1. Biography
- Real Name: Kim Min-seok (김민석)
- Stage Name: Xiumin
- Date of Birth: March 26, 1990
- Country of Origin: South Korea (Guri, Gyeonggi Province)
- Field of Activity: Singer, Dancer, Actor, Musical Theatre Performer
- Notable for: Lead vocalist and dancer of EXO, member of EXO-CBX, successful musical theatre career
- Instagram: @e_xiu_o
2. Early Life and Background
Xiumin grew up in Guri, Gyeonggi Province, where he developed diverse interests in both performing arts and athletics. Before pursuing a career in entertainment, he was skilled in martial arts, particularly kendo and wushu, and was also a competitive figure skater. His journey to becoming an idol began when he participated in SM Entertainment’s Youth Best Contest in 2008, where he won second place. This led to his recruitment by the company, and he underwent approximately four years of training before debut.
3. Career
Xiumin was the first member to be revealed as part of EXO in 2012, debuting with the group in April of that year with “MAMA.” As the group’s eldest member, he has been noted for his stable performances and versatile abilities in both singing and dancing.
In 2016, he debuted as part of EXO’s first official sub-unit, EXO-CBX, alongside Chen and Baekhyun. The unit has achieved significant success in both Korea and Japan, releasing multiple successful albums and singles.
His solo career officially began with his debut mini-album “Brand New” in September 2023, showcasing his individual musical color and artistic direction. The album demonstrated his versatility as a performer and his ability to carry his own unique sound.
Xiumin has also built a successful career in musical theatre, appearing in productions such as “School OZ” (2015), “Return: The Promise of the Day” (2019), and “Hadestown” (2023), where his performances received praise from critics and audiences alike.
4. Style and Influence
Xiumin is known for his precise and powerful dance moves, combining technical skill with graceful execution. His vocal style is characterized by a clear, bright tone and stable delivery across various genres. He’s particularly noted for his ability to maintain high-energy performances while delivering stable vocals.
His influence extends beyond his musical abilities, as he’s become known for his “ageless” appearance and fitness regimen. His dedication to maintaining peak physical condition and performance quality has inspired both fans and fellow artists.
5. Personal Life/Dating News/Rumors
Xiumin is known for maintaining a professional and private personal life. No official relationships have been publicly confirmed throughout his career. He is known for his close friendships with his EXO members and other celebrities, particularly those from his same age group in the industry.
6. Scandals/Controversies
Throughout his career, Xiumin has maintained a notably clean image with very few controversies. In 2023, along with EXO members Baekhyun and Chen, he was involved in a contract dispute with SM Entertainment regarding payment issues and contract terms. The situation was eventually resolved with a new agreement that allowed for more flexible management of his activities.
7. Achievements and Awards
Throughout his career, Xiumin has accumulated impressive achievements across multiple entertainment sectors. As a core member of EXO, he has contributed to the group’s remarkable success, including their multiple Daesang (Grand Prize) awards at major Korean music awards shows and their record-breaking album sales and concert tours. His versatility and dedication have played a crucial role in establishing EXO as one of K-pop’s most influential groups.
His work with EXO-CBX has added another dimension to his success story. The sub-unit’s debuts in both Korean and Japanese markets were met with enthusiastic reception, with releases like “Hey Mama!” and “Blooming Days” achieving significant commercial success and critical acclaim. Their unique blend of vocals and performance style has earned them a dedicated following in both markets.
In 2023, Xiumin marked a significant milestone in his career with the release of his first solo mini-album “Brand New.” The album showcased his individual artistic color and demonstrated his ability to stand strong as a solo artist, receiving positive reviews for its musical direction and performance quality. His solo venture proved his capability to maintain his artistic identity while expanding his musical repertoire.
His ventures into musical theatre have been particularly noteworthy, with acclaimed performances in productions such as “School OZ” (2015), “Return: The Promise of the Day” (2019), and “Hadestown” (2023). These roles have earned him recognition as a legitimate musical theatre performer, breaking down the barriers between K-pop and traditional theatre. His performance in “Hadestown” especially garnered praise from critics and audiences alike, establishing him as a respected figure in the musical theatre community.
During his military service (2019-2020), he received a Military Service Merit Award, demonstrating his dedication and exemplary service to his country. This achievement added to his reputation for professionalism and commitment in all his endeavors. His return to the entertainment industry post-military service has been marked by continued success and growth in his artistic pursuits.
