About
DOB: 13th October 1995
Place: born in Geumjeong District, Busan, South Korea.
Joined: the last to to join aged 17 and moved into the dorm 15th May 2012
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 Dancer and lead vocalist
Known as: Jimin (지민)
Commendations: Currently, 23 songs have been attributed to him as a writer and composer by KOMCA. He is 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). Plaque of Appreciation (2019) Preservation association of Buchaechum for the fan dance at 2018 MMA award show (1)
Currently: completed mandatory military service, discharged 11th June 2025.
“I hope that you never give up. Remember there is a person in Korea, in the city of Seoul that understands you.”
— Park Jimin – Class of 2020
Park Jimin officially debuted with BTS on June 13, 2013 under Big Hit Entertainment with the single album 2 Cool 4 Skool.
From the very start, he was introduced as BTS’s Main Dancer, Lead Vocalist, and Center for key choreographies. His debut role was significant because he joined BTS as the final member to be added to the lineup—just months before debut—after being recruited for his exceptional contemporary dance background from Busan High School of Arts, where he studied modern dance.
As Main Dancer, Jimin quickly became a focal point in BTS’s early performances, delivering sharp, precise moves with an expressive style that set him apart. He was frequently positioned at the center during choreography highlights in debut-era songs like “No More Dream” and “We Are Bulletproof Pt.2”, showcasing acrobatics, powerful kicks, and fluid transitions that combined street dance elements with his contemporary training.
His early reputation in BTS was built not just on skill but on performance artistry—he infused emotion into his movements, something that became a BTS signature. Dance directors and industry professionals have cited Jimin’s technical precision, stage charisma, and control as reasons he was entrusted with the Main Dancer position from debut onwards.
Pre – debut
Park Ji-min was born on October 13, 1995, in Geumjeong District, Busan, South Korea. Jimin discovered a love of dance and performance from a very early age and so In middle school, he attended Just Dance Academy, where he learned a variety of dance styles later Jimin studied contemporary dance at Busan High School of Arts and was a top student in the modern dance department. His teachers were so impressed with his dancing and his innate musicality that they suggested that he audition for entertainment companies. Jimin auditioned for Big Hit entertainment and once he passed the auditions in 2012, he transferred to Korean Arts High School. Jimin was trained in contemporary dance so he had to learn a more ‘kpop’ style of dancing. Quickly, Jimin gained a reputation for practising hard. He would attend school, come back and go straight to the practice room where he would practise into the early hours. He has said how he would sleep there then get up, get changed and go to school. Despite this Jimin’s position in the group was not finalised until the last moments before debut. Jimin proved his invaluable status within the group and has added layers to BTS that has made them stand out both with his incredible dancing and unique vocals.
Jimin had his first introduction to the public when he uploaded a dance video on 130112 Dance practice by 지민 of 방탄소년단 (Jimin of BTS)
Park Jimin — Pre-Debut Era
Early Life & Background
Park Jimin (박지민) was born October 13, 1995, in Geumjeong District, Busan, South Korea. He grew up in a supportive family environment, attending Hodong Elementary School and Yonsan Middle School. Jimin showed an early interest in the arts, particularly in performance, and developed an exceptional sense of rhythm and movement even before formal training. His family, noticing his talent, encouraged him to pursue dance seriously. (soompi.com, busan.com)
Dance Training & Artistic Development
Jimin’s formative dance education began when he enrolled at Busan High School of Arts, where he majored in Modern Dance. Known for his sharp technique and expressive performance style, he was consistently at the top of his class. Teachers described him as “disciplined, hardworking, and detail-oriented”, often staying behind after lessons to perfect his moves.
