Nancy Jewel McDonie: Relationships, Group, Age

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Quick Bio: Nancy Jewel McDonie
Field | Information |
---|---|
Full Name | Nancy Jewel McDonie |
Korean Name | Lee Seung-ri (이승리) |
Stage Name | Nancy |
Date of Birth | April 13, 2000 |
Age | 25 (as of 2025) |
Birthplace | Daegu, South Korea |
Nationality | South Korean-American |
Profession | Singer, Dancer, Actress, Model |
Group | Formerly Momoland |
Height | 162 cm (5’3.7”) |
Weight | Approx. 46 kg (101 lbs) |
Eye Color | Hazel |
Hair Color | Dark Brown (varies) |
Languages | English, Korean |
Net Worth | Estimated $1.5 million (as of 2025) |
Relationship Status | Not publicly confirmed |
Early Life and Background
Nancy Jewel McDonie was born on April 13, 2000, in Daegu, South Korea, to a South Korean mother and an American father of Irish descent. She spent a significant part of her early life between South Korea and the United States, notably in Columbus, Ohio. Her bicultural upbringing shaped her worldview and gave her a distinctive identity, one that fans around the globe found both unique and relatable.
Nancy’s interest in the entertainment industry emerged early. From childhood, she exhibited a strong flair for the performing arts—singing, dancing, and modeling in local and school events. Her mother played a pivotal role in supporting Nancy’s dream, often helping her prepare for auditions and training.
Education
Nancy studied at Hanlim Multi Art School, a prestigious performing arts high school in Seoul known for producing many K-pop stars. She graduated in February 2018 with a major in Musical Department, a clear indication of her commitment to her craft from an early age.
Her education wasn’t just about textbooks and rehearsals—it was also a time for her to adapt and fully immerse herself in Korean culture, further bridging the cultural gap from her dual background.
Age and Physical Appearance
As of 2025, Nancy is 25 years old. Her youthful appearance, combined with her elegant features, continues to charm fans globally. She is 162 cm (approximately 5 feet 3 inches) tall and maintains a slim figure, weighing around 46 kg.
Nancy’s natural beauty has made her a favorite for cosmetics and fashion brands, both in Korea and internationally. Her facial features—a unique blend of East Asian and Western aesthetics—make her stand out distinctly in the K-pop world.
Her Father
Nancy’s father is an American of Irish descent, and although his name is not publicly known, he has lived in the United States for most of his life. He worked in the U.S. military and met Nancy’s mother while stationed in South Korea.
Nancy has shared that her father has been supportive of her career, even if he’s mostly stayed out of the public spotlight. The strong values instilled by her American heritage—individualism, confidence, and resilience—are evident in how Nancy carries herself both on and off stage.
Her Mother
Nancy’s mother is South Korean and has played a more visible role in Nancy’s life and early career. A homemaker by profession, she devoted much of her time to supporting Nancy during her auditions, training, and education.
In various interviews, Nancy has described her mother as her greatest source of strength and inspiration. The cultural influence from her mother’s side has deeply rooted Nancy in Korean traditions, which helped her transition into the K-pop industry with relative ease.
Children
As of 2025, Nancy does not have any children. She remains focused on her career and personal development. There has been no official statement or reliable report indicating plans for marriage or starting a family soon.
Who Is Nancy Jewel McDonie?
Nancy Jewel McDonie is a South Korean-American singer, dancer, model, and actress, best known as a former member of the girl group Momoland. She gained fame through the Mnet reality survival program “Finding Momoland” in 2016, which led to the formation of the group.
Nancy was the youngest member of Momoland, often referred to as the “maknae.” Her role in the group included lead vocals, lead dance, and visual center. Songs like “Bboom Bboom” and “BAAM” turned her into a viral sensation.
Aside from her group activities, Nancy has ventured into acting and modeling, proving her versatility in the entertainment industry. She has appeared in several dramas and has been a host for music shows like The Show.
Relationships
Despite her immense popularity and public presence, Nancy has kept her personal life—particularly her romantic relationships—extremely private. As of 2025, there are no officially confirmed reports of her being in a relationship.
Rumors have occasionally surfaced linking her with fellow idols and actors, but none have been substantiated. Nancy herself has emphasized in interviews that her focus remains on her career and that she values privacy when it comes to personal matters.
This approach has earned her respect from both fans and media for maintaining a professional boundary in an industry where personal lives are often under the microscope.
Her Group: Momoland
Nancy was one of the seven original members of Momoland, a girl group formed by MLD Entertainment through the 2016 reality show Finding Momoland. The group officially debuted on November 10, 2016, with the mini-album Welcome to Momoland.
The breakthrough came with the release of Bboom Bboom in 2018, a track that became a massive hit across Asia and beyond. Nancy’s performance in the music video went viral, boosting her popularity overnight. The group’s energetic performances, catchy songs, and unique style set them apart in a highly competitive K-pop landscape.
Over time, Momoland underwent several member changes, and by 2023, the group officially disbanded. Nancy expressed heartfelt gratitude to her fans during this transition, assuring them that her journey in entertainment was far from over.
Net Worth
As of 2025, Nancy Jewel McDonie’s estimated net worth is around $1.5 million USD. Her income streams include:
- Music Sales and Performances: Through Momoland’s albums, tours, and promotional appearances.
- Endorsements: She has been the face of numerous brands ranging from cosmetics to fashion and tech.
- Acting: Nancy has appeared in dramas and variety shows.
- Social Media and Sponsorships: With millions of followers, her social platforms are a significant revenue source.
Her growing involvement in acting and brand endorsements suggests that her net worth is likely to increase steadily in the coming years.
Current Life
Since Momoland’s disbandment, Nancy has shifted her focus to solo activities. In 2024, she signed with a new entertainment agency to pursue a multifaceted career, including acting, modeling, and hosting.
Recent reports indicate that she’s preparing for a solo debut, something fans have eagerly anticipated. Her time is now divided between South Korea and the U.S., where she’s exploring cross-border projects in both acting and music.
Her current life reflects a mature and strategic progression in her career. Rather than capitalizing solely on her idol fame, Nancy is taking measured steps to evolve as an independent artist.
Conclusion
Nancy Jewel McDonie stands as a truly unique figure in the world of K-pop and beyond. With a multicultural background, diverse talent set, and mature perspective on fame, she exemplifies the modern global entertainer.
This article has provided a helpful, reliable, and original overview of her life, answering key questions and offering substantial insights that go beyond the surface. From her early life and family to her rise in Momoland, her relationship status, and her solo ambitions—Nancy’s journey is both inspiring and instructive for aspiring artists and curious fans alike.
As she navigates the next chapter of her life and career, one thing is clear: Nancy Jewel McDonie is far more than just a pretty face in the crowd—she’s a powerhouse of talent with a promising future.
FAQ
1. How old is Nancy Jewel McDonie?
Nancy is 25 years old as of 2025.
2. Is Nancy still in Momoland?
No, Momoland officially disbanded in 2023.
3. What is Nancy’s nationality?
She holds dual nationality—South Korean and American.
4. Is Nancy in a relationship?
There is no confirmed information about her being in a relationship as of 2025.