Tarzzan, born Lee Chae-won, is a South Korean rapper, lyricist, model, and contemporary dancer under The Black Label. As a member of the co-ed group ALLDAY PROJECT, he brings a distinctive blend of artistic experience and bold stage presence.
Biography
- Stage Name: Tarzzan (타잔)
- Birth Name: Lee Chaewon (이채원)
- Position: Rapper
- Birthday: September 27, 2002
- Blood Type: B
- MBTI: ENFP
- Height: 179cm
- Zodiac Sign: Libra
- Nationality: Korean
- Instagram: @tarzzan_boy
- YouTube: @Dancevid829
Facts
- Tarzzan was born in Ulsan, South Korea. He briefly studied abroad in the United States when he was in the 3rd grade of elementary school. It was during this time in America that he developed a love for hip-hop.
- He can speak English to some extent. He communicates with Bailey, who isn’t fluent in Korean, by mixing Korean and English.
- At his elementary school graduation, his dream was to become a celebrity.
- In high school, after watching a performance by the Alvin Ailey Dance Theater, he aspired to join the company.
- His nickname is “Tarzzan” because of his resemblance to the character. He seems to like the nickname, as his Instagram handle is “TARZZAN (tarzzan_boy),” which he now uses as his stage name.
- He is the only member in the group who uses a stage name not related to his real name.
- During his early schooling years, specifically around the second or third grade, he was the only Asian student in his class.
- As a child, he drew creative inspiration from influential hip-hop artists like Lil Wayne and A$AP Rocky.
- His natural speech is noticeably influenced by the Gyeongsang Province dialect.
- It’s said that he usually goes to church on weekends.
- Before debuting, he appeared on Hong Seokcheon’s Jewel Box.
- He is known for his prominent mouth and has described himself as resembling Toothless. He is also often said to look like “The Glory” Son Myeong-o, the character played by actor Kim Geon-woo.
Early Life and Pre-Debut Background
Tarzzan developed an interest in dance through his cousin, a ballerina, and began formal training in modern dance. He attended Busan Arts High School and is currently studying at the Korea National University of Arts, majoring in contemporary dance.
He achieved notable acclaim in the dance world, winning gold medals at the 49th and 50th Dong-A International Contemporary Dance Competitions and the 2021 Tanzolymp Asia Grand Prix. In addition to his dance career, Tarzzan gained recognition in the fashion industry, modeling for Seoul Fashion Week 2022 under YG KPlus and appearing in editorial spreads.
He previously appeared as a dancer in music videos for (G)I-DLE’s “I Do” and NewJeans’ “Supernatural,” further demonstrating his versatility as a performer.
Debut and Activities with ALLDAY PROJECT
Tarzzan was officially introduced to the public as the second revealed member of ALLDAY PROJECT on June 9, 2025, under The Black Label. The group, known for its bold concept as a co-ed K-pop ensemble, consists of members with diverse artistic backgrounds, blending dance, rap, and high fashion. This innovative formation marked The Black Label’s first idol group since its establishment.
On June 23, 2025, Tarzzan debuted with ALLDAY PROJECT through the digital single “Famous,” featuring the title track “Wicked.” The release was met with widespread attention, both for its distinctive sonic direction and the individual charisma of each member. In “Wicked,” Tarzzan stands out with his raw rap delivery and intense stage energy, complementing the group’s futuristic and genre-blending identity.
In addition to his role as a rapper and performer, Tarzzan is also credited as a lyricist on “Wicked,” highlighting his contributions behind the scenes. The group’s choreography, visual styling, and experimental music video concepts have positioned them as one of the most daring and unconventional rookie groups of the year.
Public Image and Reception
Tarzzan is known for his bold and unconventional style, often sporting braided hair, grills, and high-fashion streetwear. While this distinct look has drawn admiration from fans for its edginess, it has also sparked controversy, with some accusing him of cultural appropriation particularly regarding his hairstyle and social media activity.
In response, some fans and cultural commentators argue that his artistic choices are rooted in conceptual dance performance and stage persona rather than intentional disrespect. His choreography piece “Losing Control” has been cited as an example of his deep artistic expression and emotional movement vocabulary.