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Amber of f(x): a self-reliant, outspoken tomboy whose musical skills and tally of famous friends continue to grow

  • She’s a great collaborator, television star and host, and has performed alongside the likes of Girls’ Generation’s Yuri and Super Junior’s Henry Lau
  • Despite having been the subject of criticism online, the singer is unafraid of speaking out and defending herself – and has done so on Twitter and Instagram

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In a world of styled K-pop idols, Taiwanese-American singer, rapper, and songwriter Amber Liu stands out for her edgy looks.

Most K-pop stars are known for looking put together, but Amber Liu stands out for her edgy, glamorous tomboy style. It’s not just Liu’s looks that have allowed her to stand out in the industry – it’s also her refreshingly honest attitude and do-it-yourself spirit. Read on to find out about Amber’s life so far.

Her early life

Amber Josephine Liu was born in Los Angeles in September 1992 the youngest daughter of Taiwanese immigrants. She grew up loving both sports and – thanks to her mother – Disney movies and music.

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After taking part in a global audition held in Los Angeles by K-pop superlabel SM Entertainment (home to acts such as BoA and Girls’ Generation), she trained for 18 months before making her debut as a member of girl group f(x) in 2009.

Her role in f(x)

F(x) was as the “Asia pop dance group”. Amber was the Taiwanese-American member, Victoria the one born in China, Luna and Sulli the ones from Korea, and Krystal the one from the US. Amber acted as the group’s main rapper and sub-vocalist.
Amber Josephine Liu was born in Los Angeles in 1992, and made her debut as a member of girl group f(x) in 2009.
Amber Josephine Liu was born in Los Angeles in 1992, and made her debut as a member of girl group f(x) in 2009.

F(x) stood out for their multinational make-up, and their image and sound tended to be more experimental than that of other K-pop groups. Amber, with her tomboyish looks, helped define a new beauty standard in South Korea.

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She hasn’t pleased everyone, however. In an Instagram post in 2015, she wrote: “I’ve been a tomboy pretty much all my life and honestly, it really sucks sometimes. I personally believe girls and boys are not limited to one specific look … don’t judge someone just because they’re different. Hopefully we can all grow to respect each other’s differences.”

Amber has contributed lyrics to f(x) albums, and she directed and edited their 2016 music video for All Mine.

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