Taehyung: The Soulful Artist
Deep-voiced vocalist with striking visuals and a free-spirited soul who brings vintage charm and artistic magic to everything he touches.
Biography
Kim Taehyung, known by his stage name V, was born on December 30, 1995, in Daegu, South Korea, and grew up in Geochang County. He was discovered by chance when he accompanied a friend to a Big Hit Entertainment audition and was encouraged by staff to audition himself.
V is recognized for his uniquely deep and husky vocal tone that adds a distinctive color to BTS's music. His solo songs like "Stigma," "Singularity," and "Inner Child" showcase his rich baritone and emotional delivery. His interest in jazz and classic pop has influenced his musical style.
Known for his quirky, free-spirited personality, V coined the phrase "I'm a good boy" and created the BTS iconic hand gesture meaning "I love you" in sign language. His artistic sensibilities extend beyond music to photography and visual arts, and he's known for his interest in classic films and art.
V has ventured into acting with a supporting role in the historical drama "Hwarang: The Poet Warrior Youth" and has contributed self-composed songs to BTS albums and K-drama soundtracks. He released his first solo album "Layover" in September 2023, showcasing his unique musical color and artistic vision.
Fun Facts
- •Plays multiple instruments including saxophone and piano
- •Created the "I purple you" phrase which became symbolic for BTS and ARMY
- •Known for his love of vintage items and classic films
- •Has a unique rectangular smile
- •Collects Gucci items and has been featured in their campaigns
- •His pets include a dog named Yeontan (Tannie)
Achievements
- ★Debuted as an actor in the historical K-drama 'Hwarang: The Poet Warrior Youth'
- ★His self-composed songs include 'Winter Bear,' 'Sweet Night,' and 'Scenery'
- ★His OST 'Sweet Night' for the drama 'Itaewon Class' topped iTunes charts in 118 countries
- ★Set a Guinness World Record for fastest time to reach 1 million followers on Instagram
- ★First Korean soloist to hit #1 on Billboard's Digital Song Sales chart with 'Christmas Tree'
- ★His solo album 'Layover' debuted at #2 on Billboard 200
Solo Work Highlights
Layover (2023)
"Layover" is V's debut solo album, showcasing his unique vocal color through a collection of soulful R&B tracks. Produced with Min Hee-jin (known for NewJeans), the album presents a mature, sophisticated sound that highlights V's deep, velvety voice and artistic sensibilities.
Key Tracks:
- Slow Dancing - A dreamy, romantic track with a vintage jazz influence
- Rainy Days - A melancholic ballad with emotional depth
- Love Me Again - A soulful R&B track showcasing V's lower register
- Blue - A contemplative song with delicate vocals and minimal instrumentation
- For Us - An uplifting track that showcases his vocal versatility
Artistic Vision & Creative Expression
Known for his unique perspective and creative sensibilities, V approaches art in all its forms with a distinctive vision. His artistic expression extends beyond music to photography, visual arts, and fashion, creating a multifaceted creative identity that has captured the imagination of fans and critics alike.
Visual Art Appreciation
V's deep appreciation for visual arts has influenced his creative work with BTS and as a soloist. His love for classical and contemporary paintings has been documented through numerous gallery and museum visits worldwide.
- • Regular visitor to art museums globally
- • Particularly drawn to Van Gogh and impressionist art
- • Has incorporated art references in BTS concepts
- • Often sketches and paints in his free time
Photography Skills
V is an accomplished photographer whose work has been published in "Vante" photobooks and shared through BTS's social media. His photographic style emphasizes unique angles, vibrant colors, and capturing candid, authentic moments.
- • Uses the pseudonym "Vante" for his photography
- • Inspired by photographer Ante Badzim
- • Often photographs landscapes and BTS members
- • Released limited edition photobooks of his work
Fashion Icon Status
V has been recognized as a global fashion icon, known for his unique style that blends vintage elements with contemporary designs. His fashion sensibilities have earned him recognition from major brands and fashion publications.
- • Global ambassador for Celine
- • Featured on the cover of fashion magazines
- • Known for popularizing oversized silhouettes
- • Frequently mixes luxury pieces with vintage items
Creative Philosophy
V approaches creativity with an emphasis on authenticity and emotional connection. For him, art in all forms should evoke genuine feelings and create meaningful connections with the audience. This philosophy is evident in his music, which often prioritizes emotional resonance over commercial trends.
