Rie Hata: The Filipino-Japanese Dancer Behind K-Pop’s Hottest Moves

At 34, dance instructor, choreographer, and director Rie Hata has achieved incredible milestones—and she shows no signs of slowing down. From creating choreography for top K-Pop idols to working with major Western artists, the Filipino-Japanese star proves that a woman can chase her dreams and leave a mark on any stage she steps onto.

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Budding Love for Dance

Although born in Japan, Rie Hata credits her Filipino mother for introducing her to Western music and dance, where she trained in Old School Hip Hop and New Jack

At 15, she left school and moved to Los Angeles to pursue her dream. There, the dancer added Ballet and Jazz to her repertoire, but it was her unique swag style, confidence, and fashion sense that earned her a global reputation. By 19, she was already traveling the world, teaching her signature choreographies in over 20 countries.

Dancing Dreams

Fueled by ambition and fearless dreams, the Queen of Swag reached for more—and found even bigger opportunities. She became a backup dancer for Lady Gaga in 2010 and co-starred in Chris Brown’s music video and tour in the Philippines in 2015. 

Her distinct style eventually opened doors in the K-Pop industry, choreographing for some of the biggest idol groups such as BTS’ “Idol” and “Mic Drop,” TWICE’s “Signal,” NCT U’s “Boss,” Red Velvet’s “Bad Boy,” and more. With experience that can fill an entire studio, the dancer eventually formed a small group called RH Tokyo, which she leads and directs.

An Even Bigger Stage

Rie Hata, together with her crew RH Tokyo, flew out to Korea to compete in Street Woman Fighter 3—a Korean reality show that showcases and pits dance crews against each other. Now on its third iteration, the competition grew bigger, involving crews from Korea, Australia, the USA, New Zealand, and Japan competing in various missions, earning the judges’ and crowd’s favor, and battling their way to the top.

The choreographer took a big risk at a young age, but Rie Hata’s story is proof that even the wildest dreams can be reached—no matter where you come from, how bold your ambitions are, success is possible when you move with heart and hustle. Her journey is far from over as she continues to conquer bigger stages, one dance move at a time.

Stay updated on her classes, new choreographies, and RH Tokyo’s journey by following the Queen of Swag on her socials.

Featured Image and Photos: RIE HATA (via Instagram)