Who is Jeon Jungkook, BTS’s Jung Kook? 전정국

Basic Information

• Stage Name: Jungkook
• Full Name: Jeon Jung-Kook (전정국)
• Position in the Group: Main vocalist, dancer, sub-rapper, and maknae
• Date of Birth: September 1, 1997 (29 years old)
• Zodiac Signs: Virgo / Ox (Chinese zodiac)
• Height: 1.78m
• Blood Type: A
• Personality & MBTI: INTP (in the test shown by BigHit in 2022; previously ISFP)
• Hometown: Busan, South Korea
• Nicknames: JK, Kookie, Golden Maknae, Nochu, Jeongguk, Bunny, Seagull, Jungkookie, Muscle Pig, Jeon Cena, Kookie-san
• Vocal Range: Tenor
• Genres: K-pop, R&B, Pop, Hip-Hop
• Instruments: Vocals
• Trainee Period: 2011–2013 (2 years)
• Debut with BTS: June 13, 2013
• High School: School of Performing Arts Seoul
• University: Global Cyber University – Broadcasting and Entertainment
• Brand Characters: Hip-Hop Monster, BT21 Cooky, TinyTan Jungkook
• Favorite Color: Black
• Hobbies & Interests: Photography, painting, sports, video games, and video editing
• Sports & Physical Activities: Enjoys boxing, swimming, and working out
• Emojis: 🐰 (Bunny) – Fans associate him with bunnies due to his cute cheeks and adorable smile. 🐐 (Goat) – Sometimes fans joke with the “GOAT” (Greatest Of All Time) reference, highlighting his talent.
• Social Media: Instagram @mnijungkook (since July 2025), @bowwow_bam (Jungkook’s dog’s Insta), Tiktok @jungkook, Youtube Bam (Bam’s channel)
• Brand ambassador for (Sep 2026): Calvin Klein and Hublot

Fun Facts

• He was scouted by 7 different agencies after his audition on Superstar K3, but chose Big Hit because he admired RM.
• He is the youngest member of BTS, known for his many talents.
• He used to be extremely shy on camera but is now one of the most expressive performers on stage.
• A huge fan of G-Dragon, IU, Zion.T, Charlie Puth, Justin Bieber, and Troye Sivan.
• He has a dog named Bam.
• He’s a big fan of video games, cars, makeup, sports, and webtoons.
• He loves bread, pizza, and anything made with flour.
• Has a habit of sniffing (due to rhinitis) and cracking his fingers.
• Once said that if he could have a superpower, he’d love to talk to animals.
• Fans once nicknamed him “Sold-Out King” because everything he wears sells out quickly.
• Developed a personal visual style in his videos, blending artistic sensitivity with an intimate cinematic feel.
• He’s proud of his Busan accent and shared that he felt very lonely when he first moved to Seoul.
• He’s part of the “97 liners” idol group, along with Bambam and Yugyeom (GOT7), The8, Mingyu and DK (SEVENTEEN), Cha Eunwoo (ASTRO), and Jaehyun (NCT).
• Said that if he were a girl, he would date Jin, and affectionately calls Jimin “tiny.”
• During a live, he shared that he misses the stage and that his self-esteem was shaken after enlistment, but he promised to return even stronger.
• Has been voted one of the most handsome faces in the world many times, ranking #1 in 2019 by TC Candler.
• His motto is: “Living without passion is like being dead.”

Jeon Jungkook (전정국), known worldwide as Jungkook, was born on September 1, 1997, in Busan, South Korea. He grew up attending Baekyang Elementary School and Baekyang Middle School in his hometown, until he moved to Seoul to become a trainee.

From a young age, he showed artistic sensitivity and curiosity about the arts, especially music, dance, and drawing.

The Audition That Changed Everything

In 2011, at only 13 years old, Jungkook auditioned for the South Korean talent show Superstar K3 in Daegu. Although he didn’t make it far in the competition, his performance attracted so much attention that he received offers from seven major agencies, including JYP, FNC, Starship, Cube, and Big Hit Entertainment.

