K-pop Star Breaking Traditions as First Openly Gay Idol: Navigating a Challenging Journey
K-pop Star Bain Makes History with Brave LGBTQ+ Confession
In a groundbreaking move, Bain, the main vocalist of K-pop boy band Just B, declared his membership in the LGBTQ+ community during a Los Angeles concert on April 22, 2025, sending a powerful wave of support and admiration throughout the K-pop community. The emotional moment unfolded as he waved a rainbow flag, proclaiming, "I'm f------ proud to be a part of the LGBTQ+ community — as a gay person."
Born Song Byeong-hee, this passionate K-pop idol made his debut in 2021 alongside Geonu, Lim Jimin, JM, DY, and Sangwoo, making waves with his soaring vocal skills. His historic announcement marked the first time a Korean K-pop idol publicly acknowledged their place in the LGBTQ+ community, pushing back against traditional social norms in South Korea where same-sex marriage remains unrecognized, and discrimination against LGBTQ individuals is unfortunately prevalent [3][4].
The crowd erupted into cheers, many moved to tears, as Bain performed Lady Gaga's iconic "Born This Way," a song preaching self-acceptance and individuality. The thoughtful choice of the anthem and the bold use of the rainbow flag as a symbol of support unleashed a whirlwind of praise from fans, who flocked to social media to share their admiration and solidarity.
"Wow! Hats off to Bain. People like him make K-pop even more wonderful. I love you," wrote one fan, while another penned, "I admire your courage. I support you and I hope you shine even brighter!" Fans and fellow artists alike have been inspired by Bain's bravery, taking a significant step towards a more inclusive environment in the K-pop industry [4].
Sources:
[1] Bain of K-pop Boy Band Just B Comes Out as Gay during LA Concert
[2] K-pop Star Bain's Gay Confession: Implications for the LGBTQ+ Community in South Korea
[3] The Struggles and Triumphs of the LGBTQ+ Community in South Korea
[4] Bain of Just B: A Catalyst for Change in K-pop's LGBTQ+ Acceptance
- Bain's confession as a gay K-pop idol sparked an outpouring of love on social media, with fans praising his bravery and individuality.
- The performance of Lady Gaga's "Born This Way" at the Los Angeles concert became a symbol of support for LGBTQ+ individuals in the K-pop community, shining a brighter light on acceptance.
- Korean celebrities and pop-culture enthusiasts applauded Bain's courage, hoping that his openness would inspire a more inclusive environment in the industry.
- By waving the rainbow flag and publicly acknowledging his membership in the LGBTQ+ community, Bain of K-pop boy band Just B made a historical move, challenging traditional social norms and breaking barriers in South Korea.
- The entertainment industry, particularly K-pop, saw a significant shift towards inclusivity following Bain's confession, pushing the boundaries of pop-culture and encouraging the celebration of diversity.
