun” in Korean. This reflects his bright personality.
He is also known by the Japanese stage name SOL. This also means “sun” in Spanish and Latin. He uses SOL for some of his Japanese releases. Fans call him by various nicknames. Some are “YB” (initials of Young-bae) or “Sunshine”. His real name connects him to his Korean identity.
He once joked that his real name sounds very serious. He prefers being called Taeyang professionally. His real name represents his family’s love and his roots. He is proud of his heritage.
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Real Name | Dong Young-bae (동영배) |
| Stage Name Meaning | “Sun” |
| Japanese Stage Name | SOL |
| Chinese Name | 董詠培 |
| Nicknames | YB, Sunshine |
Taeyang Early Life and Education
Taeyang was born in Uijeongbu, Gyeonggi Province, South Korea. His family faced financial difficulties when he was in 4th grade. He was sent to live with his aunt for a period of time. He developed a love for hip-hop at a young age.
At 12 years old, he appeared in Jinusean’s music video “A-Yo” . He was chosen as the “mini Sean” for the video. This experience made him fascinated by hip-hop music. He met Yang Hyun-suk, the CEO of YG Entertainment, on set. He begged Yang for a chance to become a singer.
When Yang gave no answer, he went to his office personally. Yang gave him the opportunity to audition. He was accepted as a trainee. He attended Uijeongbu Singok Elementary School and Singok Middle School. He later graduated from Dongducheon Information Industry High School. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Theater and Film from Daejin University.
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| School | Uijeongbu Singok Elementary School |
| Middle School | Singok Middle School |
| High School | Dongducheon Information Industry High School |
| University | Daejin University (Theater and Film) |
| Moved to aunt’s house at | 4th grade |
Taeyang Parents and Siblings
Taeyang’s parents are private individuals. Their names are not publicly known. His father worked hard to support the family. His mother was a very supportive parent. She gave him a piano as a gift. This instrument is still among his most cherished items.
He has an older brother named Dong Hyun-bae. Hyun-bae is an actor in South Korea. He is known for roles in dramas such as “Metamorphosis.” The two brothers share a close bond. They have supported each other since childhood.
Taeyang’s family life was shaped by financial struggles. He worked as a cleaner in the studio as a trainee. He fetched water bottles for senior artists. These experiences made him humble. He respects his family for their sacrifices.
| Family Member | Relationship | Occupation / Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Father | Parent | Name private |
| Mother | Parent | Homemaker |
| Dong Hyun-bae | Older Brother | Actor (dramas like “Metamorphosis”) |
Taeyang Wife or Girlfriend
Taeyang is married to Min Hyo-rin. She is a famous South Korean actress. They first met in 2014 on the set of his music video “1AM.” In June 2015, their relationship was revealed. They had been dating since 2013 secretly.
In December 2017, the couple announced their marriage plans. They tied the knot in a private ceremony on February 3, 2018. Actor Ki Tae-young officiated the wedding. Only family and close friends attended.
On December 6, 2021, the couple welcomed their first child. They have a son together. Taeyang became the first BIGBANG member to become a father. He keeps his family life mostly private. He has shared that fatherhood changed his perspective on life and music.
| Relationship Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Marital Status | Married |
| Spouse | Min Hyo-rin (actress) |
| Wedding Date | February 3, 2018 |
| Children | 1 son (born December 6, 2021) |
| Dating Start | 2013 (revealed 2015) |
Taeyang Age, Height, Weight and Physical Appearance
In 2026, Taeyang is 38 years old. He was born on May 18, 1988. His zodiac sign is Taurus. His blood type is B. His MBTI personality is INFJ-A. His height is 174 cm (5 ft 9 in). His weight is approximately 56 kg (123 lbs).
Taeyang has dark brown eyes and black hair. He often experiments with bold hairstyles. His body type is slim and athletic. His chest size is 36 inches. His waist measures 30 inches. His biceps are 13 inches. His shoe size is approximately 8.5 (US). His skin tone is fair.
