Born on December 30, 1995, Kim Tae-hyung, professionally known as V, is a prominent South Korean vocalist and a valued member of the renowned boy band BTS. Having embarked on his musical journey with BTS in 2013, V has notably showcased his individual artistry through three distinct solo tracks: “Stigma” in 2016, “Singularity” in 2018, and “Inner Child” in 2020. These tracks secured notable positions on South Korea’s Gaon Digital Chart.
Beyond his collaborative ventures with BTS, V’s talents extended to the television realm when he participated in the 2016 series “Hwarang: The Poet Warrior Youth.” In addition, he contributed his vocal prowess to the show’s soundtrack by lending his voice to the single “It’s Definitely You.” Demonstrating his capacity as a composer, V released his inaugural self-produced track titled “Scenery” in 2019.
Marking a significant milestone in his career, 2023 witnessed V’s official solo debut as he unveiled the singles “Love Me Again” and “Rainy Days.” Anticipation grew further with the announcement of his debut solo album, “Layover,” scheduled for release on September 8. Accompanying this album launch is the release of a third single, “Slow Dancing.”
Early life and education
His formative years were spent growing up in Geochang County. Among his siblings, he is the eldest, having a younger brother and sister as well. His initial aspirations to become a professional singer took root during his elementary school days.
Supported by his father, V’s musical journey took a decisive turn when he embarked on saxophone lessons during his early middle school years, a pivotal step toward his dream of pursuing a career in music. His determination and talent led him to catch the attention of Big Hit Entertainment, where he eventually became a trainee after a successful audition held in Daegu.
Upon completing his studies at Korean Arts High School in 2014, V took a further step towards his academic pursuits. He gained admission to Global Cyber University, culminating in his graduation in August 2020. During this academic journey, he specialized in Broadcasting and Entertainment. Notably, in the year 2021, V’s thirst for learning persisted as he continued his education at Hanyang Cyber University. Here, he delved into the realms of business and media, pursuing a Master of Business Administration in Advertising and Media.
Career
Before his official debut, V held the intriguing role of being BTS’s “secret member.” This concealed status was orchestrated by his agency, aiming to spring a surprise on fans. However, this concept of secrecy left V with mixed emotions of loneliness and uncertainty, as he feared it might indicate his potential exclusion from the group’s lineup.
Breaking the shroud of secrecy, V marked his momentous debut on June 13, 2013, as part of BTS. This debut occurred on Mnet’s M Countdown, where the group performed the track “No More Dream” from their inaugural single album, “2 Cool 4 Skool.”
V’s creative contributions started to surface with BTS’s EP titled “The Most Beautiful Moment in Life,” released in 2015. Notably, he earned his first credit for music composition as a co-writer and producer on the song “Hold Me Tight.” Furthermore, his lyrical input enhanced the song “Fun Boyz.”
In the sequel EP, “The Most Beautiful Moment in Life,” V’s musicality found expression as his melody formed the foundation for the track “Run.” The year 2016 witnessed V’s emergence as a composer and lyricist for his own solo track, “Stigma,” featured in BTS’s studio album “Wings.” Adding to his musical portfolio, V unofficially released covers of “Hug Me,” in collaboration with fellow bandmate J-Hope, and a rendition of Adele’s “Someone Like You.”
In May of 2018, V’s second solo track, titled “Singularity,” was unveiled as a trailer for BTS’ upcoming third studio album, “Love Yourself: Tear.” This melodic creation had its debut on UK radio through BBC Radio on October 25. Merely a month following its release, “Singularity” garnered recognition as The Guardian included it in their “Top 50 songs for the month of June 2018” playlist, and Billboard featured it on their critics’ compilation of the “Top 50 BTS songs,” ranking it at the 28th spot. “Singularity” garnered praise from critics overall and found its place on several year-end critics’ listings.
The New York Times designated it the twentieth position on their compilation of “The 65 Best Songs of 2018,” sitting alongside “Fake Love.” Music critic Mikael Wood of the Los Angeles Times celebrated it as the fourth “best and most replay-worthy song of 2018.” Laura Snapes, a critic from The Guardian, echoed her admiration by including it among her favored tracks in the “Best Music of 2018: Albums and Tracks” list.
On October 24, 2018, a notable honor befell V as he became one of the youngest individuals to be awarded the fifth-class Hwagwan Order of Cultural Merit medal. This recognition was bestowed upon him by the South Korean President, acknowledging not only V but also his fellow BTS members for their pivotal role in the global propagation of Korean culture. Further showcasing his versatility,
V engaged in a collaboration with fellow BTS member J-Hope and Swedish singer Zara Larsson, producing the track “A Brand New Day” for the soundtrack album of the BTS World mobile game. This single was released on June 14, 2019, and promptly claimed the number-one spot on Billboard’s World Digital Song Sales chart. Subsequently, V joined forces with bandmate Jimin to create the song “Friends,” and he played an instrumental role in the composition and writing of his third solo endeavor, “Inner Child.” Both of these compositions found their place in BTS’s 2020 studio album, “Map of the Soul: 7.”
Notably, in July 2021, V received a distinctive appointment as the Special Presidential Envoy for Future Generations and Culture from South Korean President Moon Jae-in. Alongside his fellow band members, V was chosen to aid in leading the global agenda for future generations and extending South Korea’s diplomatic efforts and global influence within the international community.
