Kim Tae-hyung, better known by his stage name V, is a global sensation and a vital member of the record-breaking group BTS. Born on December 30, 1995, in Daegu, South Korea, V's biography is a captivating story of a small-town boy who, with his unique talent and enigmatic charm, conquered the world.
The "Hidden Member" and His Rise to Stardom
V's early life was deeply rooted in the countryside of
Geochang County. He harbored a dream of becoming a singer from a young age, and
with his father’s encouragement, he took up saxophone lessons to pursue his
musical ambitions. This musical foundation, coupled with his innate charisma,
set him on a path to a life-changing audition.
He initially accompanied a friend to a Big Hit Entertainment
audition but was approached by a staff member who urged him to audition as
well. He was the only one to pass that day, marking the start of his trainee
journey. Uniquely, V was the "secret member" of BTS, remaining
unannounced to the public until the group's official debut in 2013. While a
challenging and isolating experience, this period of invisibility only
heightened the anticipation for his reveal.
A Voice That Defies Genre
As a vocalist for BTS, V's voice is instantly recognizable. His
deep, soulful baritone is a rarity in the K-pop landscape, lending a rich
texture to the group's songs. He has contributed immensely to BTS's sound, and
his solo songs within the group's discography, such as "Stigma,"
"Singularity," and "Inner Child," showcase his incredible
vocal range and emotional depth. These tracks, particularly
"Singularity," have been lauded by critics for their artistry and V's
captivating performance.
Beyond his group work, V has also made a name for himself as
a solo artist and songwriter. He has released numerous self-composed tracks,
including "Winter Bear" and "Scenery," which beautifully
display his love for jazz and classic aesthetics. He also contributed the hit
OST "Sweet Night" for the popular K-drama Itaewon Class and
"Christmas Tree" for Our Beloved Summer, which earned him his
first solo entry on the Billboard Hot 100.
The Solo Album: Layover and Historic Achievements
V's highly anticipated solo debut album, Layover,
released in September 2023, was a landmark moment in his career. The album,
which he co-produced with NewJeans executive producer Min Hee-jin, was an
exploration of lo-fi, pop, R&B, and jazz genres. It was a massive success,
setting a new record for the highest first-week sales by a K-pop solo album in
South Korean history. The album’s success further solidified V's position as a
formidable solo artist.
Following his military service, which he completed on June
10, 2025, alongside fellow member RM, V has re-entered the public eye, ready to
embark on his next chapter. His final pre-enlistment single,
"FRI(END)S," and recent collaborations have only fueled fan
excitement for his return to full-time music activities with BTS.
Beyond the Music: An Artist and Fashion Icon
V's talents extend beyond music. In 2016, he made his acting
debut in the historical drama Hwarang: The Poet Warrior Youth, where his
performance earned him critical acclaim. Known for his unique fashion sense and
artistic eye, he has also cultivated a passion for photography and art, often
sharing his creative endeavors with fans under the pseudonym "Vante."
His position as a global ambassador for luxury brands like Louis Vuitton
highlights his influence as a fashion icon.
V's journey is a compelling narrative of an artist who is
continuously evolving. His dedication to his craft, combined with his a
captivating persona and artistic versatility, has made him a beloved figure
worldwide. As BTS prepares for their highly anticipated full group reunion in
2025, V's return marks an exciting new era for the group and for his solo
career.
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