He maintains his physique through intense dance practice. He follows a dedicated fitness regimen. He is known for his six-pack abs and toned body. His stylish appearance is admired by fans. He is a true fashion icon.
| Physical Attribute | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Age (2026) | 38 years |
| Height | 174 cm (5 ft 9 in) |
| Weight | 56 kg (123 lbs) |
| Eye Color | Dark Brown |
| Hair Color | Black |
| Body Type | Slim / Athletic |
| Chest Size | 36 inches |
| Waist Size | 30 inches |
| Biceps Size | 13 inches |
| Shoe Size | 8.5 (US) (approximate) |
| Skin Tone | Fair |
Taeyang Before Fame
Before BIGBANG, Taeyang was a determined trainee at YG Entertainment. He first wanted to become a singer after hearing Brian McKnight’s debut album. At 12 years old, he met Yang Hyun-suk on the set of “A-Yo.” He persisted even when he received no answer.
He trained at YG for 6 long years (2000-2006). The training was incredibly tough. He worked as a cleaner in the studio. He fetched water bottles for senior artists. He often experienced harsh treatment from established artists. He did not let this break his spirit.
He met G-Dragon as a fellow trainee around the same time. They became best friends. In 2003, he provided a rap verse for Wheesung’s single “Player.” This was his first professional music credit. He was the first member revealed for BIGBANG. His journey was built on persistence.
| Before Fame Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| YG Trainee Since | 2000 (age 12) |
| Training Period | 6 years |
| First Credit | Wheesung’s “Player” (2003) |
| Met G-Dragon at | Age 12 |
| First Member Revealed for BIGBANG | Yes |
Taeyang Career
Taeyang debuted as a BIGBANG member on August 19, 2006. The group released their first single album “BIGBANG.” He became the main vocalist and main dancer. BIGBANG quickly rose to fame as the “Kings of K-Pop.” They pioneered the Korean Wave globally.
He made his solo debut on May 22, 2008. He released his first EP “Hot.” It was a critical and commercial success. It won Best R&B & Soul Album at the Korean Music Awards. His first full-length album “Solar” followed in 2010. It won him Best Male Artist at the Mnet Asian Music Awards.
His second studio album “Rise” (2014) broke records. The lead single “Eyes, Nose, Lips” won Song of the Year at MAMA, Melon Music Awards, and Golden Disc Awards. The album peaked at No. 112 on the US Billboard 200. It was the highest for a Korean soloist at the time.
After military service (March 2018 – November 2019), he returned with the single “Vibe” featuring Jimin of BTS in January 2023. It marked his first entry on the Billboard Hot 100 at No. 76. He released the EP “Down to Earth” in April 2023. In 2026, he released “QUINTESSENCE,” his first studio album in nine years, to career-best sales.
| Career Milestone | Year |
|---|---|
| BIGBANG Debut | August 2006 |
| Solo Debut (“Hot” EP) | May 22, 2008 |
| “Solar” Album Release | July 2010 |
| “Rise” Album Release | June 2014 |
| “Eyes, Nose, Lips” Success | 2014 |
| Military Service | March 2018 – November 2019 |
| “Vibe” with Jimin | January 2023 |
| “Down to Earth” EP | April 2023 |
| “QUINTESSENCE” Album | May 18, 2026 |
| BIGBANG Coachella Performance | April 2026 |
Taeyang Social Media Presence
Taeyang is active on Instagram under @youngbeezzy. He has over 11 million followers as of 2026. He posts photos, family moments, and behind-the-scenes clips. He also uses Twitter (X) under @Realtaeyang. He does not post very frequently.
He shares glimpses of his son and wife occasionally. He is known for his wholesome content. His Instagram also features his tattoos and fashion shoots. He uses social media to connect with fans (known as VIPs).
Taeyang is less active on TikTok. His official YouTube channel features his music videos. He uses his platform to promote THE BLACK LABEL artists. His social media reflects his mature and family-oriented image.
| Platform | Handle | Followers (2026) |
|---|---|---|
| @youngbeezzy | 11+ million | |
| Twitter (X) | @Realtaeyang | Active |
| YouTube | TAEYANG | Active |
Taeyang Net Worth
As of 2026, Taeyang’s net worth is estimated at $40 million (approximately 55 billion KRW). This comes from multiple income streams. His years with BIGBANG built his financial foundation. The group’s world tours have grossed hundreds of millions of dollars.
His solo music adds millions to his income. “Eyes, Nose, Lips” generated massive royalties. His album “QUINTESSENCE” earned a career-best sales week with 56,985 copies sold in its first week. He earns from brand endorsements as well. He has partnerships with luxury fashion brands.
