Teresa, a singer and actress from Hsinchu, Taiwan, began her singing career in Japan this year.




Due to her beautiful figure, she has been nicknamed "10-Head-Tall Teresa," and has gained immense popularity among both men and women on social media in the Chinese-speaking world. In February of this year, she released a cover of Hitoto Yo's "Hanamizuki," followed by "Hoshizora ni Kimi wo Omofu" in August, produced by Ryosuke Imai, who also worked on Namie Amuro's "HERO." The track, a "hybrid track" that mixes Japanese and Chinese, has garnered significant attention.

Currently, Teresa travels between Taiwan and Japan, transcending borders and language barriers. We present an interview with her. From personal matters to future goals, we get a glimpse into the true face of this globally acclaimed artist.

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--Teresa, you're active in a variety of fields, including singing, dancing, and acting. What was your first professional pursuit?

Singing was the first thing. I've wanted to be a singer since I was little. My mother was also a great singer and sang often. I think she influenced me.



--Is that so? What kind of music did you listen to when you were little?

The song I listened to the most was Utada Hikaru's "First Love." My mother loved it, and it was often played at home. Japanese music is very popular in Taiwan.

--You also list martial arts and martial arts as special skills. When did you start learning them?

I've been doing it as part of my exercise routine for about three years to stay in shape. I've always loved exercise, so I like to try different things. I also take boxing lessons.

--You wanted to be a singer from a young age, so how did you first come into the spotlight as an actor and model?

I started taking lessons three years ago after entering the entertainment industry. Singing, dancing, acting, modeling...to me, they're all the same in terms of performance. I also started studying Japanese three years ago.

--I heard you can speak five languages (Japanese, Mandarin, English, Taiwanese, and Hakka). Did you pick up English at that time?

No, I studied English from a young age at school. My name, "Teresa," was actually given to me by my English teacher in class, and we drew lots at the time (laughs). I think I was about seven years old.

--Is that so? So, who do you admire?

In Taiwan, it's Jolin Tsai. In Japan, it's Aimer. I really love her beautiful singing voice. Also, although she's not a singer, I love RADWIMPS. I went to see their live performance in Taipei and became a big fan.

--Aside from musicians, what about other actors?

As an actress, I admire Sakura Ando. I thought the movie "100 Yen Love" was amazing.

--Taiwan is a popular tourist destination for Japanese people as well. What tourist spots would you recommend to your Japanese fans?

Taiwanese-style shampoo. You sit down and get your hair washed and massaged. It's cheap, about 1,000 yen per session, so I recommend it (laughs). I would especially recommend it to young women. It's also very popular in Taiwan. For men, it's hot springs. I go there often too. And for food, I would definitely recommend going to the night markets.





--In 2017, you played the heroine, a Taiwanese student studying abroad, in the Japanese drama "Wasureshimau Mae Omoide Shihoshii" (RKB Mainichi Broadcasting). How was that experience?

At that time, I still didn't understand a word of Japanese. I wrote down the entire script in hiragana and memorized it. Of course, I translated the entire content and memorized it. It was very difficult, but I think it was a great experience.

--You've made your debut as a singer, something you've dreamed of since you were a child. How do you feel now?

When I made my debut, people often asked me if I was nervous, but I think I was more excited than nervous. My childhood dream has come true, so I'll continue to work hard in the future.


--In February of this year, you released a cover of Hitoto Yo's "Hanamizuki." Is this song something you've been familiar with for a long time, Teresa?

Yes, I've listened to it a lot since I was little. It's truly a masterpiece. My cover version has a slightly different arrangement, but I have deep love and respect for the song. I'd like more young people to listen to it.

--In August, you released your original song, "Hoshizora ni Kimi wo Omofu." What feelings did you put into this song?

It's a song about the slightly painful, lonely, and heartbreaking feelings of longing for someone. I'm sure it's an emotion everyone has experienced. The lyrics are in Japanese, so it took me a while to understand, but I think it's a great song. I was a little worried about whether my Japanese would get the message across...

--I think it gets across to listeners.

I'm glad to hear that (laughs).

--Your long-awaited debut mini-album will be released on October 23rd. Can you give us a hint as to what kind of work it is?

I always fall asleep listening to music, so I love music that's easy to listen to and pleasant to the ears. I tried to sing in that way too. I think (my debut mini-album) is a work that's easy to listen to anytime, whether on the train, walking, or before bed.

--Please tell us about your future prospects and goals.

I've only had a few experiences performing in front of people, but I'd like to perform live with a live band someday. That's my current goal.