BTS Jungkook singing | JK's old audition video for SuperStar K

His decision to join Big Hit surprised many at the time, as the company was still small and virtually unknown. However, Jungkook revealed that what convinced him was watching RM (then a trainee) perform. He felt inspired and decided to follow the same path, placing his trust in the company’s vision and the talent of the person who would become BTS’s leader.

Training and Growth

Jungkook joined Big Hit Entertainment as a trainee at a very young age. In 2012, he traveled to Los Angeles to sharpen his dance skills at the renowned Movement Lifestyle studio — the same one visited by artists like Justin Bieber and the Jabbawockeez. This experience played a key role in shaping his stage confidence.

Despite his natural shyness, Jungkook stood out in training for his relentless dedication and fast improvement. He even appeared as a backup dancer in music videos like “I’m Da One” by Jo Kwon and “Party (XXO)” by GLAM, also under Big Hit. These early pre-debut appearances already hinted at his potential.

GLAM(글램) _ Party(XXO) MV

The Rise of the “Golden Maknae”

As the youngest BTS member, Jungkook was nicknamed “Maknae” — a Korean word for the youngest in a group. But due to his outstanding abilities in singing, dancing, video editing, drawing, and even sports, the other members began to affectionately call him the “Golden Maknae.”

Despite his age, he was already seen as a promising trainee, full of artistic and emotional potential. He was shy in front of the camera but playful and curious behind the scenes, always eager to learn from his hyungs.

First Appearances and Recognition

In February 2013, Jungkook released his first dance practice video, titled “130204 Dance Practice,” and that same month, he uploaded his first vlog (known as a “log”) on BTS’s YouTube channel. He also participated in a graduation song created by J-Hope and Jimin to celebrate finishing middle school.

Dance practice by 정국 of 방탄소년단

Jungkook joined the School of Performing Arts Seoul (SOPA), known for shaping the new generation of idols. In 2017, he officially graduated from high school and, years later, received the Presidential Award from Global Cyber University for his performance in the Broadcasting and Entertainment program — the highest honor granted by the institution.

A curious fact is that his stage name was almost Seagull, a tribute to the bird symbol of his hometown, Busan. In the end, he chose to keep his real name, which would later become one of the most recognized in K-pop.

Jungkook was officially introduced as a BTS member in June 2013 and made his debut on the 13th of that month with the single album 2 Cool 4 Skool and the track “No More Dream”.

From the start, he took on multiple roles in the group: main vocalist, dancer, sub-rapper, visual center, and maknae (youngest member).

Despite the modest debut, Jungkook stood out with his energetic stage presence, emotional vocals, and natural dance talent. His artistic growth over the years is often cited as one of the most impressive among idols of his generation.

Solo Tracks in BTS’s Discography

Over the years, Jungkook has released solo songs within BTS albums, where he showcased his sensitivity and versatility as a performer:

• “Begin” (WINGS, 2016): a tribute to his hyungs, reflecting the admiration and gratitude he feels for them;

BTS (방탄소년단) - Begin [Live Video]

• “Euphoria” (Love Yourself: Answer, 2018): one of BTS’s most successful solo tracks, known for its light and emotional melody;

BTS (방탄소년단) 'Euphoria : Theme of LOVE YOURSELF 起 Wonder'

• “My Time” (Map of the Soul: 7, 2020): a confession about growing up in the spotlight, marked by R&B beats and powerful vocals.

[방탄소년단/JUNGKOOK] 정국 '시차(My Time)' 교차편집 / Jungkook 'My Time' Stage Mix

These songs reached high positions on Korean and international charts and became fan favorites — especially during live performances.

Contributions as a Composer and Producer

Jungkook has also been actively involved in BTS’s music production. He composed and co-produced tracks like “Magic Shop”, made especially for ARMY, and contributed lyrics to several other songs over the years, such as “Outro: Love Is Not Over” and “Run”.

