Taiwanese actress and singer Barbie Hsu passed away at 49, leaving behind a substantial fortune built over her decades-long career.

Taiwanese actress Barbie Hsu. Photo from Instagram

According to Sao Star, citing ETToday, Hsu secured numerous endorsement deals throughout her career, amounting to US$4.75 million.

She also invested heavily in real estate, owning three luxury properties. She purchased two villas worth a combined US$18 million and, in 2016, acquired a 760-square-meter apartment in Taipei’s Xinyi District with her then-husband, Chinese businessman Wang Xiaofei, for US$12 million.

Following their 2021 divorce, Mirror Media estimated that Hsu received NT$600 million (US$19 million) from their total assets, valued at NT$950 million (US$29 million). Sohu reported that Wang also left her and their two children a 720-square-meter villa to ensure financial stability.

Wang previously sparked controversy by disclosing that Hsu’s monthly expenses exceeded NT$1 million.

Shortly after their split, Hsu married South Korean musician DJ Koo. Reports indicated her net worth was eight times higher than Koo’s, raising speculation about a prenuptial agreement and the management of her assets after her passing.

Reports from AsiaOne indicate that Hsu developed pneumonia after catching the flu during a family holiday in Japan over the Lunar New Year. Her family has expressed profound sorrow regarding her death and intends to provide further details about her demise shortly.

Hsu rose to fame through her roles in TV series like “Meteor Garden,” “Mars,” and “Summer’s Desire.”

Her personal life, including her marriages, has consistently captured significant public and media attention. She was married to Wang, 43, from 2011 until their divorce in 2021, and they share two children.

Just three months post-divorce, she married 55-year-old DJ Koo.

Custody of Children

Hsu is survived by her two children from her marriage to Wang Xiaofei: a daughter born in 2014 and a son born in 2016. Following their divorce, Hsu and Wang reached an understanding regarding the custody and upbringing of their children, emphasizing co-parenting and mutual support.

In the wake of Hsu’s death, it is expected that Wang Xiaofei will assume primary custody of the children. Reports indicate that Hsu supported her children’s interaction with Wang’s new partner, demonstrating a commitment to maintaining a stable and supportive environment for them.

The transition of custody is anticipated to proceed amicably, with both families prioritizing the well-being of the children. Legal proceedings may be necessary to formalize the custody arrangement, but given the previously established co-parenting framework, significant disputes are unlikely.