Huang Zitao
A multihyphenate force who transformed from K-pop idol into a fiercely independent Chinese rapper, actor, and entrepreneurial mogul.
Born 1993 (age 33)·Chinese rapper·Birthday: May 2·Millennials
Biography
Huang Zitao's career is a study in self-determined reinvention. First introduced to the world as Tao, the martial arts-trained performer in the global phenomenon EXO, he was a key part of the group's explosive success. His 2015 departure, however, marked the beginning of a bold solo chapter. Returning to China, he shed the idol persona to build Z.Tao—a brand synonymous with gritty rap, cinematic ambition, and business savvy. His music, often self-composed, blends aggressive trap with traditional Chinese elements, asserting a defiant individuality. Parallel to his musical output, Huang built a significant acting career, starring in television dramas and films. Beyond entertainment, he founded his own company, Tao Studio, and launched a streetwear label, cementing his status not just as an artist, but as a savvy architect of his own empire.
Millennials
1981–1996
The first digital natives. Grew up with the internet, came of age during 9/11 and the 2008 crash. Highly educated, deeply indebted, slower to marry and buy houses. Redefined work, identity, and what it means to be an adult.
Huang was born in 1993, placing them squarely in the Millennials. The events that shaped this generation — the internet revolution, 9/11, and the 2008 financial crisis — shaped the world they entered and the choices available to them.
#1 When Huang Was Born
The biggest hits of 1993
#1 Movie
Jurassic Park
Best Picture
Schindler's List
#1 TV Show
60 Minutes
Huang's Life & Times
The world at every milestone
1993Born
European Union officially established
Gas: $1.11/galHome: $86,600Min wage: $4.25/hrPresident: Bill Clinton"I Will Always Love You" — Whitney HoustonBest Picture: Schindler's List
1998Started school
Google founded; Clinton impeachment
Gas: $1.06/galHome: $107,300Min wage: $5.15/hrPresident: Bill Clinton"Too Close" — NextBest Picture: Shakespeare in Love
2006Became a teenager
Twitter launches; Pluto reclassified as dwarf planet
Gas: $2.59/galHome: $174,700Min wage: $5.15/hrPresident: George W. Bush"Bad Day" — Daniel PowterBest Picture: The Departed
2009Could drive
Michael Jackson dies; Bitcoin created
Gas: $2.35/galHome: $148,500Min wage: $7.25/hrPresident: Barack Obama"Boom Boom Pow" — The Black Eyed PeasBest Picture: The Hurt Locker
2011Could vote
Osama bin Laden killed; Arab Spring sweeps the Middle East
Gas: $3.53/galHome: $138,400Min wage: $7.25/hrPresident: Barack Obama"Rolling in the Deep" — AdeleBest Picture: The Artist
2014Turned 21
Russia annexes Crimea; Ebola outbreak in West Africa
Gas: $3.37/galHome: $160,700Min wage: $7.25/hrPresident: Barack Obama"Happy" — Pharrell WilliamsBest Picture: Birdman
2023Turned 30
ChatGPT goes mainstream; Israel-Hamas war begins
Gas: $3.52/galHome: $361,600Min wage: $7.25/hrPresident: Joe Biden"Flowers" — Miley CyrusBest Picture: Oppenheimer
2026Age 33 today
Gas: $3.91/galPresident: Donald Trump
Key Achievements
- Founded his own independent studio and label, Tao Studio, after leaving SM Entertainment, gaining full control over his music and career.
- His single 'The Road' became an anthem of perseverance, showcasing his skills as a rapper and songwriter.
- Starred as the male lead in popular Chinese TV dramas such as 'Negotiator' and 'The Brightest Star in the Sky.'
- Successfully transitioned his fanbase from a K-pop group member to a supporting solo artist in the competitive Chinese market.
Did You Know?
He is a trained martial artist, specializing in Wushu, and often incorporates these skills into his performances and music videos.
Huang was the last Chinese member to leave EXO-M, following the departures of Kris Wu and Luhan.
He created and owns the streetwear brand 'KUN by Z.TAO.'
He is known for his lavish and personalized gifts to his fan club, including custom-designed jewelry.
“I don't follow trends. I make my own rules and my own music.”