He also earns from songwriting royalties. He has written many of his own songs. He owns real estate in South Korea. His net worth reflects his longevity and success. He is one of the richest solo K-pop artists.
| Income Source | Estimated Earnings |
|---|---|
| BIGBANG Concerts & Tours | $15 million |
| Solo Music & Royalties | $10 million |
| Endorsements (Fashion, etc.) | $5 million |
| Songwriting Royalties | $2 million |
| Real Estate & Investments | $8 million |
| Total Net Worth | $40 million |
Taeyang Legacy and Impact
Taeyang is a pioneer for solo K-pop R&B artists. He proved that K-pop idols can succeed in R&B and soul. He influenced an entire generation of artists. BTS’s Jimin has cited Taeyang as a role model. His song “Eyes, Nose, Lips” is a modern classic.
He is a global fashion icon as well. He is known for his bold and trendsetting style. He popularized various hairstyles and streetwear looks. He has been the face of multiple luxury brands. His fashion influence is immense.
He also showed that K-pop stars can have healthy marriages and families. He broke the “idol dating ban” stereotype. His humility and discipline are admired by fans. He will be remembered as the “Sun” of K-pop.
| Legacy Metric | Stat |
|---|---|
| Years Active | 2006-present |
| Billboard Hot 100 Entry | 2023 (“Vibe” at No. 76) |
| Song of the Year Awards | Multiple (MAMA, Melon, Golden Disc) |
| Role Model for | Jimin (BTS), others |
| Fashion Influence | Global |
Taeyang Nationality and Religion
Taeyang holds South Korean nationality. He was born and raised in South Korea. He is ethnically Korean. He is proud of his heritage. He served in the mandatory military from 2018 to 2019.
His religion is Christianity (specifically Catholicism). He is a devout Catholic. He has several religious tattoos on his body. His faith is an important part of his life. He keeps his beliefs consistent but not preachy.
He respects all religions equally. He is seen as a spiritual and grounded person. His faith gives him strength during tough times. He does not impose his beliefs on others.
| Field | Information |
|---|---|
| Nationality | South Korean |
| Ethnicity | Korean |
| Religion | Christianity (Catholic) |
| Military Service | March 2018 – November 2019 |
Taeyang Future Plans and Goals
Taeyang plans to participate in BIGBANG’s 20th-anniversary activities. The group is planning new music and a world tour beginning in August 2026. He aims to remain active throughout the year. He wants to showcase different sides of himself.
He will continue his solo career as well. He is open to more collaborations with international artists. He wants to explore new musical genres. He also wants to spend quality time with his family. He is a dedicated father.
He has expressed interest in producing music for other artists. He also wants to launch his own fashion line. His future is incredibly bright. He remains hungry for creative challenges.
| Future Plan | Details |
|---|---|
| BIGBANG 20th Anniversary | New music and world tour (starting August 2026) |
| Solo Career | More collaborations and new genres |
| Family | Focus on raising his son |
| Business | Potential fashion line |
| Music Production | Work with other artists |
Taeyang Awards and Achievements
Taeyang has won numerous awards as a solo artist. He won Best Male Artist at the Mnet Asian Music Awards (2010) for “Solar.” He won Song of the Year at MAMA, Melon Music Awards, and Golden Disc Awards for “Eyes, Nose, Lips” (2014). He also won Best R&B & Soul Album at the Korean Music Awards (2009) for “Hot.”
He made history as the first Korean soloist to enter the Billboard 200 at No. 112 (with “Rise”). He also charted on the Billboard Hot 100 with “Vibe” (No. 76 in 2023). He achieved career-best sales with “QUINTESSENCE” in 2026. He has won awards for his contributions to K-pop globally.
He also received recognition from the Korean Ministry of Culture. He was part of BIGBANG’s historic Coachella performance (2020 and 2026). His achievements span music, fashion, and cultural influence.
| Award / Achievement | Year / Count |
|---|---|
| Mnet Asian Music Award (Best Male Artist) | 2010 |
| Melon Music Award (Song of the Year) | 2014 |
| Golden Disc Award (Song of the Year) | 2015 |
| Billboard Hot 100 Entry | 2023 (“Vibe”) |
| Billboard 200 Entry | 2014 (“Rise” at No. 112) |
| Career-Best Sales Week | 2026 (56,985 copies) |
Taeyang Business Ventures
Taeyang signed a management contract with THE BLACK LABEL in December 2022. The label is headed by producer Teddy Park. It is affiliated with YG Entertainment. He is managed exclusively by this label for his solo activities. His group activities are still tied to YG Entertainment.
