Biography
Son Young-jae (손영재), known by his stage name Eric, is the Lead Dancer, Lead Rapper, and Maknae of the group The Boyz. Although Eric was born in South Korea, he grew up in Los Angeles, California, which has helped him become fluent in English.
Profile
- Birth Name: Son Young Jae (손영재)
- English Name: Eric Sohn
- Stage Name: Eric (애릭)
- Position: Lead Dancer, Vocalist, Rapper, Maknae
- Birthday: December 22, 2000
- Zodiac Sign: Capricorn
- Height: 174 cm (5’9″)
- Weight: 56 kg (123 lbs)
- Blood Type: A
Pre-debut
On June 30, 2016, Eric appeared in the Melody Day’s music video for “Color”, marking his first significant involvement in the entertainment scene. Although he was not part of the group, his appearance in the music video piqued the interest of fans and industry professionals alike.
In 2017, Eric’s journey continued with his appearance in the “Trainee Paparazzi” series. On July 8, 2017, he was featured alongside Kevin, who was recognized for his vocal talents, in the video titled “[TRAINEE PAPARAZZI] Crackers’ vocal treasure Kevin (KEVIN) live” on YouTube. This video helped introduce Eric as a promising trainee with a lot of potential.
Just a few days later, on July 11, 2017, Eric was seen in another “Trainee Paparazzi” episode, this time alongside fellow trainee Park Hoon Nam and Nam Hyunjae, showcasing his skills and chemistry with the other members in the group before their official debut.
Eric’s profile gained more recognition when The Boyz’s profile film was released on July 21, 2017, as part of the DAZED profile series. This film, featuring Eric as one of the group’s lead dancers and vocalists, was crucial in solidifying his identity and presence in the K-pop industry. This early exposure helped build anticipation for his official debut, which came shortly thereafter with The Boyz.
These early milestones provided a strong foundation for Eric’s career, showcasing his dedication and growth as a performer before he fully debuted with The Boyz.
Scandal/ Controversies
No Mask Controversy
In December 2020, a photo surfaced showing Eric bowling without a mask at a bowling alley, sparking controversy. Eric later apologized, explaining, “The incident occurred in mid-November when I was with friends who were about to enlist in the military. I regret not adhering to social norms, and I am truly sorry for my actions.”
Pepero Mishap and Controversial Photo
On November 11, 2024 Eric (The Boyz) became the center of attention after he publicly posted a photo of himself sending condoms to fans. November 11 is Pepero Day in South Korea, a day when people give Pepero cookies to their loved ones. However, due to the condom packaging closely resembling the Pepero box, Eric mistakenly bought the wrong item, leading to a humorous and awkward situation.
Netizens found the incident funny and expressed sympathy for the male idol. However, on November 15, Eric stirred controversy again when he posted a selfie in the practice room. In the photo, Eric was wearing gray sweatpants that exposed his sensitive area. The male idol faced numerous criticisms, with many questioning whether Eric had lied about the “Pepero incident.”
This shocking behavior from the male idol left many stunned, especially after the earlier Pepero gift controversy.
Facts
- He was born in South Korea and grew up in Los Angeles, California.
- He has an older sister.
- He enjoys playing sports, watching movies, dancing, and ice skating.
- His specialties are playing baseball and solving the Rubik’s Cube.
- He is fluent in English.
- His favorite colors are black and white.
- His favorite food is Ramen (noodles).
- He likes cleaning and is responsible for cleaning the dorm.
- He enjoys skateboarding.
- Eric, Hwall, Hyunjae, and Younghoon appeared in the music video for Melody Day’s “Colour.”
- He shares a room with New.
- He is friends with Hohyeon and Jihun from TRCNG.
- He placed 4th in a Rubik’s Cube competition (Grade 4) and 2nd in a baseball championship in California (in high school).
- He can also mimic Geodude (a Pokémon).
- His best friend in the idol world is Felix from Stray Kids.
- When he has free time, he hangs out with Juyeon or goes to the movies, sleeps, or plays video games.
- He is friends with Daehwi from Wanna One.
- He prefers being called “Oppa” rather than “Baby.”
- He wants to try being a leader once instead of the maknae.
- He says that New, Haknyeon, and Hyunjae are sometimes more childish than him.
- His ideal type: A girl who is very charming.
