V (Kim Taehyung)
Info
🙂 Native Name: 김태형
🌏 Nationality: South Korean
♂️ Gender: Male
🎂 Born: December 30, 1995
🏠 Birth Place: Daegu, South Korea
🌌 Zodiac Sign: Capricorn
📏 Height: 178.8 cm (5 ft 10.4 in)
💍 Spouse: Unmarried
👶 Children: None
Biography
Kim Taehyung, better known by his stage name V, was born on December 30, 1995, in Daegu, South Korea. Raised in the Geochang County of North Gyeongsang Province, he developed an early interest in music and the arts. As a child, V learned to play the saxophone, influenced by his father and supportive family. Despite coming from a humble background, his passion for performing led him to pursue a career in the entertainment industry. He eventually joined Big Hit Entertainment after a surprise audition in high school—an opportunity he hadn’t initially planned for but seized when a recruiter noticed his talent.
V officially debuted as a member of BTS (Bangtan Sonyeondan) on June 13, 2013. Initially one of the lesser-known members, his deep, soulful voice and charismatic presence soon made him a fan favorite. As part of BTS, he contributed not only as a vocalist but also to the group’s songwriting and visual storytelling. He co-wrote songs like Hold Me Tight and Blue & Grey, displaying his emotional depth and artistic sensibility. His unique fashion sense and mysterious aura also helped establish him as a trendsetter in K-pop, gaining the nickname “the most handsome face in the world” by various international outlets.
In addition to group success, V began to build a solo career, releasing self-composed tracks such as Stigma, Singularity, Scenery, and Winter Bear. His 2023 solo album Layover showcased a jazzy, vintage aesthetic rarely seen in K-pop, earning praise from both fans and critics. V also ventured into acting, making his debut in the 2016 historical drama Hwarang: The Poet Warrior Youth. His passion for visual arts, photography, and painting has been widely documented, and his alter ego “Vante” reflects his artistic endeavors beyond music.
As of 2025, V remains one of the most influential and beloved figures in global pop culture. He is not married and does not have children, despite persistent rumors linking him to various public figures. Known for his kindness, introverted charm, and strong connection with fans—whom BTS calls “ARMY”—V continues to inspire millions worldwide through his music, style, and personality. Whether on stage or in front of a camera, Kim Taehyung represents the evolving image of the 21st-century artist: deeply expressive, multi-talented, and unapologetically himself.
Hobbies
Photography – V is passionate about photography and often takes analog-style photos under his artistic alias “Vante.” He once dreamed of holding a solo exhibition.
Painting and Sketching – He enjoys painting during his free time and has shared several of his artworks on social media, many inspired by abstract and surreal styles.
Playing the Saxophone – Taught by his father, V learned the saxophone in his school days and occasionally revisits the instrument as a way to relax and express himself.
Watching Movies – V is a cinephile who loves classic films, especially ones by auteurs like Quentin Tarantino and Christopher Nolan, citing The Grand Budapest Hotel as a favorite.
Collecting Art and Figurines – He collects art books and designer figurines, including Bearbrick models and rare items related to his favorite artists and brands.
Interests
Jazz and Classical Music – V has a deep love for jazz and classical sounds, which influenced his 2023 solo album Layover, blending lo-fi, jazz, and retro vibes.
Vintage Fashion – He’s a well-known fashion icon in Korea and globally, often spotted in vintage or retro-inspired pieces. His fashion taste blends old-school and avant-garde.
Architecture and Interior Design – V has expressed interest in interior aesthetics and has posted glimpses of his minimal, art-filled home reflecting his taste.
Acting – His role in Hwarang sparked an interest in developing his acting career. He continues to study acting techniques and hopes to take on more diverse roles.
Traveling Off the Grid – V enjoys secluded travel, preferring quiet, nature-filled spots over flashy tourist destinations. His travel diaries often go viral for their aesthetic shots.
Facts
Stage Name “V” Stands for “Victory” – He chose the name “V” to represent triumph, among other options like “Six” and “Lex.”
Official Visual of BTS – While all BTS members are known for their looks, V is often referred to as the group’s “visual,” earning the title “World’s Most Handsome Man” multiple times.
Born in Daegu, Raised in Geochang – Though he was born in Daegu, he spent most of his childhood in the countryside of Geochang, which shaped his humble, grounded personality.
Joined BTS Secretly – V was the “hidden member” of BTS. Big Hit didn’t reveal him until BTS’s debut teaser, making his entrance a surprise to fans.
OST Singer for K-Dramas – His deep, expressive voice has been featured in popular drama OSTs like Sweet Night for Itaewon Class, earning international praise.
Secrets
He Has a Sensitive Stomach – V has mentioned in interviews that spicy food can upset his stomach, despite loving it.
Writes in a Personal Diary – He keeps a private handwritten journal where he reflects on his emotions and creative ideas.
Secretly Practices Acting Scenes – Even while focusing on music, he still practices monologues and dialogues privately to prepare for future acting roles.
Gets Emotional Easily – Although he appears playful and confident, he’s admitted to crying during meaningful fan moments or when overwhelmed by gratitude.
He’s a Homebody – Contrary to his glamorous image, he often prefers staying home, listening to music, or watching movies with his dog Yeontan.
