Who is Park Jimin, the Jimin of BTS?

Basic Information

• Stage Name: Jimin
  Full Name: Park Ji-Min (박지민)
  Group Position: Dancer / Vocalist
  Date of Birth: October 13, 1995
  Age: 29 (in 2024)
  Zodiac Signs: Libra (Western), Pig (Chinese)
  Height: 1.74m
  Blood Type: A
  Personality and MBTI: ENFJ (dedicated, empathetic, and charismatic)
  Hometown: Busan, South Korea
  Nicknames: ChimChim, Ji-mini, Mochi, Manggaedok (Rice Cake), Tabby Cat, Jimnie, Jimin-ssi, Baby J, Jaman
  Vocal Range: Tenor
  Musical Genres: K-pop, Alternative R&B
  Instruments: Vocals and Guitar
  Languages: Korean (native), Japanese (basic), English (basic)
  High School: Busan High School of Arts, transferred to Korea Arts High School
  University Degree: Global Cyber University – Broadcasting and Entertainment
  Graduate Studies: Hanyang Cyber University – MBA in Advertising and Media
  Trainee Period: 2012–2013 (about 1 year)
  Debut with BTS: June 13, 2013
  Brand Characters: Hip-Hop Monster, BT21 Chimmy, TinyTan Jimin
  Favorite Colors: Light blue and black
  Hobbies and Interests: Dance, fashion, painting, watching movies, and spending time with friends
  Sports and Physical Activities: A sports fan, practices gymnastics and enjoys outdoor activities. Holds a black belt in taekwondo
  Emojis: 🐥 (Chick) – Jimin is often called “Baby Chick” by fans due to his cuteness
  Social Media: Instagram (@j.m)

Fun Facts

• Almost used the stage name “Baby J”, but decided to go with his real name
• Known for his aegyo (charming cuteness) that melts fans’ and members’ hearts
• Often comforts BTS members when they are feeling down
• Contemporary dance expert, recognized as the top student at his arts school
• Has skills in acrobatics and tumbling, often showcased in BTS performances
• Entered Busan Arts School as one of the best students in the modern dance department
• Has several meaningful tattoos:
• “Nevermind” on his right ribs
• “13” on his wrist (representing his birthdate and BTS debut)
• The words “Young” and “Forever” on his arms
• The number “7” on his finger (symbolizing BTS’s seven members and their bond)
• Gets easily upset by on-stage mistakes, showing his perfectionist side
• Nicknamed “Mochi” for his soft, cute cheeks
• Known for his versatility on stage, combining sweet vocals with a captivating presence
• Was the last member to join BTS, with only about one year of training
• Holds a black belt in taekwondo, and enjoys sports and physical activity
• Close friends with Taemin (SHINee), Kai (EXO), and Ha Sung-woon (Wanna One)
• Considers himself the charm of the group and thinks his eyes are his best physical feature
• Has participated in collaborations and special performances with renowned K-pop idols
• Despite his charisma on stage, he is known to be shy and thoughtful off stage

Park Jimin’s History and Journey

Pre-Debut

Park Ji-min, known globally as Jimin, was born on October 13, 1995, in Geumjeong District, Busan, South Korea. From a young age, he displayed a special love for music and dance.

His family includes his parents and younger brother, Park Ji-hyun. In his early school years, he attended Hodong Elementary School, later moving on to Yonsgan Middle School.
It was during this time that his passion for dance intensified, inspired by performances he watched on television and his growing connection with music.

While still in elementary school, he enrolled at the Just Dance Academy, where he trained in styles such as popping and locking. He quickly stood out among his peers for his precision and creativity, catching the attention of instructors who encouraged him to pursue dance more seriously.

Academic Training and First Steps in Dance

Upon entering the Busan High School of Arts, Jimin chose contemporary dance as his area of specialization. His dedication and talent soon made him one of the top students in the modern dance department.

He not only mastered technique, but also stood out for his ability to convey emotion through dance—a quality that would become his trademark.

During this period, he took part in local performances and competitions, building a reputation in Busan as an outstanding dancer. One of his teachers, impressed by his performance and potential, suggested that he audition for major South Korean entertainment companies—a recommendation that would become a turning point in his life.

Audition for Big Hit Entertainment

In 2012, Jimin auditioned for Big Hit Entertainment’s “Hit It” in Busan. During his performance, he combined vocal ability with an impressive contemporary dance routine to the song “I Have a Lover.”

