When you think of Asian celebrities, your mind likely drifts to their jaw-dropping performances on screen or their chart-topping hits, but behind the scenes, some of these stars are building serious business empires. These powerhouses have not only conquered entertainment but are also carving out spaces for themselves in industries as diverse as real estate, fashion, F&B, and education. With a mix of grit, creativity, and business acumen, they’ve seamlessly transitioned from household names to entrepreneurial heavyweights.
From Kim Tae Hee's real estate empire to Jessica Jung's luxury fashion label and Jeanette Aw’s booming patisserie business, these stars have proven they’re much more than just talent – they’re masterminds running their own multi-million-dollar ventures. Whether it’s baking, property, or even children’s education, these celebrities are expanding their influence far beyond the glitz and glam of the entertainment world.
Now, let’s dive into some of the most notable Asian celebrities who have surprised the world by dominating both the business and entertainment realms. You might just be inspired to start your own empire after reading about their journeys!
Kim Tae Hee: The Real Estate Mogul of South Korea
Kim Tae Hee might be best known for her role in K-dramas like Stairway to Heaven and My Princess, but her financial empire extends far beyond the TV screen. As one of South Korea's top actresses, she’s used her fame and fortune to make shrewd investments in the real estate market. Kim Tae Hee didn’t just buy properties—she launched her own property rental company that manages businesses renting from her. Talk about being a boss lady!
Her most jaw-dropping move? Selling her prized Gangnam building for a whopping 7.1 billion won (around S$8.4 million). The 41-year-old continues to build wealth in one of the most competitive markets in the world, proving she’s a savvy investor with an eye for prime real estate. While she may still make occasional appearances on screen, it’s clear that Kim Tae Hee has built herself a golden safety net for the future.
2. Jessica Jung: From K-Pop Star to Fashion Powerhouse
Jessica Jung started as one of the shining members of K-pop royalty with Girls’ Generation, but she quickly shifted gears to focus on her love for fashion. In 2014, she launched her very own luxury fashion brand, Blanc & Eclare, which blends timeless styles with a modern twist. Whether it’s chic tweed jackets, vintage dresses, or her must-have denim line, Jessica’s pieces have taken the fashion world by storm.
The brand’s influence spans across Asia, the U.S., and Canada, cementing Jessica as not just a former idol but a serious player in the luxury fashion world. But it’s not just about the glitz—Jessica’s keen business instincts have expanded Blanc & Eclare into eyewear and accessories, proving she knows exactly what her audience wants. With stores popping up in major fashion capitals, Jessica is definitely here to stay—on the runway and off!
3. Jeanette Aw: Actress Turned Patisserie Extraordinaire
When the pandemic struck, many people turned to comfort activities like baking, and Singaporean actress Jeanette Aw took this trend to a whole new level. A Le Cordon Bleu-trained baker, Jeanette launched her online bake sales in 2020, and her mouthwatering treats—especially her famous brownies—became so popular that they racked up a waiting list of nearly 1,000 orders on Instagram.
Riding on her success, Jeanette opened her patisserie on Hamilton Road, attracting even more attention with her artisanal creations. But baking isn’t her only passion—Jeanette founded Picturesque Films in 2017, which focuses on producing creative digital content, short films, and brand projects. This multi-hyphenate celebrity shows that whether it’s acting, baking, or filmmaking, she excels in every role she takes on.
Related: How female celebrities built their empires
4. Irene Ang: The Entertainment Queen with a Taste for F&B
You may remember Irene Ang as the hilarious Rosie from Singapore’s beloved sitcom Phua Chu Kang, but she’s no laughing matter when it comes to business. Irene is the brains behind Fly Entertainment, one of the biggest talent agencies in Singapore, managing top names like Adrian Pang and Liv Lo. Her empire doesn’t stop there, though.
At 51, Irene has dipped her toes into the food and beverage scene, launching hotspots like Soi Candy, a Thai noodle bar, and Fry Rooftop Bistro & Bar, an uber-trendy spot in Singapore’s Club Street. Whether it’s managing local stars or running F&B ventures, Irene has proven that she’s a jack of all trades who knows how to keep her finger on the pulse of what people want.
Related: Asia's Richest - The Top 10 Revealed
5. Nadiah M. Din: From TV Screens to Stunning Home Interiors
Singaporean actress and host Nadiah M. Din isn’t just a face on the screen—she’s now the creative force behind Les Poupons, a home decor brand launched in late 2020. Her brand offers beautiful, rustic, bohemian-inspired pieces like woven wall art, lamps, and mirrors, all designed to give any space that Pinterest-perfect aesthetic. Nadiah’s home even looks like a tranquil beach vacation, thanks to the decor she curated for her lifestyle brand.
But her entrepreneurial spirit goes beyond just decor. Nadiah has a flair for turning her love of aesthetics into a successful business, proving that you don’t need to be tied to just one career path to make your mark.
With these powerful Asian celebrities breaking the mold and stepping into entrepreneurship, it's clear that talent knows no boundaries. Whether it’s real estate, fashion, food, or creative arts, these stars are shining as brightly in business as they did in entertainment!