BTS - Magic Shop (Live) [Legendado PT-BR]

His creative role has only grown over time, showing his dedication to the craft and evolution as a complete musician.

Powerful Stage Presence

On stage, Jungkook has always been a central figure. Whether it’s with his flawless high notes, precise dance transitions, or emotional connection with the audience, he quickly became known for his intense and memorable performances.

Tours like The Most Beautiful Moment in Life On Stage, WINGS Tour, Love Yourself, Speak Yourself, and online concerts during the pandemic showed just how much Jungkook has grown — both technically and as an artist who moves people.

Media Appearances and Behind the Scenes

Over the years, Jungkook has also appeared on various variety shows, such as King of Mask Singer, where he impressed many by showcasing the strength and range of his voice even while wearing a costume.

[King of masked singer] 복면가왕 - 'fencing man' 2round - IF YOU 20160814

Programs like Flower Crew and Celebrity Bromance revealed his shy, kind, and slightly mischievous side, winning over the public beyond music.

His love for art also led him to produce videos and documentaries under the alias G.C.F. (Golden Closet Films), showcasing a creative and sensitive side expressed through photography, filming, and editing.

G.C.F in Budapest

Recognition and Impact

In 2018, Jungkook — along with the other members — received the Hwagwan Order of Cultural Merit, one of South Korea’s highest honors, recognizing BTS’s global impact in promoting Korean culture.

As part of the group, he helped break countless records, such as performing at the Grammys, topping the Billboard Hot 100, selling out stadiums worldwide, and being cited by world leaders as a symbol of positive influence.

Despite being the youngest BTS member, Jungkook has always stood out for his versatile talent and magnetic stage presence. Over the years, he has shown constant growth as a singer, songwriter, and performer — a journey that became even more evident with the start of his solo career.

Covers and GCF: an Artist in Progress

Alongside group activities, Jungkook shared several cover songs of international hits, revealing his passion for singing and exploring various styles. Among the most popular are his versions of “We Don’t Talk Anymore,” “Fools,” “Paper Hearts,” “Lost Stars,” “Only Then,” “10,000 Hours,” and more.

He also created the G.C.F (Golden Closet Films) project, where he edited and directed videos with his personal vision of BTS moments. These videos, posted on the BANGTANTV channel, revealed his aesthetic sensibility and editing talent, solidifying Jungkook as a well-rounded artist — both on and off stage.

First Solo Releases

In 2020, during BTS Festa, Jungkook released “Still With You”, a soft and emotional track self-produced by him. The song was offered for free on SoundCloud as a gift to ARMY during the pandemic. In 2022, he released another track, “My You”, also part of BTS Festa.

My You by Jung Kook #2022BTSFESTA

These songs reinforced his affection for fans and his skills as a producer and songwriter. Both were later added to streaming platforms in July 2023 as official singles.

Billboard Debut and International Collaborations

In 2022, Jungkook took a major step in his solo career with the release of “Stay Alive”, the soundtrack for the webtoon 7Fates: Chakho, produced by SUGA. The song marked his first solo entry on the Billboard Hot 100 (No. 95) and debuted in the Top 10 of the Billboard Global Excl. US. It also became the first Korean OST to debut on the UK’s Official Singles Chart.

BTS || Stay Alive || Jungkook PROD. Suga || Tradução PT/BR

Shortly after, Jungkook collaborated with Charlie Puth on the single “Left and Right”, released in June 2022. The track was an instant success: it reached the Top 30 on Billboard Hot 100, sold over 500,000 copies in the US, was RIAA-certified Gold, and earned international award nominations.

Charlie Puth - Left And Right (feat. Jung Kook of BTS) [Official Video]

“Dreamers”: Jungkook at the World Cup

In November 2022, Jungkook made history again by becoming the first Korean artist to release an official FIFA World Cup song.

