Stray Kids Facts & Info: Debut, Members, Albums & More!
Can a group formed through a reality competition truly ascend to global stardom, captivating audiences with their artistry and unwavering dedication? Stray Kids, the eight-member South Korean boy group, stand as a resounding testament to the power of perseverance, talent, and the relentless pursuit of excellence, having not only survived the crucible of a cutthroat entertainment industry but also thrived, leaving an indelible mark on the global music scene.
The journey of Stray Kids, managed by JYP Entertainment, began with a competition reality show of the same name. Through this show, the group was formed and refined, their skills honed, and their bond as a team solidified. Originally comprising nine members, the group officially debuted on March 25, 2018, with the mini-album "I Am Not," marking the commencement of their musical voyage. Prior to their official debut, they had already started generating buzz with the release of their pre-debut mini-album, "Mixtape," on January 8, 2018.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | I.N (Yang Jeongin) |
| Date of Birth | February 8, 2001 |
| Position in Stray Kids | Vocalist, Maknae (Youngest Member) |
| Education | School of Performing Arts Seoul (SOPA) - Department of Practical Music (Graduated February 5, 2021) |
| Career Highlights |
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| Philanthropy | Donated 100 million KRW to ChildFund Korea for the well-being of vulnerable children in Korea. |
| Noteworthy Achievements |
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| Official Website | JYP Entertainment Official Website |
The collective strength of Stray Kids lies in their individual talents and their ability to blend them seamlessly into a unified artistic entity. The group's lineup includes Bang Chan, the leader, Lee Know, Changbin, Hyunjin, Han, Felix, Seungmin, I.N, and previously, Woojin, who departed the group in October 2019. The dedication to their craft is evident in every performance, every music video, and every interaction with their fans, collectively known as STAY.
A significant milestone in their journey occurred on February 10, 2022, when Stray Kids signed with Republic Records, as part of a strategic partnership between JYP Entertainment and the label. This collaboration facilitated their promotion within the United States, opening doors to a broader audience and increased global recognition.
2024 has been a particularly active year for Stray Kids, marked by both their artistic endeavors and their engagement with their dedicated fanbase. The year featured two fan meetings, "SKZ's Magic School" in Seoul, South Korea from March 29 to 31, and "SKZ Toy World" held in Osaka and Saitama, Japan, during April. These events provided an opportunity for Stray Kids to connect with their fans and showcase their latest performances.
Beyond their musical releases and performances, Stray Kids consistently seeks to create meaningful connections with their fans. One example is the fan meeting, and the performance of the theme song for the Japanese television drama "Re:" further demonstrates the group's desire to connect with their audience and build a strong following across cultures. They consistently seek to connect with their fans across different media.
The groups influence also extends to individual members and their contributions. I.N, the group's maknae, or youngest member, has shown his versatility and growth, notably with his performance of "Hallucination" at the opening night of the "Dominate World Tour" on August 24, 2024. He also co-wrote the lyrics for the song "Maknae On Top", a humorous and self-aware track about his position as the youngest member. I.N's individual efforts contribute significantly to the group's appeal, showcasing his talents and personality.
Stray Kids' discography is a testament to their evolution. The group's repackage album, "In Life," is a repackage of their first studio album, "Go Live," released on September 14, 2020, with "Back Door" as the title track. This album showcases the groups unit songs and offers a look into the diverse musical styles of its members. Unit songs like "We Go" (from 3RACHA), "Wow" (from Danceracha), and "My Universe" (from Vocalracha) highlight the group's depth of talent and ability to create diverse and engaging music.
The album "NOEASY" provides a glimpse into Stray Kids' creative process. The group divided itself into three units to produce a song each for the album, allowing each member to contribute their unique creativity and expertise. Each unit participated in brainstorming, meetings, and the production of music videos.
Stray Kids also demonstrates their commitment to social responsibility. On June 7, 2024, I.N was appointed to the Green Noble Club for his donation to ChildFund Korea. His donation of 100 million KRW was specifically aimed at enhancing the health and growth of vulnerable children in Korea, highlighting the group's dedication to giving back to the community.
The group's growth has been marked by numerous milestones. For example, the music video for "My Pace" surpassed 100 million views, and the music video for "God's Menu" exceeded 200 million views, demonstrating their widespread appeal and popularity. These achievements are proof of the groups hard work, perseverance, and dedication to their craft.
The groups diverse music releases, fan interactions, individual member achievements, and philanthropic endeavors all work together to solidify the group's status as a prominent force in contemporary music. Through their commitment to their artistry and their connection with their fans, Stray Kids continues to break boundaries and solidify their status as global superstars.
Bang Chan, born on October 3, 1997, in Seoul, South Korea, is the leader of Stray Kids. His leadership and musical talent have been integral to the group's success, contributing to their overall direction and creative output.
The group's journey, since their debut on March 25, 2018, with "I Am Not" and the title track "District 9," demonstrates their evolution and resilience. Their constant innovation and adaptation to the ever-changing music industry solidifies their place as a remarkable group, destined to continue achieving great success.
