About
DOB: 1st September 1997
Place: born in Busan, South Korea.
Joined: the 5th to join aged 13 and moved into the dorm 4th June 2011
Role: He is a South Korean singer, songwriter and dancer in the South Korean boy band BTS (Bangtan Sonyeodan – 방탄소년단 also known as the Bangtan Boys or Bullet Proof Boy Scouts. At debut he was introduced as Main Vocalist, Lead Dancer, sub rapper and centre. He is also the youngest in the group
Known as: Jung Kook 정국, JK, Golden Maknae
Commendations: Currently 23 songs have been attributed to him as a writer and composer by KOMCA and he is now a full member as of January 2023 (1). He is a recipient of Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism Commendation (2016), Presidential Commendation (2017) Hwagwan Order of Cultural Merit (5th class) (2018) Special Presidential Envoy for Future Generations and Culture (2021) Game Changer Award by Asia Society (2020) James A. Van Fleet Award by The Korea Society (2020).
Currently: completed mandatory military service, discharged 11th June 2025.
“When I begin to feel tired and do not want to work anymore, I see my members next to me working so hard without taking a break. When I see the members like that, I end up thinking a lot. Because we can see each other grow and hold each other accountable, we all improve together.
— Jungkook
Pre – debut
Jung-kook was born on 1st September 1997, in Busan, South Korea. While growing up in Busan he attended Baekyang Elementary and Middle School in Busan. Then, when he became a trainee, he transferred to Singu Middle School in Seoul.
From an early age Jungkook was interested in performing and aged 13 In 2011 he auditioned for the South Korean talent show Superstar K which were being held in Daegu. He received casting offers from seven entertainment companies despite not being selected. He eventually chose to become a trainee under Big Hit Entertainment, he has openly said that he chose this small almost bankrupt company because he had seen RM perform and was inspired by him. Jungkook was still very young and he entered the training process at Big Hit and for that training he also spent a month in the summer of 2012 in the US working on his dancing skills under the company Movement Lifestyle. Along with his fellow band members, he then appeared in other musical acts as background dancers. Jungkook was very young and shy and sometimes found it difficult to express himself, something that he has worked hard to overcome and now he is affectionately known as ‘stage commander’ due to his amazing skills in performing.
“Effort makes you. You will regret someday if you don’t do your best now. Don’t think it’s too late but keep working on it. It may take time, but there’s nothing that gets worse due to practising. So practise. You may get depressed, but it’s evidence that you are doing good.”
— Jungkook
pre-debut continued
On the 3rd of February Jimin hinted at something coming and although we can’t see them clearly we now know that the other members with him were Jungkook and Jhope. We later found out that they had filmed a song for Jungkook’s graduation.
Jungkook uploaded his first dance practice video on 130204 Dance practice by 정국 of 방탄소년단
His first twitter post was on 7th February (1) in relation to the release of his Blog highlighting his trip to the US the previous summer.
Jungkook – Pre-Debut Era (Before June 13, 2013)
1. Early Life & Background
- Full Name: Jeon Jung-kook (전정국)
- Date of Birth: September 1, 1997
- Birthplace: Busan, South Korea
- Raised in Busan’s Mandeok-dong neighborhood before moving to Seoul to train as an idol.
- Attended Baekyang Elementary School and Baekyang Middle School in Busan.
2. Early Passion for the Arts
- As a child, Jungkook initially aspired to become a badminton player, but his interest shifted toward music after watching G-Dragon perform Heartbreaker in 2009.
- Showed talent in both singing and dancing from a young age, often performing at school festivals.
3. Superstar K Audition
- In 2011, at the age of 13, he auditioned for Superstar K3 in Busan.
- Did not pass the preliminary round but attracted scouting offers from seven different entertainment agencies, including JYP Entertainment, FNC Entertainment, Starship Entertainment, Cube Entertainment, and BigHit Entertainment.
- Ultimately chose BigHit Entertainment because he was inspired after meeting RM during his audition visit, admiring RM’s rap skills and presence.
4. Dance Training in Los Angeles
- In 2012, BigHit sent Jungkook to Los Angeles to receive dance training.
- Trained at the Movement Lifestyle dance studio, focusing on various styles such as urban style, popping, and hip-hop choreography.
- This training deeply shaped his performance style, helping him become one of BTS’s most versatile dancers.
5. Early Appearances Before Debut
- Featured in Jo Kwon’s music video for I’m Da One (2012).