정국 Jung Kook (of BTS) featuring Fahad Al Kubaisi - Dreamers | FIFA World Cup 2022 Soundtrack

The song “Dreamers”, featuring Qatari singer Fahad Al Kubaisi, was performed live during the FIFA World Cup 2022 opening ceremony in Qatar, in a performance watched by millions around the world. The moment solidified his name as a global artist.

정국 (Jung Kook) 'Dreamers' @ FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 Opening Ceremony

2023: The Big Leap with “Seven” and “Golden”

The year 2023 was a turning point in Jungkook’s solo career. In July, he released his first official single, “Seven”, featuring American rapper Latto.

정국 (Jung Kook) 'Seven (feat. Latto)' Official MV

The song debuted at #1 on the Billboard Hot 100, Billboard Global 200, and Global Excl. US, making him the first solo artist from South Korea to achieve this milestone. The track’s overwhelming success led to several remixes, featuring names like Alesso and David Guetta.

In September, Jungkook dropped his second single, “3D”, featuring Jack Harlow. The song gained major international attention, reaching the Top 5 on the Billboard Hot 100 and the Top 5 on the UK Singles Chart, making him the first Korean soloist with two consecutive singles in the UK Top 5.

정국 (Jung Kook) '3D (feat. Jack Harlow)' Official MV

Finally, in November, he released his debut solo album, “Golden”, which includes tracks such as:

• “Seven” (feat. Latto)
• “3D” (feat. Jack Harlow)
• “Standing Next To You”

정국 (Jung Kook) 'Standing Next to You' Official MV

• “Hate You”, “Yes or No”, “Too Sad to Dance”, among others.

정국 (Jung Kook) 'Hate You' Official Visualizer

The project presents various sides of Jungkook as a pop artist, with influences of R&B, dance, and ballads. Golden topped charts in multiple countries and solidified his status as a true global pop star.

“Too Much”, “Never Let Go” and New Phases

The Kid LAROI, Jung Kook, Central Cee - TOO MUCH (Official Video)

Beyond Golden, Jungkook featured in the single “Too Much”, alongside The Kid LAROI and Central Cee, and released “Never Let Go” in June 2024 — a heartfelt gift to ARMY. The track was praised for its soft melody and message of gratitude.

정국 (Jung Kook) 'Never Let Go' Lyric Video

Even during his mandatory military service, completed in June 2025, Jungkook remained one of the most influential figures in global pop, consistently praised by both critics and fans.

Jeon Jungkook was born on September 1, 1997, in Busan, South Korea, and grew up with his parents and older brother. From a young age, he was introspective, observant, and sensitive — traits that still shape his artistic personality and the depth of his lyrics.

Although the youngest in BTS, Jungkook has always been known for his maturity and sense of responsibility. Still, his “maknae” side continues to charm fans — with his playful nature, affection for his hyungs, and love for always learning more.

Personality and Habits

Jungkook is a unique blend of shyness and boldness. Offstage, he’s quiet and even a bit insecure — he once admitted that he tends to keep his fears and worries to himself. In a 2024 live broadcast, he shared that he’s been struggling with self-confidence since his enlistment began, feeling pressure when watching the rise of new artists — but finds strength in thinking of ARMY.

Despite his success, he remains humble and a perfectionist. His personal motto is:

“Living without passion is like being dead.”

Some of his well-known habits include sniffling (due to rhinitis), cracking his fingers, spending too long in the bathroom, and getting shy when doing aegyo — though the members often say his aegyo comes naturally.

Relationship with Members and Fans

Although shy around strangers, Jungkook is deeply affectionate and playful with BTS members. He enjoys mimicking them, teasing them in fun ways, and is often the first to start jokes in the dorm. Among his closest hyungs are Jimin and V (both born in 1995). Outside BTS, he is part of the 97 liners, idol friends born in 1997 like Mingyu (SEVENTEEN), Jaehyun (NCT), and Cha Eunwoo (ASTRO).

With fans, Jungkook has a deep emotional connection. He once admitted that early in his career, he couldn’t look ARMY in the eyes due to shyness — but today, he makes it a point to maintain eye contact and give his heart in every performance.

