Zhang Yixing, more well known by his stage names Lay or Lay Zhang, rose to fame after making his debut as the main dancer, sub vocalist, and sub rapper of SM Entertainment's top boy group EXO Back in April 2012. Following his debut with the group, Lay went on to become one of the most popular Chinese K-pop idols today. And while being a member of EXO, Lay is also actively pursuing his own solo career.
With that, how much has Lay earned over the past decade of his career? Want to know if he is the wealthiest EXO member? Keep on reading to find out his net worth!
EXO Lay Zhang Net Worth 2022
According to a media outlet, EXO as a whole group has an estimated net worth of around $1 billion USD with their career of over 10 years. But for his individual net worth, Lay reportedly has an estimated earnings of over $15 million USD as of 2022.
The EXO singer's net worth figure isn't surprising, especially with the group's immense success over the years. But is Lay the richest member within the group?
EXO Lay
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Based on the current net worth figures of each EXO member, Lay is not the richest member in the group. As of now, the richest member is Baekhyun, with Lay following behind as the fourth richest.
With that, how did Lay earn such a net worth figure?
How Did Lay Zhang Earn His Net Worth?
Just like most idols, Lay earned a significant amount of his net worth through his promotions and activities with EXO. This includes his earnings from their merchandise and music releases, as well as broadcast appearances, endorsement deals, and more.
And with EXO's global influence and brand power, it is highly likely that their appearance and talent fees are quite high. Not only that, but EXO is also a sought-after group.
EXO Lay
But as an individual, Lay has released his own music as well, although most of his releases are Mandarin-language.
So far, Lay has released four studio albums, all of which sold more than a million digital copies. In particular, his third studio album "Lit" surpassed 2.7 million digital sales.
He has also released four mini albums which saw success. His third mini album "Honey" sold more than 4.8 million copies. Lay also released several singles through the years, with his most recent one being "Jiu" released this year.
EXO Lay
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Aside from his own releases, the 31-year-old has also collaborated with other artists, such as NCT 127, Jason Derulo, Far East Movement, Steve Aoki, will.i.am, and more.
He has also lent his voice for official soundtracks of Chinese dramas, such as "Oh My God," "Royal Treasure," "Operation Love," and more.
Besides releasing music, Lay has also starred in numerous Chinese films and dramas. He starred in the films "The Island," "Kung Fu Yoga," "Royal Treasure," "The Mystic Nine Side Story: Flowers Bloom in February," and more. He is set to star in the upcoming films "No More Bets" and "Unexpected Love."
EXO Lay
As for the dramas, Lay has appeared in "To Be A Better Man," "The Mystic Nine," "Operation Love," "The Golden Eyes," and more.
Lay is also active on broadcast, having been on shows like "Idol Producer," "Youth With You," "We Are Young," "Street Dance of China," "Back to Field," "Go Fighting!," and more.
The "Lit" singer also earns from his extensive endorsement deals. He has endorsed brands like Converse, H&M, MAC Cosmetics, Ray-Ban, Chaumet, Samsung, Perrier, and Milka, among others. He is also became the ambassador for Calvin Klein, Valentino, and Huawei Nova.
With these factors, Lay was able to earn the net worth he has today.
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Written by Robyn Joan
