Who is Hongjoong?
Hongjoong is a member and the leader of the 8-member boy group ATEEZ. As the group’s main rapper, he showcases high-pitched rap skills and captivating facial expressions, leaving a powerful presence on stage.
Biography
- Birth Name: Kim Hongjoong
- Stage Name: Hongjoong
- Date of Birth: November 7, 1998 (Anyang-si, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea)
- Zodiac Sign: Scorpio
- Blood Type: B
- MBTI: INFP
- Instagram: @no1likeme8_8
- Date of Debut: October 24, 2018 (with ATEEZ)
- Position: Leader, Main Rapper
Hongjoong’s Career
Before Debut
He is the first trainee of KQ Entertainment. At the time, there were no auditions at KQ, so he sent a CD with his self-composed songs and a letter. It wasn’t until a year later, when the company moved offices and was sorting out their items, that someone found the CD and contacted Hongjoong, leading to his entry into KQ.
Before his debut, he participated in the JTBC’s survival program “MIXNINE” produced by YG Entertainment. He was eliminated in episode 10 after ranking 42nd place, during the second ranking announcement and cannot make it to the showcase debut team.
Debut with ATEEZ
On October 24, 2018, Hongjoong debuted as the leader and main rapper of KQ Entertainment’s first boy group, ATEEZ, with the release of the mini album “Treasure EP.1 : All To Zero.”
Hongjoong, the charismatic leader, main rapper, and producer of ATEEZ, has been a driving force behind the group’s meteoric rise in the K-pop industry since their debut in 2018. As the captain of ATEEZ, Hongjoong has not only led the group with unwavering determination but has also played a crucial role in shaping their musical direction, performance style, and overall identity. His multifaceted talents and visionary leadership have made him a standout figure in the K-pop scene.
From the very beginning, Hongjoong has been deeply involved in the creative process of ATEEZ’s music. He is credited as a songwriter, composer, and producer for many of the group’s tracks, including fan-favorite titles like “Pirate King,” “Wonderland,” “Answer,” and “HALA HALA.” His ability to craft compelling narratives through music, often centered around themes of adventure, self-discovery, and resilience, has become a hallmark of ATEEZ’s discography. Hongjoong’s passion for music and storytelling has allowed ATEEZ to carve out a unique space in the industry, setting them apart with their bold and innovative concepts.
Hongjoong’s leadership style is often praised for its balance of discipline and empathy. As the leader, he ensures that ATEEZ operates as a cohesive unit, fostering a strong sense of camaraderie and mutual respect among the members. His ability to inspire and motivate his team has been key to ATEEZ’s success, especially during challenging times. Hongjoong’s dedication to his role as a leader is evident in the way he prioritizes the group’s well-being and growth, both on and off the stage.
On stage, Hongjoong is a powerhouse performer, known for his electrifying energy, sharp rap delivery, and captivating stage presence. His ability to connect with audiences, whether through his powerful performances or heartfelt interactions, has made him a beloved figure among ATINY, ATEEZ’s dedicated fanbase. Hongjoong’s authenticity and passion shine through in every performance, leaving a lasting impression on fans and critics alike.
Beyond his work with ATEEZ, Hongjoong has also gained recognition for his individuality and artistic vision. He is known for his bold fashion choices, often incorporating his love for DIY and customization into his outfits, which reflects his creative and rebellious spirit. Hongjoong’s willingness to push boundaries and challenge norms has made him a role model for many, inspiring fans to embrace their uniqueness and pursue their dreams fearlessly.
As ATEEZ continues to achieve global success, Hongjoong’s influence as a leader and artist only grows stronger. The group has broken numerous records, performed on prestigious international stages, and garnered a massive following worldwide, thanks in no small part to Hongjoong’s leadership and creative contributions. His journey with ATEEZ is a testament to his hard work, resilience, and unwavering commitment to his craft.
Looking ahead, Hongjoong’s career with ATEEZ promises even greater achievements as the group continues to evolve and explore new horizons. His legacy as a visionary leader and talented artist will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on the K-pop industry, inspiring future generations of idols and fans alike. Hongjoong’s story is one of passion, perseverance, and the relentless pursuit of dreams, making him a true icon in the world of K-pop.
Hongjoong’s Photo Exhibition
In addition to his music career, Hongjoong has a deep passion for photography. On October 27, 2022, it was announced that he would be holding his first film photography exhibition, titled “From November 7, 1998,” at GALLERY99 in Mapo-gu, Seoul, from November 1 to 7, 2022. Visitors could earn up to 5,000 points, which were later converted into cash and donated to charity at the exhibition’s end.
On October 18, 2023 Hongjoong also revealed his second exhibition, “Walker A,” through his social media. Running from November 3 to 9 at the Frottage Gallery in Seoul, “Walker A” offers a glimpse into another side of the world, where Hongjoong took a break from his daily routine and embodied “A,” a person walking blindly down the street.
Through the exhibition’s entry fees and individual donations, Hongjoong generously contributed 50 million KRW (approximately 35,000USD) to the Korean Childhood Leukemia Foundation, further showcasing his commitment to giving back.
Additional Facts about Hongjoong
- His favorite food is meat, and he’s not particularly fond of vegetables.
- His favorite movie is “The Truman Show.”
- He mentions that he has been greatly influenced by Limp Bizkit.
- Lately, he seems to be fond of romance genres, mentioning shows like “Yumi’s Cells” and “Our Beloved Summer.”
- Hailing from Anyang, he is a true fan of the football team FC Anyang.
- His favorite flower is the plum blossom.
- His favorite color used to be bright, bold colors, but now he prefers beige.
- Foods he doesn’t eat include paprika and bell peppers.
- He enjoys subtle floral or fruity scents, preferring natural over artificial fragrances.
- Baskin Robbins’ top pick: Rainbow Sherbet and Yogurt flavor.
- He, along with Seonghwa, is known for being part of the anti-mint chocolate faction in the group.
- He recently developed an allergy to fish sauce.
- He has realized that while he doesn’t particularly like plain chocolate, he enjoys chocolate-flavored desserts.
