Who is Barbie Hsu’s Husband DJ Koo?

When you think of K-pop legends from the ‘90s, DJ Koo, aka Koo Jun-Yup, is a name that stands out. The South Korean musician, DJ, and producer has had an incredible career spanning decades, evolving from a dancer to one of South Korea’s most influential EDM artists. But in recent years, his personal life, particularly his marriage to Taiwanese actress Barbie Hsu, has drawn just as much attention as his music.

Sadly, in February 2025, Barbie Hsu passed away, leaving fans heartbroken. Let’s take a deep dive into DJ Koo’s life, career, and love story with the late Meteor Garden star.

DJ Koo’s Early Life and Rise to Fame

Born on September 11, 1969, in Seoul, South Korea, Koo Jun-Yup grew up alongside his older sister, Koo Eun-Yeong. He had a passion for dance and music from a young age, which led him to enter a local dance competition.

His talent was undeniable—he placed fourth in the contest, catching the attention of SM Entertainment, one of South Korea’s biggest entertainment companies. Soon, he became a backing dancer for Lee Soo-Man, the founder of SM Entertainment. However, his career was put on hold when he had to complete his mandatory military service.

The Birth of Clon: A Dance Music Sensation

After returning from the military, Koo attempted to break into the music scene. His first duo, Tak and Jun, with singer Lee Tak in 1993, didn’t last long, but he didn’t give up. In 1996, he formed Clon with fellow musician Kang Won-Rae, a move that would define his career.

Clon’s debut album, Are You Ready?, was a smash hit, selling over 1.12 million copies in South Korea. Their dance music, combined with high-energy performances, made them pioneers in the Korean club scene. By 1998, DJ Koo’s popularity had soared—he was even named Taiwan’s Sexiest Man two years in a row.

Tragedy Strikes and a New Path for DJ Koo

In 2000, tragedy struck when his bandmate, Kang Won-Rae, was involved in a motorcycle accident that left him paralyzed from the waist down.

Many expected Koo to pursue a solo career immediately, but he chose to put his career on hold to support his friend’s recovery. It wasn’t until 2005 that Clon made a comeback with the album Victory. Koo even choreographed a wheelchair dance routine for Kang, which was nominated for Best Dance Performance at the 2005 Mnet Asian Music Awards.

In 2006, Koo took a bold step, performing at a club in Gangnam and announcing that he would now go by DJ Koo. He became one of the pioneers of the EDM movement in South Korea, transitioning from a K-pop star to a DJ and producer.

DJ Koo’s Personal Life: A Love Story Spanning Decades

Koo’s love life has been just as captivating as his music career.

In 1997, he met Barbie Hsu, the beloved Taiwanese actress best known for her role as Shan Cai in Meteor Garden. They instantly fell for each other but were forced to part ways due to strict dating restrictions placed on K-pop stars at the time. Koo’s management opposed the relationship, and the couple broke up after just a year.

For more than 20 years, the two lost contact. Then, in 2022, Koo learned about Barbie’s divorce from Chinese businessman Wang Xiaofei. Taking a leap of faith, he found her old phone number and called her after two decades—to his surprise, she still had the same number!

The love story rekindled instantly, and within weeks, they decided to get married. On March 8, 2022, Koo announced their marriage via Instagram, sharing his heartfelt emotions:

“To have such a destiny with the woman I fell in love with more than 20 years ago – this is a love we both want to cherish and continue.”

The couple tied the knot in Seoul and even got matching wedding ring tattoos instead of traditional rings. They lived together, making the most of their time after so many years apart.

DJ Koo’s Age, Family, and Net Worth (Updated 2025)

Now 55 years old, DJ Koo remains one of South Korea’s most respected music icons. He has spent nearly three decades shaping the Korean dance music scene, from the K-pop boom of the ‘90s to the EDM explosion of today.

His sister, Koo Eun-Yeong, has remained out of the public eye, but family has always been important to him. And while his wife Barbie Hsu’s passing in February 2025 devastated him, he continues to honor her memory.

As of 2025, DJ Koo’s estimated net worth is around $10 million. His fortune comes from his successful career as a musician, DJ, producer, and brand endorsements. He remains active in the music industry, regularly performing at major music festivals across Asia.

Barbie Hsu’s Tragic Passing

On February 2, 2025, the world was shocked by the news of Barbie Hsu’s sudden passing in Japan.

Her sister, Dee Hsu, a singer and television host, confirmed the heartbreaking news via Taiwan’s TVBS News. The cause of death has not been publicly disclosed, but the loss of the beloved actress and entertainer has left fans mourning across Asia.

For DJ Koo, losing Barbie was an unimaginable tragedy. After finally reuniting and building a life together, their love story was cut short.

DJ Koo’s Legacy

Despite enduring personal hardships, DJ Koo continues to inspire. His career has evolved over the years, and he remains one of the most respected figures in South Korea’s music scene.

With over 30 years in the industry, he has influenced generations of artists and helped popularize EDM in South Korea. Whether he’s behind the turntables at a festival or producing new tracks, his passion for music remains as strong as ever.

As for his personal journey, only time will tell what the future holds. But one thing is certain—his love for Barbie Hsu will forever be a part of his story.