1. Biography
- Real Name: Park Jae-sang (박재상)
- Stage Name: Psy (싸이)
- Date of Birth: December 31, 1977
- Country of Origin: South Korea (Gangnam District, Seoul)
- Field of Activity: Rapper, Singer-songwriter, Record Producer, Entertainment Executive
- Notable for: Global hit “Gangnam Style”, founding P Nation, unconventional K-pop image
- Instagram: @42psy42
- X: @psy_oppa
2. Early Life and Background
Born into an affluent family in Seoul’s Gangnam District, Psy was known as a class clown during his school years at Banpo Elementary and Middle Schools and Sehwa High School. His father, Park Won-Ho, is the executive chairman of DI Corporation, while his mother, Kim Young-hee, owns several restaurants in Gangnam. His passion for music was sparked at age 15 after watching Queen’s performance of “Bohemian Rhapsody” at Wembley Stadium on television.
3. Career
Psy’s journey began at Boston University and Berklee College of Music, though he left both to pursue music in South Korea. He debuted in 2001 with “Psy from the Psycho World!” and gained domestic recognition for his unique style and controversial performances. His breakthrough came in 2012 with “Gangnam Style,” which became the first YouTube video to reach 1 billion views. After eight successful years with YG Entertainment (2010-2018), he founded P Nation in 2019, establishing himself as a successful entertainment executive while continuing his music career.
4. Style and Influence
Known for his humorous performances and unconventional approach to K-pop, Psy’s style breaks from the traditional idol image. His music combines catchy melodies with social commentary, often incorporating comedy and satire. As a performer, he’s recognized for his energetic stage presence and ability to create viral dance moves. His influence extends beyond music as he’s helped bridge Korean popular culture with global audiences.
5. Personal Life/Dating News
Psy married Yoo Hye-yeon, a cello major from Yonsei University, in 2006 after dating for three and a half years. They have twin daughters. He has been open about his personal struggles, including his drinking habits, which he discussed in a 2013 interview with The Sunday Times.
6. Scandals/Controversies
His career has faced several controversies, including a 2001 marijuana possession incident resulting in a brief jail sentence. He also faced criticism for anti-American performances in 2002 and 2004, for which he later apologized. The controversy resurfaced in 2012 but didn’t significantly impact his global popularity.
7. Achievements and Awards
Psy’s achievements include multiple Guinness World Records for “Gangnam Style” and “Gentleman.” He became the first K-pop artist to make a significant breakthrough in the Western music industry and received the Okgwan Order (4th grade Order of Cultural Merit) from South Korea’s Ministry of Culture. He was also the first Asian solo artist to surpass 10 million YouTube subscribers, earning a Diamond Play Button in 2017. His influence as an entertainment executive continues through P Nation, which has signed and developed numerous successful artists.