While at the school, one of his dance teachers suggested he audition for an entertainment company due to his exceptional skills. Jimin went on to participate in various regional dance festivals and school showcases, frequently earning first place in competitions for modern and contemporary dance. His performances were noted for their balance of technical precision and emotional delivery. (koreaboo.com) (soompi.com)
Big Hit Audition & Training
In 2012, Jimin’s dance teacher recommended he audition for Big Hit Entertainment (now HYBE). His audition included a modern dance piece that demonstrated his technical prowess and an impromptu freestyle segment to show versatility. Impressing the judges, he was accepted into the trainee program—reportedly becoming the final member to join BTS before debut.
Upon moving to Seoul, Jimin transferred to Korean Arts High School (the same school attended by V and Jungkook), where he continued formal dance studies while adapting to the intense life of a K-pop trainee. His training schedule included 14–15 hours a day of dance, vocal practice, and stage training, during which he began working on his vocal tone and range in addition to his primary role as a dancer.
Notable Pre-Debut Moments
- Busan High School Dance Excellence — Ranked top of his department before leaving for Seoul.
- Final BTS Member Added — Joined the lineup shortly before debut, requiring rapid adaptation to the group’s concept and style.
- First Vocal Training — Originally entering as a pure dancer, Jimin began serious vocal training only after becoming a trainee, showing quick improvement in just a few months.
- Pre-Debut Photos & Videos — Several clips from school showcases and modern dance recitals circulated online, displaying his early signature flexibility, high extensions, and strong core control.
(koreaboo.com, dispatch.co.kr, soompi.com)
“No matter what other people say, I want to stay true to myself. That’s how I want to live.”
— Park Jimin – Class of 2020
Debut
On 4th June 2013 Jimin was officially introduced as a member of BTS as main dancer and lead vocalist and he had his own showcase to introduce him as the main dancer (1). Along with the other members Jimin officially debuted on 13th June 2013. In the early days Jimin was very active on social media uploading logs and twitter posts.
Park Jimin debuted with BTS on June 13, 2013 under BigHit Entertainment as the group’s Main Dancer and Lead Vocalist.
He was the last member to join BTS, recruited just months before debut after his dance teacher recommended he audition for BigHit. At the time, Jimin was studying contemporary dance at Busan High School of Arts, where he excelled as one of the top students in his department.
While his dance ability was already elite, Jimin also stood out for his distinct vocal tone — high, airy, yet powerful — which gave BTS’s early songs an emotional edge. As Lead Vocalist, he was entrusted with many climactic high notes, harmonies, and emotive ad-libs, particularly in debut tracks like “No More Dream”, “We Are Bulletproof Pt. 2”, and “I Like It”.
From the beginning, Jimin’s role combined technical dance mastery with expressive singing, allowing him to deliver performances that were visually captivating and vocally impactful. His dual position as Main Dancer and Lead Vocalist has remained one of BTS’s most defining strengths since their debut.
Park Jimin — Debut Era (2013)
Official Debut with BTS
Park Jimin officially debuted on June 13, 2013 as the Main Dancer and Lead Vocalist of BTS under BigHit Entertainment with the release of the single album 2 COOL 4 SKOOL and its title track “No More Dream”. His debut role highlighted his sharp, precise dance skills paired with a clear, emotive vocal tone—a combination that quickly made him stand out to both fans and critics. (soompi.com, billboard.com)
Debut Performances & Stage Presence
From BTS’s first music show appearances, Jimin was noted for his charismatic stage presence, high-energy choreography, and powerful expressions. In “No More Dream,” he became known for his signature abs reveal move, which was a talking point among early fans. His dance execution was clean and strong, often acting as the focal point in group formations.
