NewJeans (or NJZ, as the girls prefer to be known now) have become a massive force in K-pop, a cultural reset of sorts who’ve taken over Gen Z with their feel-good bops, exquisite performances and personalities. It’s still a ‘pinch-me’ moment to witness Minji, Danielle, Hanni, Haerin and Hyeji redefining the genre in such a short time. With their ever-rising popularity, there’s constant buzz about the who’s who of the South Korean pop group. That’s why we’ve curated a comprehensive guide to knowing NewJeans – powered by their Chinese zodiac signs. Let’s familiarise you with the Chinese zodiac signs as well as the corresponding personality traits of all NewJeans (NJZ) members.
From the affectionate eldest member of the group, Minji, to the confident as well as passionate Danielle – each NewJeans member has their own standout qualities emblematic of their Chinese zodiac animal. If you want to test your astrological compatibility with your favourite NewJeans members, check out our zodiac guide below.
Chinese zodiac signs and personality traits of NewJeans/NJZ members
1. Minji
Birthday: May 7, 2004
Chinese zodiac sign: Monkey
The group’s big sister, Minji, is the kind and caring eldest member who’s always looking out for her bandmates. Just like people belonging to the Monkey Chinese zodiac sign, Minji has garnered popularity by maintaining amicability and kindness despite achieving trailblazing success at such an early age. With her intelligence, clarity and ambition, Minji has steered the group to the pinnacle of K-pop. She’s the glue which binds the group together.
A down-to-earth girl at heart, Minji finds joy in the simplest of things like reading, going for a walk, watching movies, as well as decorating her diary. Furthermore, just like her zodiac animal, Minji has a strong sense of adaptability to her environment, which makes her competent in any situation. From superb communication skills and perseverance to an upbeat attitude towards life.
2. Hanni
Birthday: October 6, 2004
Chinese zodiac sign: Monkey
Only a few months apart from Minji, Hanni also belongs to the Monkey Chinese zodiac sign. Exuding enviable abilities and wisdom, Hanni is the epitome of beauty combined with a wise personality. If you’ve been following NewJeans, you know that she’s probably the best when it comes to dance and vocal talents – always grabbing eyeballs with her sprightly and energetic Monkey traits. Just like Monkeys, Hanni is very considerate of others, extremely emotional as well as expressive – all of which you can witness in her songs and interviews.
In a conversation with Billboard (via Koreaboo) Minji shared her thoughts on all NewJeans members. Talking about Hanni, she revealed that the duo is so close that they can communicate just by eye contact. “I feel like I can have a conversation with Hanni by just looking at her eyes,” Minji mentioned. It’s safe to credit their Chinese zodiac sign for this close karmic connection.
3. Danielle
Birthday: April 11, 2005
Chinese zodiac sign: Rooster
‘Vitamin D-anielle’ is how we’d like to describe this infectious K-pop idol, who’s always brightening up everyone’s day with her sunny personality. She’s the most talkative as well as extroverted member of the group. Danielle perfectly embodies the bright, outgoing and creative Rooster zodiac, who is immensely smart as well as earnest.
Beneath this ‘Disney princess’ aura, lies a hidden rockstar that makes her a force to reckon with. However, her personality is not all fun and games, rainbows and butterflies. This chirpy, vivacious demeanour is balanced by a responsible and mature side. Just like a Rooster, Danielle also has a creative streak which helps the band churn out unique musical ideas. With her quick wit, organised mind as well as sincerity, Danielle is a big asset to NewJeans/NJZ.
“Danielle’s bright smile just warms my heart and at times she is like an older sister you can learn things from,” Minji spoke of her relationship with her.
Haerin also jumped in to heap praises on Danielle and her ability to captivate the audience by embodying emotions in her singing .”She has the power to draw the listener in with her ability to express intricate emotions through the lyrics of any song,” Haerin said.
4. Haerin
Birthday: May 15, 2006
Chinese zodiac sign: Dog
Perfectly in sync with her zodiac animal, Haerin is very affectionate towards all her fellow NewJeans members. She embodies the loyalty, honesty as well as care the Dog zodiac is best known for. Moreover, even Minji calls her ‘the most honest person in the world’. “She’s really thoughtful, too, “Minji added.
Haerin always steals the spotlight, thanks to her effortless dance moves, great humour as well as smooth conversation skills which are all reminiscent of the Dog zodiac. More than her creative talents, it’s her faithful and warm-hearted nature that inspires other people’s confidence. Moreover, what makes Haerin more fascinating is her spontaneous side. Her beautiful eyes exude a mysterious vibe and Haerin herself believes that she’s quite unpredictable. Funny, talented as well as selfless – it’s impossible not to love her.
5. Hyein
Birthday: April 21, 2008
Chinese zodiac sign: Rat
Finally, rounding up NewJeans members is Hyein. Despite being the youngest in age, Hyein is a showbiz veteran and holds maximum experience among all the girls. Hyein started her career as a child model for different brands/fashion shows and later became a member of the kids’ girl group U.SSO Girl. Given her tremendous success at such a young age, one might think Hyein to be pompous and proud. However, she’s the exact opposite. Just like her zodiac animal, Rat, NJZ member Hyein is considerate of her family/ friends and as humble as one can be despite tasting overarching success.
According to Minji, everything about Hyein is simply amazing. “I can’t wait to see what the future holds for her,” she added. Even at the young age of 16, Hyein shows how dependable as well as reliable she is to her groupmates. She mirrors the perfectionist image of Rats, acing everything from singing, and modelling to fashion. In Chinese culture, rats represent working diligently. And with her pathbreaking success, NewJeans’ maknae has proved her mettle and how.
So, who is your favourite NewJeans member?
(Hero and feature image credit: newjeans_official/ Instagram)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who is the leader of the NewJeans/NJZ?
Unlike other K-pop groups, NewJeans doesn’t have any leader or other positions in the band.
Who is NewJeans’ main dancer?
The band doesn’t officially have a main dancer. All NewJeans members are great dancers, bringing their unique styles to the table.
Who is the youngest NewJeans NJZ member?
Hyein is the youngest NewJeans member, who was 14 years old at the time of the group’s debut.
Is NewJeans popular than BLACKPINK?
Despite not actively releasing music, BLACKPINK continues to top the popularity charts with their global appeal. However, NewJeans is an emerging force. They have already made a massive impact in just two years since their debut.
The information in this article is accurate as of the date of publication.