Jin (Kim Seok-jin)

Who Is Kim Seok-jin?

Kim Seok-jin (김석진), better known by the mononym Jin (진), is a South Korean singer-songwriter, record producer, and businessman. He is a member of the globally celebrated boy group BTS and holds the positions of vocalist and visual.

Kim Seok-jin studied acting at Konkuk University before debuting. He is known for his visuals, vocals, and variety show appearances. Born on December 4, 1992, in Anyang, Gyeonggi Province, South Korea, Jin has grown from a self-described acting dreamer into one of K-pop’s most celebrated solo artists.

Following his discharge from the military in June 2024, Jin served as a torchbearer for South Korea at the Summer Olympics in Paris, released his debut solo album Happy, launched a global variety show, and became a brand ambassador for Gucci. Moreover, in 2026, he reunited with BTS for their long-awaited comeback album Arirang.

Early Life: Anyang, Australia, and an Acting Dream

Born and Raised in South Korea

Jin is a South Korean singer and songwriter who was born and raised in Anyang, Gyeonggi Province, South Korea. He grew up in a close-knit family. His family consists of his mother, father, and elder brother.

Jin has an older brother named Kim Seok-jung, with whom he co-owns a Japanese restaurant called Ossu Seiromushi. The brothers share a strong bond that has remained a constant presence throughout Jin’s public life.

A Year in Australia

In 2007, while still in high school, Jin spent a year as a foreign exchange student in Australia. This international experience broadened his perspective significantly. It planted early seeds of the global curiosity that would later define his artistic identity.

The Actor Who Became a Singer

Jin never planned to be a K-pop idol. He planned to be an actor.

Jin had dreamed of being an actor and attended Konkuk University. He graduated on February 22, 2017, with a degree in Film Studies.

It was while he was at university that he was spotted by a Big Hit employee as he was getting on a bus and was encouraged to audition. He had no training in dance or singing, so he did not plan to become an idol.

Even so, he continued to pursue his academic passion. Wanting to expand his knowledge, he later enrolled at Hanyang Cyber University, exploring areas beyond music.

Therefore, Jin’s journey into music was not a plan. It was a discovery — an unexpected invitation that changed everything.

BTS: A Global Phenomenon

Debut and Early Years (2013)

Kim Seok-jin is a member of the global pop group BTS. He debuted with BTS in 2013.

BTS launched under Big Hit Entertainment in June 2013. From the beginning, Jin stood out. He was the eldest member. He was the group’s designated “visual.” Jin brought humour, warmth, and an effortless charm that balanced the group’s intense artistic energy.

As the oldest member of BTS, Jin naturally took on the role of “big brother” in the group, helping maintain a light and positive atmosphere. Despite his signature humour and famous puns, Jin is highly disciplined and committed, always striving to improve his skills.

“Worldwide Handsome” — A Global Icon is Born

“Worldwide Handsome” is a nickname Jin coined for himself during interviews, and fans and media loved it so much that it stuck.

The title reflects more than good looks. It reflects confidence. It reflects self-love. Most importantly, it reflects the philosophy Jin has carried throughout his career — one centred on happiness, authenticity, and embracing who you are.

The UN Address, Cultural Honours, and Global Diplomacy

In July 2021, all BTS members were appointed as Special Presidential Envoy for Future Generations and Culture by then-President Moon Jae-in to help “lead the global agenda for future generations, such as sustainable growth” and “expand South Korea’s diplomatic efforts and global standing.”

In 2018, Jin was awarded the fifth-class Hwagwan Order of Cultural Merit by the President of South Korea, along with his bandmates, for his contributions to Korean culture.

Furthermore, Jin spoke alongside his BTS members at the United Nations General Assembly — carrying South Korea’s cultural voice to the world stage with poise and purpose.

Military Service: Duty, Discipline, and a Hero’s Return

Enlistment (December 2022)

Jin enlisted for South Korea’s mandatory military service in December 2022. He was the first BTS member to enlist. It was a moment that stirred enormous emotion among fans worldwide.