- Appeared in Glam’s Party (XXO) MV as a backup dancer.
- Worked as a backup dancer for several BigHit-related performances before BTS’s debut.
6. Transfer to School of Performing Arts (SOPA)
- Moved from Busan to Seoul to pursue idol training full-time.
- Enrolled in SOPA, South Korea’s most famous arts high school, majoring in music.
- His high school years overlapped with intense idol training—reportedly training 12–15 hours daily in singing, rapping, and dance.
7. BTS Trainee Period
- Joined BigHit’s trainee lineup in 2011 as the youngest member (“maknae”).
- Despite being the youngest, quickly became known among trainees for his remarkable work ethic, practicing dance even after midnight.
- Underwent vocal training to strengthen his natural tenor range, which later became a defining feature in BTS’s music.
8. Nickname & Reputation Before Debut
- Earned the nickname “Golden Maknae” from BTS members even before debut, because he excelled not only in singing and dancing but also in sports, drawing, and various other skills.
- His shy personality pre-debut contrasted with his confident stage presence, which later became one of his trademarks.
Sources:
BigHit Entertainment
Soompi
Koreaboo
Naver
“We do make sure that one person doesn’t stand out. But then, we are really unique. We all have our style, so I think we all stand out. We each have our own roles and positions in the band, and then we work together to make sure we all try hard for the Army.”
— Jungkook
Debut
On 4th June 2013 Jungkook was officially introduced as a member of BTS as Main Vocalist, Lead Dancer, Sub Rapper, Centre and Maknae. Along with the other members Jungkook officially debuted on 13th June 2013.Jungkook has never been a heavy user of social media and even from the very start he rarely posted on twitter. He did however show his artistic side and has often uploaded various art work or videos that he has made using GCF (Golden Closet Films). Jungkook deleted his personal Instagram page when it had 50 million subscribers indicating that social media is not important to him. He instead likes to speak to his fans through doing lives on the company’s social media platform Weverse where he spends his time talking to fans, singing karaoke or watching videos with them.
Jungkook – Debut Era (June 13, 2013 – late 2014)
1. Official Debut
- Debut Date: June 13, 2013
- Debut Group: BTS (방탄소년단) under BigHit Entertainment
- Debut Song: No More Dream
- Debut Album: 2 Cool 4 Skool (Single Album)
- Role in BTS: Main Vocalist, Lead Dancer, Sub Rapper, Center, and Maknae (Youngest member)
- Age at debut: 15 years old (international age) — the youngest debuting BTS member.
2. Early Image & Concept
- The debut concept for BTS was a rebellious hip-hop style, focusing on youth struggles, dreams, and societal pressure.
- Jungkook’s early image was that of a charismatic, athletic, and high-energy performer despite his young age.
- Noted for his stage presence and sharp dance lines that stood out even among older members.
3. First Era Activities (2013)
- June 2013 – July 2013: Performed No More Dream and We Are Bulletproof Pt.2 on major Korean music shows (M Countdown, Music Bank, Inkigayo).
- July 2013: Released O!RUL8,2? (Mini Album) featuring N.O and Attack on Bangtan.
- Participated in BTS’s first fan meeting events, where his shyness contrasted with his powerful stage performance.
- Gained early attention for his athletic abilities shown in BTS’s own variety content (Rookie King: Channel BTS).
4. Breakthrough Moments in Early Years
- His versatility — being able to rap, sing, and dance — was highlighted in live performances where he often switched between positions.
- Recognized by fans and critics for unusually mature vocals for his age.
- Known for his No More Dream high-energy choreography, particularly the signature knee slide move.
5. Growth Through 2014
- February 2014: BTS released Skool Luv Affair, with Boy in Luv and Just One Day.
- Jungkook took more prominent vocal lines and demonstrated improved emotional delivery.
- August 2014: BTS released Dark & Wild (first full-length album), with title track Danger.
- Showed a more confident, polished image and began incorporating more falsetto and adlibs in live performances.
- Participated in American Hustle Life (2014), BTS’s U.S.-based hip-hop training program, where Jungkook interacted with mentors like Coolio and Warren G.
6. Debut Era Skills Development
- Expanded vocal range through daily training, mastering both powerful belts and softer emotional tones.
- Dance skills sharpened under BTS’s choreographer Son Sung-deuk, incorporating more complex formations and freestyle moments.
- Learned rap techniques from RM and SUGA to better handle hybrid parts in songs.
