Kris Wu: A Former K-Pop Star Turned Global Entertainer

 Wu Yifan (吴亦凡), known internationally as Kris Wu, is a Chinese-Canadian singer, rapper, actor, and former member of the K-pop group EXO. Born on November 6, 1990, in Guangzhou, China, Kris gained fame as a key member of EXO and later pursued a solo career that bridged the entertainment industries of China, South Korea, and Hollywood.


Early Life and Entry into Entertainment

Kris spent much of his childhood in Vancouver, Canada, before returning to China as a teenager. In 2008, he was scouted by SM Entertainment and became a trainee in South Korea. After years of rigorous training, he debuted as a member of EXO and its Chinese sub-unit EXO-M in 2012.


EXO: Rising to Global Fame

As a member of EXO, Kris played a pivotal role in the group’s early success, contributing to their rise as one of K-pop’s biggest acts. Known for his charismatic stage presence, deep voice, and towering height, Kris was the group’s lead rapper and frequently stood out in their music videos and performances.

Some of EXO’s major hits during Kris's tenure include:

  • "Mama"
  • "Growl"
  • "Overdose"

Kris was particularly popular in the Chinese market due to his bilingual abilities and charm, helping EXO gain a strong foothold in China.


Departure from EXO

In May 2014, Kris filed a lawsuit against SM Entertainment to terminate his contract, citing unfair treatment and health concerns. His departure from EXO marked a turning point in his career as he pursued solo activities in China and internationally. Despite controversies surrounding his exit, Kris managed to reinvent himself as a solo artist and actor.


Solo Career: Music and Acting

Music Career

After leaving EXO, Kris released several singles that showcased his versatility and creative freedom. His music often blended hip-hop, R&B, and pop, with tracks like:

  • "Time Boils the Rain" (2014): A ballad that became an instant hit in China.
  • "Deserve" (2017): A collaboration with Travis Scott that marked his foray into the global music scene.
  • "Like That" (2018): A single that made it to the Billboard Hot 100, reflecting his growing international appeal.

Acting Career

Kris also built a successful acting career in China, starring in popular films such as:

  • "Somewhere Only We Know" (2015): His acting debut, which earned him acclaim and box office success.
  • "Mr. Six" (2015): A critically acclaimed Chinese film that further solidified his reputation as an actor.
  • "Journey to the West: The Demons Strike Back" (2017): A fantasy adventure film directed by Stephen Chow.

In addition to Chinese projects, Kris appeared in Hollywood films like "XXX: Return of Xander Cage" (2017) alongside Vin Diesel, marking his entrance into the global film industry.


Fashion Icon and Entrepreneur

Kris Wu’s sense of style made him a trendsetter in the fashion world. He collaborated with luxury brands such as Burberry and Louis Vuitton, becoming one of the first Asian stars to gain recognition as a global fashion ambassador. His appearances at international fashion events further cemented his status as a style icon.

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