K-pop Idol Who Came Out as Gay Expresses Gratitude to Korean Gay Icon Hong Seok-cheon
Bain Expresses Gratitude to Hong Seok-cheon
On April 27, JUST B member Bain, who previously came out as a member of the LGBTQ+ community while performing on stage, and later confirming that he is gay via an Instagram post, published a new Instagram story.
In particular, the male idol responded to a previous statement made by Hong Seok-cheon, who was the first South Korean celebrity to come out, expressing his gratitude with sincere words. The full statement published by Bain is as below:
“Hello, senior.
This is Bain from JUST B.I came across the article about your warm support and heartfelt advice, and it truly moved me.
Because you bravely walked a lonely and difficult path 25 years ago, I, too, have been able to find the courage to stand here today.
Although I feel fear on the path I am walking, thanks to you lighting the way ahead like a lantern, I believe I can take each step forward.AdvertisementI sincerely thank you, and I also want to become someone who can give strength to others, just like you.
I hope that someday, I can meet you in person to express my gratitude.
I will always support and respect you.With love,
Bain”
Hong Seok-cheon’s Reaction to Bain
On April 25, in a phone interview with Xports News, Hong Seok-cheon shared his thoughts and support following the coming out of JUST B member Bain, marking the first time in 25 years that a male celebrity in Korea has publicly come out since Hong Seok-cheon did in 2000.
Hong Seok-cheon made history in 2000 as the first South Korean celebrity to come out as a sexual minority. Though he is now a beloved personality known for his wit, his coming out initially resulted in immense backlash and a near-complete exile from the entertainment industry.
Thus, when Bain came out during JUST B’s JUST ODD world tour performance in Los Angeles on April 22, Hong Seok-cheon responded with both support and concern, offering encouragement as a senior in the industry.
The moment marks the first time since Hong Seok-cheon’s own announcement 25 years ago that a male celebrity in Korea has come out publicly. “I never thought it would take this long,” Hong Seok-cheon admitted. “It’s truly something to be celebrated.”
Though he hasn’t met Bain personally, Hong Seok-cheon expressed deep empathy, understanding the emotional struggle and courage it takes to come out especially at a young age. “While the social climate is somewhat different now, it’s still a heavy decision for someone so young. He must be well-prepared emotionally and mentally to protect himself.”
“Coming out takes courage, but enduring what follows takes even more,” Hong Seok-cheon emphasized. “You can plan a coming out, but the real challenge is what happens afterward. It’s a much harder, more important period surviving for 25 years. It was incredibly difficult for me.”
He recalled the early 2000s, “At that time, I felt like 99% of the nation wanted me gone. There was no path cleared before me, no role models to look up to no lighthouse to guide my direction.”
Hong Seok-cheon shared his hopes for Bain. “He’ll hear all kinds of reactions from people around him, but this is just the beginning. Hopefully, he’s someone who truly feels ready, and if he believes coming out has made him happier, then there’s less to worry about. But he must now protect himself.”
He added, “If I get the chance, I’d love to speak with him personally—not just in public spaces like variety shows, but in a more intimate setting where we can share deeper stories. Maybe I could invite him onto my show Jewelry Box, but I’d really like a more private conversation.”
In closing, Hong Seok-cheon said, “Though 25 years separate Bain’s coming out and mine, the core challenges he faces as an individual don’t feel that different. As a senior gay figure, I worry for him, but society has truly changed. While there’s still progress to be made, it’s much better than 25 years ago. If he builds his inner strength and protects himself, this could become a deeply meaningful and empowering moment in his life.”
Now, with more representation of LGBTQ+ stories in films, television, and music, South Korea’s conservative societal attitudes are slowly evolving.