His creative process typically involves drawing from personal experiences, observations of nature, and emotional introspection. Whether composing music, taking photographs, or curating his fashion style, V consistently seeks to express his unique worldview and create art that reflects his distinctive perspective—something he has described as seeing the world in "Taehyung-colored glasses."
The Unique World of V
Invented Language
V is known for creating his own vocabulary and expressions, affectionately called "Taetae language" by fans. His unique way of communicating includes made-up words, unexpected phrases, and distinctive expressions that reflect his imaginative and unconventional thinking.
4D Personality
Often described as having a "4D personality" (Korean expression for someone unique and unpredictable), V approaches life with spontaneity and refreshing authenticity. His ability to shift from deeply serious to playfully silly in moments showcases his multifaceted nature.
Imagination & Creativity
With an imagination that knows no bounds, V brings creative energy to everything he does. From creating unique dance moves to coming up with unexpected scenarios during interviews, his creativity manifests in everyday moments and has become one of his most beloved traits.
Acting Journey
Hwarang: The Poet Warrior Youth (2016)
V made his acting debut in this historical drama as Hansung, a bright and innocent young warrior. His performance showcased his natural acting ability and earned praise for his emotional scenes.
• Starred alongside Park Seo-joon, who became his close friend
Music Video Narratives
Within BTS's cinematic music videos, V has portrayed complex characters with emotional depth. His expressive acting in videos like "Blood Sweat & Tears," "Singularity," and the HYYH series has contributed significantly to BTS's visual storytelling.
• Particularly praised for his performance in "Singularity"
Future Aspirations
V has expressed interest in further pursuing acting, with preferences for unique, complex characters that challenge conventional roles. His distinctive presence and emotional range would make him well-suited for both contemporary and period dramas.
• Has mentioned interest in both film and television
Yeontan (Tannie): V's Beloved Pomeranian
*/The Internet's Favorite Fluffy Friend
Yeontan (연탄), affectionately nicknamed "Tannie" by fans, is V's adorable black-and-tan Pomeranian who has become a global celebrity in his own right. Adopted by V in 2017, Yeontan's name means "coal briquette" in Korean, a playful reference to his distinctive black coloring. This tiny ball of fur has captured the hearts of millions of fans worldwide, becoming arguably the most famous pet in K-pop.
Tannie's Personality
- • Energetic, playful, and sometimes dramatic like his owner
- • Known for his expressive face and distinctive "eyebrows"
- • Has overcome health challenges with a resilient spirit
- • Shows a strong attachment to V and other BTS members
Famous Appearances
- • Starred in multiple episodes of "Run BTS!" and "BTS In the SOOP"
- • Made appearances in BTS's social media posts and VLives
- • Featured in a cameo on "The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon"
- • Has inspired fan art, merchandise, and countless social media accounts
The Special Connection
V's relationship with Yeontan showcases his nurturing and caring nature. Despite his busy schedule, V has always prioritized Tannie's well-being, even bringing him to work when possible. When Yeontan faced health challenges with a tracheal condition, V's dedication to his care touched fans deeply. Their bond reflects V's deeply loyal and affectionate personality.
"When Tannie looks at me with those eyes, all my stress melts away. He's like my little soulmate." — V on his relationship with Yeontan
Yeontan's ARMY Impact
As a testament to his popularity, Yeontan has inspired countless fan creations, from plush toys to digital art. His appearances in BTS content invariably spark joy among fans, with "Tannie" trending on social media whenever he makes an appearance. This tiny Pomeranian has become a beloved mascot for ARMY, bringing together fans through their shared adoration for V's fluffy companion.
Memorable Quotes
"I'd rather die than live without passion."
— On living authentically
"In a world of wrong, I want to be the right."
— From "Stigma" lyrics
"Let's not push off the things we need to do today for tomorrow."
— On his life philosophy
"Even if you're not perfect, you're limited edition."
— On embracing uniqueness
"Happiness is not something that comes from somewhere far away. It's something you make yourself."
— On finding joy within
"Normality is a paved road. It's comfortable to walk on, but no flowers grow on it."
— On embracing uniqueness
Perspective on Life
V's quotes often reflect his philosophical nature and unique perspective on life. His words emphasize authenticity, passion, and embracing one's uniqueness. Throughout his public life, he has consistently encouraged fans to find beauty in themselves and the world around them, to pursue their passions fearlessly, and to approach life with both deep emotion and childlike wonder.