His performance surprised the judges, and he was accepted as a trainee at the company.
Shortly after, he transferred to the Korean Arts High School in Seoul, balancing his academic studies with a rigorous training schedule.

The transition to K-pop dance style, with its fast and synchronized choreography, was a challenge for someone with a background in contemporary dance.
Even so, Jimin showed great perseverance and left no effort spared to adapt. He often spent extra hours in the studio, training late into the night—sometimes even sleeping on site to resume practice the next day.

Trainee Period and Challenges

Compared to other BTS members, Jimin had a relatively short training period—about one year. His inclusion in the group remained uncertain until just before their debut, which added extra pressure to prove himself.

As the last member added to the lineup, he knew he needed to stand out. His work ethic impressed the trainers, who praised his dedication and determination to overcome his limitations, especially in singing—an area where he still lacked confidence.
During this stage, Jimin found support in his fellow members, especially RM and Jungkook, who encouraged him to persevere. His friendship with V (Kim Taehyung) also grew stronger, as they were the same age and joined BTS around the same time, sharing the hardships of training.

First Experiences in the Entertainment Industry

Before his official debut, Jimin made his first public appearance in 2012 in the music video for “Party (XXO)” by GLAM, a girl group under Big Hit. Although brief, this experience gave him initial exposure to the entertainment industry and strengthened his determination to become an idol.

He also appeared in dance practice videos shared on Big Hit’s official YouTube channel. These recordings showcased his progress and highlighted the effort he put into training, sparking curiosity among fans who were following BTS’s debut preparations.

Choosing a Stage Name and Pre-Debut Personality

During his debut preparations, Jimin considered stage names like “Baby J” and “Young Kid”. However, he ultimately chose to use his real name, believing it reflected his authenticity better. The decision was praised for conveying sincerity and closeness to the public.

Behind the scenes, he was known for his respectful attitude and helpful behavior. Even with a demanding schedule, he was always willing to help other trainees, offering dance tips and words of encouragement. His empathy and kindness quickly won over fellow trainees and company staff.

Transition to Debut with BTS

The defining moment in his journey came in 2013, when he was confirmed as the final official member of BTS. Despite his short preparation time, Jimin brought fresh energy to the group, especially through his stage presence and role as main dancer.

He was responsible for performing some of the group’s most challenging choreography, consistently striving for flawless execution.
In the months leading up to debut, he dedicated himself fully to rehearsals, recordings, and filming for the first single, “No More Dream”. Despite feeling nervous before the first live performances, Jimin impressed with his strong vocals and precise dance moves, showing remarkable growth and professionalism.

BTS’s official debut took place on June 13, 2013, marking the beginning of a journey that would change his life and impact millions of fans worldwide.

Career in BTS

The Beginning with BTS (2013–2015)

Jimin officially debuted as a member of BTS on June 13, 2013, after a brief but intensive training period. As the last member to join the group, he quickly stood out due to his dedication and tireless effort.

He assumed the roles of lead vocalist and main dancer, bringing his extensive experience in contemporary dance and his emotional expressiveness to the group.
From the very first performances with “No More Dream”, Jimin stood out not only for his powerful and precise moves, but also for how he could convey emotion on stage.

His dance style, combining strength and grace, gave BTS a unique visual identity. In the group’s early years, he was known for his relentless pursuit of perfection: practicing choreographies and refining his vocals for hours, often training late into the night.

Though initially insecure about his vocal abilities, Jimin worked hard to improve, showing noticeable progress in tracks like “N.O” and “Boy in Luv”.

His efforts were recognized by both fans and group members, who praised his determination to overcome challenges and deliver high-quality performances.

Artistic Growth and Recognition (2015–2017)

With the release of the “The Most Beautiful Moment in Life” series (2015–2016), Jimin gained even more spotlight in BTS’s performances. The choreographies became more complex and demanding, and he played a key role by incorporating movements that balanced strength, precision, and emotion.

His ability to tell stories through dance captivated audiences in songs like “I Need U” and “Run”, where he clearly worked to connect technique with feeling.

In 2016, Jimin released his first solo song within BTS, titled “Lie”, from the Wings album. The performance stood out for its dramatic intensity and stage command, cementing him as one of BTS’s most expressive members.
The choreography for “Lie” was praised by critics and fans alike, who highlighted how he conveyed the anguish and duality portrayed in the lyrics.

Throughout world tours such as The Wings Tour, Jimin became one of the most anticipated performers. His ability to alternate between fluid and explosive movements made his solos some of the highlights of the shows, and his passion for the stage was evident in every performance.

