Kai, born Kim Jong-in on January 14, 1994, is a multi-talented star in music, movies, fashion, and dance. He began his career learning the piano, ballet, jazz dance, and taekwondo, and has risen to become one of the most popular Korean pop stars. His success began after he became a member of the K-pop group EXO in 2011 and his career has taken off since then, thanks to award-winning songs and films. From music to movies and in-between photo shoots, Kai is such a bubbly, vibrant, and fantastic character, which is why we’re celebrating him on his special day.
Fast Facts
Full Name:
Kim Jong-in
Birth date:
January 14, 1994
Age:
30
Zodiac Sign:
Capricorn
Height:
5' 11.1"
Relationship Status:
Single
Net Worth:
$8 million
Background
Kai is a renowned name in the Korean entertainment industry. His disarmingly good looks, infectious personality, and undeniable talents have carved him a place in the hall of fame. Born on January 14, 1994, in Suncheon, South Jeolla, Kai has spent most of his life in South Korea. As the youngest member of his family, Kai has two older sisters and took an early interest in the arts. Before learning the piano, he began dancing ballet and exploring other dance forms.
Like a true Capricorn, Kai has been ambitious and goal-driven. He credits his success to his deceased father, who encouraged him to participate in the ‘SM Youth Best Contest’ at age 13. He won the contest and officially signed with the company in 2007. This experience was a significant catalyst in his success. In December 2011, Kai’s life changed when he became the first EXO member to be publicly introduced. In April 2012, he made his first debut as an EXO member after graduating from the School of Performing Arts in Seoul.
Kai’s fame only seemed to grow, and he debuted his acting career in 2016 as the male protagonist in the web drama, “Choco Bank”. The show garnered impressive viewing numbers, and he then went on to star in two episodes of “7 First Kisses.” Since then, Kai has been in multiple movies and on magazine covers. In 2019, Kai joined the K-pop supergroup SuperM to diversify the band’s reach, as the group’s promotions began to target the U.S. market. A year later, SM entertainment announced Kai’s first solo album, which was set for release in 2020. His second EP, “Peaches,” dropped in November 2021 and since then, we can only say that it’s definitely been very peachy for Kai.
Career timeline
In a contest organized by the SM Entertainment Group, Kai emerges as the winner and signs with the company shortly after.
EXO introduces Kai to the public as a group member, making him the first member to be publicly introduced.
He gets the male lead in the web drama series “Choco Bank,” where he plays Kim Eun-haeng.
Kai becomes the first global Korean ambassador for Gucci Eyewear Men.
After his first EP, “Kai,” dropped in 2020, Kai makes a solo comeback with “Peaches.”
Why We Love Kai
He’s an award-winning artist
Kai has won multiple awards, including the Asian Pop Music Awards ‘Best Male Artist’ and ‘People’s Choice’ awards. We believe more accolades will follow.
He’s so breathtaking
If looking good was a felony, Kai would be sentenced to life imprisonment. He’s so handsome.
He’s a dog lover
Kai owns three dogs, and he’s a proud dog parent. He often shows them off on his social media.
5 Surprising Facts
He’s short-tempered
Of EXO’s members, Kai has the shortest temper.
He loves fried chicken
Contrary to what people think of K-pop stars and their eating habits, Kai’s favorite meals are fried chicken and roast duck.
He hated coffee
Although he’s getting used to the taste, Kai initially disliked drinking coffee.
He received an incentive to audition
Before he won the contest, Kai’s father promised to buy him a Nintendo if he auditioned for the ‘SM Youth Best Contest.’
He bites his lips often
As much as he appears confident and put-together, Kai often bites his lips when he’s nervous or bored.
Kai FAQs
What is Kai’s favorite color?
Kai loves black, red, and sky blue. These are his ideal colors.
What is Kai’s favorite song?
He especially loved Ne-Yo’s ‘Part of The List’ during his trainee days.
Does Kai speak English?
It’s been reported that while Kai and his fellow popstars can speak and understand English well, he feels shy speaking it on camera.
Kai’s birthday dates
Year | Date | Day |
---|---|---|
2025 | January 14 | Tuesday |
2026 | January 14 | Wednesday |
2027 | January 14 | Thursday |
2028 | January 14 | Friday |
2029 | January 14 | Sunday |