7. Early Recognition & Awards
- 2013: Won Rookie of the Year at Melon Music Awards, Golden Disc Awards, and Seoul Music Awards (with BTS).
- Praised in industry articles as a “promising all-rounder idol” due to his young age and multi-skill ability.
Sources:
BigHit Entertainment
Soompi
Billboard
Melon
Koreaboo
“We should try to respect and understand each other. We need to be considerate of others. Only then we can understand each other and get close to each other and become one.”
— Jungkook
Other
Jungkook graduated from School of Performing Arts Seoul in 2017. In March 2022, he received his degree from Global Cyber University’s Department of Broadcasting and Entertainment. He was awarded the President’s Award, the school’s highest honour. Jungkook has achieved many records since he debuted and he became the second Korean soloist to debut at #1 on the Billboard Hot 100. Jungkook also made history as being the first Korean soloist to perform the Football World Cup song in 2022.
I’ll continue to grow and become a singer that melts hearts”
Jungkook
Jungkook – Unique Contributions to BTS
1. Main Vocalist
- Vocal Stability & Range – Jungkook has consistently delivered live performances with strong pitch accuracy and control, even during high-intensity choreography. His range spans from a warm baritone low register to bright, sustained high notes (notably his belts in Euphoria and ON).
- Versatility Across Genres – He adapts his tone to match BTS’s varied styles: airy and tender (Spring Day), emotional and powerful (The Truth Untold), rhythmic and edgy (Mic Drop), and bright pop (Dynamite).
- Key Vocal Lines – Often entrusted with chorus and climactic sections in BTS’s songs, making his voice a sonic anchor for listeners.
- Emotive Storytelling – Known for his ability to convey nuanced emotions, whether in heartfelt ballads or energetic anthems, deepening BTS’s connection with fans worldwide.
2. Lead Dancer
- Dynamic Performance Style – While not BTS’s main dancer, Jungkook’s role as Lead Dancer is marked by precision, athleticism, and smooth execution that bridges the gap between the main dancers and the rest of the lineup.
- Seamless Integration of Vocals & Choreo – Rarely compromises vocal quality while executing complex choreography, a skill that enhances BTS’s live credibility.
- Iconic Dance Moments – Standout performances in songs like Fake Love, Black Swan, IDOL, and ON, where his movements enhance the song’s narrative.
- Adaptability – Effortlessly switches between BTS’s wide dance spectrum: from hard-hitting hip-hop to contemporary, jazz-influenced routines.
3. Centre
- Visual & Stage Focal Point – As BTS’s Centre, Jungkook is positioned at the heart of formations in group performances, naturally drawing audience focus.
- Balance of Roles – Excels at coordinating singing, dancing, and expression to set the tone for the group’s stage presence.
- Brand Identity Reinforcement – His central positioning in MVs like Boy With Luv, Butter, and Permission to Dance helps solidify BTS’s visual and performance cohesion.
- Crowd Engagement – Maintains high audience connection through direct eye contact with cameras and dynamic gestures, making him the face of many live moments.
4. Maknae (Youngest Member) & “Golden Maknae”
- Bridging Generations – Debuted at age 15 (international age), Jungkook’s growth has been witnessed by fans in real-time, giving ARMY a sense of personal investment in his journey.
- Work Ethic & Growth – His constant skill development in vocals, dance, rap, and even production inspires both BTS members and fans.
- Group Morale & Bonding – His playful, lighthearted personality often relieves stress within the group, balancing BTS’s intense workload.
- Symbol of BTS’s Evolution – Represents the group’s adaptability and maturity; as Jungkook has grown, so has BTS’s artistry.
5. Visual Storytelling & Creative Input
- Golden Closet Films (G.C.F.) – Directed, filmed, and edited behind-the-scenes travel and tour videos for BTS.
- Artistic Eye – Brings cinematic vision to group content and personal projects.
- Songwriting Contributions – Co-wrote and co-produced several BTS and solo songs.
📋 Summary Table —Jungkook’s Unique Contributions
| Role | Key Strengths | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Main Vocalist | Wide range, stable live vocals | Euphoria, Still With You, Seven |
| Lead Dancer | Precision, stamina, style versatility | Mic Drop, Butter performances |
| Center & Golden Maknae | Multi-skilled, visual focal point | Various MVs & live stages |
| Creative Contributor | Filmmaking, songwriting | G.C.F. series, Magic Shop |