Establishing Himself as a Top Performer (2017–2020)

During the Love Yourself era (2017–2018), Jimin continued to shine as a cornerstone of BTS’s performances. His second solo song, “Serendipity”, revealed a more romantic and delicate side, with subtle moves and expressions that conveyed tenderness and introspection. These performances became unforgettable, with both fans and critics praising his ability to capture attention with simplicity and emotion.

In group choreographies, Jimin often took central positions, being in charge of starting or ending songs with striking movements. His versatility allowed him to shine in both high-energy songs and softer ballads.
His attention to detail and constant drive for improvement made him one of the members most committed to artistic growth.

With the release of Map of the Soul: Persona and Map of the Soul: 7, Jimin demonstrated even more growth. His third solo song, “Filter”, showcased a versatile and charismatic side, exploring different styles and personas.
The performances of Filter were especially noted for their expressiveness and the blend of sensuality and precision, reaffirming his place as one of K-pop’s best performers.

Performance Style and Impact in BTS

Jimin is recognized as the member who best balances technique and emotion in BTS performances. His background in contemporary dance is reflected in the fluidity of his movements, while his dedication ensures precision in every step. Over the years, he has become a reference both inside and outside the group, often praised by choreographers and fellow artists for how he embodies emotions through choreography.

As part of BTS’s dance line, along with J-Hope and Jungkook, Jimin took on the responsibility of helping refine choreographies and guiding other members during rehearsals.

His attention to detail and constant drive to deliver the best have made him one of the most self-demanding members. This attitude has been essential for BTS’s success not just musically, but also in performance quality.

In addition to technical skill, Jimin is known for his expressive facial movements, which add an emotional layer to performances. He can convey complex feelings—from joy to melancholy—with a simple glance or gesture, creating a powerful connection with the audience.

Relationship with Fans and Bandmates

Throughout his years with BTS, Jimin has also stood out for his close relationship with ARMYs and his fellow members. During concerts, he often interacts with fans, offering smiles and sweet gestures that reinforce his warm personality.

Backstage, he is known for offering emotional support to his bandmates, often acting as the one who comforts or motivates the group during tough times.

His friendship with V, which dates back to their trainee days, is one of the most well-known among fans. Their chemistry is visible both on and off stage, especially in duets like “Friends.”
This genuine connection with his group and audience has made Jimin deeply loved and respected.

Legacy in BTS

Since his debut, Jimin has become a fundamental piece of BTS’s success and artistic identity. His evolution as a performer and vocalist reflects not only talent but also hard work and passion for music and dance.

Over the years, he has helped elevate BTS’s performance standards and has made his mark as one of the most complete artists in K-pop.

His ability to translate emotions into movement, combined with his tireless dedication, has made him one of BTS’s most recognizable faces.

For many fans, Jimin’s performances are more than just entertainment—they are experiences that inspire. His path within the group is a clear example of perseverance and artistic love, traits that continue to captivate audiences worldwide.

Park Jimin’s Solo Career

Park Ji-min (박지민), better known as Jimin (지민), is a South Korean singer, dancer, and songwriter who rose to global fame as a member of BTS.

Despite his group prominence, Jimin has also established himself as a successful solo artist, showcasing his versatility and talent across multiple personal releases.

His solo career is defined by songs that explore emotion, personal reflection, and his impressive vocal and dance abilities.

First Releases Outside of BTS

In 2018, Jimin released his first solo track outside of BTS albums, titled “Promise”. Released for free on SoundCloud, the pop ballad—composed by Jimin—broke streaming records, becoming one of the platform’s most listened-to tracks within 24 hours.

The song was written as a promise to fans and himself, emphasizing his emotional bond with the audience.

Two years later, in December 2020, he released “Christmas Love”, a festive track inspired by nostalgic memories of his childhood during Christmas. Both songs further reinforced his ability to emotionally connect with listeners.

Debut Solo Album – FACE (2023)

Jimin officially debuted as a soloist on March 24, 2023, with the release of his mini-album FACE. The project presented a more introspective side, addressing themes such as identity, vulnerability, and healing.

The album topped the charts in South Korea and Japan, and debuted at #2 in the United States—a historic feat for a Korean soloist.

Among the standout tracks, “Set Me Free Pt. 2” impressed with its intensity and lyrics about breaking free from negative thoughts. However, it was the single “Like Crazy” that earned Jimin an unprecedented milestone: the song debuted at #1 on the Billboard Hot 100, making him the first Korean soloist to achieve this.