Serving as an active-duty soldier, Jin underwent basic training and continued his service with dedication, earning respect for his commitment to national duty.

Discharge and Celebration (June 2024)

He was officially discharged in June 2024, marking the end of his 18-month service. Upon returning, Jin quickly resumed public activities, symbolizing resilience and reinforcing his image as a dependable figure both within BTS and in the wider public eye.

After completing his mandatory 18-month military service on June 12, 2024, Jin returned to the public eye with a “hugathon” event in Seoul, embracing a thousand fans to mark his discharge.

It was not just a return. It was a reunion — loud, joyful, and deeply personal.

Paris Olympics 2024: Torchbearer for South Korea

Just weeks after his discharge, Jin made history on the world stage.

Following his discharge, Jin served as a torchbearer for the South Korean delegation at the Summer Olympics in Paris.

Jin appeared at the Louvre Museum in Paris as the first torchbearer of the 2024 Summer Olympics torch relay. Loud cheers, applause, and singing followed the star as he appeared on the scene and followed him along the route, with fans yelling “Kim Seok-jin” on repeat.

Jin’s relay aimed to spread the message of “harmony” and “peace.” It was a moment that perfectly encapsulated who Jin is — a bridge between cultures, a symbol of grace under pressure.

Solo Music Career: Finding His Own Voice

Early Solo Singles (2019–2022)

As a solo artist, Jin released three self-composed digital singles: “이 밤 (Tonight)” in 2019, “Abyss” in 2020, and “슈퍼 참치 (Super Tuna)” in 2021.

His individual releases, including “Tonight” and “Abyss,” explore themes of self-reflection, vulnerability, and the quest for inner peace. These songs, crafted with a keen awareness of his own emotional landscape, resonate with listeners navigating similar struggles.

The Astronaut (October 2022)

He made his official solo debut with his first single album, “The Astronaut,” on October 28, 2022.

Remarkably, the song was co-written with Coldplay — a global collaboration that elevated its emotional reach. Songs like “The Astronaut,” co-written with Coldplay, highlighted his ability to blend vulnerability with soaring melodies.

Happy EP (November 2024)

His first official solo album, Happy, released in November 2024, marked a significant milestone, showcasing his growth as a singer-songwriter and record producer. The project encapsulates his journey, blending introspective lyrics with melodies that invite listeners to embrace their own imperfections.

The release of Happy topped the charts. Additionally, Jin held a special Happy Special Live Stage over two days, performing for fans.

Echo EP (May 2025)

In 2024 and 2025, his releases “Happy” and “Echo” captured his evolving sound — intimate, reflective, and emotionally rich. These songs not only affirmed his growth as a soloist but also deepened his connection with listeners.

On February 4, 2025, “Close to You” debuted at number 1 on Billboard World Digital Song Sales, becoming his 7th number 1 on that chart — the most by any K-pop soloist.

Furthermore, Jin became the first K-pop soloist to have two separate albums (Happy and Echo) each spend 10 weeks on the Spotify Weekly Top Albums Global Chart.

Run Jin: The Variety Show That Won Hearts

On August 13, 2024, the first episode of Jin’s weekly variety show Run Jin — a spin-off of BTS’s iconic Run BTS — aired on YouTube. Each episode features Jin competing in activities by himself or with different guests.

The show premiered on August 13, 2024, and ran weekly on YouTube and Weverse, featuring Jin in a variety of games, challenges, and comedic scenarios. Fans praised Run Jin for capturing Jin’s unique comedic timing and warmth, offering a lighter, more personal connection compared to group-centered content.

The show became more than entertainment. It became a weekly connection — between Jin and millions of ARMYs around the world.

RUNSEOKJIN_EP.TOUR: His First Solo World Tour (2025)

In 2025, Jin embarked on his first-ever solo world tour, the Run Seokjin EP Tour. The tour marked a milestone in his career, showcasing his growth as an independent performer after military service and highlighting his solo projects, including Echo and The Astronaut.

