Jaehyun

Biography

Jaehyun is a South Korean singer, rapper, actor, songwriter, and television personality. He is a member of the South Korean boy band NCT and its sub-units NCT 127 and NCT DoJaeJung. He debuted as a solo artist in August 2024 with his first studio album J.

Early Life and Education

Jaehyun was born on February 14, 1997, in Seoul, South Korea. His original birth name was Jeong Jae-hyun, but he later legally changed it to Jeong Yun-o. At the age of five, he moved with his family to Connecticut, USA, where he lived until age ten and became fluent in both English and Korean.

He trained in Taekwondo and earned a black belt before turning his focus fully to music. Jaehyun developed an interest in music during middle school, learning guitar, piano, and beginning vocal training. Encouraged by his parents and a school teacher, he pursued a music career. He later attended the School of Performing Arts Seoul and graduated in 2016.

Career

Pre-Debut and NCT Debut (2012–2016)

Jaehyun was scouted by SM Entertainment in 2012 while in front of his school and subsequently joined the company as a trainee. He was officially introduced as part of SM Rookies on December 9, 2013. During his trainee years, he appeared in various company content, including EXO 90:2014, where trainees performed 1990s K-pop songs.

In April 2016, Jaehyun debuted with NCT U, the first rotational unit of NCT, performing on the singles The 7th Sense and Without You. On July 10, 2016, he debuted with NCT 127 as a fixed member, contributing as a main vocalist, lead dancer, and sub-rapper.

Growth and Sub-Unit Activities (2017–2023)

In March 2017, Jaehyun began co-hosting the radio show NCT Night Night alongside fellow member Johnny. He contributed to various SM Station projects and hosted the music program Inkigayo from October 2019 to February 2021.

In March 2023, Jaehyun debuted with the vocally focused sub-unit NCT DoJaeJung, alongside Doyoung and Jungwoo. The sub-unit’s first EP Perfume was released in April 2023.

Solo Music Career (2022–present)]

Before his official solo album, Jaehyun released solo singles via NCT Lab, including Forever Only (2022) and Horizon (2023)

He made his full solo debut on August 26, 2024, with his first studio album J, featuring tracks in both Korean and English. He was actively involved in writing and producing several songs on the album, including Roses, Dandelion, and Smoke. The album achieved notable chart success domestically and internationally, with Smoke topping the Circle Digital Chart and earning Jaehyun his first solo music show win on Show! Music Core.

Acting Career

Jaehyun made his acting debut in 2022 with the college romance television series Dear. M, portraying Cha Min-ho. The series’ release was delayed but eventually premiered globally in mid-2022.

In 2024, he expanded into film with his feature film debut in the mystery thriller You Will Die in 6 Hours, playing the lead role of Junwoo. The film achieved strong pre-release ticket sales and broad international distribution.

COVID-19 Social Distancing Incident (2020)

In 2020, JAEHYUN was involved in a controversy regarding visiting Itaewon during COVID-19 restrictions. He promptly issued a public apology, acknowledging his mistake and expressing sincere regret. Fans and the public largely appreciated his:

• Immediate accountability
• Genuine apology without excuses
• Responsible behavior following the incident

JAEHYUN Discography & Filmography

Filmography (Dramas & Films)

Selected Discography (Solo & OST)

NCT 127/NCT U Albums (Selected)