K-pop Star Bain Makes History by Coming Out: “This Is Just the Beginning”
In a groundbreaking moment for both K-pop and LGBTQ+ representation in South Korea, Bain — a rising member of the boy group Just B — has officially come out as gay. The 24-year-old singer made the announcement during a recent concert in Los Angeles, becoming the first active male K-pop idol from a boy group to do so. In a country where LGBTQ+ rights are still evolving, Bain’s honesty marks a powerful turning point.
Speaking with The Hollywood Reporter, Bain reflected on the moment that changed his life. “Finally, I can talk about this,” he said, visibly relieved. During the group’s U.S. tour, Bain performed a solo stage to Lady Gaga’s “Born This Way” — an anthem that celebrates identity and self-acceptance. In a spontaneous decision, Bain paused before the song to share his truth with the crowd. Dressed in a fur coat and sunglasses, he proudly declared, “I’m fucking proud to be a part of the LGBTQ+ community — as a gay person.”
The audience erupted in cheers. It was a bold statement from an artist in an industry known for its rigid control over image and narrative. He added a heartfelt message to the crowd: “To anyone out there who’s part of the LGBTQ+ community or still figuring it out, this is for you. You are seen, you are loved, and you were born this way.”
Though the moment felt sudden to fans, Bain revealed that he had come out to his label, Bluedot Entertainment, and his fellow group members two years prior. While there were concerns about how the public would react, Bain says his team ultimately supported his decision. “They really wanted me to fully show and express myself onstage,” he explained.
In South Korea, conversations around LGBTQ+ issues are still gaining visibility. Despite recent legal advancements — like the 2024 Supreme Court ruling that allowed same-sex partners access to shared health benefits — public figures rarely speak openly about their sexual orientation. Bain now joins a small but growing group of South Korean celebrities who are changing that narrative.
“I just like doing iconic things,” Bain said, laughing. But beneath the humor lies a serious commitment to honesty and growth. For Bain, this isn’t the end of a journey — it’s the start of a new chapter. “It’s actually a new start for me,” he shared. “This is broadening my horizons. I feel like I can dream bigger now.”
Looking ahead, Bain hopes to branch out into solo music and even acting. “I’d love to play a gay best friend in a teen drama,” he said with a smile. He’s also working on new music that reflects his real experiences.