She grew up between Reykjavík and Washington, D.C. , and spent many summers in Beijing , which she has described as influential to her musical and cultural identity.
Because Laufey has a distinctly Nordic first name and pale skin, some people assume she is fully white or Caucasian. This is a common experience for mixed-race people, particularly those of East Asian descent who do not fit the stereotypical "look." is laufey asian
Unlike many mixed-race artists who feel pressured to choose one identity over the other, Laufey actively embraces both. Here’s how her Asian heritage shows up in her work: She grew up between Reykjavík and Washington, D
Laufey’s mother, a classical violinist, moved to Iceland from China after meeting her father. Growing up, Laufey spent her summers in , staying with her grandparents. She has spoken openly in interviews about speaking Mandarin with her mother, eating Chinese home-cooked meals, and being deeply influenced by Chinese culture. This is a common experience for mixed-race people,
Laufey was born and raised in , which makes her culturally Icelandic. However, her mother’s Chinese heritage plays an equally significant role in her identity and upbringing.