1. Biography
- Real Name: Kim Jun-myeon (김준면)
- Stage Name: Suho (수호)
- Date of Birth: May 22, 1991
- Country of Origin: South Korea (Seoul)
- Field of Activity: Singer, Actor, Musical Actor
- Notable for: Leader of EXO, successful solo artist, musical actor
- Instagram: @kimjuncotton
2. Early Life and Background
Born and raised in Seoul, South Korea, Suho comes from a well-educated, middle-class family. His early interest in performing arts led him to participate in school theater productions and musical activities. He was discovered by SM Entertainment at age 16 while walking on the street, making him one of the longest-training idols in the company with a training period of 7 years before debut. During this time, he balanced his trainee life with academics, maintaining excellent grades and eventually attending Korea National University of Arts.
3. Career
Suho debuted as the leader of EXO in 2012 with their first single “MAMA.” His leadership skills and dedication to the group have been widely praised throughout their career. As EXO’s leader, he has been instrumental in guiding the group through various challenges and maintaining their position as one of K-pop’s most successful acts.
His solo career officially began in March 2020 with his first mini-album “Self-Portrait,” which showcased his artistic identity through a modern rock sound. This was followed by his second mini-album “Grey Suit” in 2022, further establishing his position as a solo artist.
Beyond his musical career, Suho has built a strong presence in musical theater and acting. He has appeared in various musicals including “The Man Who Laughs” and “The Last Kiss,” as well as dramas such as “Rich Man” (2018) and “How Are U Bread” (2020). His versatility as a performer has allowed him to maintain active careers in both the idol industry and traditional entertainment sectors.
4. Style and Influence
Suho’s artistic style is characterized by his warm, emotive vocals and his ability to convey deep emotions through his performances. His solo music often incorporates elements of rock and ballad genres, setting him apart from typical K-pop solo releases. As a leader, his management style emphasizes teamwork and mutual respect, earning him the nickname “the most successful leader in SM” from fans and industry professionals alike.
His influence extends beyond music into fashion, where he has established himself as a luxury brand ambassador and style icon. His sophisticated image and professional conduct have made him a respected figure in the entertainment industry.
5. Personal Life/Dating News/Rumors
Suho has maintained a private personal life throughout his career, with no officially confirmed relationships. He is known for his close relationships with EXO members and his professional approach to his career. His focus on work and dedication to his craft has been consistently highlighted throughout his career.
6. Scandals/Controversies
Throughout his career, Suho has maintained a notably clean image with virtually no significant controversies. His professional conduct and careful management of his public image have helped him avoid major scandals, making him one of the most respected figures in the K-pop industry.
7. Achievements and Awards
Suho’s journey to becoming one of K-pop’s most respected figures is marked by both group and individual accomplishments. As the leader of EXO, he has been instrumental in the group’s rise to prominence, sharing in their numerous achievements including multiple Daesang (Grand Prize) awards at major Korean music ceremonies. His leadership has been crucial in maintaining EXO’s position as one of K-pop’s most influential groups, consistently delivering powerful performances and maintaining strong album sales throughout multiple generations of K-pop.
His solo career, though launched later than some of his peers, has proven equally impressive. The release of his debut mini-album “Self-Portrait” in 2020 showcased his artistic vision and vocal prowess, achieving remarkable success by reaching #1 on iTunes charts across multiple countries. This achievement was particularly noteworthy as it was released shortly before his mandatory military service, demonstrating his ability to make a lasting impact even in a limited timeframe.
In the realm of musical theater and acting, Suho has established himself as a versatile performer worthy of critical acclaim. His performances in various musicals have earned recognition from theater critics and audiences alike, while his roles in television dramas have garnered multiple Best Actor nominations. This success in traditional entertainment fields has helped break down the barrier between idol performers and mainstream actors, paving the way for future idol-actors.