The tour began on June 28, 2025, in Goyang, South Korea, and concluded on November 1, 2025, in Incheon. It spanned 9 cities globally across Asia, North America, and Europe, totaling 20 shows.

Tour stops included:

• Goyang (June 28–29) — Korea
• Chiba & Osaka (July 5–13) — Japan
• Anaheim, Dallas, Tampa, Newark (July 17–31) — USA
• London & Amsterdam (August 5–10) — Europe
• Incheon (October 31–November 1) — Encore, South Korea

The concert film #RUNSEOKJIN_EP.TOUR The Movie was set for release in 1,800 theaters across 70 countries on December 27 and 28, 2025, capturing highlights from his international performances.

BTS Arirang Comeback (2026)

After years of anticipation, BTS returned as one.

BTS released their first album in more than five years, Arirang, on March 20, 2026. It is their first album since every member RM, Jin, Suga, J-Hope, Jimin, V, and Jungkook completed mandatory military service in South Korea.

The day after the album dropped, BTS performed a free concert at Seoul’s Gwanghwamun Square, livestreamed globally on Netflix, followed by a behind-the-scenes documentary on the same platform.

On April 9, they launched an 82-date world tour that will keep them on the road through March 2027. Tickets to every announced show have already sold out.

Fashion, Business, and Brand Ambassadorships

Gucci Global Ambassador (August 2024)

After completing his mandatory military service in June 2024, Jin was announced as the new global ambassador for Gucci, solidifying his presence in the fashion world.

Jin made his first big appearance as Gucci’s representative at Milan Fashion Week during the Spring/Summer 2025 collection show. He turned heads with a sophisticated, minimalist look: a brown and blue V-neck sweater, paired with earthy-toned trousers and silver accessories.

Other Major Ambassadorships

Jin was appointed global ambassador for luxury brands including Gucci (August 2024), Maison Fred (July 2024 — their first solo global ambassador), Laneige (September 2024 — first male ambassador), Alo Yoga (October 2024), and Jin Ramen (February 2025).

IGIN Beverages and Business Ventures

In December 2024, Jin collaborated with chef and businessman Baek Jong-won and launched an alcoholic beverages brand, IGIN, through corporations that both established — Jini’s Lamp and Yesan Doga.

Additionally, Jin founded Jini’s Lamp Agricultural Corp, a company focused on agricultural production. His business portfolio proves that he is not simply an artist. He is a multifaceted entrepreneur with a long-term vision.

Personal Life: Family, Food, and Faith in Happiness

Jin’s family consists of his mother, father, and elder brother Kim Seok-jung. The siblings co-own the Japanese restaurant Ossu Seiromushi together — a warm reminder that family remains central to Jin’s world.

Jin is known for his close relationships with his family and BTS members. Despite his public persona, he maintains a relatively private personal life. As of now, there are no public records of romantic relationships, and he is believed to be single.

Jin spoke with Rolling Stone in 2021 and said, “Especially when we were on tour, there wasn’t time to reflect on myself and figure out what gives me joy, what makes me relax. Being off the road for a year gave me a chance to really reflect on what I want and who I am, and sort of learn to love myself.”

This philosophy of self-love is not just a quote. It is the thread woven through every song, every performance, and every fan interaction Jin has shared with the world.

Solo Discography at a Glance

Year	Title	Type	Notes
2019	Tonight (이 밤)	Digital Single	Self-composed
2020	Abyss	Digital Single	Self-composed
2021	Super Tuna (슈퍼 참치)	Digital Single	Viral hit
2022	The Astronaut	Single Album	Co-written with Coldplay
2024	Happy	EP	Debut solo album; charted globally
2024	I’ll Be There	Single	Rock-influenced release
2025	Close to You	OST	#1 Billboard World Digital Song Sales
2025	Echo	EP	2nd mini-album; Spotify Top Albums 10 weeks
2026	Arirang (BTS)	Group Album	BTS comeback; 82-date world tour