Do you know the story of a South Korean boy band that defied the odds, captivated a global audience, and redefined the boundaries of K-pop? Stray Kids, the eight-member powerhouse formed by JYP Entertainment, is more than just a musical group; they are a phenomenon, a testament to hard work, creative vision, and the unwavering support of their fans.
Since their formation, Stray Kids has evolved, experimented, and consistently delivered music that resonates with a generation. Their journey, marked by both triumphs and trials, is a compelling narrative of ambition, resilience, and the pursuit of artistic excellence. From their early days to their current global dominance, their story is a masterclass in how to build a devoted following and create a lasting impact.
| Member | Real Name | Position | Birthday | Zodiac Sign | Representative Animal | Unit | Fun Fact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bang Chan | Christopher Chan | Leader, Main Producer, Vocalist, Rapper, Dancer | October 3, 1997 | Libra | Wolf | 3RACHA | Speaks English, Korean, Japanese and a little bit of Chinese. |
| Lee Know | Lee Minho | Main Dancer, Vocalist, Rapper | October 25, 1998 | Scorpio | Rabbit | Dance Racha | Former backup dancer for BTS. |
| Changbin | Seo Changbin | Main Rapper, Vocalist, Producer | August 11, 1999 | Leo | Dwaekki (pig-rabbit) | 3RACHA | Loves to collect things. |
| Hyunjin | Hwang Hyunjin | Main Dancer, Rapper, Visual | March 20, 2000 | Pisces | Hamster | Dance Racha | Known for his drawing skills. |
| Han | Han Jisung | Main Rapper, Vocalist, Producer | September 14, 2000 | Virgo | Quokka | 3RACHA | Has a fear of heights. |
| Felix | Lee Felix | Main Dancer, Rapper | September 15, 2000 | Virgo | Chick | Dance Racha | Has a deep, unique voice. |
| Seungmin | Kim Seungmin | Lead Vocalist | September 22, 2000 | Virgo | Dog | Vocal Racha | Good at mimicking others. |
| I.N | Yang Jeongin | Vocalist, Maknae | February 8, 2001 | Aquarius | Desert Fox | Vocal Racha | Used to wear braces. |
For a deeper dive into the members' individual profiles, you can check out their official profile on JYP Entertainment's Website
The story of Stray Kids began with a survival show of the same name, a reality program launched in October 2017 on Mnet. This show became the crucible where the nine original members Bang Chan, Lee Know, Changbin, Hyunjin, Han, Felix, Seungmin, I.N, and originally, Woojin honed their skills and solidified their bond. The premise was simple: survive the elimination rounds and debut as a group. The intense competition, combined with the pressure of constant evaluation, forged a unique camaraderie among the trainees.
On March 25, 2018, Stray Kids officially emerged onto the K-pop scene with their debut mini-album, "I Am NOT." This marked the beginning of a prolific period for the group, as they consistently released new music and visuals, including their first music video "District 9". The raw energy and innovative sounds of "I Am NOT" immediately set Stray Kids apart from the established K-pop norms. The group's signature sound, a blend of hip-hop, rock, and electronic elements, was already apparent.
The group's name, "Stray Kids," reflects their journey of self-discovery. The members themselves chose the name, symbolizing their collective search for identity and their shared dream of making their mark on the world. They are a group of eight members, of which six are Korean and two are Australian. "Stray Kids" (International) and "Stray Kids (Seuteulei Kijeu)" are the band names that were used internationally and in Korea.
Stray Kids' musical journey has been marked by several milestones. In February 2019, their second mini-album's lead single, "My Pace," broke 100 million views, becoming Stray Kids' fourth MV to do so. Later, in March, the music video for "God's Menu," the title track of their first full-length album, surpassed 200 million views. Each release added to their growing discography and cemented their status as a rising force in the music industry.
The group's dedication to their craft is evident in their hands-on approach to music creation. Members Bang Chan, Changbin, and Han, collectively known as 3RACHA, are heavily involved in writing, composing, and producing the group's music. In fact, Stray Kids' music incorporates their personal touch.
Stray Kids' impact extends beyond the borders of South Korea. They have embarked on global tours, captivating audiences in countries like Thailand, Indonesia, Australia, the Philippines, the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Russia, and Japan. Their performances are known for their high energy, intricate choreography, and the electrifying stage presence of the eight members. These shows, like the announcement of new shows in North America and Europe on February 5th with tickets going on sale on February 5th at 3 PM local time, are eagerly anticipated by STAYs worldwide. The band's global appeal continues to grow with each tour and album release.
The group's discography is a testament to their artistic evolution. Their musical journey has been defined by a succession of mini-albums and full-length albums, all showcasing their dedication to innovation and creativity.
On March 25, 2019, Stray Kids dropped their fourth mini-album, "Cl 1: Miroh," celebrating their first anniversary as a group. The mini-album, "Cl 1: Miroh" marked the beginning of a new phase for the group, with a more mature sound and complex themes.
Beyond their musical achievements, Stray Kids has been recognized for their authenticity and the genuine bond among the members. The group has maintained a close relationship with their fans, known as STAYs, communicating frequently through social media and engaging in various online activities. Stray Kids' connection with their audience is a core part of their identity.
As Stray Kids continues to push boundaries and break records, they stay true to their roots and continue to write their unique chapter in K-pop history. Their dedication to their craft, their relentless pursuit of artistic excellence, and their unwavering connection with their fans are the ingredients of their success. Stray Kids is not just a band; they are a movement. They are a testament to the power of music, hard work, and the magic that happens when eight individuals unite under a shared dream.
