In 2009, one photo changed the life of a young girl forever. A schoolgirl from Nanjing, holding a cup of milk tea, unknowingly became an internet sensation. That girl was Zhang Zetian, who soon became famous as Milk Tea Sister. Her fresh smile and innocent look touched millions of hearts across China.
But unlike other viral stars who disappear after their moment of fame, Zhang used her opportunity as a stepping stone. Today, she is a wife, mother, businesswoman, fashion ambassador, and billionaire. Her story is not just about beauty; it is about ambition, intelligence, and determination.
Early Fame: A Photo That Made History
Zhang Zetian’s rise began with a simple snapshot. Shared online by classmates, the photo of her with a cup of milk tea spread across forums and social media like wildfire. Netizens nicknamed her Milk Tea Sister, and overnight, she became a symbol of youthful charm in China.
While many expected her fame to be short-lived, Zhang stayed focused on her studies. She was admitted to Tsinghua University, one of the top universities in China, where she pursued academic excellence. Later, she joined Barnard College in New York, expanding her global perspective. From the very start, Zhang proved she had both beauty and brains.
Love Story: Meeting Richard Liu of JD.com
During her studies abroad, Zhang met Richard Liu Qiangdong, the founder of JD.com and one of China’s leading business tycoons. Their love story caught massive public attention, partly due to the nineteen-year age gap between them. Yet, love prevailed, and in 2015, the couple married in a grand ceremony. A year later, they welcomed their daughter, making their family complete.
Despite gossip and criticism, the bond between Zhang and Liu grew stronger. For many, the shy Milk Tea Sister had transformed into a graceful young wife. Together, they became one of China’s most influential power couples, admired at home and abroad.
From Viral Fame to Businesswoman
Zhang Zetian could have simply enjoyed her life as the wife of a billionaire, but she had bigger dreams. She took an active role in JD.com’s fashion division, becoming its Chief Fashion Adviser. Her mission was clear: to bridge international luxury brands with China’s booming online market.
She worked on collaborations, promoted young designers, and expanded JD.com’s presence in the luxury sector. Outside of JD, she made smart investments in areas such as baby formula companies, tech startups, and ride-hailing services. By turning Milk Tea Sister into a respected name in business, Zhang proved that she was more than just a viral sensation.
Fashion and Global Recognition
As Zhang’s career developed, so did her global influence. She began attending international fashion shows in Paris, Milan, and London, not as a mere spectator but as a respected ambassador. Her elegance and modern style quickly caught the attention of luxury brands. She was even chosen as the brand ambassador for Italian label TOD’S.
With every appearance, Milk Tea Sister made headlines, admired for both her fashion choices and her confidence. She became a global bridge, connecting East and West through culture and style. Fashion critics and entrepreneurs alike praised her ability to combine image with business strategy.
Influence Through Social Media
Beyond boardrooms and fashion shows, Zhang Zetian maintains a strong presence on social media. With millions of followers, her posts often combine glimpses of family life with insights into fashion and business. This balance keeps her image relatable while reinforcing her influence among China’s younger generation.
Youngest Female Billionaire in China
By 2025, Zhang Zetian is often listed as one of China’s youngest female billionaires. Her estimated fortune is in the billions, much of it shared with her husband, but her independent role in fashion and investments cannot be ignored. Rich lists place her among the top young alumni of Tsinghua University, and her reputation continues to grow.
Critics sometimes question how much of her wealth is truly hers, but Zhang’s work speaks for itself. The Milk Tea Sister story is now a tale of financial power, strategic influence, and personal achievement that extends far beyond a viral nickname.
Net Worth in 2025
As of 2025, Zhang Zetian’s family wealth with Richard Liu is estimated at around US $8.4 billion (60 billion yuan). This makes her one of the youngest female billionaires in China. Her journey from a viral photo to building real financial influence is a rare story of transformation.
Challenges and Rumours
With fame comes constant attention, and Zhang Zetian has had her share of challenges. Over the years, she has faced rumours about her personal life, wealth, and family. At one point, bizarre claims even linked her and her husband to secret groups, which they strongly denied.
In 2024, they went so far as to report false accusations to authorities, protecting their family name. She has also been the subject of speculation about her private life, including unverified pregnancy news. Yet, through it all, Milk Tea Sister handled herself with quiet grace. She focused on what truly mattered: family and growth.
Family, Fashion, and the Future
As of 2025, Zhang Zetian continues to balance her many roles with ease. She is a devoted mother and wife, yet also a strong businesswoman shaping JD.com’s future in luxury fashion. She invests in promising ventures, attends global fashion events, and participates in philanthropy. Her influence extends across industries, making her an admired role model for young women.
Today, Milk Tea Sister is not just remembered for a photo but for her ability to turn fleeting fame into a long-lasting legacy. Her journey continues to inspire millions, proving that ambition and grace can go hand in hand.
Philanthropy and Giving Back
Zhang Zetian is also active in philanthropy. She supports education, women’s empowerment, and social causes, showing that her impact goes beyond wealth. By investing time and resources in meaningful projects, Milk Tea Sister continues to inspire others to use success for the greater good.
The Legacy of Milk Tea Sister
The story of Zhang Zetian is a rare example of how viral fame can transform into lifelong influence. From a teenager with a cup of milk tea to one of China’s most recognisable billionaires, she has redefined what it means to be a modern icon. Her nickname, Milk Tea Sister, has become a global brand of ambition, style, and intelligence.
As she steps into the future, Zhang represents the spirit of determination in a fast-changing world. Her journey will continue to inspire dreamers everywhere, reminding us that sometimes, a single photo can change everything.
Some FAQs About Milk Tea Sister
Here are some questions, take a look:
Q1: Who is Milk Tea Sister?
Milk Tea Sister is the nickname of Zhang Zetian, a Chinese businesswoman, investor, fashion icon, and wife of JD.com founder Richard Liu.
Q2: Why is she called Milk Tea Sister?
She earned the nickname in 2009 when a photo of her holding a cup of milk tea went viral online, making her an instant internet celebrity.
Q3: Is Milk Tea Sister a billionaire?
Yes. As of 2025, she is considered one of China’s youngest female billionaires, with wealth tied to both her own investments and her husband’s business empire.
Q4: What is she doing in 2025?
Zhang Zetian is actively working with JD.com’s fashion division, investing in startups, attending global fashion events, and balancing her family life.
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