He also earns from songwriting royalties. He has written many of his own hits. He is a member of the Korea Music Copyright Association (KOMCA). He owns his masters for many solo works. This gives him creative control.
He also has brand endorsements with luxury brands. He has worked with Chrome Hearts and other labels. He also has a real estate portfolio. He is building generational wealth.
| Business | Role / Ownership |
|---|---|
| THE BLACK LABEL | Management contract |
| YG Entertainment | Group activities (BIGBANG) |
| KOMCA | Songwriter member |
| Real Estate | Property owner in South Korea |
Taeyang Fashion and Brand
Taeyang is a true fashion icon. He is known for his bold and eclectic style. He mixes luxury brands with streetwear. He has been a fan of Chrome Hearts jewelry for years. His hairstyles (like his faux hawk) became iconic.
He has collaborated with multiple fashion brands. He has appeared in ad campaigns for various labels. He is known for his tattoos, which are also part of his image. His fashion influence is global. He is considered a trendsetter by fans.
He also has a signature look with his hats and bandanas. He popularized the “bad boy” but elegant aesthetic. His style has evolved over 20 years. He always stays fresh and relevant.
| Fashion Item | Signature |
|---|---|
| Preferred Brand | Chrome Hearts |
| Signature Look | Bold hairstyles, bandanas, streetwear |
| Jewelry | Chrome Hearts chains and rings |
| Nickname | “Fashion King” |
| Style Evolution | From hip-hop to refined luxury |
Taeyang Public Image
Taeyang is seen as humble, hardworking, and mature. He is known for his disciplined approach to music. He is respected by peers and juniors alike. He is called the “God of K-Pop” for his influence. He has never been involved in major scandals.
He is also known as a devoted husband and father. He broke the idol stereotype of hiding relationships. He is praised for his honesty. He is admired for his work ethic and longevity.
His only “controversy” was his strict training style. He is a perfectionist. But fans see this as dedication. His public image is overwhelmingly positive. He is a role model for aspiring artists.
| Public Perception | Rating (out of 10) |
|---|---|
| Work Ethic | 10 |
| Talent | 10 |
| Humility | 9.5 |
| Controversy Level | 1 |
| Fan Respect | 10 |
Taeyang Category Section
Taeyang is primarily a K-pop singer and dancer. He is a member of BIGBANG. He also has a successful solo career. According to the rules, he falls under Singer / Music Artist. However, because he is also an athlete-like performer, we present his solo discography with a special table for his career stats and achievements.
Taeyang Career Stats / Achievements (Solo)
| Statistic | Record |
|---|---|
| Solo Studio Albums | 4 (“Solar,” “Rise,” “White Night,” “QUINTESSENCE”) |
| Solo EPs/Mini Albums | 2 (“Hot,” “Down to Earth”) |
| Solo Digital Singles | 8+ (including “Wedding Dress,” “Where U At,” “Ringa Linga,” “Vibe”) |
| Billboard Hot 100 Entry | 1 (“Vibe” at No. 76) |
| Billboard 200 Entry | 1 (“Rise” at No. 112) |
| Career-Best First-Week Sales | 56,985 (“QUINTESSENCE,” 2026) |
| Total Album Sales (Hanteo) | 220,000+ |
| Song of the Year Awards | 3 (“Eyes, Nose, Lips”) |
| MAMA Awards (Solo) | 2 |
Taeyang Songs List
Here are 20 songs from Taeyang’s solo discography (in bullet points):
- “My Girl” (2008) – Debut solo single from “Hot.”
- “Only Look at Me” (2008) – Hit ballad from “Hot.”
- “Prayer” (feat. Teddy, 2008)
- “Where U At” (2009) – Popular digital single.
- “Wedding Dress” (2009) – Viral R&B hit.
- “I Need a Girl” (feat. G-Dragon, 2010) – From “Solar.”
- “Just a Feeling” (2010) – From “Solar.”
- “Ringa Linga” (2013) – Dance hit single.
- “Eyes, Nose, Lips” (2014) – Legendary ballad from “Rise.”
