1. Biography
- Artist Name:
- Real name: Kim Min-seok
- Stage name: Xiumin
- Date of birth: March 26, 1990
- Country of origin: South Korea (Guri, Gyeonggi Province)
- Field of activity: Singer, Dancer, Actor, Musical Theater Performer
- Notable for: Singer and dancer of EXO, member of EXO-CBX, successful career in musical theater
- SNS:
- Instagram: @e_xiu_o
2. Early life and context
Xiumin grew up in Guri, Gyeonggi Province, where he developed diverse interests in both performing arts and athletics. Before pursuing a career in entertainment, he was skilled in martial arts, particularly kendo and wushu, and was also a competitive figure skater. His journey to becoming an idol began when he participated in SM Entertainment’s Youth Best Contest in 2008, where he won second place. This led to his recruitment by the company and he underwent approximately four years of training before debuting.
3. Career
Xiumin was the first member to be revealed as part of EXO in 2012, debuting with the group in April of that year with “MAMA”. As the oldest member of the group, he was noted for his stable performances and versatile skills in both singing and dancing.
In 2016, he debuted as part of EXO’s first official subunit, EXO-CBX, alongside Chen and Baekhyun. The unit achieved significant success in both Korea and Japan, releasing numerous hit albums and singles.
His solo career officially began with his debut mini-album “Brand New” in September 2023, showcasing his individual musical color and artistic direction. The album demonstrated his versatility as an artist and his ability to bring his unique sound.
Xiumin has also built a successful career in musical theater, appearing in productions such as “School OZ” (2015), “Return: The Promise of the Day” (2019) and “Hadestown” (2023), where his performances have received praise. by critics and audiences.
On January 8, 2024, Xiumin joined Baekhyun’s label, INB100, to handle his solo activities while Exo’s activities remain under SM Entertainment.
4. Style and influence
Xiumin is known for his precise and powerful dance moves, which combine technical skill with graceful execution. His vocal style is characterized by a clear, bright tone and stable delivery in various genres. He is particularly known for his ability to maintain high-energy performances while providing stable vocals.
His influence extends beyond his musical abilities, as he has become known for his “ageless” appearance and fitness regime. His dedication to maintaining peak physical condition and performance quality has inspired fans and fellow artists alike.
5. Personal life/news/dating rumors
Xiumin is known for maintaining a professional and private personal life. No official relationships have been confirmed publicly during his career. He is known for his close friendships with his EXO members and other celebrities, especially those in his same age group in the industry.
6. Scandals/Controversies
Throughout his career, Xiumin has maintained a remarkably clean image with very little controversy. In 2023, he, along with EXO members Baekhyun and Chen, was involved in a contract dispute with SM Entertainment regarding payment issues and contract terms. The situation was then resolved with a new agreement which allowed for more flexible management of its activities.
7. Results and awards
Throughout his career, Xiumin has amassed impressive achievements across multiple entertainment industries. As a core member of EXO, he contributed to the group’s notable success, including multiple Daesang (Grand Prize) awards at major Korean music awards and record-breaking album sales and concert tours. His versatility and dedication have played a crucial role in making EXO one of the most influential groups in K-pop.
His work with EXO-CBX has added another dimension to his success story. The subunit’s debut in both the Korean and Japanese markets was met with enthusiasm, with releases such as “Hey Mama!” and “Blooming Days” achieving considerable commercial success and critical acclaim. Their unique blend of voice and performance style has earned them a dedicated following in both markets.
In 2023, Xiumin marked a significant milestone in his career with the release of his first solo mini-album “Brand New”. The album showcased his individual artistic color and demonstrated his staying power as a solo artist, receiving positive reviews for its musical direction and performance quality. His solo venture demonstrated his ability to maintain his artistic identity while expanding his musical repertoire.
His ventures in musical theater have been particularly noteworthy, with acclaimed performances in productions such as “School OZ” (2015), “Return: The Promise of the Day” (2019) and “Hadestown” (2023). These roles have earned him recognition as a legitimate musical theater performer, breaking down barriers between K-pop and traditional theater. His performance in “Hadestown” garnered praise from critics and audiences alike, establishing him as a respected figure in the musical theater community.
During his military service (2019-2020), he received a Military Service Merit Award, demonstrating his dedication and exemplary service to his country. This achievement has added to his reputation for professionalism and commitment in all his endeavors. His return to the entertainment industry after his military service was marked by the continued success and growth of his artistic pursuits.
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