One of his most remembered quotes is:

“If you ever miss me, I’ll always be here.”

Philanthropy and Social Causes

Jungkook is involved in various charitable actions, although he prefers to do so quietly. As part of BTS, he participates in the UNICEF Love Myself campaign, which fights violence against children and teens. He has also donated anonymously to causes supporting disaster relief, education, and mental health.

He’s known for making products sell out, such as the time Downy fabric softener sold out after he casually mentioned it during a live.

His impact goes beyond music — Jungkook was awarded the Hwagwan Order of Cultural Merit by the South Korean government, alongside the other members, for promoting Korean culture worldwide.

Military Service

[BANGTAN BOMB] RM, Jimin, V, Jung Kook’s Entrance Ceremony with BTS - BTS (방탄소년단)

On December 12, 2023, Jungkook officially began his mandatory military enlistment alongside Jimin. Both chose to serve as active duty soldiers in the armed forces. During his hiatus, Jungkook shared moments of introspection and longing for the stage with fans, but reassured them with a heartfelt promise:

“I’m preparing to come back and be your favorite singer.”

Jungkook completed his military service on June 11, 2025.

Throughout his career, both as a BTS member and as a solo artist, Jungkook has earned an impressive list of awards and nominations. His versatility as a vocalist, dancer, songwriter, and producer has been recognized by critics, cultural institutions, and major international award platforms.

Individual Honors

Hwagwan Order of Cultural Merit (5th Class)
▸ Year: 2018
▸ Awarded by: Government of South Korea
▸ Reason: Outstanding contribution to the global promotion of Korean culture with BTS.

One of the highest cultural honors a Korean artist can receive.

President’s Award – Global Cyber University
▸ Year: 2022
▸ Reason: For academic excellence and positive global influence, Jungkook received the university’s highest distinction, graduating in Broadcasting and Entertainment.

MTV Millennial Awards (MTV MIAW)
▸ Year: 2019
▸ Category: Global Instagrammer
▸ Result: Winner

Recognized for his massive engagement on social media.

Solo Career Awards

MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs)
▸ Year: 2023
▸ Category: Song of the Summer
▸ Nominated work: “Seven” (feat. Latto)
▸ Result: Winner (the first VMA for a male K-pop soloist)

E! People’s Choice Awards
▸ Year: 2022
▸ Categories:
• The Collaboration Song of 2022 – “Left and Right” (with Charlie Puth)
• The Music Video of 2022 – “Left and Right”
▸ Result: Nominated

Guinness World Records (Spotify)
▸ Year: 2023
▸ Achievement:

“Seven” became the fastest male solo track to reach 100 million streams on Spotify — in 8 days, according to Guinness.

UK Singles Chart / Billboard Hot 100
▸ Year: 2023
▸ Achievements:
• First Korean soloist to debut at #1 on the Billboard Hot 100, Global 200 and Global Excl. US at the same time, with “Seven” (Jimin had already topped the Hot 100 with “Like Crazy”)
• First Korean soloist with two consecutive Top 5 singles on the UK Singles Chart (“Seven” and “3D”)

Highlight Lists (TC Candler – Most Handsome Faces)

100 Most Handsome Faces – TC Candler
▸ 2016: #55
▸ 2017: #13
▸ 2018: #2
▸ 2019: 🥇 #1 – Winner
▸ 2020: #4
▸ 2020 (Decade): #5 among the “30 Most Handsome Faces of the Decade”

Records and Popularity

Most Mentioned Artist on Twitter
▸ Year: Multiple
▸ Jungkook is frequently ranked among the most tweeted-about artists globally, with some of the most retweeted posts in South Korea.

Influence in the Industry
▸His impact on brands earned him the nickname “Sold Out King” — anything he wears or mentions (clothes, accessories, even fabric softener) tends to sell out immediately.

Jungkook is still writing his story, and his presence remains alive in the hearts of fans through his art, charisma, and legacy with BTS.