Jimin also impressed with his ability to adapt quickly—having joined BTS last, he had less trainee time compared to other members, but still matched their performance level during debut promotions. (koreaboo.com, dispatch.co.kr)
Vocals in Debut Tracks
While Jimin initially entered Big Hit as a Main dancer, his lead vocalist role during debut became a defining part of his identity. In 2 COOL 4 SKOOL, he contributed high, bright vocal tones that contrasted with the rap-heavy tracks. Notable early vocal moments include:
- The melodic pre-chorus lines in “No More Dream”
- Harmonies and ad-libs in “I Like It”
- Emotional delivery in “We Are Bulletproof Pt. 2”
Critics and fans noted the freshness of his tone, even though he was still developing full vocal stamina at the time. (soompi.com, billboard.com)
Impact in BTS’s Early Image
During the debut era, BTS’s concept revolved around youth rebellion and the struggles of students. Jimin’s intense gaze, dynamic dancing, and expressive body control made him one of the key visual anchors in their performances. His background in modern dance gave BTS’s hip-hop-focused debut a polished edge, with moves that balanced power and fluidity.
His friendly personality off-stage also contributed to BTS’s early fan engagement—Jimin often interacted warmly with ARMY during fan signs, showing a mix of shyness and playful energy that fans found endearing. (naver.com)
Notable Milestones in the Debut Year (2013)
- June 13, 2013 — BTS debuted with 2 COOL 4 SKOOL and “No More Dream” on Mnet’s M Countdown.
- June–July 2013 — Performed on major Korean music shows (Music Bank, Inkigayo, Show Champion).
- July 2013 — Released follow-up single “We Are Bulletproof Pt. 2”.
- August 2013 — Attended first overseas schedule in Japan for showcase.
- September 2013 — Released mini-album O!RUL8,2? continuing the school-themed concept.
- November 2013 — Nominated for “Best New Artist” at MAMA (Mnet Asian Music Awards).
“I want to be someone who can show people that dreams can come true.”
— Jimin, from Elle magazine
Other
Jimin graduated from the Global Cyber University with a degree in Broadcasting and Entertainment. After completing this, like the other members he enrolled at Hanyang Cyber University for the Master of Business Administration program in Advertising and Media. Jimin has achieved many records since he debuted and he became the first Korean soloist to debut at #1 on the Billboard Hot 100.
FACE by Jimin reached 1 billion streams on 24th August 2024 (1). Jimin’s second solo album reached 1 billion streams on 27th August 2024 (1) JIMIN becomes the first K-Pop soloist to have multiple albums surpass 1 billion streams each on Spotify (‘MUSE’ and ‘FACE’). (1)
“No matter how hard it is now. Think of what the result will make you feel”
Park Jimin
Jimin — Unique Contributions to BTS
Main Dancer
- Expressive Performance Style – Known for fluid, contemporary dance technique that adds emotion and narrative to BTS’s choreography (Lie, Serendipity, Black Swan).
- Precision & Artistry – Maintains impeccable control and synchronization, blending strength with grace.
- Choreography Interpretation – Enhances BTS’s stage impact by transforming choreographic moves into storytelling moments.
- Technical Excellence – Recognized for advanced ballet and modern dance training, rare in K-pop idols.
Lead Vocalist
- Distinct Vocal Tone – Soft yet powerful timbre with high emotional expressiveness, often delivering key climactic moments in BTS songs (Blood Sweat & Tears, Spring Day, Fake Love).
- Vocal Versatility – Excels in both falsetto and full chest voice, adapting to pop, R&B, ballads, and contemporary styles.
- Stage Emotion Carrier – Often assigned vocally intense or emotional lines, amplifying the song’s message.
Stage Presence & Artistic Identity
- Emotional Connector – Creates an intimate connection with audiences through expressive eye contact, body language, and live interpretation.
- Solo Artistic Impact – Solo performances are consistently praised for artistry and storytelling (Lie, Set Me Free Pt.2).
- Influence on BTS’s Aesthetic – Brings elegance and contemporary art influence to group visuals.
📋 Summary Table — Jimin’s Unique Contributions
| Role | Key Strengths | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Main Dancer | Emotional storytelling, contemporary dance mastery | Black Swan, Lie, I Need U (live) |
| Lead Vocalist | Emotional delivery, high-register control | Blood Sweat & Tears, Serendipity |
| Stage Presence & Artistic Identity | Visual storytelling, audience connection | Set Me Free Pt.2, Filter |
