JIN

Famously recruited to become a K-pop trainee on his way to class while studying acting at university, BTS member JIN is often seen as the goofy older brother of the superstar group. While there’s truth to this playful persona—JIN often introduces himself as “Worldwide Handsome” to English-language press—it can occasionally obscure the Korean vocalist's commitment and talent. Born in the Seoul suburb of Anyang as 김석진 (or Kim Seok-jin) in 1992, JIN had no training as a singer or dancer before joining Big Hit Entertainment in 2011. However, he would debut alongside RM, SUGA, j-hope, Jimin, V and Jung Kook as 방탄소년단 (or Bangtan Sonyeondan), aka BTS, in 2013. The group would go on to become one of the most popular bands in the world, selling out stadium concerts in a matter of minutes. Under the BTS umbrella, JIN has released solo ballads “Awake”, “Epiphany” and “Moon”. The singer’s earnest, powerful delivery is also well-suited for K-drama soundtracks; JIN’s OST discography includes Hwarang’s “It’s Definitely You” (alongside BTS co-member V) and Jirisan’s “Yours”. In December 2021, JIN the dropped super-silly trot-style bop “Super Tuna”, which chronicles the singer’s efforts to catch a fish, as a gift to fans on his 29th birthday. The song’s accompanying performance video went viral on YouTube and inspired a TikTok dance challenge.