This success solidified his international relevance and demonstrated his ability to balance vocal and dance excellence.

Second EP – MUSE (2024)

Continuing his solo career, Jimin released his second EP, MUSE, in 2024. The album maintained the emotional depth of FACE, while adopting a more experimental musical approach.

The lead single, “Who,” broke streaming records, amassing over 1.34 billion Spotify plays in under six months.

This not only surpassed his own previous record with “Like Crazy” (1.32 billion streams), but also made Jimin the only K-pop soloist with two songs over 1.3 billion streams on the platform.

The success of MUSE extended to the charts, with “Who” peaking at #12 on the Billboard Hot 100 and staying on the chart for 24 consecutive weeks.

Alongside Jungkook’s “Golden”, MUSE was one of the few Korean projects to appear on the Billboard 200 year-end chart for 2024, showcasing BTS members’ global influence as solo artists.

Collaborations and Other Projects

In addition to his solo work, Jimin collaborated with several renowned artists. In 2023, he featured in “VIBE” with Taeyang, where his harmonious vocals and musical prestige were on full display.

Another notable collaboration was “With You”, released in 2022 with Ha Sung-woon for the Our Blues drama soundtrack. The melodic ballad quickly became a streaming success, highlighting Jimin’s ability to convey deep emotion through music.

Impact and Legacy

Jimin’s solo career is marked not only by impressive sales and streaming numbers, but also by the cultural impact he has made. His delicate vocal tone and expressive dance style make him a complete and globally respected artist.

He is often praised for his dedication to artistic improvement and for the genuine emotion he brings to his performances.

With over 6 billion total streams in his solo career—including collaborations—and major awards, Jimin continues to expand his musical reach and inspire millions worldwide.

His commitment to music and dance is reflected not only in his solo discography, but also in his lasting influence on the K-pop industry and global pop culture.

Jimin’s Personal Life

Park Ji-min, better known by his stage name Jimin, was born on October 13, 1995, in Geumjeong District, Busan, South Korea. He is the eldest son in his family, which includes his parents and his younger brother, Park Ji-hyun.

From an early age, he showed interest and talent in dance, beginning to practice popping and locking during elementary school.

Encouraged by one of his teachers, he auditioned for Big Hit Entertainment, and after being accepted in 2012, transferred to Korean Arts High School, where he graduated in 2014.

He later completed a degree in Broadcasting and Entertainment at Global Cyber University, and in 2021, enrolled in a Master’s program in Business Administration with a focus on Advertising and Media at Hanyang Cyber University.

Style and Fashion Influence

Jimin is recognized as one of South Korea’s most influential style icons. Known for his ability to mix high fashion with casual wear, he frequently appears on best-dressed lists at award shows and events.

His versatility in fashion reflects his multifaceted artistic personality, effortlessly moving between classic, urban, and modern styles.

In 2023, he was named a global ambassador for Dior, becoming the first BTS member to hold such a title for a major fashion house.

Later that year, he was also announced as a global ambassador for Tiffany & Co., further solidifying his presence in the luxury fashion world.

His influence goes beyond ad campaigns—his personal fashion choices often sell out instantly and set global trends.

Philanthropy and Social Contributions

Beyond music and fashion, Jimin is widely recognized for his philanthropic efforts. Between 2016 and 2018, he donated school uniforms to Hoedong Elementary School, where he studied as a child, benefiting hundreds of students.

Even after the school closed, Jimin continued to support local students with significant donations.

In 2019, he donated ₩100 million (approximately $88,000 USD) to the Busan Metropolitan Office of Education, with part of the funds allocated to low-income students and his former arts high school.

In 2020, he contributed another ₩100 million to the Jeonnam Future Education Foundation, aimed at creating scholarships for talented students in financial need.

His generosity has also reached international initiatives. In 2018, after winning the Top K-Pop Artist – Individual award from the Peeper x Billboard Korea collaboration, he donated the prize to UNICEF, reinforcing BTS’s commitment to the Love Myself campaign, which fights child and teen violence.

In recognition of his cultural and social contributions, he was awarded the Hwagwan Order of Cultural Merit (5th class) in 2018 by the South Korean government.

Military Service

In accordance with South Korean law, Jimin began his mandatory military service on December 11, 2023, alongside Jungkook.

Both enlisted as active-duty soldiers and were assigned to the same unit, reflecting the strong friendship they’ve shared since their trainee days.
Jimin’s expected discharge date is June 11, 2025.

During his enlistment, he has remained absent from social media and public appearances, though messages of support and indirect updates are often shared by fellow BTS members and Big Hit Music.

