In a moment of immense courage and pride, BAIN from K-pop boy group JUST B has made history as the first male Korean idol to publicly reveal his identity as a member of the LGBTQ community.
This groundbreaking announcement occurred on April 22 during JUST B’s JUST ODD world tour concert in Los Angeles. Holding a rainbow flag high, BAIN declared, “I’m proud to be part of the LGBTQ community,” while performing Lady Gaga’s empowering LGBTQ anthem “Born This Way.”
The symbolic rainbow flag affirmed BAIN’s message of LGBTQ pride in a bold and visual way.
Afterward, fellow JUST B member Siwoo expressed admiration for BAIN’s bravery in a moving post, saying, “What Byeonghee (BAIN’s real name) did today was amazing. I was moved to tears watching from backstage because I know how hard and painful it’s been for him.”
While other K-pop idols have previously come out, such as Ji-ae of WA$$UP and Katseye’s Lara, BAIN is the first male idol from a K-pop boy group to do so.
Debuting in 2021, JUST B consists of members: Lim Ji-min, Lee Geon-woo, BAIN, JM, Jeon Do-yeom, and Kim Sang-woo. The group’s agency has not released an official statement regarding BAIN’s announcement.
Fans and advocates across social media have shown swift support, hailing BAIN’s actions as a “significant moment for K-pop” and a crucial representation in an industry often known for its conservative standards.
