Since bursting onto the scene in 2015, Seventeen has enthralled listeners as an up-and-coming third-generation K-Pop group. Known for having continuously pushed the boundaries of the South Korean music industry since their debut, Seventeen approaches their tenth year in the business, with their popularity showing no signs of waning.
With a remarkable lineup of thirteen members, Seventeen stands out as one of the largest K-Pop groups in existence, earning a reputation for their remarkable synchronicity and distinctive style. Recently, one of the group’s members, Mingyu, made headlines after he joined a live stream with BTS’ golden boy Jungkook, piquing the curiosity of those less acquainted with Seventeen and the ’97 line as a whole. On that note, for all curious fans, here’s all you need to know about Mingyu.
Who is Mingyu?
Born on April 6, 1997, in Anyang-si, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea, Kim Mingyu is currently known for being the lead rapper in Seventeen. Famous for his striking visuals and his hard-working nature, he has also gained recognition as a member of the famous ’97 line friend group, which comprises several notable K-Pop artists born in the same year. In addition to his contributions to Seventeen as a whole, Mingyu is an integral part of the Hip Hop Team, where he collaborates with S.Coups, Wonwoo, and Vernon.
Prior to his debut with Seventeen, Mingyu dedicated four years to training under Pledis Entertainment. This period allowed him to improve his skills as a performer before stepping on stage as a rapper – a customary path for aspiring K-Pop idols. Alongside his music career, Mingyu is also pursuing a university degree at the Dong-Ah Institute of Media and Art, where he is currently majoring in K-Pop.
In the eight years Mingyu has spent in the limelight, the rapper and dancer has also partaken in numerous creative processes that occur behind the scenes. Seventeen has long been praised for their efforts in creating their own music, outside of the common K-Pop practice where the musicians often perform the songs without writing or producing them. Mingyu, however, is not one of these idols, instead choosing to wholeheartedly indulge in the creative process behind many of Seventeen’s songs, including the hits “Clap,” “BOOMBOOM,” and “Ready to Love.”
On April 24, Seventeen released their 10th mini-album, titled FML, and as part of the promotional events, the group also participated in a fan meeting event in Japan. Since then, Mingyu appears to be enjoying some well-deserved leisure time and cherishing moments spent with his closest friends from the ’97 line.