Despite the pause in artistic activity, Jimin’s popularity has remained unwavering.

In 2024, even while serving, his solo albums Face and Muse continued to break streaming records—especially the track “Who”, which surpassed 1.34 billion streams on Spotify, becoming the most-streamed K-pop solo song on the platform.

These remarkable numbers demonstrate the loyalty of his fans and the lasting impact of his music, even in his temporary absence from the stage.

Jimin – Awards and Nominations

Park Ji-min, known globally as Jimin of BTS, has earned numerous awards and nominations throughout his career, both as a member of the group and as a solo artist. His dedication to music and dance has been widely recognized by prestigious institutions and international awards.

Hwagwan Order of Cultural Merit (2018)

In 2018, Jimin was honored with the Hwagwan Order of Cultural Merit (5th class), awarded by the President of South Korea. This distinction recognized BTS’s significant cultural contributions in promoting Korean culture worldwide.

Solo Career Awards

With the launch of his solo career, Jimin achieved major milestones and accolades:

• APAN Star Awards (2022): Nominated for Best Original Soundtrack for “With You” (with Ha Sung-woon)
• MAMA Awards (2022): Nominated in three categories: Best OST, Song of the Year (for “With You”), and OST of the Year at the Annual K4US Awards

Spotify and Billboard Records

Jimin broke multiple streaming records with his solo releases:

• “Who”: Surpassed 1.34 billion streams on Spotify, becoming the most-streamed K-pop solo song on the platform. The lead single from his second EP, Muse, broke his own previous record with “Like Crazy” (1.32 billion streams)
• Billboard Hot 100: “Who” peaked at #12 and remained on the chart for 24 weeks. It was also the only K-pop track included in Billboard’s 2024 Year-End Streaming Songs
• Face (2023): His debut solo mini-album debuted at #2 on the Billboard 200, marking the highest rank ever for a Korean soloist. The single “Like Crazy” debuted at #1 on the Billboard Hot 100

International Recognition

• TC Candler: Listed among the “100 Most Handsome Faces in the World” from 2017 to 2022, ranking #14 in 2021
• Gallup Korea: Voted the most popular idol in South Korea in 2018 and 2019
• Asia Society (2020): Received the Game Changer Award for global cultural impact with BTS
• The Korea Society (2020): Awarded the James A. Van Fleet Award for strengthening Korea–U.S. relations

Key Achievements and Records

• First Korean soloist with two songs surpassing 1.3 billion streams on Spotify
• Over 11 million monthly listeners on the platform
• Only Korean soloist to debut at #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 with “Like Crazy”
• His album Muse ranked among Billboard’s top 200 best-selling albums of the year

Jimin continues to break barriers and expand his influence as one of the most recognized artists in the global music industry. His ability to convey deep emotions, paired with vocal talent and expressive dance, makes him one of the most inspiring figures in contemporary music.

Frequently Asked Questions about Park Jimin – BTS’s Jimin

Who is Jimin’s boyfriend?

Currently, Jimin has no confirmed boyfriend or girlfriend. Despite rumors, he keeps his personal life private and focuses on his career. He often says that ARMYs’ love and support are what matter most.

What is Jimin’s degree?

Jimin holds a degree in Broadcasting and Entertainment from Global Cyber University and a Master’s in Business Administration (Advertising & Media) from Hanyang Cyber University.

Why did Jimin break up with Jungkook?

This question comes from fan-created ships. Jimin and Jungkook are close friends and bandmates, with no romantic relationship confirmed.

How many languages does Jimin speak?

He speaks three languages: Korean (native), basic Japanese, and basic English. He continues to improve his English in interviews and fan communications.

When is Jimin getting discharged from the military?

Jimin began his mandatory military service on December 11, 2023. He is expected to be discharged on June 11, 2025.

What does “Park Jimin” mean in English?

Park (박): Korean surname
Ji (지): Wisdom or knowledge
Min (민): Quick or smart
The name can mean “a wise and intelligent person” or “one with swift wisdom.”

What does Jimin like?

Jimin enjoys dancing, singing, painting, fashion, spending time with friends, watching movies, and playing sports.

Why did Jimin and Jungkook break up?

This refers to fan fiction ships. In reality, they are still close friends and active BTS members.

What is Jimin’s net worth?

Jimin’s net worth is estimated at $20 to $25 million (as of 2024), from BTS activities, solo career, brand deals (Dior, Tiffany & Co.), songwriting, and global appearances.