Personal Details :
- Full Name: Kang Ji-young (강지영)
- Stage Name: Jiyoung (지영), also known as JY in Japan
- Date of Birth: January 18, 1994 (age 31)
- Birthplace: Paju, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
- Height: 167 cm (5′6″)
- Blood Type: O
- Education: Sungkyunkwan University (Performing Arts)
- Nationality: South Korean
- Occupations: Singer, songwriter, actress
- Years Active: 2008–present
- Labels/Agency: DSP Media (2008–2014), Sweet Power & Sony Music Japan (2014–2021), ELrise/SMG (2022–present)
- Instruments: Vocals, guitar
- Relatives: Cousin Kim Yoon-ji (NS Yoon-G)
Social Media Presence :
- Instagram: @kkangjji_
- Twitter: @k_jiyoung_
Career Overview :
2008–2014: Rise with KARA
Kang Ji-young debuted as a member of the South Korean girl group KARA in 2008, joining after the departure of former member Kim Sung-hee. She made her broadcast debut alongside fellow newcomer Goo Hara on July 24, 2008, performing on the music program M Countdown on Mnet. Their mini-album “Rock U” was released the next day, marking the group’s first release as a quintet. KARA gained significant popularity following the release of their hit single “Mister” in 2009, which was a critical and commercial success domestically and successfully launched the group’s career in Japan. Earning the moniker “Hallyu Queens,” the group was included in the Forbes Korea Power Celebrity 40 list as one of the most influential celebrities in South Korea, ranking 4th in 2012, and 13th in 2013. The group became the first female South Korean act to perform at the Tokyo Dome. In April 2009, Kang was featured on the hip-hop duo Jumper’s single “Dazzling”.
2014–2019: Transition to Japan and Acting Career
After leaving KARA in April 2014, Kang Ji-young moved to Japan to pursue an acting career. She signed a management contract with Japanese talent agency Sweet Power to launch her acting career. Sweet Power is a Japanese entertainment powerhouse that manages a slew of Japanese top-tier actresses including Maki Horikita and Meisa Kuroki. Kang planned to show her mature side in a departure from her (cute) image, and she was fluent both in Japanese and English.
In Japan, Kang achieved recognition for her portrayal of characters in many live-action adaptations of popular manga series, including Yukime in the Nippon TV series Hell Teacher: Jigoku Sensei Nube (2014), Irina Jelavić in the Assassination Classroom films (2015–2016), and Itori in the film Tokyo Ghoul S (2019). She is also known for her lead role in the science-fiction thriller series Orphan Black – 7 Genes (2017–2018). Aside from her Japanese-speaking roles, Kang has appeared in Korean dramas with a lead role in the JTBC series Sweet Munchies (2020), and special appearances in Let Me Be Your Knight (2022) and Doctor Cha (2023).
2022–Present: Return to KARA and Continued Acting
In November 2022, Kang Ji-young returned to KARA as a full member and worked as a singer with the release of KARA’s 15th anniversary album “MOVE AGAIN.” The title song “WHEN I MOVE” topped major music charts in Korea and received the No. 1 trophy on music programs. Kang expressed her feelings about the comeback, stating that she felt blessed and happy to be back with KARA, realizing the importance of being with her group members.
In 2025, Kang starred as Jenny, known as the ‘Queen of Lies,’ in the highly anticipated comedy film DOENJANG, which premiered on July 2. The film follows Jenny as she escapes the police and hides in a remote village, showcasing Kang’s comedic talents and growth as an actress.
Personal Life & Interests :
- Kang Ji-young is known for her multilingual abilities, fluent in Korean, Japanese, and English.
- She has a passion for acting and has focused much of her career on expanding her skills in this area.
- After moving to Japan, she embraced Japanese culture and media, successfully transitioning into the Japanese entertainment industry.
- Kang values her close friendships with former KARA members and often expresses gratitude for their continued support.
- She enjoys various outdoor activities and staying active, which she credits for maintaining her energy during busy schedules.
Net Worth :
As of 2025, Kang Ji-young’s estimated net worth is approximately $14.5 million. This wealth has been accumulated through her successful career as a member of the K-pop group KARA, her acting roles in Japan and Korea, and her solo music endeavors. Notably, KARA’s activities in 2011 alone reportedly generated around $6.8 million, benefiting all its members, including Ji-young.
Awards & Achievements :
- 2015: Nominated for Best Supporting Actress at the Television Drama Academy Awards for her role in Hell Teacher: Jigoku Sensei Nube.
- 2015: Nominated for Best Supporting Actress at the Television Drama Academy Awards for her role in Tamiou.
- 2016: Won the Next Artist Award at the Model Press Readers’ Choice Awards.
- 2018: Won the Big Audience Award at the Okinawa International Movie Festival for her performance in Reon.
- 2025: Appointed as a promotional ambassador for the Seoul Barrier Free Film Festival, aiming to promote barrier-free films and expand their audience base.
Fun Facts :
- Kang Ji-young was the youngest member of KARA when she debuted at just 14 years old.
- She is trilingual, fluent in Korean, Japanese, and English.
- Before fully committing to acting, she briefly pursued a solo singing career in Japan under the stage name “JY.”
- Kang is known for her natural acting talent, gaining praise for her roles in various Japanese dramas and films.
- She returned to KARA in 2022 after an 8-year hiatus, reuniting with her former group members for their 15th anniversary.