Funny Things
Talks to His Dog Like a Human – V often has full conversations with his dog Yeontan and jokingly claims “he understands everything I say.”
Once Thought a Fig Was a New Fruit – He hilariously once mistook a fig for an exotic new food during a live broadcast.
Named His Bear “Tannie’s Brother” – During a variety show, he gave his plush bear a bizarre, long name and treated it like a family member.
Accidentally Texted a Stranger – He once shared he sent a heartfelt message to the wrong number and only realized after they replied, “Who is this?”
Got Caught Mid-Dance Alone – He’s been caught dancing dramatically to background music on camera, not realizing the broadcast had already started.
Fears
Losing Loved Ones – V has openly talked about his fear of losing family and friends, especially after the passing of his grandmother, whom he was very close to.
Letting Down ARMY – He deeply fears disappointing fans, often overthinking his performance quality and decisions.
Stage Mishaps – Despite his confident image, he fears technical malfunctions or forgotten choreography during live shows.
Being Misunderstood – V’s mysterious, quiet nature sometimes leads to misinterpretation, which he fears could hurt his relationships or public image.
Public Dating Scandals – While V is private about relationships, he has admitted being anxious about rumors affecting the band or his personal peace.
News
1. 🎶 FRI(END)S Tops iTunes in 100 Countries
In March 2024, V released his solo single FRI(END)S, which soared to the top of iTunes charts in 100 countries, making it the first song of 2024 to achieve this feat.
2. 🏆 Wins “Trend of the Year – K-pop Solo” at 2024 Korea Grand Music Awards
In November 2024, V was honored with the “Trend of the Year – K-pop Solo” award at the Korea Grand Music Awards, making him the only BTS member to receive this distinction that year.
3. 📈 Surpasses 3 Billion Spotify Streams as a Soloist
By June 2024, V had accumulated over 3 billion streams on Spotify across all his solo credits, solidifying his status as a prominent solo artist in the global music scene.
4. 🎖️ Serves in South Korean Military Special Forces
In December 2023, V enlisted for his mandatory military service and was assigned to the Special Task Force of the Military Police Corps, demonstrating his commitment and discipline.
5. 🐾 Mourns the Passing of Beloved Dog Yeontan
In December 2024, V shared the heartfelt news of his dog Yeontan’s passing. Yeontan had been a significant part of V’s life and had even inspired elements of his solo work.
Movies
Music / OST
V (Kim Taehyung): A Distinct Voice in K-Pop’s Global Symphony
Kim Taehyung, known mononymously as V, is a globally recognized South Korean singer, songwriter, and member of the world-famous boy band BTS. With his deep baritone voice, cinematic visual aesthetic, and eclectic musical preferences, V has carved out a unique space in the K-pop landscape—not only as an idol but also as an emerging solo artist known for his emotional and genre-blending sound.
🌟 Breakthrough with BTS
V debuted as a vocalist with BTS on June 13, 2013, under Big Hit Entertainment. While his role was initially under the radar, his soulful and husky voice quickly drew attention in songs like Let Me Know, Stigma, and Singularity. His solo track Singularity (2018), featured as the intro to BTS’s Love Yourself: Tear album, was praised for its jazzy-R&B tones and haunting delivery, earning global recognition and critical acclaim. The song was included in several “Best of the Year” lists by The Guardian and Billboard.
🎧 Solo Career and Layover Album
V began releasing solo tracks under BTS’s name, such as Stigma, Inner Child, and Blue & Grey—the latter of which he co-wrote and co-produced. In September 2023, he officially debuted as a soloist with his highly anticipated album Layover, produced in collaboration with Min Hee-jin (creative director of NewJeans). The six-track EP features songs like Rainy Days, Love Me Again, and Slow Dancing, blending lo-fi, jazz, soul, and R&B elements. The album received positive reviews for its cohesive sound and artistic maturity, debuting at No. 2 on the Billboard 200, making V one of the highest-charting Korean soloists ever.
🌍 Global Records and Digital Domination
V’s solo work has made a global impact. As of June 2024, he surpassed 3 billion Spotify streams across all solo credits. His single FRI(END)S topped iTunes charts in over 100 countries, becoming the first song in 2024 to do so. His YouTube music videos, such as Love Me Again, also garnered tens of millions of views within days. Notably, V became the first BTS member to win “Trend of the Year – K-pop Solo” at the 2024 Korea Grand Music Awards, solidifying his success as a standalone artist.
🎙️ Artistic Identity and Vocal Signature
V is known for his baritone timbre, often compared to vintage jazz and soul singers. Unlike most K-pop idols who lean toward high-tenor vocals, V’s voice offers warmth, depth, and a grounded emotional tone. His artistic influences include artists like Frank Sinatra, Chet Baker, and John Mayer. He often describes his musical style as “moody,” “slow-tempo,” and “emotion-driven.” Critics frequently praise his ability to convey melancholy and intimacy, making his solo tracks distinct in both sound and feeling.
In summary, V’s music career reflects a balance between K-pop stardom and personal artistry. While BTS gave him the global stage, his solo work reveals a thoughtful, emotionally nuanced musician with a bold vision. As he continues to explore his artistic identity, fans and critics alike eagerly anticipate what V will create next.
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