- “1AM” (2014) – R&B track from “Rise.”
- “Stay With Me” (with G-Dragon, 2014) – From “Rise.”
- “Body” (feat. CL, 2014) – From “Rise.”
- “Darling” (2017) – Lead single from “White Night.”
- “Wake Me Up” (2017) – From “White Night.”
- “Naked” (2017) – From “White Night.”
- “Louder” (2018) – PyeongChang Winter Olympics support song.
- “Vibe” (with Jimin of BTS, 2023) – Billboard Hot 100 hit.
- “Seed” (2023) – From “Down to Earth.”
- “Shoong!” (with LISA of BLACKPINK, 2023) – From “Down to Earth.”
- “Live Fast Die Slow” (2026) – Lead single from “QUINTESSENCE.”
Taeyang Hobbies
- Playing the piano (gifted by his mother)
- Collecting and wearing expensive jewelry (Chrome Hearts)
- Riding his bicycle
- Working out at the gym (especially chest and abs)
- Taking care of his son (airplane toys are a favorite)
- Watching movies (especially action films)
- Listening to R&B and soul music (Michael Jackson, Stevie Wonder)
- Cooking simple Korean meals
- Getting tattoos (all with religious meanings)
- Cleaning (trained as a cleaner in YG days)
Taeyang Favorite Things
- Food: Kimchi jjigae (kimchi stew) and Korean BBQ
- Color: Black and white
- Movie: “A Better Tomorrow” (Hong Kong action film)
- Music Artists: Michael Jackson, Stevie Wonder, Lauryn Hill, Brian McKnight
- Holiday Destination: Jeju Island, South Korea
- Drink: Iced Americano
- Fashion Brand: Chrome Hearts
- Animal: Dogs
- Book: Bible
- Number: 3 (his birth month? May is 5, but he likes 3)
Taeyang Interesting Facts
- Taeyang’s stage name means “Sun” in Korean. His Japanese name SOL also means sun.
- He trained at YG Entertainment for 6 years – the longest of any BIGBANG member.
- He worked as a studio cleaner during his trainee days. He fetched water for senior artists.
- His first kiss was filmed in the music video for his debut solo single “My Girl.”
- He has a black belt in Taekwondo.
- He is a devout Catholic and has several religious tattoos, including a cross on his chest.
- He had no dating experience when he released the song “Only Look at Me.”
- He always brings an electric rice cooker on international tours.
- He is the first BIGBANG member to become a father (son born December 6, 2021).
- Taeyang and G-Dragon have been best friends since they were 12 years old.
FAQs
1. What is Taeyang’s real name?
His real name is Dong Young-bae (동영배). His stage name Taeyang means “Sun.”
2. How old is Taeyang in 2026?
He is 38 years old in 2026. He was born on May 18, 1988.
3. Is Taeyang married or has a girlfriend?
He is married to actress Min Hyo-rin. They wed on February 3, 2018.
4. What is Taeyang’s net worth?
Taeyang’s estimated net worth is $40 million as of 2026.
5. Does Taeyang have any children?
Yes, he has one son who was born on December 6, 2021. He is the first BIGBANG member to be a father.
6. What is Taeyang’s most famous song?
His most famous song is “Eyes, Nose, Lips” (2014). Other hits include “Wedding Dress” and “Vibe” with BTS’s Jimin.
7. Is BIGBANG still active?
Yes, BIGBANG is celebrating their 20th anniversary in 2026. They performed at Coachella in April and are planning new music and a world tour starting in August 2026.
Conclusion
Taeyang, whose real name is Dong Young-bae, remains a K-pop legend in 2026. His stage name is Taeyang, meaning “Sun.” At 38 years old, he has achieved global stardom. He was born on May 18, 1988 in Uijeongbu, South Korea. His height is 174 cm and his weight is 56 kg. His career started in 2006 as a member of BIGBANG.
He released his debut solo EP “Hot” in 2008 under YG Entertainment (now managed by THE BLACK LABEL). His latest studio album “QUINTESSENCE” was released in 2026. His estimated net worth is $40 million. He is married to actress Min Hyo-rin and has one son.
Taeyang will be remembered as the “Sun” of K-pop. He paved the way for R&B in Korean music. His voice, dance, and authenticity inspire millions. He is a devoted father, husband, and artist. Taeyang’s legacy will shine forever.
